Molecular mechanisms for atorvastatin against atherosclerosis
Shen Hongru · Journal of Brain and Nervous Diseases · 2006
Objective: To investigate the anti-atherosclerosis mechanisms of atorvastatm. Methods: AS model in Wistar rat was devoleped by giving wistar rats a high-fat diet and vitamin D3 injection. Atorvastatin was given in study group rat when the model was accomplished, and pathological change of the aortic artherosclerotic plaque were observed and the level of plasma LPA, the expression of TNF-a and the activity of MMP-9 in aorta wall were detected in control, AS model and study group respectively. Result: Typical AS plaques were observed in the aorta in AS model group and a more lightly lesion in study group. The level of LPA, TNF-a and MMP-9 in aorta wall were significantly higher in model group than that in control group, while they were obviously improved in study group. Conclusion: The expression of TNF-a and the activity of MMP-9 in aortic wall were increased markedly in AS rats. It may be a molecular mechanism of LPA that accelerate AS. Atorvastatin not only inhibit inflammatory responses but also decrease the level of LPA in AS rats and interfere pathogenesis of AS.