The immunomodulatory effects of statins on macrophages Author information

Sheridan, Alanah; Wheeler-Jones, Caroline; Gage, Matthew C

Abstract

Statins are extensively used in the medical practice, with their action as lipid-lowering agents proving to be central in the treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, in addition to their cholesterol-reducing effects, mounting evidence suggests that statins possess immunomodulatory actions. Macrophages play a critical role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis and numerous other clinically relevant conditions (such as cancerous tumours, autoimmune disorders and infections disease), and so the question of whether statins can alter their function and how they may do so has been a matter of great interest. Traditionally, statins have been regarded as having an anti-inflammatory effect on macrophages, yet more recent studies suggest that statins' impact on these cells is more complex than previously anticipated. Here, we comprehensively review the literature to investigate statin-induced changes in macrophage function and discuss insights into the mechanisms underlying their regulation of the immune response.

Citation

Sheridan, A., Wheeler-Jones, C., & Gage, M. C. (2022). The immunomodulatory effects of statins on macrophages Author information. Immuno, https://doi.org/10.3390/immuno2020021

• Journal Article Type: Review
• Acceptance Date: Apr 1, 2022
• Online Publication Date: Apr 8, 2022
• Publication Date: Apr 8, 2022
• Deposit Date: Feb 22, 2022
• Publicly Available Date: Oct 10, 2022
• Journal: Immuno
• Publisher: MDPI
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/immuno2020021
• Public URL: https://rvc-repository.worktribe.com/output/1558033
• Publisher URL: https://www.mdpi.com/journal/immuno