Diverse effects of statins on angiogenesis: new therapeutic avenues

Pharmacotherapy. 2010 Feb;30(2):169-76. doi: 10.1592/phco.30.2.169.

Abstract

Angiogenesis is an important process for a variety of physiologic and pathologic conditions. Different angiogenic modulating targets are under extensive investigation both experimentally and clinically. The 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) are the first-line agents used in hypercholesterolemia. They are also characterized by having other benefits apart from their lipid-lowering effects. Among these pleiotropic effects are the pro- and antiangiogenic properties of statins. The pleiotropic effects of statins and how they modulate new blood vessel formation are discussed in this review. The currently available data from both animal and human studies regarding the effects of statins on angiogenesis in ischemic heart disease, stroke, ocular diseases, and cancer are also reviewed. Statins are safe, orally available agents that may acquire novel therapeutic indications through their angiogenic modulating effects.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inducing Agents / pharmacology
  • Angiogenesis Inducing Agents / therapeutic use
  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / pharmacology
  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Animals
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Humans
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Hypolipidemic Agents / pharmacology*
  • Hypolipidemic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Myocardial Ischemia / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / drug therapy*
  • Neovascularization, Physiologic / drug effects*
  • Retinal Diseases / drug therapy
  • Stroke / drug therapy

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inducing Agents
  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
  • Hypolipidemic Agents