Mechnicov's State Medical Academy, The Center of Atherosclerosis and Lipid Disorders, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.
Inhibitors of 3-hydroxy-3methylglytaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase or statins are effective lipid lowering drugs widely used in cardiovascular disease. In the recent years, pleotropic effects of statins have been reported, which include anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. This review discusses the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory roles of statins and their possible use for the treatment of other inflammatory diseases or conditions with the involvement of the immune system.