Dual mode of HMG-CoA reductase inhibition on dendritic cell invasion

Statin-mediated alteration in DC-cholesterol synthesis and subsequent activation of the Akt/NOS pathway accounts for the statin-induced decrease in DC invasion at low-moderate concentrations (0.05-0.5 μM). Additionally, at high statin concentrations (1 μM) DC invasion is reduced by inhibition of protein geranylgeranylation. As DCs control immunity, regulating DC/endothelial cell interaction by statins may have relevance to inflammation and atherogenesis.