PPARγ in coronary atherosclerosis: In vivo expression pattern and correlations with hyperlipidemic status and statin treatment

PPARγ expression was enhanced in statin-treated patients with different distribution and behavior as compared to atheroma, macrophage content, tissue factor immunoreactivity and serum CRP. In vitro studies showed increased PPARγ expression in monocytes after atorvastatin incubation. These findings provide further evidence as to the protective role of statins in coronary artery disease and their influence on PPARγ expression in coronary plaques and on the inflammatory status of patients.