Effect of atorvastatin on expression of TLR4 and NF-κB p65 in atherosclerotic rabbits

ObjectiveTo study the effect of atorvastatin on atherosclerotic rabbits.MethodsA total of 60 New Zealand male rabbits were randomly divided into the normal group, model group and atorvastatin group. The replication rabbit atherosclerotic model with immune injury combined with a high fat diet feeding was used. All rabbits were sacrificed after 3 months. TLR4 and NF-κB p65 were observed by HE staining, immunohistochemistry and western blotting.ResultsThe expression of TLR4, NF-κB p65 were significantly increased in the model group compared with the normal group. The expression of TLR4 and NF-κB p65 decreased significantly in the atorvastatin group, and there was no difference compared with the normal group.ConclusionsThe effect of atorvastatin on atherosclerosis may be achieved by the inhibition of the expression of TLR4 and NF-κB p65.