Atorvastatin-induced increase in progenitor cell levels is rather caused by enhanced receptor activator of NF-kappaB ligand (RANKL) cell proliferation than by bone marrow mobilization

► FGF2 and RANKL are crucial for statin actions on circulating progenitor cells. ► We detect RANK, the specific receptor for RANKL, on progenitor cells. ► We use an in situ perfusion model to assess mobilization in vivo. ► Proliferation and not rapid mobilization seem responsible for increased cell levels.