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  • Title: HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor attenuates experimental autoimmune myocarditis through inhibition of T cell activation.
    Author: Azuma RW, Suzuki J, Ogawa M, Futamatsu H, Koga N, Onai Y, Kosuge H, Isobe M.
    Journal: Cardiovasc Res; 2004 Dec 01; 64(3):412-20. PubMed ID: 15537494.
    Abstract:
    OBJECTIVE: This study tested the hypothesis that 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor affects T cell-mediated autoimmunity through inhibition of nuclear factor-kappaB (NFkappaB) and reduces the severity of experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM). METHODS: EAM was induced in Lewis rats by immunization with myosin. High-dose or low-dose fluvastatin or vehicle was administered orally for 3 weeks to rats with EAM. RESULTS: Fluvastatin reduced the pathophysiological severity of myocarditis. Fluvastatin inhibited expression of NFkappaB in the nuclei of myocardium in EAM. Fluvastatin reduced production of Th1-type cytokines, including interferon (IFN)-gamma and interleukin (IL)-2, and inhibited expression of inflammatory cytokine mRNAs in the myocardium. Infiltration of CD4-positive T cells into the myocardium and T cell proliferative responses were suppressed by fluvastatin. Plasma lipid levels did not differ between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Fluvastatin ameliorates EAM by inhibiting T cell responses and suppressing Th1-type and inflammatory cytokines via inactivation of nuclear factor-kappaB, and this activity is independent of cholesterol reduction.
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