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Immunology, Endocrine & Metabolic Agents in Medicinal Chemistry (Discontinued)

Editor-in-Chief

ISSN (Print): 1871-5222
ISSN (Online): 1875-6115

Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase – A Target for Stroke Protection by Statins

Author(s): Ulrich Laufs and Matthias Endres

Volume 8, Issue 2, 2008

Page: [162 - 166] Pages: 5

DOI: 10.2174/187152208784587926

Price: $65

Abstract

Endothelium-derived nitric oxide (eNO) is a central regulator of vascular function and blood flow. eNO is a potent vasodilator, inhibits platelet aggregation and prevents monocytes adhesion. In addition, NO availability is an important determinant of the functional capacity of endothelial progenitor cells and neovascularization. Consequently, eNO plays a central protective role during the pathogenesis of ischaemic stroke. Experimental and clinical studies have demonstrated that statins increase the bio- availability of endothelial NO indirectly via cholesterol-lowering as well as through direct cholesterol-independent mechanisms. On the basis of animal studies and clinical trials, statins have emerged as a potential novel strategy to protect from ischaemic strokes. These data raise the questions whether patients with acute cerebral ischaemia may benefit from intravenous treatment with a statin and, whether these patients are at risk when their ongoing statin treatment is withdrawn.

Keywords: Statins, stroke, endothelium, nitric oxide


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