C-reactive protein and statins: IL-8 as a molecular link?
CRP (C-reactive protein) has not only emerged as a useful biomarker for cardiovascular disease, but also as a mediator of atherosclerosis. CRP directly activates vascular endothelial cells, amplifying the inflammatory response underlying atherogenesis. The expression of IL (interleukin)-8 appears to serve as one of the downstream effects of CRP. Kibayashi and co-workers in this issue of Clinical Science confirm that CRP induces IL-8 production in human aortic endothelial cells in vitro, via the activation of MAPKs (mitogen-activated protein kinases), an effect that can be inhibited by pitavastatin.
Szmitko
Paul E
PE
Division of General Internal Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Verma
Subodh
S
D001011:Aorta; D002097:C-Reactive Protein / Q000276:immunology*; D002478:Cells, Cultured; D003864:Depression, Chemical; D042783:Endothelial Cells / Q000201:enzymology / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology*; D007249:Inflammation; D016209:Interleukin-8 / Q000276:immunology*; D011804:Quinolines / Q000494:pharmacology*; D048051:p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases / Q000378:metabolism
D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors; D016209:Interleukin-8; D011804:Quinolines; D002097:C-Reactive Protein; D048051:p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases; C108475:pitavastatin