Effect of Rosuvastatin Therapy on Biomarkers of Inflammation and Immune Activation in People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus at Intermediate Cardiovascular Risk

J Infect Dis. 2021 Aug 16;224(4):667-672. doi: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa775.

Abstract

Background: Statins may help prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD) in people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH) with chronic inflammation owing to their pleotropic lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory properties.

Methods: The impact of 48 weeks of rosuvastatin therapy on inflammation and immune activation in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in PWH at moderate cardiovascular disease risk was assessed.

Results: Rosuvastatin did not alter plasma levels of interleukin 6, soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor type 2, CXCL10, soluble CD14, or soluble vascular cellular adhesion molecule 1 (P ≥ .1 for all). Proportions of CD16+ monocyte subsets were increased in PWH receiving rosuvastatin.

Conclusions: The potential benefits of statin use in PWH with normal lipid levels requires further clinical outcome research.

Keywords: HIV; cardiovascular disease; chronic inflammation; immune activation; monocytes; rosuvastatin.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers / blood
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / prevention & control
  • HIV Infections* / drug therapy
  • Heart Disease Risk Factors
  • Humans
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors* / therapeutic use
  • Inflammation / drug therapy
  • Monocytes
  • Risk Factors
  • Rosuvastatin Calcium* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
  • Rosuvastatin Calcium