How statin drugs affect exosomes?

J Cell Biochem. 2023 Feb;124(2):171-180. doi: 10.1002/jcb.30363. Epub 2022 Dec 24.

Abstract

Statins reduce serum cholesterol and isoprenoids by the inhibition of cholesterol synthesis in the mevalonate pathway. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles (30-200 nm) released by all cells that regulate cell-to-cell communication in health and disease by transferring functional proteins, metabolites and nucleic acids to recipient cells. There are many reports that show an effect of statins on exosomes, from their production and release to their content and performance. In this review, we have summarized existing data on the impact of statins on the biosynthesis, secretion, content, uptake and function of exosomes.

Keywords: cholesterol; exosomes; isoprenoids; lipid raft; mevalonate pathway; statins.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cholesterol / metabolism
  • Exosomes* / metabolism
  • Extracellular Vesicles* / metabolism
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors* / pharmacology
  • Terpenes / metabolism

Substances

  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
  • Terpenes
  • Cholesterol