Statins and oxidative stress in chronic heart failure

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2016

Authors

Costa, S (Author) Other; Marta R Couto (Author) FMUP; Albino Teixeira, A (Author) FMUP; Sousa, T (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Revista Portuguesa de Cardiologia

Vol. 35

Pages: 41-57

ISSN: 0870-2551

Publisher: Sociedade Portuguesa De Cardiologia

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 38 Citations

Scopus - 46 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00K-0N4

DOI: 10.1016/j.repc.2015.09.006

Abstract (EN): Statins are the most commonly prescribed drugs for the treatment of dyslipidemia. They are also recommended in primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. In addition to decreasing cholesterol synthesis, statins interfere with the synthesis of isoprenoid intermediates, which may explain many of their pleiotropic properties, including their antioxidant effects. Oxidative stress is defined as an imbalance between the synthesis of reactive oxygen species and their elimination by antioxidant defense systems, with a prevailing pro-oxidant status that results in macromolecular damage and disruption of cellular redox signaling. Reactive oxygen species interfere with various processes that affect cardiac structure and function, contributing to the contractile dysfunction, myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis observed in the pathophysiology of heart failure. By regulating several molecular pathways that control nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase and endothelial nitric oxide synthase activity, statins help restore redox homeostasis. These drugs also contribute to the control of inflammation and appear to have a protective role in various diseases. The results of observational studies and clinical trials with statins in heart failure have not been consensual. This review aims to analyze the role of oxidative stress in heart failure and the molecular mechanisms underlying statins' antioxidant properties. It also examines current scientific evidence on the use of these drugs as a specific treatment for heart failure.

Language: Portuguese

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 17