HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitor Modulates Monocyte–Endothelial Cell Interaction Under Physiological Flow Conditions In Vitro

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Abstract
—3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors, or statins, have been reported to exert actions independent of their lipid-lowering effects. To critically assess the effects of statins on monocyte–endothelial cell interactions, we used an in vitro model that mimicked physiological flow conditions. Monocytic U937 cells were incubated in the presence of cerivastatin for 48 hours. Adhesive interactions of statin-treated U937 cells were then analyzed by use of activated (interleukin-1β 10 U/mL, 4 hours) human umbilical vein endothelial cells in an in vitro flow apparatus. Flow cytometric analysis of adhesion molecules and measurement of F-actin content in U937 cells were performed before and after statin treatment. Preincubation with cerivastatin significantly decreased U937 firm adhesion to activated human umbilical vein endothelial cells, whereas U937 rolling was not decreased. Fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis revealed downregulation of U937 surface expression of CD11a, CD18,...