Antileukemic properties of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitors. Issue 12 (December 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van Besien, Herman; Sassano, Antonella; Altman, Jessica K.; Platanias, Leonidas C.
• Is Part Of: Leukemia & lymphoma. Volume 54:Issue 12(2013:Dec.)
• Page Start: 2601
• Page End: 2605
• Publication Date: 2013-12
• Subjects: Leukemia -- Periodicals; Lymphomas -- Periodicals; 616.99419
• DOI: 10.3109/10428194.2013.790022
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1042-8194

Abstract

<abstract> <title>Abstract</title> <p>Statins are 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors that act on the mevalonate pathway and inhibit synthesis of cholesterol, geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP) and farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP). In preclinical studies, these agents have been shown to inhibit proliferation, trigger apoptosis and promote cell differentiation of leukemia. Proposed mechanisms include cholesterol deprivation and inhibition of isoprenylation of important signaling molecules. Case reports and early clinical studies suggest a therapeutic potential for statins in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In the other leukemias there are limited clinical data, but <italic>in vitro</italic> studies provide a strong rationale for future studies involving statins. The effects of statins on the immune system may lend these agents to a role in allogeneic stem cell transplant. While many of the studies are early, statins have the future potential to be integrated into conventional chemotherapy regimens with limited side effects.</p> </abstract>