Simvastatin's Effect on Fibronectin in Airway Fibroblasts
Author Information
Author(s): Schaafsma Dedmer, McNeill Karol D, Mutawe Mark M, Ghavami Saeid, Unruh Helmut, Jacques Eric, Laviolette Michel, Chakir Jamila, Halayko Andrew J
Primary Institution: University of Manitoba
Hypothesis
Does simvastatin inhibit TGFβ1-induced fibronectin expression in human airway fibroblasts?
Conclusion
Simvastatin effectively inhibits TGFβ1-induced fibronectin expression in both asthmatic and non-asthmatic airway fibroblasts.
Supporting Evidence
- Simvastatin reduced TGFβ1-induced fibronectin expression by up to 62.5%.
- Asthmatic fibroblasts showed a greater response to TGFβ1 compared to non-asthmatic fibroblasts.
- Co-incubation with mevalonate prevented the effects of simvastatin.
Takeaway
Simvastatin can help reduce a protein that makes airways stiff in people with asthma, which might help them breathe better.
Methodology
The study used primary human airway fibroblasts treated with TGFβ1 and simvastatin, measuring fibronectin levels through immunoblotting.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on in vitro conditions and may not fully represent in vivo responses.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 3 non-asthmatic and 3 asthmatic subjects, all non-smokers.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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