Korean Circ J.  2018 Nov;48(11):951-963. 10.4070/kcj.2018.0307.

Functional Implications of HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibition on Glucose Metabolism

• Han KH

• KMID: 2422543
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4070/kcj.2018.0307

Abstract

HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, i.e. statins, are effective in reducing cardiovascular disease events but also in cardiac-related and overall mortality. Statins are in general well-tolerated, but currently the concerns are raised if statins may increase the risk of new-onset diabetes mellitus (NOD). In this review, the possible effects of statins on organs/tissues being involved in glucose metabolism, i.e. liver, pancreas, adipose tissue, and muscles, had been discussed. The net outcome seems to be inconsistent and often contradictory, which may be largely affected by in vitro experimental settings or/and in vivo animal conditions. The majority of studies point out statin-induced changes of regulations of isoprenoid metabolites and cell-associated cholesterol contents as predisposing factors related to the statin-induced NOD. On the other hand, it should be considered that dysfunctions of isoprenoid pathway and mitochondrial ATP production and the cholesterol homeostasis are already developed under (pre)diabetic and hypercholesterolemic conditions. In order to connect the basic findings with the clinical manifestation more clearly, further research efforts are needed.

Keyword

HMG-CoA reductase; Statins; Diabetes; Insulin sensitivity; Glucogenesis

MeSH Terms

Adenosine Triphosphate
Adipose Tissue
Animals
Cardiovascular Diseases
Causality
Cholesterol
Diabetes Mellitus
Glucose*
Hand
Homeostasis
Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
In Vitro Techniques
Insulin Resistance
Liver
Metabolism*
Mortality
Muscles
Oxidoreductases*
Pancreas
Social Control, Formal
Adenosine Triphosphate
Cholesterol
Glucose
Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
Oxidoreductases

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