Modulation of macrophage function and metabolism

Abstract

Several drugs or pharmacologically active molecules such as statins, calcium antagonists, and PPAR agonists have been shown to affect macrophage functions that contribute to atherosclerosis and modulate plaque stability. For example, the modulation of matrix metalloproteinase secretion and cholesterol metabolism in macrophages may help to prevent cardiovascular disease independently of the correction of risk factors. © 2005 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.