Effect of atorvastatin nanoparticles compared to free atrovastatin on plaque properties in rabbit model of atherosclerosis

Abstract

Background: Atherosclerosis is a systemic disease affecting the entire arterial tree involving the accumulation of inflammatory cells in the atherosclerotic plaques with larger macrophage‑rich areas. Utilizing this property, we aimed to study the effect of atorvastatin nanoparticles given once in a week compared to free atorvastatin given daily on the plaque properties in a rabbit model of atherosclerosis. Materials and Methods: Rabbits were fed with high‑cholesterol diet over a period of 2 months. Thereafter, aortic wall tissues were taken for histological changes, and morphometric analysis and plasma samples were taken for the measurement of lipid profile. Results: Our nanoformulation has been effective in improving lipid profile and decreasing plaque content in the aortic wall and showed comparable effect with that of a free drug. Conclusion: Thus, our novelty is the development of sustained‑release nanoformulation of atorvastatin having similar pharmacodynamic activity when compared to free atorvastatin.