Effects of simvastatin and rosuvastatin on RAS protein, Matrix metalloproteinases and NF-κB in lung cancer and in normal pulmonary tissues

Abstract

Objectives: In this study, we have evaluated effects of 24-hour treatments with simvastatin or rosuvastatin on RAS protein, NF-κB and MMP expression in LC tissues obtained from 12 patients undergoing thoracic surgery. Materials and methods: Normal and lung tumour tissues obtained from each sample were exposed to simvastatin (2.5-30 μm) or rosuvastatin (1.25-30 μm) and western blot analysis was then performed. Results: We documented increased expression of proteins, MMP-2, MMP-9 and NF-κB-p65 in LC tissues, with respect to normal tissues (P < 0.01). In the malignant tissues, simvastatin and rosuvastatin significantly (P < 0.01) and dose-dependently reduced RAS protein, MMP-2/9 and NF-κB-p65 expression. Conclusions: In conclusion, our results suggest that simvastatin and rosuvastatin could play a role in LC treatment by modulation of RAS protein, MMP-2/9 and NF-κB-p65. © 2013 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.