Statins regulate alpha2beta1-integrin expression and collagen I-dependent functions in human vascular smooth muscle cells.

HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors have direct vascular effects that contribute to plaque stability. In the current study, the authors demonstrate that the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors atorvastatin and pravastatin augment the adhesion of human (HSMCs) and rat aortic smooth muscle cells (RASMCs) to collagen I via induction of alpha2beta1-integrin receptors. Atorvastatin (0.