Impaired migration of trophoblast cells caused by simvastatin is associated with decreased membrane IGF-I receptor, MMP2 activity and HSP27 expression.

Background: Statins inhibit 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme-A reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme of the mevalonate pathway, and are used successfully in the treatment of hypercholesterolaemia. Statins are contraindicated during pregnancy. Lately, we have shown that simvastatin has adverse affects on human first trimester placental explants' proliferation and migration.

Simvastatin has deleterious effects on human first trimester placental explants.

Background: Statins inhibit 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme-A reductase (HMG-CoA reductase), the rate-limiting enzyme of the mevalonate pathway, and have been used successfully in the treatment of hypercholesterolaemia. Animal models have provided evidence for the teratogenic effects of statins on pregnancy outcome. Thus statins are contraindicated during pregnancy.