| abstract |
(57) [Summary]nNovel uses of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors are provided. In the present invention, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors are found to up-regulate endothelial cell nitric oxide synthase activity via a mechanism other than preventing the formation of oxidized LDL. As a result, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors are useful in treating or preventing conditions resulting from abnormally low expression and / or activity of endothelial cell nitric oxide synthase. Such conditions include pulmonary hypertension, ischemic stroke, impotence, heart failure, hypoxia-induced conditions, insulin deficiency, progressive renal disease, gastric or esophageal dyskinesia syndrome, and the like. Subjects who would primarily benefit from such treatment include non-hyperlipidemia and non-hypercholesterolemia, but need not eliminate hyperlipidemia and hypercholesterolemia. |