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