Abstract: AIM:To observe effects of fluvastatin and lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) on the proliferation and apoptosis of human umbilical artery vascular smooth muscle cells (HUASMC) and provide a new evidence to statins in clinical application regarding antiatherosclerotic action.METHODS:Proliferation in cultured VSMC, derived from HUASMC and treated with different doses of fluvastatin and LPC, was analyzed by means of MTT assay. Apoptosis of the cell was examined using dying Hoechst33258. Expression of Survivin and Fas were examined using immunocytochemistry and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction method.RESULTS:(1) LPC (5mg/L) could increase index of proliferation significantly. Compared with LPC group, fluvastatin could decrease proliferation significantly. (2) Immunocytochemistry and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction method revealed that the apoptosis process was associated with inhibition of Survivin and activation of Fas.CONCLUSION: Fluvastatin inhibits proliferation of HUASMC induced by LPC. Fluvastatin can induce apoptosis of HUASMC in connection with down-regulation of Survivin and up-regulation of Fas.

Key words: lysophosphatidylcholine, fluvastatin, human umbilical artery vascular smooth muscle cells, Survivin, Fas