Effects of statin therapy on coronary plaque volume by decreasing CRP/hsCRP levels: A meta-regression of randomized controlled trials
Background and aims: Several clinical trials have indicated that statins stabilize and reverse atherosclerotic plaque. However, different studies have provided inconsistent findings regarding mechanisms and influencing factors of plaque regression under statin therapy. In this study, meta-analysis and meta-regression were used to determine the effect of statin medication on coronary plaque volume as determined by intravenous ultrasound. Meanwhile, the impact of statins on CRP/hsCRP reduction on plaque regression was discussed. Methods: Up to May 28, 2021, a systematic PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane search was performed for randomized controlled trials that assessed treatment effect using total atheroma volume (TAV), percent atheroma volume (PAV), or plaque volume (PV). Only CRP/hsCRP and LDL-C values reported before and after treatment were considered. Results: 12 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review. Compared with control groups, meta-analysis of 15 statin-treated arms reported change of TAV/PV showed standardized mean difference (SMD) at -0.27 (95% confidence intervals [CI]: -0.42, -0.12). Meta-analysis of 7 studies reported change of PAV revealed SMD at -0.16 (95% CI: -0.29, -0.03). Meta-regression analysis revealed percent change of CRP/hsCRP statistically influences SMD in change of TAV/PVafter adjusting for percent change of LDL-C, age and gender. Meta-regression analysis showed that percent change of CRP/hsCRP statistically influences SMD in change of PAV. Conclusion: In conclusion, statin therapy is beneficial for plaque regression. Statins promote plaque regression through their anti-inflammatory ability while lowering LDL-C is unaffected. Keywords: Statins; Reduction of atherosclerosis; C-reactive protein; Randomized controlled trial; Meta-analysis