Atorvastatin lowers portal pressure in cirrhotic rats by inhibition of RhoA/Rho-kinase and activation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase

Abstract

In cirrhotic rats, atorvastatin inhibits hepatic RhoA/Rho-kinase signaling and activates the NO/PKG-pathway. This lowers intrahepatic resistance, resulting in decreased portal pressure. Statins might represent a therapeutic option for portal hypertension in cirrhosis.