HMG CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) to treat Epstein-Barr virus-driven lymphoma

While statins have been highly effective for lowering serum cholesterol and reducing the incidence of coronary events, they have multiple other effects. Certain statins block the interaction of adhesion molecules that are important for cell-cell interactions including those between EBV-transformed B cells. These same statins inhibit NF-κ B activation in the cells and induce apoptosis of transformed B cells. Studies in severe combined immunodeficiency mice show that simvastatin delays the development of EBV-lymphomas in these animals. These statins might be considered for the treatment of EBV-lymphomas in selected patients.