Simvastatin Decreases Alopecia Areata-Associated Inflammation Through Effects on Isoprenoid Metabolites

Simvastatin was found to decrease inflammation associated with alopecia areata (AA) by affecting isoprenoid metabolites. In a mouse model, simvastatin reduced inflammatory markers, STAT1 activation, and NKG2D expression, leading to complete hair re-growth and decreased serum cholesterol and triglycerides. Additionally, simvastatin inhibited the proliferation of cytotoxic T cells and primary T lymphocytes, an effect reversed by adding isoprenoid metabolites. These findings suggested that simvastatin's impact on lymphocytic subpopulations responsible for hair follicle damage in AA was mediated through disruption of isoprenylation.