Statins are a type of drug commonly used to lower cholesterolA type of lipid, cholesterol is part of a group of molecules called steroids. Cholesterol is essential for the structure and function of our cellular membranes. Testosterone and estrogen are other steroids that are very similar to cholesterol in structure. levels. They work by interfering with the activity of the enzymeA protein that speeds up the process of chemical reactions in the body without becoming altered in the process. Almost every biological process is driven by the activity of enzymes. Without enzyme catalysts, the complex reactions that build and break down cell parts would not happen at a rate compatible with life. Enzyme names usually describe the reaction that is being catalyzed and all of them end in -ase., HMG-CoA reductase, a key enzyme in cholesterol production in the liver. Recent studies have indicated that statins also can benefit high-risk localized prostate cancer patients receiving high doses of radiationIn cancer biology: A cancer treatment in which high energy beams are used to kill cancer cells. Radiation can also cause genetic damage that can lead to cancer. As an example, skin cancer is believed to be greatly increased by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. therapy. In a controlled study, coupling statins with radiation therapy correlated with an increased relapse-free survival period, which suggests that statins may play in sensitizing cancer cells to radiation.
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