Why can a medicine intended to lower cholesterol also affect muscle? A study published in 2025 offers an answer at the level of a protein. It describes an unintended target of atorvastatin, a statin prescribed to reduce cardiovascular risk.
A gate that regulates calcium
The researchers studied RyR1, a channel involved in the release of calcium inside muscle cells. This movement of calcium is involved in contraction. Their article in Nature Communications uses cryo-electron microscopy to examine the interaction with atorvastatin.
The structures obtained show an unusual binding pattern: three molecules of the medicine can cluster in a pocket in each subunit of the protein. The first prepares the channel to open; two others accompany its opening. The experiments were conducted on a rabbit RyR1 protein, under laboratory conditions.
A possible route to modifying the molecules
The University of British Columbia presented this research on 26 November 2025. The authors are considering modifying the parts of the molecule involved in this interaction, while preserving its intended effect on cholesterol.
This remains a research goal. Observing a structural interaction does not demonstrate that a modified medicine is already effective and safe in patients. Nor does the study allow all muscle pain experienced while taking a statin to be attributed to this mechanism alone.
What this means for someone receiving treatment
The NHS notes that statins help prevent heart attacks and strokes. Not all patients experience side effects.
If you experience symptoms that you think may be related to the treatment, it recommends speaking to your doctor: they can investigate the cause and, if necessary, adjust the dose or medicine. You should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist before stopping a statin. The laboratory finding informs research; the assessment of pain and treatment remains individual.
Illustrative photo: axventura / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0, cropped.
