The Effect on EPCs by Statin Loading in "All Comers" With an ACS

Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. There are a number of risk factors for coronary artery disease and all to often patients admitted with an acute coronary syndrome have these comorbidities. The main stay of treatment of such patients is to perform coronary angiography and if required coronary angioplasty. Previous studies have shown a link between endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) count, coronary artery disease and statin therapy or loading, however these studies have excluded patients with significant comorbidities and therefore have not truly represented "real life" patients. This pilot study will assess EPC response in patients that are able to undergo coronary intervention as part of their normal clinical management under current guidelines regardless of pre-existing comorbidities. The research team believe this will allow representation of "real world" patients.