This invention relates to a novel discovery on the use of cholesterol lowering agents to treat tendon injuries. Based on clinical and basic research, the Penn inventors have demonstrated that hyperlipidemia has deleterious effects on the overall structure and function of tendons rendering them more susceptible to injury and potentially interfering with the optimal healing process post-injury.

The University of Pennsylvania has an issued US Patent claiming this new use of cholesterol lowering agents, primarily statins, for use in patients with tendon injuries. This treatment would provide a new use indication for statins and a potentially powerful tool for the treatment of tendon injuries.