The role of apolipoprotein A-I-containing lipoproteins in atherosclerosis.
The inverse relationship between HDL and apolipoprotein A-I concentrations and the risk for premature atherosclerosis is well established, but the mechanism whereby apolipoprotein A-I offers protection is still somewhat elusive. Recent studies suggest that a specific subpopulation within the lipoprotein (AI) subclass may be more effective than others in promoting cholesterol efflux from cells. In addition, it appears that the lipid-free form of apolipoprotein A-I may have an important role in the antiatherosclerotic process. Unique new functions of apolipoprotein A-I-containing particles in modulating cytokines and lipid hydroperoxide transport, together with their role in antiatherogenesis, are also discussed. Current research with transgenic mice, however, indicates that apolipoprotein A-II must be taken into consideration in understanding the development of atherosclerosis, because it appears to be a potent antagonist for the protective properties of apolipoprotein A-I.
Forte
T M
TM
Life Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Berkeley, California.
McCall
M R
MR
D000818:Animals; D016632:Apolipoprotein A-I / Q000502:physiology*; D001161:Arteriosclerosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000378:metabolism*; D001692:Biological Transport; D002784:Cholesterol / Q000378:metabolism; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D006801:Humans; D008052:Lipid Metabolism, Inborn Errors / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D008074:Lipoproteins / Q000378:metabolism; D051379:Mice; D008822:Mice, Transgenic; D009154:Mutation; D010084:Oxidation-Reduction; D012307:Risk Factors
D016632:Apolipoprotein A-I; D008074:Lipoproteins; D002784:Cholesterol