High-density lipoproteins:an emerging target in the prevention of cardiovascular disease

High-density lipoproteins (HDLs) have been well established to protect against the development of atheroscleroticcardiovascular disease.It has become apparent that in addition to the promotion of reverse cholesterol transport,HDLspossess a number of additional functional properties that may contribute to their beneficial influence on the arterial wall.A number of exciting therapeutic strategies have been developed that target HDL and its ability to protect against thedevelopment of atherosclerotic plaque.This paper will review how the promotion of the functional properties of HDLinhibits the formation of atherosclerotic plaque and stabilises lesions in patients with established disease.