Atherosclerosis and the genetic basis of lipoprotein disease

Atherosclerosis has a multifactorial aetiology, resulting from a complex interaction of genetic and environmental factors. Plasma lipoproteins play a central role in atherogenesis. There is increasing evidence to suggest that the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is associated with specific genetic polymorphisms of the lipoprotein receptors, enzymes and apolipoproteins regulating lipid metabolism and transport. In addition to improving screening for high-risk individuals, identification of these genetic polymorphisms will provide new targets for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.