Does the Gene Encoding Apolipoprotein A-IMilano Protect the Heart?

Cardiac protection is generally believed to be exerted by high density lipoproteins (HDL). These lipoproteins can, in fact, remove cholesterol from the arterial wall, thus preventing plaque formation. Plasma levels of HDL are elevated in conditions where the atherosclerosis risk is reduced: women in fertile age, physically fit people, nonsmokers, etc. Conversely, HDL levels are reduced in smokers, diabetics and generally in all conditions leading to an enhanced risk of atherosclerotic vascular disease (Gordon and Rifkind 1989).