High-density lipoproteins: a novel therapeutic target for cardiovascular disease

h-density lipoproteins: a novel therapeutic target for cardiovascular disease Review (4743) Total Article Views Authors: TS Mohamed Saleem, PV Sandhya Rani, K Gauthaman Published Date January 2011 Volume 2011:2 Pages 1 - 6 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/RRCC.S15600 TS Mohamed Saleem1, PV Sandhya Rani1, K Gauthaman2 1Department of Pharmacology, Annamacharya College of Pharmacy, New Boyanapalli, Andhrapradesh, India; 2Department of Drug Technology, Faculty of Medical Technology, Derna, Libya Abstract: Cardiovascular disease has a high rate of mortality in both Western and developing countries. Atherosclerosis and generation of reactive oxygen species through oxidative stress is the major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Atherothrombosis with low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and high levels of low-density lipoprotein is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis-induced cardiovascular disease. Lipid-lowering drugs like statins, niacin, fibrates, and some newer agents, ie, the apolipoprotein A-I mimetics and the cholesteryl ester transfer protein inhibitors, not only increase HDL levels but are also effective in reducing key atherogenic lipid components, including triglyceride-rich lipoproteins. The aim of this review is to discuss the accumulating evidence suggesting that HDL possesses a diverse range of biological actions, and that increasing HDL levels by drug treatment may be beneficial in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.