Recent Advances on the Antiatherogenic Effects of HDL-Derived Proteins and Mimetic Peptides

The plasma levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol are inversely correlated with the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in humans. One of the major mechanisms whereby HDL particles protect against atherosclerosis is that of reverse cholesterol transport from atherosclerotic lesion macrophages to the liver. HDL particles also exhibit various antiatherogenic and cardioprotective effects by modulating the function of various cells including the cells of the artery wall and by expressing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic and antiapoptotic effects. Most these effects are mediated by various lipid and protein HDL components. A plethora of studies have been conducted in order to shed light on the mechanisms by which each HDL component contributes to the functionality of this lipoprotein. The complete elucidation of these mechanisms will significantly contribute to current efforts focused on the development of therapeutic strategies to promote the antiatherogenic potency of HDL. The present review discusses current knowledge on the biological activities of the major apolipoproteins and enzymes associated with HDL, which may significantly contribute to the overall antiatherogenic and cardioprotective effects of this lipoprotein.