In the latest issue of the Journal of Internal Medicine, Tall published an extensive review of the literature on the role of HDL in mediating cholesterol efflux and its overall cardioprotective effects. The review discussed the role of HDL particles in mediating cholesterol efflux via the ABCA1 and ABCG1 pathways in macrophages and phagocytes. The pleiotropic anti-atherogenic properties of HDL, such as its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and anti-thrombotic properties, and its ability to induce vasodilatation were reviewed and the results of many studies were discussed. Tall also reviewed recent clinical trials that involved drugs targeting HDL metabolism, such as HDL-like complexes containing apo AI Milano or apo AI Wild type, fibrates, CETP inhibitors, and Niacin. Tall concluded his review by underlining the great potential of HDL raising therapies, which still require further refinement in order to achieve optimal effectiveness.
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