Clinical and epidemiological studies have suggested that low plasma levels of high-density lipoproteins cholesterol (HDL-C) are independently associated with an increased risk of cardio-vascular diseases (CVD). Accumulated data from epidemiologic, animal models and clinical studies support the view that raising HDL may be an effective new target to decrease cardio-vascular risks. New insights in the understanding of the physiology, mechanisms and pathways by which HDL may reduce atherosclerosis allow new promising agents for increasing plasma HDL-C. In this regards, apo-AI analogs, acute HDL-C infusions therapies and new cholesteryl ester transfer protein CETP inhibitors have opened new expectations in the treatment of CVD.
Key words: HDL, cardiovascular risks, treatment
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