[Lipoproteins, free radicals and atherosclerosis].

The Author reviews vascular, lipidic and oxidative factors in the genesis of atherosclerosis. He admits the possibility that an alteration in the arterial wall, an increase in circulating lipids or an oxidative stress may influence the precocity of atherosclerosis. The transport of lipoperoxides or of oxidized cholesterol by lipoproteins renders them toxic and susceptible to aggravate atherosclerosis.