Oxidized low-density lipoprotein and atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in western society. The most important risk factors for atherosclerosis include smoking, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes and a family history of premature atherosclerosis. Several studies indicate that an increased plasma low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol constitutes a major risk factor for atherosclerosis. Many data support a proatherogenic role for oxidized LDL, and its in vivo existence. The oxidative susceptibility of LDL is increased with established cardiovascular risk factors, such as diabetes, smoking and dyslipidemia. Supplementation with antioxidants such as ascorbate and alpha to copherol can decrease LDL oxidation as well as cardiovascular mortality and thus shows promise in the prevention of atherosclerosis