Reconstituted HDL: A therapy for atherosclerosis and beyond

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in developed countries. As low levels of the cardioprotective particle HDL are associated with cardiovascular disease, raising HDL levels may lead to positive outcomes. Reconstituted HDL (rHDL) therapy in humans has resulted in regression of atheroma volume and plaque remodeling. The applications of rHDL appear vast as encouraging results in improving glucose uptake and insulin levels have also been reported in Type 2 diabetics. The potent anti-inflammatory properties of rHDL can also be exploited to reduce inflammation is diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Furthermore, as HDL is an inert particle, it may also have applications in drug delivery. This paper discusses the results obtained to date with rHDL therapy and provides an outlook into the future in regards to potential uses.