Targeting paraoxonase-1 in atherosclerosis.

INTRODUCTION: Paraoxonase-1 (PON1) is a Ca(2+) dependent, high-density lipoprotein-associated lactonase which is capable of retarding/inhibiting low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation. LDL oxidation is believed to be central to the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis, therefore, PON1 is considered to be atheroprotective. AREAS COVERED: Relevant literature on PON1 was identified in PubMed. Here, we discuss the background to research on PON1 in atherosclerosis, the evidence for and against PON1 being atheroprotective, potential mechanisms of this atheroprotection and current knowledge on human PON1 regulation. EXPERT OPINION: Although current knowledge on PON1 indicates it to be atheroprotective, further clinical and basic studies are warranted to show that PON1 is causally linked to atherosclerosis, how it is atheroprotective and how it is regulated in vivo in humans.