Putting low-density lipoproteins at center stage in atherogenesis.

This article argues that major risk factors such as diabetes or hypertension increase the risk of vascular disease principally by amplifying the malign interactions of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles with the arterial wall and, consequently, that LDL is the first and foremost factor in the pathogenesis of vascular disease. We conclude that marked reduction of the LDL particle number should be the cornerstone of therapy in those with vascular disease or in those at high risk of vascular disease.