[Mechanisms of anti-atherogenic action of probucol]

Probucol has been recognized to have antioxidant properties as well as lipid-lowering effects, and contribute to prevention of atherosclerosis. Pharmacologically, this agent has shown several unique actions, and a lot of investigations have been reported regarding the mechanisms. Recently, it has been reported that probucol increases selective uptake of high density lipoprotein cholesterol esters by the medium of the class B, type I scavenger receptor (SR-BI), and that antioxidant potent may inhibit the restenosis of post coronary angioplasty. This review attempts to focus on the mechanism of antioxidant and HDL-lowering effects of probucol.