Abnormal blood lipids: is it environment or is it genes?

Genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development and progression of atherosclerotic coronary heart disease processes. Major independent risk factors for coronary heart disease, including adverse levels of plasma lipids and lipoproteins, are also influenced by genetic and potentially modifiable environmental factors. Recent advances in molecular biology have resulted in the identification of specific genes associated with lipid disorders. The complex gene-environment interplay that contributes to interindividual variation in components of the lipid profile is also partially clarified. This article provides an overview of available data on the genetic and environmental influences on lipids and lipoproteins with emphasis on implications for clinical practice and future research.