Oxidized LDL and atherogenesis: relation to risk factors for coronary heart disease

According to a new theory, a critical step in atherogenesis is oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) within the arterial wall. Direct data supporting this theory are limited, but indirect evidence suggests that oxidized LDL plays a role in atherogenesis. An important question is whether the LDL-oxidation hypothesis conforms to what is known about other risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD), such as hypertension, smoking, low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, and diabetes mellitus. Perhaps a unified theory of atherogenesis could be formulated if these risk factors exert their atherogenic actions in part by promoting, facilitating, or permitting the oxidation of LDL.