Transfer proteins in reverse cholesterol transport

Abstract

The cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) is responsible for the transfer and exchange of cholesteryl ester and triglycerides between HDL and apolipoprotein-B-containing lipoproteins in plasma. Due to its role in cholesteryl ester transfer, it has been implicated as an important factor in reverse cholesterol transport, i.e. the movement of cholesterol from peripheral tissues to the liver. This review provides an update of the effects of CETP on HDL and LDL metabolism, and the implications of these mechanisms on the role of CETP in cholesterol homeostasis and the development of atherosclerosis.