Scavenger receptor BI and cholesterol trafficking

Scavenger receptor BI (SR-BI) mediates the selective uptake of HDL choleste ryl ester into steroidogenic cells and the liver and is a major determinant of the plasma HDL concentration in the mouse. Recent studies indicate that SR-BI also alters the metabolism of apolipoprotein B-containing particles and influences the development of atherosclerosis in several animal models. These results and the similar pattern of SR-BI expression in humans emphas ize that it is important to learn how this receptor influences lipoprotein metabolism and atherosclerosis in people. Curr Opin Lipidol 10:329-339. (C) 1999 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.