Scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI) and high-density lipoprotein metabolism: Recent lessons from genetically manipulated mice

The scavenger receptor BI is a cell surface lipoprotein receptor for select ive high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol uptake in the liver and ster oidogenic tissues. Studies of genetically manipulated strains of mice have revealed that SR-BI plays a key role in regulating HDL metabolism, choleste rol transport to steroidogenic tissues and bile cholesterol secretion. Furt hermore, SR-BI protects against the development of atherosclerosis and is r equired for normal female fertility: If SR-BI has similar functions in lipo protein metabolism and atherosclerosis in humans, it may represent a new ta rget for the prevention and/or treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.