Abstract: This invention provides a non-macrophage cell having therein an expression vector encoding ABCG1, wherein the non-macrophage cell expresses ABCG1. This invention further provides a non-macrophage cell having therein an expression vector encoding ABCG4, wherein the non-macrophage cell expresses ABCG4. This invention further provides related transgenic animals and methods.

Abstract: This invention provides methods for decreasing the amount of A? peptide produced by a neuronal cell comprising contacting the cell with an agent that, when in contact with the neuronal cell, causes activation of the cell's Liver X Receptor (LXR) and/or Retinoid X Receptor (RXR). This invention also provides for related therapeutic and prophylactic methods. Finally, this invention provides related articles of manufacture.

Abstract: This invention provides methods for increasing cholesterol efflux from a macrophage and decreasing the amount of cholesterol in a macrophage, preferably using a retinoid. This invention also provides methods for increasing the survival time of a cholesterol-loaded macrophage and decreasing the likelihood that a cholesterol-loaded macrophage will contribute to the progression of atherosclerosis, preferably using a retinoid. Finally, this invention provides related therapeutic methods and articles of manufacture.