Atherosclerosis is a chronic disease in which the artery walls harden and narrow due to accumulation of inflamed cholesterol plaque. Clinical research involves investigations into the molecular, genetic and environmental causes of atherosclerosis. Particular focus includes the identification of unfamiliar risk factors for atherosclerotic syndromes. Research also investigates: new therapies to prevent or lead to regression of atherosclerotic lesions, investigation of the role of cholesterol and other lipids in atherosclerosis and atherosclerosis-related clinical syndromes.