The gld.apoE−/− mouse model incorporates the gld inactivating mutation in Fas ligand (FasL) which develops lupus-like autoimmunity together with splenomegaly and lymphadenopathy; and the apoE−/− strain which spontaneously displays increased plasma levels of cholesterol and triglycerides and the development of atherosclerosis, particularly when mice are given a high cholesterol “Western diet”. This evidence concerns the gene APOE and atherosclerosis.