In the ApoE−/− mice for the induction of atherosclerosis, the over-expression of Saa3 using the adeno-associated virus led to a marked increase in the atherosclerosis lesion area compared to the control mice, and the suppression of Saa3 expression decreased atherosclerosis in mice with the genetic deletion of Saa1.1 and Saa2.1 [124]. Here, APOE is linked to atherosclerosis.