The absence of PSGL-1 or P-selectin inhibits the maturation of dendritic cells. Thus, without PSGL-1 or P-selectin, the homing of dendritic cells to atherosclerotic lesions is significantly reduced. Therefore, PSGL-1 prevents the development of atherosclerosis in the context of hypercholesterolemia and inflammation. The gene discussed is SELPLG; the disease is familial hypercholesterolemia.