Therefore, we demonstrate that the protection against increased atherosclerosis, necrotic core development, and apoptosis is the result of Bim deficiency in BM-derived myeloid cells, whereas the increased leukocytosis and reduced plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels reflect Bim deficiency in nonmyeloid cells derived from the BM. The gene discussed is BCL2L11; the disease is Increased total leukocyte count.