LCAT can rescure the abnormal phenotype produced by the natural ApoA-I mutations [(Leu141arg).sub.Pisa] and [(Leu159Arg).sub.FIN]

The recombinant adenoviruses expressing apolipoproteins are generated to explain the etiology and find a mode of therapy of genetically determined low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). The study establishes that apoA-I[Leu141Arg.sub.Pisn] and apoA-I[Leu159Arg.sub.FIN] inhibit an early step in the biogenesis of HDL.