Heme oxygenase-1( HO-1),a stress response protein,is the rate-limiting enzyme in the metabolism of free heme. HO-1 could serve a cytoprotective function by degrading the oxidant heme and generating the antioxidant bilirubin and anti-inflammatory molecule carbon monoxide. Coronary artery diseases including atherosclerosis,myocardial infarction,and restenosis after percutaneous coronary intervention are all associated with reactive oxygen species-induced oxidative stress injury and inflammation. Numerous stud...