Objective:To observe the effects of ginkgo biloba extract on anti-atherosclerosis

ceramide content of aorta and foam cell apoptosis in experimental rabbits and study the possible mechanism.Methods: 24 rabbits were randomly divided into three groups.Control group was fed with a normal diet;High cholesterol group was fed 1% cholesterol and 5% fat diet;ginkgo biloba extract group was fed 1% cholesterol and 5% fat diet plus ginkgo biloba extract 2.0 g·kg-1·d-1.At the end of study

the plaque area were measures by image analysis

the aorta ceramide were detected by HPTLC and foam cell apoptosis were evaluated by TUNEL method.Results: Ginkgo biloba extract could diminish lipid plaque area on the aortic endothelium

reduce the levels of aorta ceramide and the apoptosis index.Conclusions: Ginkgo biloba extract has inhibitory effect on AS.The possible mechanism may be related to the decreased concentration of ceramide in aorta by treatment of ginkgo biloba extract.