The main objectives of this research project are: 1. The identification and validation of a set of methylation markers tested for peripheral blood, is able to arrive at an accurate assessment of risk for atherosclerosis. 2. Identified merkets further be scientifically characterized as this will provide more insight into the underlying molecular atherosclerotic processes and signal transduction pathways. 3. If successful this set after the project will be developed into a diagnostic test that will include clinical trials of the standard battery.