Scavenger receptor type B class I (SR-BI) is the first glycoprotein defined as a high density lipoprotein (HDL) receptor on the cell membrane, which mediates the selective uptake of high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) by cells, affecting cell cholesterol balance and inflammatory status. Liver SR-BI plays an important role in reverse cholesterol transport, and is closely related to HDL metabolism and its role in anti-atherogenesis. It has been found that humans have SR-BI gene polymorphisms. This review focuses on SR-BI structure, function, regulation and its role on atherosclerosis.