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 studies have recently demonstrated HO-1 plays an important function in preventing atherosclerosis, restenosis and improving the myocardial infarction prognosis. HO-1 might be identified as a promising therapeutic target in the prevention and treatment of coronary heart disease.