Atherosclerosis is characterized by early endothelial dysfunction and altered vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) contractility. The forming atheroma is a site of excessive production of cytokines and inflammatory ligands by various cell types that mediate inflammation and immune responses. Key factors contributing to early stages of plaque development are IFNγ and TLR4. This review provides i...

The equilibration of cholesterol between plasma and atherosclerotic arteries was studied in 13 patients with obstructive atherosclerosis 2-96 days after the intravenous and/or oral administration of isotopic cholesterol. Arterial specimens were obtained in 12 patients during surgery for arterial reconstruction and in a 13th patient at autopsy. Equilibration was calculated as the specific radioa...

The involvement of inflammation is described in all stages atherosclerosis as well dyslipidemias, particularly lipoproteins (especially oxidized LDL), coronary syndromes, hypertension, diabetes, infections, obesity, and also the use sexual replacement hormones. From first steps leukocyte recruitment nascent atheromatic lesion to development atheroma plaque, culminating its rupture thrombosis ac...