From the Research
The center of an atherosclerotic plaque contains both foam cells and lipoproteins, with foam cells being macrophages that have engulfed oxidized low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) and become lipid-laden, and lipoproteins, particularly oxidized LDLs, contributing to the ongoing inflammatory process. The formation of foam cells and the accumulation of lipoproteins in the plaque center are crucial in atherosclerosis development, as macrophages attempt to clear lipoproteins from the arterial wall but become overwhelmed and transform into foam cells, leading to plaque growth, inflammation, and potential complications like rupture and thrombosis 1. Key factors involved in this process include:
- The role of apolipoprotein B (apoB)-containing lipoproteins, such as LDL, in the formation and progression of atherosclerotic plaques 1, 2
- The contribution of oxidized LDLs to the progression of atherosclerosis and the formation of foam cells 1, 3
- The potential of lipoproteins as biomarkers for predicting risk associated with atherosclerotic plaques or as targets for novel therapeutic agents 2 The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2025, highlights the importance of apoB-containing lipoproteins in atherogenesis and the potential for targeted therapeutic options to reduce cardiovascular events 1. Overall, the center of an atherosclerotic plaque is a complex environment involving the interaction of foam cells and lipoproteins, and understanding these components is crucial for the development of effective therapeutic strategies to prevent and treat atherosclerosis.