Fig. 1

Atherosclerosis begins with the recognition of low-density lipoprotein by scavenger receptors on monocytes and macrophages. These cells infiltrate into the intimal layer of the artery where they uptake these lipid-rich molecules. Inability to process the heavy lipid burden overwhelms the cells and causes conversion to a foam cell. As foam cells accumulate, plaques develop, leading to further occlusion of arteries. In late-stage plaques, the hypoxic environment promotes necrosis of macrophages, smooth muscle cells, and the endothelial lining