The Biology of Atherosclerosis, Heart Attacks and Strokes Bryan Holden

First Things First… What is Atherosclerosis? -It is the progressive depositing of lipids and cells in the inner layer of an artery -It is the most common cause of heart attacks and strokes -Accounts for 75% of all cardiovascular disease deaths

Low Density Lipoprotein

The Mechanism of a Heart Attack WBC’s adhere to luminal surface of the artery wall. WBC’s differentiate into macrophages to fight an infection Macrophages can readily endocytose LDL cholesterol into artery Cholesterol is converted to an ester and is passed into the macrophage forming a foam cell

Accumulation of cholesterol forms a fatty streak

Smooth muscle cells secrete more cholesterol Smooth muscle cells secrete more cholesterol. A plaque is formed along with a fibrous cap

Plaque ruptures and forms a blood clot instantly

Blood clot results in… Heart attack Stroke Death

Treatments Balloon stretching Removal of plaques Stents Bypass surgery

Prevention of Atherosclerosis Exercise: 30 minutes most of the days of the week Eat a diet low in saturated fats Don’t smoke

Hazzah 4 Spring