Recent developments in atherogenesis.

Abstract

This review attempts to highlight some new developments in the study of atherosclerosis with respect to lipoprotein and cellular elements of the aortic wall. The studies reviewed have shown that in addition to LDL (low density lipoprotein), atherogenic lipoproteins comprise also beta-VLDL (very low density lipoprotein), Lp (a) (lipoprotein (a)), peroxidatively modified LDL and remnant lipoproteins. The latter two were shown to interact preferentially with macrophages, the main cellular elements of fatty streaks. New information has also accrued with regard to improved identification of macrophage and smooth muscle derived foam cells and the presence of T-lymphocytes in the atheroma has been firmly established. The interaction of the various lipoproteins with the cellular elements and the role of lymphokines and growth factors in the formation of the atheroma are reviewed.