Composed of free fatty acids, and used as an energy source. Lipid transport Lipid is transported in blood attached to molecules called lipoproteins. These are associated with the development of atheroma. These help prevent the development of atheroma by scavenging excess LDL and transporting it to the liver for breakdown. Damage to the endothelial lining of the artery.
Monocytes enter damaged epithelium and become macrophages.
Oxidative changes probably via the action of free radicals take place on the LDL which damages it and makes it a target for phagocytosis. Note that this oxidation of the LDL may cause it to damage the receptor it normally interacts with during its clearance. Macrophages and smooth muscle of the damaged vessel take up cholesterol from LDL and TG from VLDL to form atheroma. Fibrosis begins, plaque grows and begins to obstruct blood flow. Platelets attach to the atheroma.