CHOLESTEROL AND ATHEROSCLEROSIS

Cholesterol is an essential component of cellular membranes, but when present in excess in the circulation, can be deposited in the arterial wall, leading to the formation of atherosclerotic lesions. The princi pal plasma carrier of cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL), is r emoved from the circulation by LDL receptors in the liver. This proces s plays a critical role in regulating plasma LDL levels. The unique st ructure and composition of the LDL particle makes it particularly susc eptible to modification by oxidative reactions. Current evidence sugge sts that the production of oxidised LDL in the intima, and the removal of oxidised LDL particles by scavenger receptors on macrophages, play a central role in the development and progression of atherosclerotic lesions.