1. The Biology of Atherosclerosis, Heart Attacks and Strokes
Bryan Holden

2. 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

4. Low Density Lipoprotein

5. 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

7. Accumulation of cholesterol forms a fatty streak

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

9. Plaque ruptures and forms a blood clot instantly

10. Blood clot results in…
Heart attack
Stroke
Death

11. Treatments
Balloon stretching
Removal of plaques
Stents
Bypass surgery

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

13. Hazzah 4 Spring