Atherosclerosis Flashcards
1
Q
Atherosclerosis
A
Refers to a collection of fatty plaques in the arteries
This causes inflammatory disease
2
Q
Formation of plaques
A
- High blood LDL causes LDL to be taken into the smooth muscle, leading to endothelial cell dysfunction
- Inflammation occurs
- Macrophages become filled with lipid, turning into foam cells and amplifying the immune response
- Smooth muscle thickens, forming a cap on top of the plaque
3
Q
Fibrates
A
PPARa receptor antagonists
PPARa receptor = increases the expression of enzymes involved in lipid and cholesterol synthesis
Hence lipid synthesis is inhibited, decreasing plasma LDL
4
Q
Statins
A
Reversible inhibitors of HMG-CoA reductase
Decreases cholesterol synthesis and increase LDL clearance from plasma
Also improve endothelial function
5
Q
Non-drug alternatives to treat atherosclerosis
A
- Bile-acid binding resins = limit bile acid reabsorption
- Plant sterols = compete with cholesterol
- Fish oils = reduce plasma triglyceride
