Atherosclerosis, Apoptosis and Necrosis Flashcards
What is atherosclerosis?
Inflammatory process shown by hardened plaques in the intima of vessel wall
Where is atherosclerosis more likely to happen?
Circulatory System as higher pressure
What 2 ways can atherosclerosis be prevented/reduced?
1) Low dose daily aspirin
2) Reduce the risk factors
What are 3 main components of an plaque?
1) Lipids
2) Fibrous Tissue
3) Lymphocytes
What are 5 risk factors for atherosclerosis?
- Cigarette smoking.
- Hypertension.
- Hyperlipidaemia.
- Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
- Lower socioeconomic status.
What is the primary cause of atherosclerosis?
Endothelial cell damage of the vessels
How does cigarette smoke link to atherosclerosis?
Release of nicotine, free radicals and CO in the body. All damage the endothelial cells
How does hypertension link to atherosclerosis?
Higher blood pressure exerts more pressure on endothelial cells
What is apoptosis?
Programmed cell death
What does p53 gene do?
Looks for DNA damage, and then will switch on apoptosis
What diseases are examples of apoptosis not working?
Not Enough: Cancer
Too Much: HIV
Which family of protease enzyme triggers apoptosis and what receptor is activated?
Caspase Family
FAS receptor
What is necrosis?
Unprogrammed death of a large number of cells due to an adverse event
What are 3 examples of necrosis?
1) Frost Bite
2) Avascular Necrosis
3) Infarction
What are 3 differences between apoptosis and necrosis?
1) Apoptosis is programmed (intentioned)
2) Apoptosis only affects a single cell (Necrosis multiple in one area)
3) Apoptosis occurs in response to cell damage
