Atherosclerosis
The tiny layer of cells that lines the blood vessels in our body is known as the endothelium. Vascular endothelial cells line the entire circulatory system, from the heart to the smallest capillaries. These cells have very distinct and unique functions that are key to vascular health.
The first crucial function of the endothelium is the control of vascular tone. This is the balance between the relaxation and the contraction of blood vessels. Additionally, a healthy vascular endothelium serves as a protective barrier in blood-vessel walls, regulates blood flow, prevents thrombosis, controls coagulation, inhibits inflammation, and controls the passage of vital molecules from the blood into tissues.
When the normal function of the endothelium is impaired, we call this state ‘endothelial dysfunction’. Damage to the endothelium lining is the key event in the development of atherosclerosis.
An analogy can be made between a healthy blood vessel and a non-stick frying pan. It is not until there is damage to the non-stick coating that there is an issue with the frying pan and food begins to stick to it. The endothelial lining of our blood vessel walls is like that non-stick coating.
It is the damage to the arterial wall caused by various biological and environmental factors such as high blood pressure, stress, high blood sugar, toxins (e.g., cigarettes, pollution) and an excess of specific atherogenic lipoproteins that leads to the beginning of the disease processes. Subsequently, stressed or so-called ‘activated endothelium’ can secrete all kinds of undesired molecules, including inflammatory cytokines and activate so-called adhesion factors, promoting the disease further.
Once the lining of the arterial wall becomes damaged, LDL lipoprotein particles can penetrate the vessel wall. Then, the cholesterol inside those particles becomes oxidised by free radicals and reactive oxygen species. Once those particles become oxidised, they are taken up by the macrophages, forming foam cells. As a result, damaging inflammatory and calcification processes start, ultimately generating a vulnerable plaque with a thin fibrous cap. That plaque rupture can cause thrombosis, which might cause vessel occlusion or blockage.
Lower your cardiovascular risk profile by keeping your endothelium strong.
Do contact us if you need any help with assessing your cardiovascular risk, and we can send you further information on our testing and 1-1 support.
Did you like this article and want more tips and advice?
Want to know more?
* DISCLAIMER: The content of this article is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in any media published by myself.
