In the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, monocytes migrate into the intima and transform into which type of cells?

In the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, monocytes migrate into the intima and transform into which type of cells?

• A. Lymphocytes
• B. Smooth muscle cells
• C. Neutrophils
• D. Macrophages

Answer: (D)

Monocytes that enter the arterial intima differentiate into macrophages. In the vessel wall, these macrophages ingest modified lipids (notably oxidized LDL) through scavenger receptors and become lipid-laden foam cells, laying down the fatty streaks that start atherosclerotic lesions. Beyond forming foam cells, macrophages release inflammatory mediators and matrix-degrading enzymes that drive plaque progression and potential instability. Lymphocytes are involved in plaque inflammation but do not arise from monocytes transforming into them; smooth muscle cells come from the media and migrate into the intima, while neutrophils are transient inflammatory cells, not the result of monocyte differentiation in this context.

Monocytes that enter the arterial intima differentiate into macrophages. In the vessel wall, these macrophages ingest modified lipids (notably oxidized LDL) through scavenger receptors and become lipid-laden foam cells, laying down the fatty streaks that start atherosclerotic lesions. Beyond forming foam cells, macrophages release inflammatory mediators and matrix-degrading enzymes that drive plaque progression and potential instability. Lymphocytes are involved in plaque inflammation but do not arise from monocytes transforming into them; smooth muscle cells come from the media and migrate into the intima, while neutrophils are transient inflammatory cells, not the result of monocyte differentiation in this context.