Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 22, 2026

Single Nuclei Isolation from Coronary Endarterectomy Tissue of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Patients
09:09

Single Nuclei Isolation from Coronary Endarterectomy Tissue of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Patients

Published on: April 3, 2026

Segmental coronary endothelial dysfunction in patients with minimal atherosclerosis is associated with necrotic core

S Lavi1, J-H Bae, C S Rihal

  • 1Division of Cardiovascular Diseases and the Center for Coronary Physiology and Imaging, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.

Heart (British Cardiac Society)
|June 6, 2009
PubMed

Insights

In patients with early coronary atherosclerosis, endothelial dysfunction is linked to vulnerable plaque features like larger necrotic cores. These findings suggest specific plaque compositions may drive local disease progression.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Atherosclerosis Research
  • Endothelial Function Studies

Background:

  • Endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis are systemic diseases with potential local drivers.
  • Plaque composition may influence early, segmental involvement in coronary artery disease.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To test if coronary artery segments with abnormal endothelial function in patients with minimal atherosclerosis exhibit distinct plaque characteristics.
  • To investigate the relationship between endothelial response to acetylcholine and plaque composition.

Main Methods:

  • Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging was performed on 30 patients.
  • Spectral analysis of IVUS radiofrequency data assessed plaque composition.
  • Coronary sections were analyzed based on their endothelial response to acetylcholine.

Main Results:

  • Coronary segments with endothelial dysfunction showed smaller baseline lumen and larger plaque burden compared to normally functioning segments.
  • Dysfunctional segments had significantly larger necrotic core plaques and more dense calcium.
  • Necrotic core area was independently associated with endothelial dysfunction.

Conclusions:

  • Local coronary endothelial dysfunction in early atherosclerosis is associated with vulnerable plaque features.
  • These findings highlight the role of plaque composition in the early, segmental development of coronary artery disease.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Coronary Artery Disease II: Pathophysiology01:26

Coronary Artery Disease II: Pathophysiology

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) originates from a series of events that impair the function of coronary arteries, the blood vessels responsible for delivering oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. The pathophysiology of CAD is closely linked to atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory and lipid-driven condition affecting the vascular endothelium.1. Endothelial DamageThe process begins with damage to the vascular endothelium, which serves as a protective barrier between the blood and the vessel...
Peripheral Artery Disease I: Introduction01:30

Peripheral Artery Disease I: Introduction

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) predominantly results from atherosclerosis, which involves the accumulation of fatty deposits, or plaques, within the walls of arteries. This causes them to narrow and harden, significantly reducing blood flow. PAD predominantly affects the legs, particularly the arteries supplying the thighs and calves. In rare cases, it may involve other arteries, including those in the arms.Etiology of PAD:The principal cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, which results from fatty...
Atherosclerosis I: Introduction01:30

Atherosclerosis I: Introduction

Atherosclerosis is a progressive disorder characterized by the buildup of plaques on the arterial inner wall, causing them to narrow and harden over time. These plaques comprise lipids, calcium, blood components, carbohydrates, and fibrous tissue. The process primarily affects the intima of large and medium-sized arteries, reducing blood flow in any artery.Etiology and risk factorsThe cause of atherosclerosis is multifactorial, involving a complex interplay among endothelial injury, lipid...
Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction01:30

Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): An Overview with Scientific InsightsCoronary Artery Disease (CAD), often referred to as C-A-D, is a prevalent blood vessel disorder classified under the broader category of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a pathological process characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques. These plaques are composed of cholesterol, fatty substances, inflammatory cells, calcium, and fibrin, reducing blood flow to...
Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations01:19

Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations

The pathophysiology of Acute Coronary Syndrome [ACD] involves several key processes:The main underlying cause of ACD is atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the buildup of lipid-laden plaques within the coronary arteries.As the atherosclerotic plaque grows in the coronary artery, it may become unstable due to the formation of a lipid-rich core and a thin fibrous cap. Inflammatory cells within the plaque, such as macrophages, secrete enzymes that degrade the...
Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations01:30

Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a primary health risk worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The condition arises from the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, resulting in diminished blood supply to the heart muscle.The clinical manifestations of CAD vary widely, from asymptomatic stages to severe, life-threatening conditions. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.Angina Pectoris: The Warning...