[Kinetics of cellular elements of the vascular wall in atherosclerosis]

Reviews current notions on the role of the vascular wall in atherogenesis. Discusses some aspects of cellular cooperation in the intima of the arteries and the role of this cooperation in this formation of foam cells and in desmoplastic reactions. Presents the findings of ultrastructural analysis of atherosclerotic involvement in coronary patients. Considers the problems of phenotypical modification of smooth muscle cells and of the contribution of activated cells to lipoprotein capture or to collagen synthesis. Emphasizes the role of vascular wall in atherogenesis, the fact to be borne in mind when planning and carrying out measures for the prevention and therapy of atherosclerosis.