Monocytes/macrophages in atherosclerosis.

The realization that the monocyte/macrophage is central to both atherogenesis and the progression of the atherosclerotic plaque has arisen only recently. In this chapter the role of the monocyte/macrophage in the genesis of the atherosclerotic plaque will be discussed. As will be demonstrated, the pivotal role of the macrophage in atherosclerosis depends not only on its ability to handle lipids but also on its physical and secretory functions and its role as a mediator of inflammation.