[Endothelial barrier, foam cells and lipoprotein metabolism in arterial walls (based on experimental arteriosclerosis in rabbits)].

The features of impaired permeability of endothelium and increased pinocytosis of endothelial cells in developing experimental atherosclerosis in rabbits are described on the basis of electron microscopy findings. Foam cells of various degrees of vacuolation were recovered from the tissue of atherosclerotic aorta by enzymatic treatment. The stages of smooth muscle cell transformation into foam cells were followed. An analysis of morphological changes occurring in foam cells in response to lipids is given. Interactions of intracellular lipid vacuoles with lysosomes are analysed. Possible causes and modes of impairment of the structure and function of aorta cells in experimental atherosclerosis are discussed.