PHOSPHOLIPID SYNTHESIS BY FOAM CELLS IN HUMAN ATHEROMA

Localization of the synthesis of phospholipids in the human atherosclerotic lesion has been investigated in vitro. 14C-labeled choline is incorporated principally into lecithin and autoradiographs demonstrate that, in fatty-streak and complicated atherosclerotic lesions, the label is predominately in foam-cell areas. When 3H-labeled oleic acid is used as precursor, incorporation into phospholipid, triglyceride, and cholesterol ester is found and localization of label in the region of foam cells is apparent in autoradiographs. Further, localization to foam cells is preserved when the 3H-labeled lipid other than phospholipid is removed by acetone extraction. It is concluded that foam cells are chiefly responsible for phospholipid synthesis in human atherosclerotic lesions. © 1969.