The phenotype of macrophages which are not transformed into foam cells in atherogenesis

Electron microscopy and immunohistochemical analysis clarified the phenotype of macrophages that are not transformed into foam cells. It is suggested that cells having such phenotype are involved in the reaction of immune inflammation in fatty streaks and atherosclerotic plaques and participate in production of cytokines. These macrophages may be derivatives of monocytes/macrophages that proliferate in the subendothelial space of arteries.