Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A ₂ Protein Expression in the Natural Progression of Human Coronary Atherosclerosis

Abstract

Lp-PLA2 is strongly expressed within the necrotic core and surrounding macrophages of vulnerable and ruptured plaques, with relatively weak staining in less advanced lesions. These findings together with the association of Lp-PLA2 in apoptotic macrophages suggest a potential role in promoting plaque instability.