On this paper, author reviews studies on the relationship between atherogenesis and aging.
An increase in serum lipid peroxide level increased the number of circulating vascular endothelial cells. This indicates that the free radical is an injury factor for endothelial cells.
In addition macrophages discharged the active oxygen upon stimulation and incorporated oxidized low density lipoprotein. These results suggested that macrophages play a main role in the initiation of atheroma formation.
A very small dose of H2O2 induced platelet aggregation in vitro.
Thrombin has chemotactic and chemokinetic activity for the smooth muscle cell as does fibrinogen, fibronectin and oxydized LDL.
Conclusion. These results suggest close association through free radicals between the aging process and atherogenesis.