A mathematical model for atherosclerotic plaque formation and arterial wall remodelling

Abstract

Atherosclerosis is a condition whereby fatty material is deposited in the walls of arteries (plaque) resulting in a thickening of the wall. Here we develop a mathematical model describing the biochemical processes of the formation of atherosclerotic plaque, which involves the interaction between pro-inflammatory mediators, modified low density lipoprotein, monocytes, macrophages, foam cells and high density lipoprotein. In addition, based on the outcomes of the biochemical model, we develop a plaque growth model that takes into account both the inward and outward expansion of the arterial walls. We examine the stability and bifurcations of this model in order to explore the clinical and medical implications of plaque growth