Foam cells are central to the development of atherosclerotic plaques. As they accumulate in the arterial wall, they contribute to the formation of fatty streaks, which are the earliest visible lesions in atherosclerosis. Over time, these fatty streaks evolve into more complex plaques that can lead to significant cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or strokes. Foam cells secrete inflammatory cytokines and growth factors that exacerbate plaque formation and instability.
