Answer to Question 1
Irritation or injury stimulates the inflammatory response and calls the white blood cells to action, the leukocytes. Leukocytes called monocytes are attracted to vascular adhesion molecules on the endothelial cells and penetrate the vascular wall. Once inside, these monocytes transform into macrophages that eat modified LDL (low density lipoprotein), otherwise known as bad cholesterol.
Answer to Question 2
The inner lining of the vascular wall, the intima, is composed of endothelial cells. These cells form a type of Teflon lining that prevents other cells from sticking to them. However, with sufficient irritation or injury, these endothelial cells become compromised.
