This is typical for developedlipid-richlesions
(including fatty streak andfibrolipidplaque).
Secreted collagen and other components ofthe extracellular matrix
surround the matrix producing cell and isolate such a cell from
the neighboring cells; this leads to the disintegration of the cellular
network. As this is happening, the intensity of the major
atherosclerosis-related processes (intracellular lipid accumulation,
cell proliferation and extracellular matrix production) decreases
considerably. This is profound in a fibrous plaque.