A 65 year old patient, James, has had atherosclerosis and stable angina for 10 years. He now suffers a myocardial infarction. His ventricles now only eject around 50 mLs of blood per beat compared to around 100 mLs prior to the myocardial infarction.

a) Explain, in lay language, the key events involved in the development of James’ atherosclerotic plaques. (6 marks)

b) What are the events that cause the transition from stable angina to a myocardial infarction? Include in your answer the key cell types and molecules involved. (4 marks)

c) Explain the impact of the myocardial infarction on James’ stroke volume. (2 marks)

[12 marks, 12 minutes]