Explain how atherosclerosis can lead to damage of heart muscle.

Atherosclerosis is the build up of fatty deposits within the arteries. This leads to a blockage of the artery, narrowing the lumen. If this happens to a coronary artery (one supplying the heart with blood) then there is a reduction in blood flow to the heart. This reduces the oxygen supply to the heart, reducing the ability for aerobic respiration to occur. As a result, the heart muscle can die, leading to further problems such as myocardial infarction (heart attack).

OH
Answered by Oona H. Biology tutor

3743 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

If you're measuring an environment using a quadrat or another sampling instrument - why can't you just do it where you see the most biodiversity?


Describe the functions of glycoproteins in the cell surface


what is the structure of a skeletal muscle?


Mutations leads to the production of a non-functional protein. Explain why.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning