Final answer:
Cholesterol esters accumulate in foam cells, giving them their characteristic appearance. These compounds are a component of lipoproteins like chylomicrons, which transport lipids in the body. Imbalance in lipid metabolism often leads to foam cell and plaque formation in arteries. Option number b is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The accumulation of cholesterol esters gives foam cells their appearance. Foam cells are formed when macrophages consume and store lipids, such as cholesterol esters. Histochemically, it's these esters that show the characteristic foamy appearance when stained and observed under a microscope.
Cholesterol esters are found in lipoproteins, such as chylomicrons, which are molecules that transport lipids through the lymphatic system and into the bloodstream. Chylomicrons contain not only cholesterol esters but also triglycerides, phospholipids, and proteins, functioning to carry these water-insoluble molecules from the intestine to adipose tissue for storage.
Oftentimes, when there is an imbalance in lipid metabolism or chronic inflammation, such as in atherosclerosis, these foam cells accumulate within the walls of arteries, contributing to plaque formation and vessel occlusion.