Accumulation of oxidized low-density lipoproteins in the intimae of arteries together with risk factors known to enhance atherosclerosis, damage the endothelium of the arterial wall. Dysfunction of the endothelium leads into loss of elasticity of the artery. Especially a reduction in the elasticity of small arteries has been found prominent in atherosclerosis and is believed to serve as a marker for early stages of atherosclerosis.