VCAM1 and atherosclerosis: Of these gene products, TNF-α is an important contributor in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis via leukocyte-endothelial cell interactions by upregulating the adhesion molecules ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 in endothelial cells [29], leading to the transmigration of circulating monocytes to the intima and formation of atheroma plaque [30].