The leading cause of death is cardiovascular diseases in occidental countries. Of those, atherosclerosis is the major contributor to this burden being notably responsible for strokes and myocardial infarctions. The genesis of atherosclerosis is linked to both lipid accumulation and inflammation in the vascular wall of major arteries. One of the major pathways of inflammation is the TGF-beta axis which is at least partially regulated by the GARP protein. It has been investigated mostly in cancer biology but data in cardiovascular disease is lacking. Thus, the investigators aim to characterize the contribution of this protein by investigating its expression in tissue from patients with atherosclerosis, the carotid or femoral plaque representing a good source of residual material adequate for research purpose. The main cells expressing the GARP protein are the platelets and the T regulating cells which will be the main focus.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Older than 18 years
• Able to give informed consent
• Undergoing carotid or femoral endarterectomy

Exclusion Criteria:

• Younger than 18 years
• Pregnant
• Dialysis
• Unable to give informed consent

The study population will comprise patients undergoing femoral or carotid endarterectomy in our tertiary care center (Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc) for atherosclerotic disease who do not meet exclusion criteria.