Matrix Metalloproteinases as Biomarkers of Atherosclerotic Plaque Instability

Abstract

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of zinc-dependent endopeptidases responsible for tissue remodeling and degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins. MMPs may modulate various cellular and signaling pathways in atherosclerosis responsible for progression and rupture of atherosclerotic plaques. The effect of MMPs polymorphisms and the expression of MMPs in both the atherosclerotic plaque and plasma was shown. They are independent predictors of atherosclerotic plaque instability in stable coronary heart disease (CHD) patients. Increased levels of MMPs in patients with advanced cardiovascular disease (CAD) and acute coronary syndrome (ACS) was associated with future risk of cardiovascular events. These data confirm that MMPs may be biomarkers in plaque instability as they target in potential drug therapies for atherosclerosis. They provide important prognostic information, independent of traditional risk factors, and may turn out to be useful in improving risk stratification.

Exosomes in Angiogenesis and Anti-angiogenic Therapy in Cancers

“…Exosomes are carriers of numerous proteins, lipids and nucleic acids ( Figure 1 ). The content of exosomes depends on the composition of the cells from which they originate [ 16 , 17 , 18 ]. Exosomes are secreted by both normal and pathological cells.…”

Large vessel cardioembolic stroke and embolic stroke of undetermined source share a common profile of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 level and susceptibility vessel sign length

“…[10,11] This biomarker is also associated with atherosclerosis progression and plaque vulnerability. [12–15]…”

Protein deglycase DJ‐1 deficiency induces phenotypic switching in vascular smooth muscle cells and exacerbates atherosclerotic plaque instability

“…As evidence suggests MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 are the main proteases involved in atherogenesis and collagen types I and III are the main constitution of collagen in atherosclerotic plaque. 52‐56 We found VSMCs deficient in DJ‐1 express more MMP‐2 and MMP9 whereas Collagen I and Collagen III decreased significantly using isolated VSMCs. These results showed that deficiency of DJ‐1 enhances the instability of plaque by influencing the matrix collagen and metalloproteinases.…”