The serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-3 and -9 are significantly elevated in KD patients, and polymorphisms in the genes encoding MMP-3 and MMP-9 have been associated with the susceptibility, severity, and progression of atherosclerosis and aneurysm.
The functional genetic polymorphisms present in the promoters of stromelysin-1 (MMP3) and gelatinase B (MMP9) have been shown to be associated with angiographically measured atherosclerosis; however, haplotype analysis of the genetic polymorphisms occurring in the promoters and coding regions of MMP3 and MMP9 has been infrequently performed in the past.
Based on the studies performed so far, it is assumed that IL-17 contributes to development of atherosclerosis by means of: stimulation of production of proinflammatory compounds; induction of apoptosis of endothelial cells and heart muscle cells; stimulation of von Willebrand factor production; and induction of the matrix metalloproteinase-9 (atherosclerotic plaque rupture).
P2X7R may serve a crucial role in the development of atherosclerosis; therefore, the present study aimed to determine whether P2X7R regulated the expression of EMMPRIN and MMP‑9 in phorbol 12‑myristate 13‑acetate (PMA)‑induced macrophages.
Plasma MMP-9 levels were related neither to MMP-9 PM nor to plaque type, and were related to gender and extension of atherosclerosis in carotid arteries.
Herein, patients with atherosclerosis showed higher MMP9, a promising biomarker for atherosclerosis, and lower Bmal1 and Clock expression in the plasma.
Role of proinflammatory alleles in longevity and atherosclerosis: results of studies performed on -1562C/TMMP-9 in centenarians and myocardial infarction patients from Sicily.
Cholestin reduces TNF-α-stimulated MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression as well as downregulating NF-κB activation and intracellular ROS formation in HASMCs, supporting the notion that the natural compound Cholestin may have potential application in clinical atherosclerosis disease.
In summary, MMP-9 mRNA expression is enhanced in monocytes from HD and CAPD patients, and the enhancement may be, in part, associated with cardiovascular complications, including atherosclerosis, in dialysis patients.