Description
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc-dependent endopeptidases, responsible for the integrity of the basement membrane (BM) via degradation of extracellular matrix and BM components. MMPs are presented in various types of cells, including cardiomyocytes, cerebral neurons, hepatocytes, and many others, thus influencing various processes. Increased matrix metalloprotease 9 (MMP9), also called Gelatinase B, after myocardial infarction (MI) exacerbates ischemia-induced chronic heart failure (CHF). It is also upregulated in the diabetic heart, and ablation of MMP9 decreases infarct size in the non-diabetic myocardial infarction heart.3 There is also strong evidence that the increased levels of MMP-9 are associated with many inflammatory conditions, such as coronary artery disease, COPD, arthritis, and metabolic syndrome. It was also proved that MMP-9 is associated with progression of atherosclerosis and higher risk of cardiovascular events. It was also suggested that elevated levels of MMP-9 (combined with MMP-2) are associated with highly tumorigenic cancers