The Canadian journal of cardiology
-
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of proteolytic enzymes that are regulated by inflammatory signals to mediate changes in extracellular matrix. Members of the MMP family share sequence homology, act on interstitial protein substrates, acutely participate in inflammatory processes and chronically mediate tissue remodelling. MMPs are important in vascular remodelling, not only in the overall vasculature architecture but also, more importantly, in the advancing atherosclerotic plaque. ⋯ MMPs also participate in cardiac remodelling following myocardial infarction and development of dilated cardiomyopathy. Soluble MMPs are now potential biomarkers in delineating cardiovascular risk for plaque rupture and coronary risk. They also constitute innovative direct or indirect targets to modify cardiovascular tissue remodelling in atherosclerosis and heart failure.