Plaque rupture is a determinant of vascular events in carotid artery atherosclerotic disease: involvement of matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

Unstable carotid atherosclerotic plaques are characterized by cap rupture, leading to thromboembolism and stroke. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have been implicated in the progression of atherosclerosis and plaque rupture. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and carotid plaque instability.

Methods

Eighty atherosclerotic plaques were collected from 74 patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy. Clinical information was obtained from each patient, and plaque morphology was examined at the macroscopic and microscopic levels. The immunohistochemical expressions of MMPs were graded using semiquantitative scales.

Results

Macroscopic ulceration (84.6% versus 63.4%, p=0.042) and microscopic

SUBMITTER: Heo SH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3131541 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature