Calpain-1 regulation of matrix metalloproteinase 2 activity in vascular smooth muscle cells facilitates age-associated aortic wall calcification and fibrosis.

ABSTRACT: Age-associated central arterial wall stiffness is linked to extracellular matrix remodeling, including fibrosis and vascular calcification. Angiotensin II induces both matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) and calpain-1 expression and activity in the arterial wall. However, the role of calpain-1 in MMP2 activation and extracellular matrix remodeling remains unknown. Dual histo-immunolabeling demonstrates colocalization of calpain-1 and MMP2 within old rat vascular smooth muscle cells. Overexpression of calpain-1 induces MMP2 transcripts, protein levels, and activity, in part, by increasing the ratio of membrane type 1 MMPs to tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2. These effects of calpain-1 overexpression-induced MMP2 activation are linked to increased collagen I and III production and vasc

SUBMITTER: Jiang L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3487400 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature