Matrix metalloproteinases and peripheral arterial disease

Abstract

It has been postulated that atherosclerosis should be considered as a chronic inflammatory process and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a manifestation of such an atherosclerotic vascular disease. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are significant circulating biomarkers which play a pivotal role in the initiation, progression and clinical manifestations of PAD. This review summarizes the current body of evidence with regard to the association between MMPs and PAD.