Association of matrix metalloproteinases with CVD: Functional aspects

Abstract

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are the members of the family of proteolytic enzymes that have an imperative role in several physiologic and pathologic processes. MMPs mediate changes in extracellular matrix and target growth factor-binding proteins, cell-cell adhesion molecules, and other structural extracellular matrix proteins besides others. Along with their tissue inhibitors, they play an apparent role, ranging from vascular remodeling to neogenesis; extracellular matrix degradation to plaque formation; and from plaque rupture to heart failure. Hence, MMPs regulate a plethora of biological processes and are regulated in vivo by their endogenous inhibitors, e.g., tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Keeping in view the plenty of evidence available in the literature, MMPs can be envisaged as central players in cardiovascular disorders such as heart failure, atherosclerosis, platelet aggregation, stroke, cardiomyopathy, peripheral vascular disease, hypertensive heart disease, and aortic aneurysms. Thus, MMPs can be viewed as a most versatile potential targets for therapeutic intervention in such disorders. This chapter highlights the functional role of MMPs in various cardiovascular disease conditions.