Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein Regulates Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 and Its Tissue Inhibitor in Human Monocyte-Derived Macrophages

Abstract

These data demonstrate that unlike n-LDL, ox-LDL upregulates MMP-9 expression while reducing TIMP-1 expression in monocyte-derived macrophages. Furthermore, HDL abrogates ox-LDL-induced MMP-9 expression. Thus, ox-LDL may contribute to macrophage-mediated matrix breakdown in the atherosclerotic plaques, thereby predisposing them to plaque disruption and/or vascular remodeling.