Distribution Profiles of Membrane Type-1 Matrix Metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP), Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) and Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in Rabbit Atherosclerosis: Comparison with Plaque Instability Analysis

Abstract

Co-distribution of MT1-MMP, MMP-2, and COX-2 was demonstrated in grade IV atheroma, indicating a possible link among these enzymes in the destabilization of atherosclerotic plaques. The relatively high COX-2 distribution in other more stable lesions may indicate its additional roles in the stabilization of atherosclerotic lesions. The present findings in hypercholesterolemic rabbits should help advance our understanding of the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis and provide useful information for the development of new therapeutic and diagnostic (imaging) agents that target MMPs and COX-2 in atherosclerosis.