Increased Expression of Elastolytic Cathepsins S, K, and V and Their Inhibitor Cystatin C in Stenotic Aortic Valves

Abstract

Stenotic aortic valves show increased expression and activity of elastolytic cathepsins S, K, and V. These cathepsins may accelerate the destruction of aortic valvular extracellular matrix, so promoting the progression of aortic stenosis.