Polymorphisms in MMP Family and TIMP Genes and Carotid Artery Intima-Media Thickness

Abstract

Our findings provide little support for genetic variants of MMP as direct risk factors for IMT. However, the interaction findings between MMP variants and hypertension suggest that hypertensive carriers of these alleles may be at greater risk for increased IMT and future cardiovascular disease. These findings need replication in hypertensive populations to assess their effects more fully.