Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 and Matrix Metalloproteinase-3 Gene Promoter Polymorphisms Are Associated With Carotid Artery Stenosis

Abstract

Homozygosity for the 6A allele of the MMP-3 promoter is associated with carotid stenosis and, in association with MMP-1 2G homozygosity, predicts an increased risk of ICA stenosis. Even if obtained from a relatively limited patient series, these results might have relevant implications for treatment of ICA stenosis and possibly prevention of carotid-related stroke.