A Matrix Metalloproteinase Induction/Activation System Exists in the Human Left Ventricular Myocardium and Is Upregulated in Heart Failure

Abstract

Increased LV myocardial MMP activity and selective upregulation of MMPs with nonischemic and ischemic forms of DCM occurred. Moreover, a local MMP induction/activation system was identified in isolated normal human LV myocytes that was upregulated with DCM. The control of MMP activation and expression in the failing human LV myocardium represents a new and potentially significant therapeutic target for this disease process.