Quantitation and Localization of Matrix Metalloproteinases and Their Inhibitors in Human Carotid Endarterectomy Tissues

Abstract

The spatial distribution of MMPs and TIMPs in carotid atherosclerotic lesions is highly heterogeneous, reflecting lesion location, size, and composition. This study provides the first semi-quantitative maps of differential distribution of MMPs and TIMPs over atherosclerotic plaques.