Matrix metalloproteases as a pharmacological target in cardiovascular diseases

E. Hopps, G. Caimi

Dipartimento Biomedico di Medicina Interna e Specialistica, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy. eugenia.hopps@unipa.it

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• Cardiology

OBJECTIVE: Matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) are involved in the development and the progression of atherosclerosis and are related to an elevated risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. An altered profile of MMPs and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) has been demonstrated in arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, metabolic syndrome and in cardiovascular disorders, such as coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The aim of this review was to examine the literature data regarding the possible effects of some molecules, commonly employed in subjects with cardiovascular disease, on the expression and the activity of MMPs and TIMPs. A search was conducted with PubMed, Medline, using combinations of the terms “matrix metalloproteases,” “TIMP,” “activity regulation,” “pharmacological therapy,” “cardiovascular disease,” “antihypertensives,” “antidiabetic drugs,” “statins” and “antiplatelet agents”. Review articles were also searched.

RESULTS: Several drugs, and in particular diuretics, calcium-channel blocker, angiotensin receptor blockers, ACE inhibitors, statins, antidiabetic and antiplatelet agents, seem to influence, in different ways, the MMP pattern with beneficial effects on cardiovascular outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: Keeping in mind these findings, the therapeutic strategy must be reconsidered in order to obtain a sensible MMP inhibition.

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