Targeting of matrix metalloproteinase activation for noninvasive detection of vulnerable atherosclerotic lesions.
Inflammation plays an important role in vulnerability of atherosclerotic plaques to rupture and hence acute coronary events. The monocyte-macrophage infiltration in plaques leads to upregulation of cytokines and metalloproteinase enzymes. Matrix metalloproteinases result in matrix dissolution and consequently expansive remodeling of the vessel. They also contribute to attenuation of fibrous cap and hence susceptibility to rupture. Assessment of metalloproteinase expression and activity should provide information about plaque instability.
Hartung
Dagmar
D
School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
Schäfers
Michael
M
Fujimoto
Shinichiro
S
Levkau
Bodo
B
Narula
Navneet
N
Kopka
Klaus
K
Virmani
Renu
R
Reutelingsperger
Chris
C
Hofstra
Leo
L
Kolodgie
Frank D
FD
Petrov
Artiom
A
Narula
Jagat
J
D000818:Animals; D050197:Atherosclerosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000201:enzymology*; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000378:metabolism; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems / Q000379:methods*; D004789:Enzyme Activation; D006801:Humans; D020782:Matrix Metalloproteinases / Q000378:metabolism*; D049268:Positron-Emission Tomography / Q000379:methods*; D019275:Radiopharmaceuticals / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*
D015415:Biomarkers; D019275:Radiopharmaceuticals; D020782:Matrix Metalloproteinases