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Matrix metalloproteinase activity in thoracic aortic aneurysms associated with bicuspid and tricuspid aortic valves

Jon Boyum1, Erika K Fellinger, Joseph D Schmoker

  • 1Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Fletcher Allen Health Care, Fletcher 454, 111 Colchester Avenue, Burlington, VT 05401, USA.

The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
|March 6, 2004
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Matrix metalloproteinase activity is higher in thoracic aortic aneurysms associated with bicuspid aortic valves compared to tricuspid aortic valves. This may explain the increased risk of aneurysm formation in patients with bicuspid aortic valves.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Research
  • Aortic Pathology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are crucial for cell matrix turnover.
  • Abnormal MMP activity is linked to abdominal aortic aneurysms and potentially thoracic aortic aneurysms.
  • Bicuspid aortic valves predispose to proximal thoracic aneurysms, unlike tricuspid valves.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare MMP activities and their inhibitors in thoracic aneurysms.
  • To investigate differences between bicuspid and tricuspid aortic valve patients.

Main Methods:

  • Measured endogenous and total MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity in thoracic aneurysms.
  • Quantified tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 and -2 levels.
  • Included 16 patients with bicuspid and 12 with tricuspid aortic valves.

Main Results:

  • Total MMP-2 activity was significantly higher in bicuspid aortic valve aneurysms (43 ng/mg) versus tricuspid (14 ng/mg).
  • Total MMP-9 activity was also significantly elevated in bicuspid aortic valve aneurysms (4.0 ng/mg) versus tricuspid (1.5 ng/mg).
  • No significant difference in tissue inhibitor levels between the groups.

Conclusions:

  • Elevated MMP activity in bicuspid aortic valve-associated aneurysms may contribute to aneurysm development.
  • These findings highlight a potential mechanism for aneurysm formation in bicuspid aortic valve disease.

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