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Matrix metalloproteinases and descending aortic aneurysms: parity, disparity, and switch

Tom P Theruvath1, Jeffrey A Jones, John S Ikonomidis

  • 1Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina 29425, USA.

Journal of Cardiac Surgery
|October 1, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) drive aortic aneurysm development by altering tissue structure. This review examines MMP roles in thoracic and abdominal aortas, considering cellular origins and phenotypic changes.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Biology
  • Protease Biochemistry
  • Aortic Disease Pathogenesis

Background:

  • Aortic aneurysms involve protease activity, particularly matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs).
  • Understanding MMPs is crucial for elucidating aneurysm development mechanisms.
  • Differences exist in aneurysm pathology between thoracic and abdominal aortas.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the literature on the role of MMPs in aortic aneurysm development.
  • To compare MMP involvement in thoracic versus abdominal aortic aneurysms.
  • To explore how cellular origins and phenotypic switching influence MMP production in aneurysms.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on matrix metalloproteinases and aortic aneurysms.
  • Analysis of research comparing thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysm pathology.
  • Examination of studies investigating cellular origins and phenotypic switching in aneurysm development.

Main Results:

  • Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are central to aortic aneurysm pathogenesis.
  • Parallels and distinctions in MMP roles are observed between thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms.
  • Embryologic cellular origins and phenotypic switching significantly impact MMP production during aneurysm formation.

Conclusions:

  • Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a critical role in the development of aortic aneurysms.
  • Differential MMP involvement and regulation contribute to thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysm characteristics.
  • Cellular dynamics, including origin and phenotypic state, are key determinants of MMP activity in aortic aneurysms.

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