Matrix metalloproteinase-2 gene polymorphisms are associated with ischemic stroke in a Hainan population

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Neurology
• Cardiovascular Disease

Background:

• Ischemic stroke is a leading global cause of disability and death.
• Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), particularly MMP-2, are implicated in stroke pathology.
• Understanding genetic predispositions to stroke is crucial for risk assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and ischemic stroke risk.
• To identify specific MMP-2 variants that may influence susceptibility to stroke in the Southern Chinese population.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study design was employed.
• Six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the MMP2 gene were selected and genotyped using Agena MassARRAY.
• Genetic data were analyzed using SNPStats and Haploview software.

Main Results:

• Two SNPs within the MMP-2 gene showed a significant association with stroke risk.
• The C allele of rs1132896 was associated with a reduced stroke risk (OR = 0.56, P = 0.002).
• The T allele of rs243849 was associated with ischemic stroke (IS) risk under an additive model (OR = 0.67, P = 0.028).

Conclusions:

• Genetic variants in the MMP-2 gene play a significant role in mediating ischemic stroke risk.
• These findings suggest that MMP-2 genetic variations could be important biomarkers for stroke risk assessment in the studied population.