Correlation between matrix metalloproteinase-2 polymorphisms and first and recurrent atherosclerotic ischemic stroke...

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Neurology
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) plays a role in extracellular matrix remodeling, potentially influencing cerebrovascular health.
• Genetic variations in the MMP2 gene may affect MMP-2 activity and susceptibility to ischemic stroke.
• Understanding the genetic basis of ischemic stroke is crucial for developing targeted prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between MMP2 gene polymorphisms (1306C/T and 735C/T) and the risk of first and recurrent ischemic stroke.
• To compare serum MMP-2 levels in patients with first and recurrent ischemic stroke versus controls.
• To determine if specific MMP2 genotypes or alleles are risk factors for ischemic stroke in a Chinese population.

Main Methods:

• Case-control study including patients with first and recurrent ischemic stroke and controls from a Chinese population.
• Genotyping of MMP2 1306C/T and 735C/T polymorphisms using established methods.
• Measurement of serum MMP-2 levels via biochemical assays.
• Statistical analysis to assess the association between MMP2 polymorphisms, serum MMP-2 levels, and ischemic stroke risk.

Main Results:

• Serum MMP-2 levels were significantly elevated in both first and recurrent ischemic stroke patients compared to controls.
• Recurrent ischemic stroke patients exhibited higher serum MMP-2 levels than first-time stroke patients.
• The CC genotype and C allele of the MMP2 735C/T polymorphism were significantly more frequent in ischemic stroke patients (both first and recurrent) than in controls.
• The MMP2 1306C/T polymorphism showed no significant difference in genotype or allele frequencies between the groups.
• The CC genotype of MMP2 735C/T was independently associated with an increased risk of first (OR=1.45) and recurrent (OR=1.64) ischemic stroke.
• The C allele of MMP2 735C/T was also independently associated with an increased risk of first (OR=1.68) and recurrent (OR=1.77) ischemic stroke.

Conclusions:

• The CC genotype and C allele of the MMP2 735C/T polymorphism are significant risk factors for both first and recurrent ischemic stroke in the studied Chinese population.
• Elevated serum MMP-2 levels are associated with ischemic stroke, with higher levels in recurrent cases.
• These findings highlight the role of MMP2 genetic variations in ischemic stroke susceptibility.