MMP-1 serum levels predict non-calcified atherosclerotic plaques

Background: Myocardial infarction results as a consequence of atherosclerotic plaque rupture. Plaque stability largely depends on the lesion forming extracellular matrix components. Lipid enriched non-calcified lesions are considered more instable and rupture prone than calcified lesions. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are extracellular matrix degrading enzymes with plaque destabilisating characteristics which have been implicates in atherogenesis. We therefore hypothesised MMP-1 and -9 serum levels to be association with none calcified plaques as determined by CT-angiography in patients with coronary artery d…