HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) decrease MMP-3 and MMP-9 concentrations in abdominal aortic aneurysms

Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg. 2005 Sep;30(3):259-62. doi: 10.1016/j.ejvs.2005.02.044.

Abstract

Background: An imbalance in matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (TIMPs) are implicated in AAA formation. 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme-A reductase inhibitors (statins) are known to reduce MMP levels. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vivo effect of statins on MMP levels in AAA.

Methods: Infra-renal aortic biopsies were obtained from the anterior sac of 63 patients undergoing asymptomatic repair. Seventeen patients were taking a statin pre-operatively, while 46 were not. The concentrations of MMP-1, -2, -3, -8, -9, -13, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 were quantified using ELISA.

Results: There was no difference in the concentration of MMP-1, -2, -8, -13, TIMP-1 or -2 in patients taking versus not taking a statin pre-operatively. In contrast levels of MMP-9 and MMP-3 were significantly lower in patients taking a statin.

Conclusions: These data demonstrate that statins decrease MMP-9 and MMP-3 levels and represent a potential pharmacotherapy in established AAA.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aorta, Abdominal / chemistry
  • Aorta, Abdominal / drug effects*
  • Aorta, Abdominal / pathology
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / metabolism*
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / surgery
  • Blood Vessel Prosthesis Implantation
  • Cardiovascular Agents / pharmacology*
  • Cohort Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Male
  • Matrix Metalloproteinase 3 / biosynthesis
  • Matrix Metalloproteinase 3 / drug effects*
  • Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 / biosynthesis
  • Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 / drug effects*

Substances

  • Cardiovascular Agents
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
  • Matrix Metalloproteinase 3
  • Matrix Metalloproteinase 9