FIGURE 3. Endovascular cell therapy decreases MMP expression in dilated aortas. RT-PCR comparative to the domestic gene 18s for interstitial collagenase (MMP-1), gelatinases (MMP-2 and -9), and elastases (MMP-3, -7, and -12) in VSMCs in culture before seeding and in vivo (intima, media + adventitia) 7 days after the endovascular reoperation (A). After cell therapy (VSMC+), MMP expression had decreased, except constitutive MMP-2, in the media and adventitia corresponding to the diseased aorta itself. RT-PCR data were generated from pools of 3 grafts in each group for each layer. Gelatin zymography (B) shows decreased MMP-9 gelatinolytic activity (Mr: 110 to 80 kd) in the treated vessels (VSMC+). The increase of constitutive MMP-2 expression in VSMC+ vessels reflects increase of cell content in the intima after seeding. Gel zymography quantification of MMP-9 activity (Mr 110 to 80 kd; C). Active forms of MMP-9 are 92- and 80-kd bands. □, Dilated aortas infused with culture medium as a control (VSMC−); ▪, dilated aortas seeded with VSMCs (VSMC +); *P < 0.05.