Figure 2.

MMP-10 as clot destroyer in atherosclerosis.

Notes: LDL molecules and monocytes, including macrophages and T-cells, transcend the endothelial layer of the intima of blood vessels via transporters like VCAM-1. Macrophages within the intima will engulf oxidized LDL molecules and form foam cells. T-cells will release inflammatory cytokines, such as TNFα and IFNγ, that recruit molecules further into the intima. Smooth-muscle cells also proliferate into the intima layer from the media layer, which results in further occlusion of vessels. MMP-10 attacks the fibrinogen molecule and prevents its conversion to fibrin, which allows for the netting of platelets and resultant plaque occlusion.

Abbreviations: IFN, Interferon; LDL, low-density lipoprotein; M, macrophage; MMP, matrix metalloproteinase; T, T lymphocyte; TNF, tumor necrosis factor; VCAM-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule.