Table 2.

Participation of MMPs in processes involved in development and progression of atherosclerotic plaque.

Vascular Inflammation and Endothelial Dysfunction
Increase of inflammatory cell migration and invasion into the arterial wall	MMP-1, MMP-8, MMP-9, MMP-12, MMP-13, MMP-14
Influence on endothelial dysfunction	MMP-2, MMP-9
Participation in oxLDL effect	MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-8, MMP-9
Promotion of EC apoptosis	MMP-9
Development of Plaque
Increase of intima–media thickness	MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-7, MMP-8, MMP-9, MMP-10
Promotion of plaque growth	MMP-2
Promotion of VSCMs migration	MMP-9
Decrease of VSCMs contractility	MMP-2, MMP-9
Neovascularization
Degradation of ECM	MMP-1, MMP-8, MMP-9, MMP-12, MMP-13, MMP-14
Release of growth factors	MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-13, MMP-14
Calcification
Provoke vascular calcification	MMP-2, MMP-7
Plaque Activation and Destabilization
Apoptosis of VSMCs in the fibrous cap	MMP-7
Collagenolytic activity	MMP-1, MMP-8, MMP-13
Enhances plaque rupture	MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-7, MMP-8, MMP-9, MMP-12, MMP-13, MMP-14