The effect of serum MMP⁃9 and IL⁃6 on the vulnerability of carotid atherosclerotic plaque

Abstract

Objective To explore the relationship of MMP⁃9 and IL⁃6 and the vulnerability of carotid atherosclerotic plaque. Methods According to the plaque vulnerability, 69 patients with acute cerebral infarction were divided into vulnerable plaque group (n = 35) and unvulnerable plaque group (n = 34). Twenty healthy subjects were selected as controls (control group). The levels of serum IL⁃6 and MMP⁃9 were examined. Results The level of MMP ⁃ 9 and IL ⁃ 6 in the unvulnerable plaque group was significantly higher than that in control group (P = 0.000, for all). The level of MMP⁃9 and IL⁃6 in the vulnerable plaque group was higher than that in the unvulnerable plaque group and control group (P = 0.000, for all). A positive correlation was observed between the expression of MMP⁃9 and IL⁃6 plaque (r = 0.836, P = 0.043). Conclusion MMP⁃9 and IL⁃6 are important factors for the promotion of vulnerable plaque. IL⁃6 may up⁃regulate the expression of MMP⁃9.

DOI：10.3969/j.issn.1672⁃6731.2012.02.019