Arterial remodelling contributes to the development of hypertension. Stromelysin-1(MMP- 3), a member of the matrix metalloproteinase family may contribute to this process. Stromelysin- 1 gene expression is partly regulated by a common polymorphism in the promoter region of either five or six consecutive adenosine bases(5A/6A). Methods and results: A cross-sectional study of 1111 randomly selected male and female community subjects(27- 77 years), were assessed for conventional cardiovascular risk factors and stromelysin- 1 5A- 1171- 6A genotype. Multivariate analysis showed an independent association between the stromelysin- 1 genotype and blood pressure that was recessive for the 5A/5A genotype. Subjects with the 5A/5A genotype had a higher mean systolic blood pressure(SBP)(+ 4.2 mmHg) and diastolic blood pressure(DBP)(+ 2.2 mmHg) compared to subjects with 5A/6A and 6A/6A genotypes. Subgroup analysis revealed an independent association of the 5A/5A genotype with SBP(+ 3.6 mmHg, P=0.001) and DBP(+ 2.0 mmHg, P=0.004) in subjects not on blood pressure medication. Whereas subjects with the 5A/5A genotype and taking medication had a higher mean SBP(+ 7.4 mmHg, P=0.02) and DBP(+ 2.7 mmHg, P=0.11). Multivariate analysis in the whole population showed there was no association between genotypes and mean intimal-medial wall thickness(IMT)(P=0.87) or the likelihood of carotid plaque formation. Conclusions: The stromelysin-1 5A- 1171- 6A genotype is an important determinant of blood pressure in this general population sample.
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