Efficacy of simvastatin on dynamic changes of matrix metalloproteinases in atherosclerosis rabbit model

Objectives To research the dynamic changes of the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases-1(TIMP-1)in the atherosclerosis rabbit model,and the efficacy of simvastatin.Methods We established 50 atherosclerosis models of rabbits through high lipid diet and injured femoral arteries by dilated balloon,and divided them into 2 groups equivalently (control group and therapy group).Rabbits in therapy group later were given simvatatin 4 mg / kg on day 1,7,14,21,28 after injured.MMP-1,9 and TIMP-1 were detected by ELISA assay,then the curve reflecting the dynamic changes was draw in both groups,and the histopathology data was provided as well.Results The peaks of MMP-1,9 were showed at 1 day after injured,and last for 7 days.The peak of TIMP-1 was showed at the 1st day,and then decrease obviously.Simvastatin inhibited MMP-1,MMP-9,TIMP-1 at the 7th,14th and 21st respectively.Conclusions The changes of MMPs and TIMP in atherosclerosis rabbit model were different and so did the secretion time of MMPs / TIMP inhibited by simvastatin.