Impact of Metalloproteinases in Hypertensive Disorders: From Therapeutic Targets to Mechanisms

Hypertension-related cardiovascular diseases are a major global health concern. A key process in these conditions is vascular remodeling, which involves the structural reconfiguration of blood vessel walls. This process includes the breakdown of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, mediated by the enzyme family known as metalloproteinases (MMPs). While MMPs are essential for normal physiological activities such as wound healing and blood vessel formation, an imbalance in their activity can lead to pathological changes. In hypertensive conditions, increased MMP activity can cause harmful vascular restructuring.
This research topic aims to explore the complex role of MMPs in the ECM during hypertensive disorders to develop advanced therapeutic interventions. We aim to understand the mechanisms behind MMP-induced vascular changes and how MMP dysregulation contributes to vascular stiffness, endothelial dysfunction, and overall hypertension—areas where research gaps still exist.
This topic aims to deepen our understanding of MMP functions in hypertension, paving the way for new therapeutic targets and strategies. We invite articles that explore, but are not limited to, the following themes:
• Differential expression and roles of specific MMPs in various hypertensive disorders
• Effects of MMPs on the structural integrity and function of the vascular ECM
• Mechanistic studies on the regulation of MMP activity by reactive oxygen species (ROS), hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF), and cytokines
• Preclinical and clinical evaluations of MMP inhibitors or other agents targeting these pathways
• Advanced methodologies for assessing MMP activity and resultant ECM remodeling
• Development and validation of biomarkers for disease progression and response to therapy in hypertension