Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and Myeloperoxidase (MPO) Levels in Patients with Nonobstructive Coronary Artery Disease Detected by Coronary Computed Tomographic Angiography

Rationale and Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate whether matrix metalloproteinase–9 (MMP-9) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) are elevated in patients with nonobstructive coronary artery disease. Materials and Methods Eighty-four patients with nonobstructive coronary artery disease (group A) and 90 patients with no coronary plaques (group B) were enrolled. MMP-9 and MPO levels were compared between the two groups. The relationships between these biomarkers and Framingham risk score were analyzed. Receiver-operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate the ability of these biomarkers to predict the presence of coronary artery plaques. Results The MMP-9 and MPO values in group A were significantly higher than in group B ( P r = 0.796, P r = 0.409, P Conclusions Levels of MMP-9 and MPO are positively correlated with Framingham risk score. Additionally, in patients with nonobstructive coronary artery disease, elevated levels of MMP-9 and MPO may identify patients at risk for future myocardial infarction or sudden cardiac death.