BACKGROUND: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a significant role in the development and progression of atherosclerotic vascular disease. We aimed to document the profile of circulating MMPs in peripheral arterial disease (PAD) patients undergoing lower limb endovascular revascularization.METHODS: A total of 46 patients (37 male; mean age 66 ± 11 years) undergoing elective lower limb percutaneous revascularization (angioplasty/stent) for symptomatic PAD were recruited from 2 vascular centers. Exclusion criteria were: acute limb ischemia, active infection and/or wet gangrene, liver disease, end-stage renal disease, and cancer. Patients having open revascularization or hybrid (open combined with endovascular) procedures were also excluded. Peripheral venous blood samples were taken on admission and 24 hrs after the procedure. Levels of MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-7, and MMP-9 were measured along with tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs) 1 and 2.RESULTS: Compared to baseline values, there was a significant elevation in serum MMP-3 (P = 0.014) and MMP-7 (P = 0.008) levels, whereas serum MMP-9 showed a nonsignificant trend to increase (P = 0.169). On the other hand, no significant alterations were found 24 hrs after angioplasty/stenting with regard to the MMP-2 level and TIMP-1 and 2 levels.CONCLUSIONS: This study documented the periprocedural profile of circulating MMPs in patients undergoing angioplasty/stenting for PAD. The implications of increased MMP-3 and MMP-7 activity after peripheral endovascular interventions and their potential clinical relevance require further investigation.