Genetic variation, gene-expression and circulating levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in patients with stable coronary artery disease

► The MMP-9 -1562 T-allele associated significantly with elevated serum MMP-9 levels. ► The MMP-9 R279Q G-allele was related to lower MMP-9 activity and hypertension. ► The T- and G-alleles induced lower and higher MMP-9 mRNA levels, respectively. ► Elevated TIMP-1 levels were related to myocardial infarction and type 2 diabetes.