Role for Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 in Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein–Induced Activation of the Sphingomyelin/Ceramide Pathway and Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation

Together, these data demonstrate that MMP-2 plays a pivotal role in oxLDL-induced activation of the sphingomyelin/ceramide signaling pathway and subsequent SMC proliferation. These pathways may constitute a potential therapeutic target for modulating the oxLDL-induced proliferation of SMCs in atherosclerosis or restenosis.