The effects of renal denervation on dynamics of biochemical indicators of vascular fibrosis in patients with resistant hypertension

In recent years, an increasing attention is paid to the development of vascular fibrosis in patients with arterial hypertension (AH). Particular importance is given to changes in the concentrations of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which play a key role in the development of connective tissue disorders. As of today, research data on the levels of the MMP-2 and the MMP-9 in hypertensive patients and their changes due to treatments remain controversial. Data concerning the impact of renal sympathetic denervation on the changes in the MMPs concentrations in patients with resistant hypertension are unavailable. The objectives of the study were (1) to determine the contents of matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 and of their tissue inhibitor TIMP-1 in patients with resistant hypertension before and 6 months after the transcatheter renal artery sympathetic denervation; (2) to compare these parameters in cases of effective and ineffective invasive treatment; and (3) to study the interaction between the enzymes concentrations and blood pressure levels, including pulse pressure levels.