Age is a risk factor for aortic aneurysm (AA), and different segments of the aorta exhibit varying susceptibilities to aneurysm. The specific factors that contribute to the higher incidence of AA and Show more
Age is a risk factor for aortic aneurysm (AA), and different segments of the aorta exhibit varying susceptibilities to aneurysm. The specific factors that contribute to the higher incidence of AA and its complications with aging remain unclear. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are elevated in AA. However, the connection between aging, aortic MMP activity, and the increased prevalence of AA and its complications has not been systematically evaluated. This study leveraged MMP-targeted molecular imaging to investigate how aging affects aortic MMP expression and activity, as well as aneurysm development and survival. AA development and animal survival were monitored for 28 days after Angiotensin (Ang)-II infusion in 8-10-week-old (young) and >51-week-old (old) Old animals' survival to 28 days was significantly lower than that of young Ang-II-infused Aging is associated with increased MMP activity along the aorta and worse AA survival. MMP-targeted molecular imaging can inform the aneurysm survival prospects. Selective MMP inhibitors and tracers may help prevent and track aneurysm growth, dissection, and rupture. Show less