TIMP-3 mRNA levels are also increased in patients with ascending aortic aneurysms, whereas other TIMPs are not altered.15 Similarly, a significant association between polymorphisms of TIMP-3, but not TIMP-1 or TIMP-2, exists in patients with AAA and a positive family history of AAA.16 Also, aorta wall TIMP-3 expression is reduced in Marfan syndrome patients who experience an increased rate of aortic rupture.17 This evidence concerns the gene TIMP3 and Marfan syndrome.