TIMP2 and atherosclerosis: However, experimental data are conflicting: A significant increase in MMP9/TIMP2 complex concentration was noted in intraluminal thrombi of patients on simvastatin, but no changes in the expression of NGAL mRNA or the protein concentration of MMP9/NGAL whereas gene expression of TIMP1 in the aneurysma wall was downregulated [35].Thus, an important role of NGAL modulating inflammation and atherosclerosis is conceivable.