MMP2 and Hypertension: Ultimately, through the function of TIMP2 itself or by adjusting the balance of TIMP2/MMP2, it plays a protective role in the pathological process such as ameliorates vascular dysfunction and remodeling caused by hypertension [19], inhibits neointimal hyperplasia [38], carotid artery stenosis [39], rupture of atherosclerotic plaques [22], and reduces the incidence of LAA stroke.