MMP9 and coronary atherosclerosis: Thus, it is conceivable that all these features, i.e., a favorable lipid profile, a more efficient reverse cholesterol efflux, and inhibition of MMP-9 and ALP production, could explain the presence of lower risk coronary atherosclerosis, characterized by more non-obstructive and calcified plaques observed in patients with high HO-1 plasma levels in this study.