MMP9 and Stroke: On the other hand, plasma levels of MMP-3 were found increased in patients with better functional and motor recovery [200], highlighting the dual role of these enzymes in stroke pathogenesis and recovery, while 1-2 weeks following stroke onset, MMP-9 is upregulated in the peri-infarct zone and colocalizes with markers of neurovascular remodeling [201], a process which likely involves the processing of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor).