MMP12 and ischemic stroke: In conclusion, we have demonstrated the efficacy of our plasmid vector delivery as evidenced by reduced MMP-12 expression in the ischemic brain, quantified a lasting suppression of transcript, demonstrated improved neurological, sensory, and motor functions in both male and female rats (albeit treatment effects were less apparent in females except for the sensory function), identified the optimal timing of treatment that provides the greatest therapeutic benefit, and validated the safety profile of chronic MMP-12 suppression in an animal model of ischemic stroke.