MMP3 and laryngotracheoesophageal cleft: Combined with our results, it can be inferred that LC together with TIMP-1 overexpression may delay MF by downregulating the expression of MF-related genes (Axl, AT1R, α-SMA, and collagen III), inhibiting oxidative stress (MMP3 and STAT4), and promoting cell apoptosis (Bcl2, caspase 3, and p53).