MMP1 and Atherosclerotic lesion: In this study, we examined a cholesterol-fed rabbit model and the effects of administering two doses (10 mg/kg bw or 50 mg/kg bw) of resin-purified Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.)extract on the mRNA expression of MMP-1, MMP-9, IL-6, NOX, and VCAM-1 in the thoracic aorta and the serum levels of VCAM-1, ICAM-1, CRP, PON-1, MCP-1, and PCT, which represent the compounds that may loom large in the pathogenesis and progress of atherosclerotic lesions.