MMP2 and hypertensive disorder: To link the role of MMP-2 and oxidative stress with the blood pressure-lowering effect of pravastatin, it has been previously demonstrated that oxidative stress-induced reactive oxygen species, such as superoxide, may be involved in inactivation of NO as well as in activation of MMPs, thus promoting functional alterations of the cardiovascular system, and vascular remodeling in the hypertension secondary to imbalance activity of MMP-2 [41].