The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship of CAVI and novel biomarkers (such as MMPs and TIMP-1) with: (1) the presence and the ultrasonographically quantified severity of established carotid atherosclerosis; (2) the carotid plaque vulnerability; (3) the long-term incidence of MACE after carotid revascularization. This evidence concerns the gene TIMP1 and carotid atherosclerosis.