MMP9 and endothelial dysfunction: Gene expression of <i>MMP-2</i> and <i>MMP-9</i> in peripheral blood leukocytes and circulating levels of MMP-2, MMP-9, pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6), and endothelial dysfunction markers (Endothelin-1 [ET-1], adhesion molecules) were quantified via qRT-PCR and ELISA.