Localization of MMPs in neovessels in a human recanalized mural thrombus.

Immunohistochemistry was performed on paraffin sections of a mural thrombus, as described in “Material and methods.” Fibrin(ogen) present in the thrombus was stained with a polyclonal antibody against fibrin(ogen) (A), and endothelial cells in newly formed vessels were stained with an anti–CD-31 antibody (B). The endothelial cells of the newly formed microvessels were stained for MMP-1 (C), MMP-2 (D), MMP-3 (E), and MT1-MMP (MMP-14) (F). Scale bars = 50 μm. Results are representative of the organized plaques of 2 patients. Arrows indicate areas of positive staining.