Description

Galectin-3 is one of the most widely studied galectins, a family of soluble B-galactoside-binding lectins that play a regulatory role in inflammation. Galectin-3 affects the synthesis of matrix compounds, such as type I collagen. When cardiac tissue is injured, macrophages infiltrate the tissue and secrete galectin-3, which promotes collagen synthesis and ultimately leads to cardiac fibrosis and adverse cardiac remodeling. Clinical Use The galectin-3 test may be used to identify individuals at risk of future chronic heart failure due to hypertension. Clinical Significance Elevated levels of galectin-3 in hypertensive individuals may suggest increased inflammation, collagen deposition and fibrosis that can lead to adverse cardiac remodeling. Galectin-3 levels may be used to guide the selection of medications in hypertensive individuals, as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) have been shown to more effectively reduce left ventricular mass.