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Published on: June 10, 2025
Galectin 3 complements BNP in risk stratification in acute heart failure
Gregory J Fermann1, Christopher J Lindsell, Alan B Storrow
1Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 34267-0769, USA. gregory.fermann@uc.edu
Insights
Galectin 3 (G3) does not predict prognosis in acute heart failure. However, G3 combined with B-type natriuretic peptide may indicate kidney issues and predict short-term adverse events.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Biomarkers
- Heart Failure Research
Background:
- Galectin 3 (G3) is implicated in cardiac fibrosis and remodeling processes.
- Understanding the role of G3 in heart failure is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prognostic value of Galectin 3 (G3) in patients with Acute Heart Failure Syndromes (AHFS).
- To assess the association of G3 with renal dysfunction and short-term adverse events in AHFS patients.
Main Methods:
- Prospective enrollment of patients diagnosed with and treated for Acute Heart Failure Syndromes.
- Inclusion in the multicenter Decision Making in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure trial.
- Analysis of Galectin 3 levels in relation to clinical characteristics and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Higher G3 levels were associated with a history of renal disease, acute kidney injury, and lower heart rate.
- Patients with elevated G3 showed a tendency towards a history of heart failure (HF) and increased 30-day adverse events.
- Comparison with B-type natriuretic peptide was performed to evaluate complementary roles.
Conclusions:
- Galectin 3 (G3) alone does not offer prognostic value in Acute Heart Failure Syndromes.
- G3, when used alongside B-type natriuretic peptide, is linked to renal dysfunction.
- G3 may serve as a predictor for 30-day adverse events in heart failure patients.
Background:
Galectin 3 (G3) is a mediator of fibrosis and remodeling in heart failure.
Methods:
Patients diagnosed with and treated for Acute Heart Failure Syndromes were prospectively enrolled in the Decision Making in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure multicenter trial.
Results:
Patients with a higher G3 had a history of renal disease, a lower heart rate and acute kidney injury. They also tended to have a history of HF and 30-day adverse events compared with B-type natriuretic peptide.
Conclusion:
In Acute Heart Failure Syndromes, G3 levels do not provide prognostic value, but when used complementary to B-type natriuretic peptide, G3 is associated with renal dysfunction and may predict 30-day events.
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