Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 22, 2025

An Experimental Model of Myocardial Infarction for Studying Cardiac Repair and Remodeling in Knockout Mice
Published on: July 14, 2023
The Role of Galectin-3 and ST2 in Cardiology: A Short Review
Ana Merino-Merino1, Jeronimo Gonzalez-Bernal2, Dario Fernandez-Zoppino2,3
1Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Burgos, 09005 Burgos, Spain.
Insights
Galectin-3 and ST2 are key biomarkers in heart failure. Novel evidence links these cardiac biomarkers to coronary heart disease and atrial fibrillation, suggesting broader diagnostic and prognostic roles.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Biomarker Research
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Galectin-3, a beta-galactoside-binding lectin, mediates cardiac remodeling and fibrosis via macrophage and fibroblast activation.
- ST2 is released by myocardial cells under cardiac overload, commonly used in heart failure management.
- Traditional roles of galectin-3 and ST2 focus on heart failure therapy guidance and disease progression monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diagnostic and prognostic significance of galectin-3 and ST2.
- To explore the emerging roles of these biomarkers in coronary heart disease and atrial fibrillation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating galectin-3 and ST2.
- Analysis of diagnostic and prognostic data in various cardiac conditions.
- Synthesis of current evidence on biomarker roles.
Main Results:
- Galectin-3 and ST2 are established in heart failure.
- Emerging data indicate a connection between galectin-3, ST2, and atrial fibrillation.
- These biomarkers show potential beyond heart failure management.
Conclusions:
- Galectin-3 and ST2 possess significant diagnostic and prognostic value in cardiovascular diseases.
- Their roles extend to conditions like atrial fibrillation, warranting further investigation.
- Understanding these biomarkers can refine cardiovascular disease management strategies.
Abstract:
Galectin-3 is a lectin that binds beta-galactosides. It is involved in cardiac remodeling and fibrosis through the activation of macrophages and fibroblasts. ST2 is secreted by myocardial cells due to cardiac overload. These two biomarkers have been traditionally studied in the field of heart failure to guide medical therapy and detect the progression of the disease. Nevertheless, there are novel evidences that connect galectin-3 and ST2 with coronary heart disease and, specifically, with atrial fibrillation. The aim of this article is to concisely review the diagnostic and prognostic role of galectin-3 and ST2 in different cardiac diseases.
Related Concept Videos
Proteoglycans
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Intracellular Signaling Affects Focal Adhesions
Some...
Selectins
Cardiomyopathy I: Introduction and Classification

