Serial galectin-3 and future cardiovascular disease in the general population

Fibrotic Marker Galectin-3 Identifies Males at Risk of Developing Cancer and Heart Failure

Background

Cancer and heart failure (HF) are the leading causes of death in the Western world. Shared mechanisms such as fibrosis may underlie either disease entity, furthermore it is unknown whether this relationship is sex-specific.

Objectives

We sought to investigate how fibrosis-related biomarker galectin-3 (gal-3) aids in identifying individuals at risk for new-onset cancer and HF, and how this differs between sexes.

Methods

Gal-3 was measured at baseline and at 4-year follow-up in 5,786 patients of the PREVEND (Prevention of Renal and Vascular Endstage Disease) study. The total follow-up period was 11.5 years. An increase of ≥50% in gal-3 levels between measurements was considered relevant. We performed sex-stratified log-rank tests and Cox regression analyses overall and by sex to evaluate the association of gal-3 over time with both new-onset cancer and new-onset HF.

Results

Of the 5,786 healthy participants (50% males), 399 (59% males) developed new-onset cancer, and 192 (65% males) developed new-onset HF. In males, an increase in gal-3 was significantly associated with new-onset cancer (both combined and certain cancer-specific subtypes), after adjusting for age, body mass index, hypertension, smoking status, estimated glomerular filtration rate, diabetes mellitus, triglycerides, coronary artery disease, and C-reactive protein (HR: 1.89; 95% CI: 1.32-2.71; P < 0.001). Similar analyses demonstrated an association with new-onset HF in males (HR: 1.77; 95% CI: 1.07-2.95; P = 0.028). In females, changes in gal-3 over time were neither associated with new-onset cancer nor new-onset HF.

Conclusions

Gal-3, a marker of fibrosis, is associated with new-onset cancer and new-onset HF in males, but not in females.

Diffuse Myocardial Fibrosis on Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging Is Related to Galectin-3 and Predicts Outcome in Heart Failure

AIMS

Ongoing adverse remodeling is a hallmark of heart failure (HF), which might be reflected by either focal or diffuse myocardial fibrosis. Therefore, in (pre)clinical settings, we used immunohistochemistry or cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) to investigate the association of (focal or diffuse) fibrosis with cardiac biomarkers and adverse events in HF.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In C57Bl/6J mice, we determined the presence and extent of myocardial fibrosis 6 weeks post-myocardial infarction (MI). Furthermore, we studied 159 outpatient HF patients who underwent CMR, and determined focal and diffuse fibrosis by late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and post-contrast T1 time of the non-LGE myocardium, respectively. HF patients were categorized based on the presence of LGE, and by the median post-contrast T1 time. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses were used to determine the association of fibrosis with HF hospitalization and all-cause mortality. LGE was detected in 61 (38%) patients. Cardiac biomarker levels were comparable between LGE-positive and LGE-negative patients. LGE-positive patients with a short T1 time had elevated levels of both NT-proBNP and galectin-3 (1611 vs. 453 ng/L, p = 0.026 and 20 vs. 15 μg/L, p = 0.004, respectively). This was not observed in LGE-negative patients. Furthermore, a short T1 time in LGE-positive patients was associated with a higher risk of adverse events (log-rank p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

This study implies that cardiac biomarkers reflect active remodeling of the non-infarcted myocardium of patients with focal myocardial scarring. Diffuse fibrosis, in contrast to focal scarring, might have a higher prognostic value regarding adverse outcomes in HF patients.

New Biomarkers and Their Potential Role in Heart Failure Treatment Optimisation-An African Perspective

Heart failure is a clinical syndrome resulting from various cardiovascular diseases of different aetiologies and pathophysiology. These varying pathologies involve several complex mechanisms that lead to the activation of the neurohumoral system, inflammation, angiogenesis, apoptosis, fibrosis, and eventually adverse cardiac remodelling associated with a progressive decline in cardiac function. Once a diagnosis is made, the cardiac function has a gradual decline characterised by multiple hospital admissions. It is therefore imperative to identify patients at different stages of the heart failure continuum to better risk stratify and initiate optimal management strategies. Biomarkers may play a role in the diagnosis, prognostication, and monitoring response to treatment. This review discusses the epidemiology of heart failure and biomarkers commonly used in clinical practice such as natriuretic peptides and cardiac troponins. In addition, we provide a brief overview of novel biomarkers and genetic coding and non-coding biomarkers used in the management of patients with heart failure. We also discuss barriers that hinder the clinical application of novel biomarkers. Finally, we appraise the value of polygenic risk scoring, focusing on sub-Saharan Africa.

Diagnostic Value of Serum Concentration of Galectin-3 in Patients With Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction

BACKGROUND

Although the predictive value of galectin-3 for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction has been demonstrated, the diagnostic value remains unclear. The present study was performed to address this issue.

HYPOTHESIS

Galectin-3 has diagnostic value for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

METHODS

This is a diagnostic experiment. We conducted an observational study of 223 patients with combined symptoms of heart failure and diseases that can lead to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Patients were grouped into the heart failure group and control group in accordance with the 2016 European Society of Cardiology heart failure guidelines for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Baseline information and serum galectin-3 concentration were assessed within 24 h after admission.

RESULTS

Serum galectin-3 concentration was significantly higher in the heart failure group compared with the control group. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that higher galectin-3 concentration was associated with the occurrence of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. The area under the curve of galectin-3 was 0.763, indicating that galectin-3 has moderate diagnostic value for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Galectin-3 >15.974 ng/mL identified heart failure with preserved ejection fraction with 76.0% sensitivity and 71.9% specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a correlation between galectin-3 and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, and galectin-3 was an independent predictor of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. The diagnostic value of galectin-3 for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction was moderate (AUC: 0.763, 95% CI: 0.696-0.821, P < 0.01, and the sensitivity is 76.0% while the specificity is 71.9% at the threshold 15.974 ng/mL) and was higher than that of interventricular septal thickness or E/A ratio.

Association between Markers of Fibrosis and Heart Failure Incidence in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic heart failure (HF) have close association, and several biomarkers have been studied to better understand this association and improve prediction of HF in T2DM. Furthermore, in recent clinical trials, sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), glucose-lowering drugs, improved HF outcomes. The objective of the present study was to evaluate association between circulating biomarkers of fibrosis and incidence of HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) in patients with T2DM receiving sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i). Materials and Methods. At baseline, transthoracic echocardiography and laboratory assessment of N-terminal fragment of the brain natriuretic peptide (Nt-proBNP), soluble suppression of tumorigenesis-2 (sST2), galectin-3 (Gal-3), C-terminal propeptide of procollagen type I (PICP), N-terminal propeptide of procollagen type III (PIIINP), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and tissue inhibitor of matrix proteinase-1 (TIMP-1) were done. After 3 years of follow-up, information about HF events (hospitalization for HF, established HF in outpatient department by a cardiologist) was obtained. Results. Seventy-two patients were included in the study. The mean age was 57 (49.7; 63.2) years; 44% were female. Most patients had T2DM for more than 4 years. All patients were overweight or had obesity, and 93% patients had arterial hypertension (AH). After 3 years of follow-up, HFpEF was established in 21% patients. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of HFpEF, and baseline characteristics were compared. Patients with HF were older and had longer diabetes and AH duration and higher Nt-proBNP, Gal-3, PIIINP, and PICP levels at baseline than patients without HF (all p < 0.05). Gal - 3 > 10 ng/ml (OR = 2.25; 95% CI, 1.88-5.66; p = 0.01) and NT - pro - BNP > 80 pg/ml (OR = 2.64; 95% CI, 1.56-4.44; p = 0.001) were associated with increased risk of HF incidence. Age > 60 years, diabetes duration > 10 years, and presence of abdominal obesity were independent predictors of HFpEF as well. Conclusions. T2DM patients treated with SLGT2i, who developed HFpEF after 3 years of follow-up, had higher PICP, PIIINP, Gal-3, and NT-proBNP serum concentrations at baseline, and Gal-3 level was an independent predictor of HFpEF.

Circulating heart failure biomarkers beyond natriuretic peptides: review from the Biomarker Study Group of the Heart Failure Association (HFA), European Society of Cardiology (ESC)

New biomarkers are being evaluated for their ability to advance the management of patients with heart failure. Despite a large pool of interesting candidate biomarkers, besides natriuretic peptides virtually none have succeeded in being applied into the clinical setting. In this review, we examine the most promising emerging candidates for clinical assessment and management of patients with heart failure. We discuss high-sensitivity cardiac troponins (Tn), procalcitonin, novel kidney markers, soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (sST2), galectin-3, growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15), cluster of differentiation 146 (CD146), neprilysin, adrenomedullin (ADM), and also discuss proteomics and genetic-based risk scores. We focused on guidance and assistance with daily clinical care decision-making. For each biomarker, analytical considerations are discussed, as well as performance regarding diagnosis and prognosis. Furthermore, we discuss potential implementation in clinical algorithms and in ongoing clinical trials.

Potential Biomarkers in Atrial Fibrillation: Insight into their Clinical Significance

ABSTRACT

In risk-stratifying patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), physicians rely heavily on clinical parameters that provide risk scores and determine treatment strategies. There has been increasing research on potential biomarkers in the blood that could more accurately determine both risk of complications in AF and risk of incidence of AF. This review highlights the clinical significance of five novel biomarkers that have been shown to be linked to AF. These biomarkers are carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA-125), galectin-3 (gal-3), growth differentiating factor-15 (GDF-15), a member of the interleukin 1 receptor family, IL1RL1 (ST2) and N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP).

The effect of spironolactone on cardiovascular function and markers of fibrosis in people at increased risk of developing heart failure: the heart 'OMics' in AGEing (HOMAGE) randomized clinical trial

Aims 

To investigate the effects of spironolactone on fibrosis and cardiac function in people at increased risk of developing heart failure.

Methods and results 

Randomized, open-label, blinded-endpoint trial comparing spironolactone (50 mg/day) or control for up to 9 months in people with, or at high risk of, coronary disease and raised plasma B-type natriuretic peptides. The primary endpoint was the interaction between baseline serum galectin-3 and changes in serum procollagen type-III N-terminal pro-peptide (PIIINP) in participants assigned to spironolactone or control. Procollagen type-I C-terminal pro-peptide (PICP) and collagen type-1 C-terminal telopeptide (CITP), reflecting synthesis and degradation of type-I collagen, were also measured. In 527 participants (median age 73 years, 26% women), changes in PIIINP were similar for spironolactone and control [mean difference (mdiff): −0.15; 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.44 to 0.15 μg/L; P = 0.32] but those receiving spironolactone had greater reductions in PICP (mdiff: −8.1; 95% CI −11.9 to −4.3 μg/L; P < 0.0001) and PICP/CITP ratio (mdiff: −2.9; 95% CI −4.3 to −1.5; <0.0001). No interactions with serum galectin were observed. Systolic blood pressure (mdiff: −10; 95% CI −13 to −7 mmHg; P < 0.0001), left atrial volume (mdiff: −1; 95% CI −2 to 0 mL/m²; P = 0.010), and NT-proBNP (mdiff: −57; 95% CI −81 to −33 ng/L; P < 0.0001) were reduced in those assigned spironolactone.

Conclusions 

Galectin-3 did not identify greater reductions in serum concentrations of collagen biomarkers in response to spironolactone. However, spironolactone may influence type-I collagen metabolism. Whether spironolactone can delay or prevent progression to symptomatic heart failure should be investigated.

Systemic Galectin-3 in Smokers with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Chronic Bronchitis: The Impact of Exacerbations

PURPOSE

The carbohydrate-binding protein Galectin-3 is increased in several inflammatory diseases and has recently been forwarded as a systemic biomarker in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In this longitudinal study, we characterized the level of systemic Galectin-3 using blood from smokers with a history of COPD and chronic bronchitis (COPD-CB), during stable clinical conditions and exacerbations.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study population comprised 56 long-term smokers with COPD-CB, 10 long-term smokers without lung disease (LTS) and 10 clinically healthy never-smokers (HNS). Blood samples were analyzed for levels of Galectin-3, leukocyte populations and C-reactive protein (CRP). In addition, sputum samples from the COPD-CB group were analyzed for bacterial growth.

RESULTS

When comparing stable clinical conditions and exacerbations in the COPD-CB group, we found that the level of Galectin-3, just like that of CRP, leukocytes and neutrophils, respectively, was increased during exacerbations. However, this exacerbation-associated increase of Galectin-3 was modest. During stable clinical conditions of COPD-CB, the level of Galectin-3 was not elevated in comparison with HNS or LTS. Nor did this level of Galectin-3 distinguish patients that remained in a clinically stable condition throughout the study to those that developed an exacerbation. In addition, neither during stable clinical conditions nor during exacerbations, did the presence of bacterial growth in sputum alter Galectin-3 levels. In contrast to Galectin-3, the level of CRP, leukocytes and neutrophils, respectively, were increased during clinical stable conditions in the COPD-CB group compared with the other groups and were further enhanced during exacerbations.

CONCLUSION

Systemic Galectin-3 is increased in a reproducible but modest manner during exacerbations in smokers with COPD-CB. During stable clinical conditions, the level of systemic Galectin-3 does not distinguish patients that remain clinically stable from those that develop exacerbations. This makes it less likely that systemic Galectin-3 may become a clinically useful biomarker in the current setting.

The diagnostic and prognostic value of galectin-3 in patients at risk for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: results from the DIAST-CHF study

Aims

Galectin‐3 (Gal‐3) predicts long‐term outcome among patients with heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The ability of Gal‐3 to diagnose and predict incident HFpEF in a cohort at risk for HFpEF is of particular interest. We aimed to determine the association between Gal‐3 and clinical manifestations of HFpEF, the relationship between Gal‐3 and all‐cause mortality, or the composite of cardiovascular hospitalization and death.

Methods and results

The observational Diast‐CHF study included patients aged 50 to 85 years with ≥1 risk factor for HF (e.g. hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and atherosclerotic disease) or previously suspected HF. Patients were followed for 10 years. The association between Gal‐3, evidence of diastolic dysfunction, and Framingham criteria for HF was examined. All deaths and hospitalizations were adjudicated as cardiovascular or non‐cardiovascular. The analysis population was composed of 1386 subjects (67 years old, 50.9% female). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve to diagnose HFpEF was 0.71. At a cut‐off value of 13.57 ng/mL, sensitivity was 0.61 and specificity was 0.73 for Gal‐3, and the diagnostic power to detect HFpEF was superior to N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.59, P > 0.001). Baseline Gal‐3 was associated with risk factors for HF (P < 0.001). Higher levels of Gal‐3 predicted incident HFpEF (P < 0.05), adjusted all‐cause mortality (P < 0.001), and the adjusted composite of cardiovascular hospitalization and death (P < 0.001), both independent from N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide.

Conclusions

Gal‐3 differentiated patients with HFpEF from an overall cohort of well‐characterized patients with risk factors for HFpEF. Independent of other factors, baseline Gal‐3 levels were associated with a higher risk for incident HFpEF, mortality, or the composite of cardiovascular hospitalization and death over 10 year follow‐up. In conjunction with clinical parameters, Gal‐3 adds a statistically significant value for the diagnosis of HFpEF within this study, yet the clinical relevance remains debatable.

The Emerging Role of Galectins and O-GlcNAc Homeostasis in Processes of Cellular Differentiation

Galectins are a family of soluble β-galactoside-binding proteins with diverse glycan-dependent and glycan-independent functions outside and inside the cell. Human cells express twelve out of sixteen recognized mammalian galectin genes and their expression profiles are very different between cell types and tissues. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the changes in the expression of individual galectins at mRNA and protein levels in different types of differentiating cells and the effects of recombinant galectins on cellular differentiation. A new model of galectin regulation is proposed considering the change in O-GlcNAc homeostasis between progenitor/stem cells and mature differentiated cells. The recognition of galectins as regulatory factors controlling cell differentiation and self-renewal is essential for developmental and cancer biology to develop innovative strategies for prevention and targeted treatment of proliferative diseases, tissue regeneration, and stem-cell therapy.

Levels and Change in Galectin-3 and Association With Cardiovascular Events: The ARIC Study

Background

Circulating galectin‐3 levels provide prognostic information in patients with established heart failure (HF), but the associations between galectin‐3 levels and other incident cardiovascular events in asymptomatic individuals at midlife and when remeasured ≈15 years later are largely uncharacterized.

Methods and Results

Using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, we identified associations between plasma galectin‐3 levels (hazard ratio [HR] per 1 SD increase in natural log galectin‐3) and incident coronary heart disease, ischemic stroke, HF hospitalization, and total mortality in ARIC (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities) participants free of cardiovascular disease at ARIC visit 4 (1996–1998; n=9247) and at ARIC visit 5 (2011–2013; n=4829). Higher galectin‐3 level at visit 4 (median age 62) was independently associated with incident coronary heart disease (adjusted HR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.06–1.60), ischemic stroke (HR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.01–2.00), HF (HR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.17–1.76), and mortality (HR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.35–1.80). At visit 5 (median age, 74), higher galectin‐3 level was associated with incident HF (HR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.15–3.24) and total mortality (HR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.15–2.52), but not coronary heart disease or stoke. Individuals with the greatest increase in galectin‐3 levels from visit 4 to visit 5 were also at increased risk of incident HF and total mortality.

Conclusions

In a large, biracial community‐based cohort, galectin‐3 measured at midlife and older age was associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events. An increase in galectin‐3 levels over this period was also associated with increased risk.

Sex-related differences in contemporary biomarkers for heart failure: a review

The use of circulating biomarkers for heart failure (HF) is engrained in contemporary cardiovascular practice and provides objective information about various pathophysiological pathways associated with HF syndrome. However, biomarker profiles differ considerably among women and men. For instance, in the general population, markers of cardiac stretch (natriuretic peptides) and fibrosis (galectin‐3) are higher in women, whereas markers of cardiac injury (cardiac troponins) and inflammation (sST2) are higher in men. Such differences may reflect sex‐specific pathogenic processes associated with HF risk, but may also arise as a result of differences in sex hormone profiles and fat distribution. From a clinical perspective, sex‐related differences in biomarker levels may affect the objectivity of biomarkers in HF management because what is considered to be ‘normal’ in one sex may not be so in the other. The objectives of this review are, therefore: (i) to examine the sex‐specific dynamics of clinically relevant HF biomarkers in the general population, as well as in HF patients; (ii) to discuss the overlap between sex‐related and obesity‐related effects, and (iii) to identify knowledge gaps to stimulate research on sex‐related differences in HF.

Galectin-3 as a Next-Generation Biomarker for Detecting Early Stage of Various Diseases

Galectin-3 is a β-galactoside-binding lectin which is important in numerous biological activities in various organs, including cell proliferation, apoptotic regulation, inflammation, fibrosis, and host defense. Galectin-3 is predominantly located in the cytoplasm and expressed on the cell surface, and then often secreted into biological fluids, like serum and urine. It is also released from injured cells and inflammatory cells under various pathological conditions. Many studies have revealed that galectin-3 plays an important role as a diagnostic or prognostic biomarker for certain types of heart disease, kidney disease, viral infection, autoimmune disease, neurodegenerative disorders, and tumor formation. In particular, it has been recognized that galectin-3 is extremely useful for detecting many of these diseases in their early stages. The purpose of this article is to review and summarize the recent literature focusing on the biomarker characteristics and long-term outcome predictions of galectin-3, in not only patients with various types of diseases, but associated animal models.

[The Prognostic Role of Biomarkers in Patients With Chronic Heart Failure]

Objective Investigate the role of biomarkers in the prognosis of the clinical course of the disease in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) of different NYHA functional classes (FC).Material and Methods The study included 132 patients with CHF: Group 1 was composed of 70 patients with NYHA FC II CHF, and Group 2 included 62 patients with FC III-IV CHF. The patients underwent clinical, instrumental, functional, and laboratory measurements, which included serum concentrations of NT-proBNP, ST-2, galectin-3, and C-reactive protein. Patients were examined at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 mos of follow-up. The following cardiac complications were used as endpoints: urgent hospitalization due to decompensated CHF, heart transplantation, cardiovascular death. Endpoints were registered during the 12-mo follow-up period.Results Endpoints were recorded for 58 patients (44%) of the total sample of patients with CHF: 38 patients were urgently hospitalized, 10 patients underwent heart transplantation, 10 patients died. Cardiac complications were recorded at a higher rate in patients with FC III-IV CHF (63% vs. 27% of patients with FC II; p&lt;0.001). In FC II CHF patients, the incidence of cardiac complications was significantly correlated with NT-proBNP blood concentrations (Rpb=0.53; p=0.023), left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) (Rpb=0.50; p=0.044), and mitral regurgitation (Rpb=0.53; p=0.038). Cardiac complications in patients with FC III-IV CHF were associated with ST-2 (Rpb=0.52; p=0.004) and galectin-3 (Rpb=0.46; p=0.009) blood concentrations, and with systolic pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) (Rpb=0.41; p=0.014). Unlike other laboratory measurements, galectin-3 concentrations were significantly correlated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) (Rpb=0.40; p=0.003). In this study, correlation analysis and evidence of significant differences in the concentrations of biomarkers provided a rationale for identifying potential predictors of severe cardiac complications during medium- and long-term follow-up periods in patients with CHF of different severity: NT-proBNP concentrations in FC II patients; ST-2 and galectin-3 serum concentrations in FC III-IV patients; galectin-3 concentrations in patients with CHF and DM2.Conclusion NT-proBNP blood concentrations are associated with CHF severity and serious cardiac complications in patients with FC II CHF within the following 12 mos. The poor prognosis of FC III-IV CHF is associated with the concentration of the ST-2 biomarker. The blood concentration of galectin-3 is a significant predictor of poor prognosis in patients with CHF and DM2. Predictors of the adverse course of CHF of varying severity were differentiated. For FC II CHF, NT-proBNP &gt; 1723 pg/ml or, if NT-proBNP &lt; 1723 pg/mL, then EDV &gt; 311 ml. For FC III-IV CHF, ST-2 &gt; 67 ng/mL or, if ST-2 &lt; 67 ng/mL, then PAP &gt; 61 mm Hg. Galectin-3 has a prognostic value for the clinical course of the disease at different follow-up periods in patients with CHF and DM2: galectin-3 concentrations &gt; 16 ng/mL and 13-16 ng/mL are risk factors for mid- and long-term cardiac complications, respectively.

Galectin-3 and risk of atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Galectin-3 is an inflammatory marker that is raised in myocardial fibrosis and inflammation. Recent studies have explored its role in predicting atrial fibrillation (AF) outcomes. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to examine the association between serum concentration of galectin-3 and AF.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Database were searched. A total of 280 studies were identified, of which 28 studies involving 10 830 patients were included in our meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Galectin-3 is present at higher concentrations in patients with AF than those in sinus rhythm (mean difference [MD] = -0.68 ng/mL, 95% CI: -0.92, -0.44, Z = 5.61, P < .00001). Galectin-3 levels were significantly higher in the persistent AF than in the paroxysmal AF group (MD = -0.94 ng/mL, 95% CI: -1.85, -0.03, Z = 2.04, P = .04). Higher galectin-3 levels were associated with a 45% increase in the odds of developing AF (odds ratio [OR] = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.15, 1.83, Z = 3.11, P = .002) and risk of AF recurrence (hazard ratio [HR] =1.17, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.29, Z = 3.12, P = .002).

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis found that galectin-3 is significantly higher in patients with persistent AF than in those with paroxysmal AF, and can predict both AF development and recurrence after treatment.

Association of Galectin-3 and Soluble ST2, and Their Changes, with Echocardiographic Parameters and Development of Heart Failure after ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Purpose

To investigate the association of galectin-3 (Gal-3) and soluble ST2 (sST2) and their follow-up changes with the development of heart failure (HF) and echocardiographic parameters of HF (ejection fraction, atrial and ventricular size, left ventricular hypertrophy, e′, and E/e′) in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI).

Methods

A prospective, observational study, BIOSTRAT (Biomarkers for Risk Stratification After STEMI), enrolled 117 patients between October 2014 and April 2017. Gal-3 and sST2 serum collection and echocardiography were performed twice (during index hospitalization and on a control visit at one-year follow-up). The primary endpoint was HF onset at one-year follow-up. Secondary assessments included associations of biomarker concentration with echocardiographic indices of systolic and diastolic dysfunction at baseline and at one year.

Results

Mean baseline concentrations of Gal-3 and sST2 (7.5 and 26.4 ng/mL, respectively) were significantly increased at one-year follow-up (8.5 ng/mL and p < 0.001 and 31.4 ng/mL and p = 0.001, respectively). Patients who reached the primary endpoint (50 patients (48%)) had significantly higher baseline concentrations of both biomarkers and a higher Gal-3 level at one year compared to patients who did not. Both Gal-3 and sST2 were predictors of the primary endpoint in univariate logistic regression analysis, but only Gal-3 remained significant in multivariate analysis. There was no clear association between both biomarkers and echocardiographic parameters.

Conclusions

Baseline, but not one-year, changes of Gal-3 and sST2 concentrations may be useful for risk stratification after STEMI. However, only Gal-3 was the independent predictor of HF development at one-year observation. This trial is registered with NCT03735719.

Association of Cardiovascular Biomarkers With Incident Heart Failure With Preserved and Reduced Ejection Fraction

Importance

Nearly half of all patients with heart failure have preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) as opposed to reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), yet associations of biomarkers with future heart failure subtype are incompletely understood.

Objective

To evaluate the associations of 12 cardiovascular biomarkers with incident HFpEF vs HFrEF among adults from the general population.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This study included 4 longitudinal community-based cohorts: the Cardiovascular Health Study (1989-1990; 1992-1993 for supplemental African-American cohort), the Framingham Heart Study (1995-1998), the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (2000-2002), and the Prevention of Renal and Vascular End-stage Disease study (1997-1998). Each cohort had prospective ascertainment of incident HFpEF and HFrEF. Data analysis was performed from June 25, 2015, to November 9, 2017.

Exposures

The following biomarkers were examined: N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide or brain natriuretic peptide, high-sensitivity troponin T or I, C-reactive protein (CRP), urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR), renin to aldosterone ratio, D-dimer, fibrinogen, soluble suppressor of tumorigenicity, galectin-3, cystatin C, plasminogen activator inhibitor 1, and interleukin 6.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Development of incident HFpEF and incident HFrEF.

Results

Among the 22 756 participants in these 4 cohorts (12 087 women and 10 669 men; mean [SD] age, 60 [13] years) in the study, during a median follow-up of 12 years, 633 participants developed incident HFpEF, and 841 developed HFrEF. In models adjusted for clinical risk factors of heart failure, 2 biomarkers were significantly associated with incident HFpEF: UACR (hazard ratio [HR], 1.33; 95% CI, 1.20-1.48; P < .001) and natriuretic peptides (HR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.16-1.40; P < .001), with suggestive associations for high-sensitivity troponin (HR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.03-1.19; P = .008), plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (HR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.03-1.45; P = .02), and fibrinogen (HR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.03-1.22; P = .01). By contrast, 6 biomarkers were associated with incident HFrEF: natriuretic peptides (HR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.41-1.68; P < .001), UACR (HR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.11-1.32; P < .001), high-sensitivity troponin (HR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.29-1.46; P < .001), cystatin C (HR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.11-1.27; P < .001), D-dimer (HR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.11-1.35; P < .001), and CRP (HR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.11-1.28; P < .001). When directly compared, natriuretic peptides, high-sensitivity troponin, and CRP were more strongly associated with HFrEF compared with HFpEF.

Conclusions and Relevance

Biomarkers of renal dysfunction, endothelial dysfunction, and inflammation were associated with incident HFrEF. By contrast, only natriuretic peptides and UACR were associated with HFpEF. These findings highlight the need for future studies focused on identifying novel biomarkers of the risk of HFpEF.

β-Adrenoceptor activation affects galectin-3 as a biomarker and therapeutic target in heart disease

Myocardial fibrosis is a key histopathological component that drives the progression of heart disease leading to heart failure and constitutes a therapeutic target. Recent preclinical and clinical studies have implicated galectin-3 (Gal-3) as a pro-fibrotic molecule and a biomarker of heart disease and fibrosis. However, our knowledge is poor on the mechanism(s) that determine the blood level or regulate cardiac expression of Gal-3. Recent studies have demonstrated that enhanced β-adrenoceptor activity is a determinant of both circulating concentration and cardiac expression of Gal-3. Pharmacological or transgenic activation of β-adrenoceptors leads to increased blood levels of Gal-3 and up-regulated cardiac Gal-3 expression, effect that can be reversed with the use of β-adrenoceptor antagonists. Conversely, Gal-3 gene deletion confers protection against isoprenaline-induced cardiotoxicity and fibrogenesis. At the transcription level, β-adrenoceptor stimulation activates cardiac mammalian sterile-20-like kinase 1, a pivotal kinase of the Hippo signalling pathway, which is associated with Gal-3 up-regulation. Recent studies have suggested a role for the β-adrenoceptor-Hippo signalling pathway in the regulation of cardiac Gal-3 expression thereby contributing to the onset and progression of heart disease. This implies a therapeutic potential of the suppression of Gal-3 expression. In this review, we discuss the effects of β-adrenoceptor activity on Gal-3 as a biomarker and causative mediator in the setting of heart disease and point out pivotal knowledge gaps. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed section on Adrenoceptors-New Roles for Old Players. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.14/issuetoc.

Disconnect between Fibrotic Response and Right Ventricular Dysfunction

Rationale: Remodeling and fibrosis of the right ventricle (RV) may cause RV dysfunction and poor survival in patients with pulmonary hypertension. Objectives: To investigate the consequences of RV fibrosis modulation and the accompanying cellular changes on RV function. Methods: Expression of fibrotic markers was assessed in the RV of patients with pulmonary hypertension, the murine pulmonary artery banding, and rat monocrotaline and Sugen5416/hypoxia models. Invasive hemodynamic and echocardiographic assessment was performed on galectin-3 knockout or inhibitor-treated mice. Measurements and Main Results: Established fibrosis was characterized by marked expression of galectin-3 and an enhanced number of proliferating RV fibroblasts. Galectin-3 genetic and pharmacologic inhibition or antifibrotic treatment with pirfenidone significantly diminished RV fibrosis progression in the pulmonary artery banding model, without improving RV functional parameters. RV fibrotic regions were populated with mesenchymal cells coexpressing vimentin and PDGFRα (platelet-derived growth factor receptor-α), but generally lacked αSMA (α-smooth muscle actin) positivity. Serum levels of galectin-3 were increased in patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension but did not correlate with cardiac function. No changes of galectin-3 expression were observed in the lungs. Conclusions: We identified extrapulmonary galectin-3 as an important mediator that drives RV fibrosis in pulmonary hypertension through the expansion of PDGFRα/vimentin-expressing cardiac fibroblasts. However, interventions effectively targeting fibrosis lack significant beneficial effects on RV function.

Longitudinal Change in Galectin-3 and Incident Cardiovascular Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Galectin-3 (Gal-3) has been associated with heart failure (HF) and poor cardiovascular outcomes. However, the effect of longitudinal changes in Gal-3 on clinical outcomes remains unclear.

OBJECTIVES

The authors sought to study clinical determinants of change in Gal-3 among community-dwelling individuals. Further, they sought to examine the role of serial Gal-3 measurements in predicting risk of future HF, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and mortality.

METHODS

A total of 2,477 participants in the Framingham Heart Study Offspring cohort underwent measurement of plasma Gal-3 levels at 2 examinations (1995 to 1998 and 2005 to 2008). Linear regression models were used to examine clinical correlates of change in Gal-3. Proportional hazards models were used to relate future clinical outcomes with change in Gal-3.

RESULTS

The following clinical correlates were associated with greater longitudinal increases in Gal-3 levels: age, female sex, hypertension, diabetes, body mass index, interim development of chronic kidney disease, and HF (p < 0.0001 for all in multivariable model). Change in Gal-3 was associated with future HF (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.39 per 1-SD increase; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.13 to 1.71), CVD (HR: 1.29; 95% CI: 1.11 to 1.51), and all-cause mortality (HR: 1.30; 95% CI: 1.17 to 1.46). Change in Gal-3 was associated with both HF with preserved as well as reduced ejection fraction (p < 0.05 for both).

CONCLUSIONS

Longitudinal changes in Gal-3 are associated with traditional cardiovascular risk factors and renal disease. In turn, change in Gal-3 predicts future HF, CVD, and mortality in the community. Future studies are needed to determine whether serial Gal-3 measures may be useful in disease prevention.

Galectin-3 level predicts response to ablation and outcomes in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation and systolic heart failure

Introduction

Mechanisms of maintenance of both atrial fibrillation and structural left ventricular disease are known to include fibrosis. Galectin-3, a biomarker of fibrosis, is elevated both in patients with heart failure and persistent atrial fibrillation. We sought to find whether galectin-3 has a prognostic value in patients with heart failure and a reduced left ventricular ejection fraction undergoing ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation.

Methods

Serum concentrations of galectin-3 were determined in a consecutive series of patients with an ejection fraction ≤40%, addressed for ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation. Responders to ablation were patients in sinus rhythm and with an ejection fraction ≥50% at 6 months. A combined endpoint of heart failure hospitalization, transplantation and/or death was used at 12 months.

Results

Seventy-five patients were included (81% male, age 63±10 years, ejection fraction 34±7%, galectin-3 21±12 ng/mL). During follow-up, eight patients were hospitalized for decompensated heart failure, 1 underwent heart transplantation, and 4 died; 50 patients were considered as responders to ablation. After adjustment, galectin-3 level independently predicted both 6-month absence of response to ablation (OR = 0.89 per unit increase, p = 0.002). Patients with galectin-3 levels <26 had a 95% 1-year event-free survival versus 46% in patients with galectin-3 ≥26 ng/mL (p<0.0001).

Conclusions

Galectin-3 levels independently predict outcomes in patients with reduced left ventricular systolic function addressed for ablation of persistent AF, and may be of interest in defining the therapeutic strategy in this population.

Galectin-3 in Heart Failure: An Update of the Last 3 Years

Galectin-3 plays a role in tissue inflammation, repair, and fibrosis. This article specifically focuses on heart failure (HF), in which galectin-3 has been shown to be a useful biomarker in prognosis and risk stratification, especially in HF with preserved ejection fraction. Experimental research has shown that galectin-3 directly induces pathologic remodeling of the heart, and is therefore considered a culprit protein in the development of cardiac fibrosis in HF, with potentially relevant clinical implications. In summary, galectin-3 is a biomarker and biotarget in cardiac remodeling and fibrosis and future research will target galectin-3-centered diseases.

The effects of galectin-3 depletion apheresis on induced skin inflammation in a porcine model

Galectin-3 (Gal-3), a β-galactoside-binding lectin that is expressed in mammalian cells, is known to modulate several biological functions such as cell-cell adhesion, macrophage activation, angiogenesis, metastasis, and fibrosis. The goal of this study was to evaluate the ability of Gal-3 depletion apheresis using an adsorption column with immobilized anti-Gal-3-antibody to reduce inflammation induced by Complete Freund's Adjuvant injection in a skin inflammation porcine model. Here, we report that plasma perfusion by apheresis through a Gal-3 binding immuno-affinity column reduces plasma Gal-3 levels to below limits of quantitative detection, and results in significant decrease in skin inflammation, including degree and duration of inflammatory lesions. Human plasma was tested ex vivo and found to be efficiently depleted using the anti-Gal-3 affinity column. This study demonstrates the potential of Gal-3 depletion apheresis as a therapeutic method for inflammation-mediated disease, supporting continued research in this area for clinical application.

Plasma galectin-3 concentrations in patients with primary aldosteronism

BACKGROUND

The incidence of cardiovascular events is higher in patients with primary aldosteronism than in patients with essential hypertension (EHT), despite similar blood pressure levels. This suggests detrimental cardiovascular effects of aldosterone. Amongst others, it has been suggested that galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a key mediator in aldosterone-induced myocardial fibrosis.

OBJECTIVE

We studied whether patients with primary aldosteronism have higher plasma Gal-3 concentrations than patients with EHT and evaluated its reversibility after adrenalectomy.

METHODS

In a retrospective cohort from our tertiary referral centre, we measured plasma Gal-3 concentrations in 78 patients with primary aldosteronism, 39 cured primary aldosteronism patients after adrenalectomy and 56 patients with EHT. Paired samples were available in 11 patients (preadrenalectomy and postadrenalectomy). We compared plasma Gal-3 levels by univariate analysis of covariance with correction for cardiovascular risk factors, plasma creatinine concentration, plasma potassium levels and alcohol intake.

RESULTS

Adjusted plasma Gal-3 concentrations in patients with primary aldosteronism, patients after adrenalectomy and patients with EHT were 11.39 ± 0.60, 11.64 ± 0.81 and 11.41 ± 0.73 ng/ml, respectively (mean ± SD; P = 0.95). In 11 patients of whom paired samples were available, mean Gal-3 concentrations increased from 10.03 ± 1.67 ng/ml preadrenalectomy to 14.36 ± 2.07 ng/ml postadrenalectomy (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

In patients with primary aldosteronism, plasma Gal-3 concentrations are not elevated when compared with patients with EHT, and levels do not decrease after adrenalectomy. These results are in contrast to previous studies and do not support a pathophysiological role of plasma Gal-3 in the increased cardiovascular risk in patients with primary aldosteronism.

Novel Biomarkers of Subclinical Cardiac Dysfunction in the General Population

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Recognition of subclinical myocardial dysfunction offers clinicians and patients an opportunity for early intervention and prevention of symptomatic cardiovascular disease. We review the data on novel biomarkers in subclinical heart disease in the general population with a focus on pathophysiology, recent observational or trial data, and potential applicability and pitfalls for clinical use.

RECENT FINDINGS

High-sensitivity cardiac troponin and natriuretic peptide assays are powerful markers of subclinical cardiac disease. Elevated levels of these biomarkers signify subclinical cardiac injury and hemodynamic stress and portend an adverse prognosis. Novel biomarkers of myocardial inflammation, fibrosis, and abnormal contraction are gaining momentum as predictors for incident heart failure, providing new insight into pathophysiologic mechanisms of cardiac disease. There has been exciting growth in both traditional and novel biomarkers of subclinical cardiac injury in recent years. Many biomarkers have demonstrated associations with relevant cardiovascular outcomes and may enhance the diagnostic and prognostic power of more conventional biomarkers. However, their use in "prime time" to identify patients with or at risk for subclinical cardiac dysfunction in the general population remains an open question. Strategic investigation into their clinical applicability in the context of clinical trials remains an area of ongoing investigation.

Galectin-3 and the incidence of abdominal aortic aneurysm: the atherosclerosis risk in communities (ARIC) study

Galectin-3, a β-galactosidase binding lectin, known to be involved in inflammatory processes may be associated with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) incidence. We examined the prospective association between plasma galectin-3 and incident AAA in 9,704 participants of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study cohort. We followed participants from 1996-1998 through 2011 (124,260 person-years) for incident AAA (n=325) defined by ICD codes from hospital records and death certificates. At baseline, participants had a mean (SD) age of 62.8 (5.7) years; 20.9% were blacks and 56.5% females. The median (25^th-75^th percentile) galectin-3 level was 14.2 (12.0-16.9) ng/mL. Galectin-3 was correlated positively with most cardiovascular risk factors and with several cardiac or inflammatory biomarkers (C-reactive protein, troponin-T, and NT-proBNP). Using Cox proportional hazards regression adjusted for demographic variables and measured AAA risk factors, the hazard ratios for AAA across galectin-3 quintiles were 1 (Referent), 1.54 (1.05-2.26), 1.58 (1.05-2.41), 1.76 (1.15-2.72), and 1.92 (1.22-3.01) (p for trend =0.01). Further adjustment for the cardiac and inflammatory biomarkers largely attenuated the association between galectin-3 and AAA [AAA hazard ratio for galectin-3 _{Quintile 5} vs. _{Quintile 1}: 1.29 (0.81-2.05); p-trend across quintiles =0.44]. In conclusion, higher concentrations of plasma galectin-3 were associated with greater incidence of AAA though not independent of other cardiac and inflammatory biomarkers. This reinforces that galectin-3, a systemic biomarker reflecting inflammation and probably increased systemic vascular resistance, is elevated early in the pathogenesis of AAA.

Galectin-3 and outcomes after anterior-wall myocardial infarction treated by primary percutaneous coronary intervention

AIM

Galectin-3 (Gal-3), a biomarker of inflammation, tissue repair and fibrogenesis, is associated to left ventricular remodeling after ST-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI), but its relation with long-term outcomes is unclear.

METHODS

In 103 consecutive patients with a first anterior STEMI treated by primary angioplasty, we assayed Gal-3 and NT-proBNP.

RESULTS

Age was 65 (56-76) years, 28% were women. During 18 ± 13 months, 20 patients (19.4%) died or were admitted for heart failure. After adjustment for age, gender, renal and ventricular function, troponin, NT-proBNP and Gal-3 independently predicted the combined end point (hazard ratio: 1.11; 95% CI: 1.05-1.17; per 1 ng/ml increase). Event-free survival was 42.3 versus 93.5% for Gal-3≥ versus <16.8 ng/ml (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Among anterior STEMI patients, early postangioplasty Gal-3 levels may be useful for risk stratification.

Understanding cardiac extracellular matrix remodeling to develop biomarkers of myocardial infarction outcomes

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is the most common cause of death in industrialized countries, and myocardial infarction (MI) is a major CVD with significant morbidity and mortality. Following MI, the left ventricle (LV) undergoes a wound healing response to ischemia that results in extracellular matrix (ECM) scar formation to replace necrotic myocytes. While ECM accumulation following MI is termed cardiac fibrosis, this is a generic term that does not differentiate between ECM accumulation that occurs in the infarct region to form a scar that is structurally necessary to preserve left ventricle (LV) wall integrity and ECM accumulation that increases LV wall stiffness to exacerbate dilation and stimulate the progression to heart failure. This review focuses on post-MI LV ECM remodeling, targeting the discussion on ECM biomarkers that could be useful for predicting MI outcomes.

Increased galectin-3 levels are associated with abdominal aortic aneurysm progression and inhibition of galectin-3 decreases elastase-induced AAA development

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) evolution is unpredictable and no specific treatment exists for AAA, except surgery to prevent aortic rupture. Galectin-3 has been previously associated with CVD, but its potential role in AAA has not been addressed. Galectin-3 levels were increased in the plasma of AAA patients (n=225) compared with the control group (n=100). In addition, galectin-3 concentrations were associated with the need for surgical repair, independently of potential confounding factors. Galectin-3 mRNA and protein expression were increased in human AAA samples compared with healthy aortas. Experimental AAA in mice was induced via aortic elastase perfusion. Mice were treated intravenously with the galectin-3 inhibitor modified citrus pectin (MCP, 10 mg/kg, every other day) or saline. Similar to humans, galectin-3 serum and aortic mRNA levels were also increased in elastase-induced AAA mice compared with control mice. Mice treated with MCP showed decreased aortic dilation, as well as elastin degradation, vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) loss, and macrophage content at day 14 postelastase perfusion compared with control mice. The underlying mechanism(s) of the protective effect of MCP was associated with a decrease in galectin-3 and cytokine (mainly CCL5) mRNA and protein expression. Interestingly, galectin-3 induced CCL5 expression by a mechanism involving STAT3 activation in VSMC. Accordingly, MCP treatment decreased STAT3 phosphorylation in elastase-induced AAA. In conclusion, increased galectin-3 levels are associated with AAA progression, while galectin-3 inhibition decreased experimental AAA development. Our data suggest the potential role of galectin-3 as a therapeutic target in AAA.

Galectin-3 and incidence of atrial fibrillation: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study

BACKGROUND

Galectin-3, a β-galactoside binding lectin involved in important regulatory roles in adhesion, inflammation, immunity, and fibrosis, may be relevant to atrial fibrillation (AF) etiology.

METHODS

We included 8,436 participants free of AF at baseline (1996-1998) and with measures of plasma galectin-3 from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study. We ascertained incident AF through 2013 from study visit electrocardiograms, hospitalizations, and death certificates. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, adjusted for AF risk factors plus incident heart failure (HF) and coronary heart disease (CHD), were used to estimate hazard ratios for the association between galectin-3 and incident AF.

RESULTS

The mean age (SD) of participants was 62.6 (5.6) years, and the sample was comprised of 58.7% women and 21.2% blacks. During a median follow-up of 15.7 years, 1,185 incident cases of AF were observed. After adjusting for AF risk factors, participants with galectin-3 levels ≥90th percentile (19.5 ng/mL) had a significantly higher risk of incident AF when compared with the lowest quartile (4.4-11.9 ng/mL), with hazard ratios (95% CI) of 1.40 (1.04-1.89) for the 90th-<95th percentile and 1.51 (1.11-2.06) for the 95th-100th percentile. This association was attenuated and no longer statistically significant after accounting for incident CHD and HF as time-dependent variables.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated plasma galectin-3 is associated with increased risk of incident AF. Galectin-3 may increase AF risk via pathways involving CHD and HF.

Galectin-3 and Venous Thromboembolism Incidence: the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study

Background

The inflammatory biomarker galectin-3 contributes to pathologic conditions such as heart failure and stimulates murine thrombogenesis. Its association with venous thromboembolism (VTE) has been sparsely studied.

Objectives

To assess the prospective association of plasma galectin-3 and the LGALS3 rs4644 SNP with VTE incidence.

Methods

We measured plasma galectin-3 in 9,916 participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study cohort in 1996 - 1998 and identified VTEs through 2013. Using Cox regression, we estimated the hazard ratio associating galectin-3 with incident VTE over a median of 13.9 years. Replication was sought in the Cardiovascular Health Study (CHS).

Results

ARIC included 21.8% blacks and 56.2% females with mean baseline age of 62.7 years. The incidence rate of VTE (n=389 events) increased across quintiles of galectin-3, with hazard ratios (95% CI) of 1 (reference), 1.13 (0.80 - 1.61), 1.00 (0.70 - 1.43), 1.36 (0.96 - 1.91), and 1.55 (1.09 - 2.19) (p-trend = 0.005), adjusted for age, sex, race, body mass index, diabetes status, and renal function. Results did not replicate in the CHS (124 VTE), but meta-analysis of both studies yielded a pooled hazard ratio (95% CI) for 1 SD increment in log galectin-3 of 1.10 (1.00 - 1.22). In ARIC, the C allele of rs4644 in the LGALS3 gene was associated with higher galectin-3 level, and in whites, with an increased rate of VTE.

Conclusion

Galectin-3 levels were associated positively with VTE incidence.

Clinical Correlates and Prognostic Value of Plasma Galectin-3 Levels in Degenerative Aortic Stenosis: A Single-Center Prospective Study of Patients Referred for Invasive Treatment

Galectin-3 (Gal-3), a β-galactoside-binding lectin, has been implicated in myocardial fibrosis, development of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and transition from compensated LV hypertrophy to overt heart failure (HF), being a novel prognostic marker in HF. Risk stratification is crucial for the choice of the optimal therapy in degenerative aortic stenosis (AS), affecting elderly subjects with coexistent diseases. Our aim was to assess correlates and prognostic value of circulating Gal-3 in real-world patients with degenerative AS referred for invasive treatment. Gal-3 levels were measured at admission in 80 consecutive patients with symptomatic degenerative AS (mean age: 79 ± 8 years; aortic valve area (AVA) index: 0.4 ± 0.1 cm²/m²). The therapeutic strategy was chosen following a dedicated multidisciplinary team-oriented approach, including surgical valve replacement (n = 11), transcatheter valve implantation (n = 19), balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) (n = 25) and optimal medical therapy (n = 25). Besides routine echocardiographic indices, valvulo-arterial impedance (Zva), an index of global LV afterload, was computed. There were 22 deaths over a median follow-up of 523 days. Baseline Gal-3 correlated negatively with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (r = -0.61, p < 0.001) and was unrelated to age, symptomatic status, AVA index, LV ejection fraction, LV mass index or Zva. For the study group as a whole, Gal-3 tended to predict mortality (Gal-3 >17.8 vs. Gal-3 <17.8 ng/mL; hazard ratio (HR): 2.03 (95% confidence interval, 0.88-4.69), p = 0.09), which was abolished upon adjustment for eGFR (HR: 1.70 (0.61-4.73), p = 0.3). However, in post-BAV patients multivariate-adjusted pre-procedural Gal-3 was associated with worse survival (HR: 7.41 (1.52-36.1), p = 0.01) regardless of eGFR. In conclusion, the inverse eGFR-Gal-3 relationship underlies a weak association between Gal-3 and adverse outcome in patients with degenerative AS referred for invasive therapy irrespective of type of treatment employed. In contrast, pre-procedural Gal-3 appears an independent mortality predictor in high-risk AS patients undergoing BAV.

Determinants of temporal changes in galectin-3 level in the general population: Data of PREVEND

BACKGROUND

High baseline galectin-3 levels are associated with increased risk for adverse cardiovascular outcomes in the general population, but determinants of changes in galectin-3 levels over time have not been established. Therefore, we aimed to identify determinants of (temporal) change in galectin-3 levels.

METHODS

Galectin-3 plasma levels were measured in a large community based cohort (PREVEND study) at 3 different time points: at baseline, after ~4 and ~9years. The association of baseline clinical and biochemical factors and (temporal) changes in galectin-3 level was assessed using multivariable mixed-effects regression modeling.

RESULTS

In 4355 subjects, galectin-3 plasma levels were available at all time points (mean age: 48±12years; 50% female). Median galectin-3 level at baseline was 10.7 [8.9-12.7] ng/mL which gradually increased to 11.5 [9.4-14.3] ng/mL after ~9years. Using mixed-effects regression modeling, we first validated as independent determinants of baseline circulating galectin-3: eGFR (chi square (χ(2)):210.27, p<0.0001), gender (χ(2):43.85; p<0.0001), BMI (χ(2):19.68, p=0.0001), NT-proBNP (χ(2):18.76, p=0.0001) and serum (total) cholesterol (χ(2):8.63, p=0.01). Furthermore, we identified urinary albumin excretion (χ(2):34.03, p-value: <0.0001) and systolic blood pressure (χ(2):16.81, p=0.002) as independent determinants of temporal changes of galectin-3.

CONCLUSIONS

In the general population, urinary albumin excretion >30mg/24h and systolic blood pressure >170mmHg were identified as significant determinants of dynamic increases in galectin-3 levels over time. These results implicate that treatment of high blood pressure might be effective to prevent increasing galectin-3 levels and its associated conditions.

Galectin-3 predicts left ventricular remodelling after anterior-wall myocardial infarction treated by primary percutaneous coronary intervention

OBJECTIVES

Despite modern reperfusion therapies, left ventricular remodelling (LVR) occurs frequently after an ST-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) and represents a strong predictor of mortality and heart failure. Galectin-3 (Gal-3), a novel biomarker involved in inflammation, tissue repair and fibrogenesis, might be a valuable predictor of LVR.

METHODS

We enrolled consecutively admitted patients with a first anterior STEMI and left anterior descending artery occlusion treated by primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). Gal-3, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), echocardiography and cardiovascular events were evaluated 48 hours after admission, at 1 and 6 months. LVR was defined as a ≥15% increase in LV end-systolic volume.

RESULTS

We recruited 103 patients (28% women, aged 64.6±12 years, LV ejection fraction 47±11%). Median baseline Gal-3 and NT-proBNP levels were 13.2 ng/mL (10.8-17.1 ng/mL) and 2132 pg/mL (1019-4860 pg/mL) respectively. During 6 months of follow-up, 4 patients dropped out, 7 died and 26 (28.3%) of the 92 survivors developed LVR (LVR+). LVR+ patients had higher Gal-3 levels at baseline, 1 and 6 months than LVR- (p<0.0001). By univariable logistic regression, age, female gender, higher baseline Gal-3 and NT-proBNP, smaller LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) were associated to an increased risk of LVR. By multivariable analysis, only LVEDV (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.93 to 0.99/1 mL change) and Gal-3 levels (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.42/1 ng/mL change) independently predicted LVR (C-statistics 0.84, 95% CI 0.75 to 0.93).

CONCLUSION

Gal-3 serum levels measured during hospitalisation could be clinically useful in predicting LVR among patients admitted with anterior STEMI treated by pPCI.