Understanding Galectin-3's Role in Diastolic Dysfunction: A Contemporary Perspective

Fucoidan Attenuates Cardiac Remodeling by Inhibiting Galectin-3 Secretion, Fibrosis, and Inflammation in a Mouse Model of Pressure Overload

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide derived from marine algae, is known for its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. Galectin-3 (Gal-3), a protein associated with cardiovascular fibrosis, has been identified as a potential therapeutic target in cardiac remodeling. This study aimed to evaluate whether fucoidan could inhibit Gal-3 activity and mitigate cardiac remodeling in a mouse model of pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy.

METHODS

To test this hypothesis, we used transverse aortic constriction (TAC) surgery to induce pressure overload in normotensive mice, replicating the pathological features of cardiac hypertrophy. Mice were treated with fucoidan at a dose of 1.5 or 7.5 mg/kg/day. In vivo assessments of cardiac function, fibrosis, inflammation, and Gal-3 expression were performed.

RESULTS

Pressure overload led to significant upregulation of serum Gal-3 levels, increased cardiac collagen deposition, and elevated markers of fibrosis and inflammation. In mice treated with fucoidan, these effects were significantly attenuated. Fucoidan treatment prevented the upregulation of Gal-3, reduced collagen deposition, and decreased inflammatory cell infiltration, suggesting an inhibition of both fibrosis and inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

Fucoidan effectively mitigated the adverse effects of pressure overload in this mouse model, including reduced Gal-3 expression, fibrosis, and inflammation. These findings suggest that fucoidan holds promise as a therapeutic agent for preventing or delaying cardiac remodeling and associated complications, such as fibrosis and inflammation, in pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms and clinical applicability of fucoidan in cardiac disease.

Combined Utility of Speckle Tracking Echocardiography and Cardiac Biomarkers for Early Detection of Anthracycline-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Pediatric Oncology Patients

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Anthracycline chemotherapy is a cornerstone in pediatric oncology but carries a significant risk of cardiotoxicity. The early detection of cardiac dysfunction is crucial for timely intervention. This study aims to evaluate the predictive value of combining speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) parameters with traditional cardiac biomarkers for the early detection of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity in pediatric oncology patients.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted, involving 99 pediatric oncology patients undergoing anthracycline therapy and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Cardiac function was assessed using STE parameters-global longitudinal strain (GLS), Simpson's method of disk ejection fraction (SMOD EF), and myocardial performance index (MPI)-alongside biomarkers including cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP). Assessments were performed at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months post-therapy initiation.

RESULTS

A total of 28.3% of patients developed cardiotoxicity based on the LVEF decrease. Significant differences were observed between oncological patients under anthracycline treatment and healthy controls. Patients had reduced GLS (-16.1 ± 4.7% vs. -19.6 ± 5.1%, p < 0.001), a lower SMOD EF (55.7 ± 6.3% vs. 60.2 ± 6.0%, p < 0.001), and a higher MPI (0.38 ± 0.06 vs. 0.33 ± 0.05, p < 0.001). Elevated cTnI levels were found in patients compared to controls (3.1 ± 0.9 ng/mL vs. 1.3 ± 0.6 ng/mL, p < 0.001). Regression analysis showed that combining GLS, SMOD EF, MPI, and cTnI levels significantly predicted cardiotoxicity (odds ratio = 7.12, 95% CI: 3.04-12.76, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Combining STE parameters with cardiac biomarkers enhances the early detection of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity in pediatric oncology patients. This combined assessment may facilitate timely interventions to prevent long-term cardiac complications.