Galectins - a potential target for cardiovascular therapy.

Galectins - a potential target for cardiovascular therapy. Curr Vasc Pharmacol. 2017 Feb 01; Authors: Ashraf GM, Perveen A, Zaidi SK, Ahmad A, Shakil S, Firoz CK, Jabir NR, Hassan I, Khan TA, Yarla NS, Tabrez S Abstract Cells constantly adapt to external humoral cues like cytokines and hormones, but practically most cellular behavior is under locally guided control via cell-cell interactions. Galectins (Gals) are one of the most prominent members of the group of molecules involved in this intercellular signaling. They are the family of β-galactoside specific lectins and consist of 15 different types, each with a specific function. They play crucial role in the immune system, inflammation, wound healing and carcinogenesis. In recent times, the role of Gals in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) has gained attention. Gals have been reported to act ambiguously by both relieving ischemia and accelerating atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis can ultimately lead to myocardial infarction or ischemic stroke, which are both associated with Gals. There is also a role for Gals in the development of myocarditis by their influence on inflammatory processes. Moreover, Gal acts as a biomarker for the severity of myocardial ischemia and heart failure (HF). This review summarizes the association between Gals and the development and pathogenesis of CVD like atherosclerosis, stroke, myocardial infarction and HF. A comprehensive outline of the ...
Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Authors: Tags: Curr Vasc Pharmacol Source Type: research