The role of galectin‐3 in heart failure and cardiovascular disease

Summary Galectin‐3, a β‐galactoside‐binding lectin, is a new important player in the progression of heart failure (HF) and is also linked to poor outcome in patients with cardiovascular disease. Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of galectin‐3 slows down the progression of myocardial inflammation, reduces collagen production, attenuates cardiac remodelling, and ameliorates cardiac function. In this review, we summarize recent progress in research on galectin‐3 as a regulatory molecule involved in cardiovascular fibrosis in HF and its potential role in the diagnosis, risk assessment and treatment of cardiovascular diseases.