Galectin-3

Galectin-3 is a beta-galactosidase-binding protein and is expressed in a number of cell types; among them are neutrophils, macrophages, mast cells, as well as the cells of the lung, stomach, colon, and others. Elevated levels of Galectin-3 are associated with an increased risk of heart failure and it is often used in conjunction with NT-ProBNP to help diagnose and assess risk in cardiac patients.