Lipoprotein apheresis reduces circulating galectin-3 in humans

What is it about?

Two FDA approved LDL apheresis systems were evaluated for the first time for the ability to remove the inflammatory protein galectin-3 from the circulation. Saved blood samples from patients undergoing LDL apheresis were tested for galectin-3 levels before and after the apheresis procedure. Statistically significant removal was seen with both systems, however, the amount removed was not optimal for best clinical therapeutic benefit.

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Why is it important?

Elevated circulating galectin-3 is both a biomarker and driver of diverse inflammation driven diseases including cardiovascular disease, cancer growth and metastasis, autoimmune disease, and fibrotic conditions. Galectin-3 removal is an important therapeutic target, with apheresis a potential therapeutic modality.