The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has posed unprecedented challenges to global public health. While the majority of COVID-19 cases exhibit mild symptoms, a subset of patients develops severe respiratory distress, multi-organ failure and even death. Identifying biomarkers associated with disease severity is crucial for prognosis and developing targeted therapies. Recent research suggests that elevated levels of Galectin-3 may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of severe COVID-19. Galectin-3 is a β-galactoside-binding lectin involved in various physiological and pathological processes, including inflammation, fibrosis and immune regulation. It is expressed by various immune cells, endothelial cells and epithelial cells and its dysregulation has been implicated in numerous diseases, including cancer, heart failure and inflammatory disorders. Severe COVID-19 presents with diverse clinical manifestations, including acute respiratory distress syndrome and multiorgan dysfunction. Identifying reliable biomarkers and therapeutic targets is critical for improving patient outcomes.
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