Galectin-3 and Lp(a) plasma concentrations and advanced carotid atherosclerotic plaques: Correlation with plaque presence and features

Introduction: atherosclerosis is one of the leading causes of death and morbidity worldwide. It consists in the development of plaques in the intima media layers of arteries due to lipid accumulation and oxidation, causing massive inflammation. We aim to better understand the role of Galectin-3 (Gal-3) and Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] as possible peripheral markers of plaque presence. Methods: Gal-3 and Lp(a) were measured in plasma samples from 99 patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy and 78 healthy controls, by immunometric assays. Plaques were classified histologically, according to the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines as type Va (fibroatheroma), Vb (mainly calcific) and Vl (co…