Abstract
Research into new biological markers may help early diagnosis and effective therapy for cardiology patients. The use of biomarkers to evaluate patients has made a major impact in oncology, but is still in its infancy in the cardiology field. Studies on secreted frizzled-related protein 5 (SFRP5) have revealed its potential use as a marker of cardiovascular pathology. Preclinical studies have highlighted the important role this protein plays in many biological processes. It reduces the proliferation and migration of cardiac fibroblasts and suppresses the Wnt5A/JNK signaling pathway thus reducing the severity of oxidative stress and inflammation. It normalizes nitric oxide production and has several other effects. However, recent clinical studies of SFRP5 have produced conflicting data. Nevertheless, this protein shows promise as a marker for several metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Preliminary data also suggest SFRP5 may be a therapeutic target. Further study of SFRP5 and its role in cardiovascular pathology is necessary, and will create new diagnostic and prognostic possibilities for this biological marker.