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Explore the Science Behind Galectin-3 With the Launch of BG Medicine's New Social Media Platforms

WALTHAM, Mass., April 5, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BG Medicine (Nasdaq:BGMD) today announced the launch of its @galectin3 Twitter handle and galectin-3 Facebook fan page in an effort to raise awareness of galectin-3, a protein that has been shown to play an important role in the development and progression of heart failure. The launch of the social media platforms coincides with the American College of Cardiology 60th Annual Scientific Session (ACC.11) in New Orleans.
/ Source: GlobeNewswire

WALTHAM, Mass., April 5, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BG Medicine (Nasdaq:BGMD) today announced the launch of its @galectin3 Twitter handle and galectin-3 Facebook fan page in an effort to raise awareness of galectin-3, a protein that has been shown to play an important role in the development and progression of heart failure. The launch of the social media platforms coincides with the American College of Cardiology 60th Annual Scientific Session (ACC.11) in New Orleans.

In November 2010, the FDA cleared the company's Galectin-3 test for use as an aid in the assessment of prognosis in patients with chronic heart failure. Studies suggest that 30% or more of patients with chronic heart failure may have elevated levels of galectin-3. This galectin-3 mediated form of heart failure is associated with progressive fibrosis of the heart muscle, which impairs the heart's ability to pump.

"Galectin-3 seems to be attracting a lot of attention in the scientific community with approximately 60 papers in the first quarter of this year alone and nearly 1,500 papers since the first publication in 1988," said Pieter Muntendam, MD, president and CEO of BG Medicine. "Our Twitter and Facebook presence offers a convenient way for scientists and clinicians to follow the scientific developments of galectin-3."

About Galectins

Galectins are a group of proteins that bind to a class of carbohydrates know as beta-galactosides. Galectins play an important and complex role in intracellular pathways and disease mechanisms. Since 1994, scientists working in the field of carbohydrate-binding proteins have so far identified a total of 15 galectins.

About BG Medicine Inc.

BG Medicine is a life sciences company focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of novel diagnostics based on biomarkers to improve patient outcomes and contain healthcare costs.

For more information on BG Medicine visit www.bg-medicine.com and follow us on Twitter @BGMedicine.

The BG Medicine Inc. logo is available at

Forward Looking Statements

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CONTACT: Michael W. Rogers EVP & Chief Financial Officer (781) 890-1199