new Biomarker Offers Hope for Early Detection of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Published: 2026/01/11 02:59:57

Researchers have identified a potential new biomarker for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a serious and progressive lung disease. The biomarker, a part of the NOTCH3 protein found in the bloodstream, could lead to earlier diagnosis and improved treatment for those affected by this condition.

Understanding pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a disease where the arteries in the lungs become narrowed, making it arduous for blood to flow through. This puts a strain on the heart, and can lead to heart failure. Symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, and dizziness. Early diagnosis is crucial, but can be challenging because symptoms often appear only after the disease has progressed.

The Role of NOTCH3

the study, published in Nature Medicine, focused on the extracellular domain of the NOTCH3 protein. Researchers found that levels of this protein in the blood were considerably higher in patients with PAH compared to healthy individuals. This suggests that measuring NOTCH3 levels could be a valuable tool for identifying people at risk of developing the disease or for confirming a diagnosis in those with suspected PAH.

How the Biomarker Was Discovered

Researchers analyzed blood samples from individuals with and without PAH. They discovered a clear correlation between elevated levels of the NOTCH3 extracellular domain and the presence of the disease. Further investigation revealed that the biomarkerS presence could help distinguish PAH from other lung and heart conditions that cause similar symptoms.

Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment

Currently,diagnosing PAH often involves a right heart catheterization,an invasive procedure. A blood test for NOTCH3 could potentially offer a less invasive and more accessible method for screening and diagnosis. Early detection could allow doctors to start treatment sooner,potentially slowing the progression of the disease and improving patient outcomes.

Future Research

While these findings are promising, further research is needed to validate the use of NOTCH3 as a biomarker in larger and more diverse populations. Researchers are also investigating whether monitoring NOTCH3 levels can help predict how well patients will respond to treatment and whether it can be used to track disease progression over time.

Learn more

For more information about pulmonary arterial hypertension, please visit:

• American Lung Association – Pulmonary Hypertension
• American Heart Association – Pulmonary Hypertension

Source: hernandez, M. et al. The NOTCH3 extracellular domain is a serum biomarker for pulmonary arterial hypertension. Nature Medicine.https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-025-04134-3 (2026).