Leila S, et al. - Given a crucial role of S100A1 and zinc α2-glycoprotein (ZAG) in heart function, researchers analyzed serum levels of S100A1 and ZAG in patients encountering heart failure (HF), as well as their link with anthropometric indices and body composition. This study involved 64 patients with HF, mean age 56.2, with ejection fraction < 30-35%. Depending on weight loss of at least 7.5% in the last six months, two groups were defined [cachexia (n = 32) and non-cachexia (n = 32)], which were compared with the control group (n = 26). HF patients vs healthy controls had significantly greater serum median (min-max) levels of S100A1 and ZAG. In cachexia group vs non-cachexia group, significantly higher S100A1 serum levels were identified. A strong positive link was evident between S100A1 and ZAG serum levels. Serum levels of these two proteins were shown to be negatively and significantly related to BMI and arm circumference. Overall, findings are suggestive of a likely contribution of S100A1 and ZAG to the pathogenesis of HF and weight loss, and indicated a strong link between S100A1 and ZAG possibly suggesting a similar mechanism of action for these two proteins.