Function
Galectin (GAL) are lectins which bind β-galactosidase (BGAL). GAL contains a carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD)[1].
- GAL-1 is thought to play a role as autocrine negative growth factor that regulates cell proliferation.
- GAL-2 is expressed primarily in gastrointestinal tract.
- GAL-3 has broad biological functionality.
- GAL-4 has 2 CRDs.
- GAL-7 is associated with epithelial cells.
- GAL-8 has a role in cellular defense against bacterial infection and vacuolar damage.
- GAL-9 affects eosinophil survival.
- GAL-10 or Charcot-Leyden crystal protein acts on biological membranes to regulate the multifunctional lysophospholipids.
Relevance
GAL are known to inhibit chronic inflammation[2]. GAL-3 has a role in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and melanoma methastasis[3].
Structural highlights
The CRD is a β-sandwich long enough to bind a tetrasaccharide. A lactose ligand is bound at the concave face of the β-sheet[4].
