Human Recombinant Galectin-1

Galectin-1 (Gal1) was the first characterized member of the galectin family of galactosidase-binding proteins, with over 15 mammalian galectins identified (Camby et al.; Salatino et al.). Gal1 comes in two forms: the oxidized monomer that acts as a cytokine, and the reduced dimer that acts as a lectin (Gaudet et al.). This product is in the dimer form. This cytokine is expressed in many tissues and has an immunosuppressive role in affecting T cell homeostasis by various mechanisms such as regulating apoptosis, cytokine secretion, cell adhesion, cell proliferation, and other effects (Camby et al.; Garín et al.; Gaudet et al.; Salatino et al.). In addition, Gal1 is thought to also play a role in axonal regeneration after injuries (Camby et al.; Garín et al.; Gaudet et al.; Salatino et al.). There are several therapeutic applications suggested for Gal1; overexpression has been suggested as a therapy for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases and enhancing axonal regeneration in injured nerves (Camby et al.; Gaudet et al.). In contrast, inhibition of Gal1 has been suggested to prevent tumor metastasis and cancer progression, as it may aid in cell adhesion, migration, and immune escape of cancer cells (Camby et al.).