Recombinant human Galectin 1 protein (Active)

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Galectin-1 also referred to as GAL1 or galectin 1 is a protein with a molecular mass of approximately 14.5 kDa. It belongs to a group called the beta-galactoside-binding lectins and is typically characterized by its distinct carbohydrate-recognition domain. Galectin-1 is expressed in a variety of tissues including muscle epithelial cells the nervous system and immune cells. In particular high expression levels are found in the placenta and the thymus indicating a role in development and immune function.

Biological function summary

This protein mediates a variety of cellular processes such as cell differentiation apoptosis and immune cell modulation. As a monomer galectin-1 binds specifically to beta-galactoside residues on the cell surface. It plays a significant role in regulation of cell signaling circuits affecting T-cell activation as well as macrophage function. The Galectin-1 protein does not commonly form complexes but can influence interactions of other proteins by binding to glycoproteins on the cell surface which can modulate signaling outcomes.

Pathways

The protein is actively involved in pathways related to cell-cell interactions and immune modulation. It interacts with pathways like Ras signaling which is fundamental in cell growth proliferation and survival. Through these pathways galectin-1 is closely related to other proteins including Ras and Raf which are critical in transmitting signals from the cell surface to the DNA in the nucleus affecting gene expression involved in apoptosis and autophagy.

Galectin-1 association with cancer progression and autoimmune diseases reflects its role in immune system regulation. High galectin-1 levels have been recorded in various tumors where the protein promotes tumor progression by supporting angiogenesis and suppressing immune response against cancer cells. In autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis modulation of Galectin-1 levels can alter disease progression and the immune system's behavior. The protein interacts with other key regulators like cytokines emphasizing its importance in immune-inflammatory pathways and potential as a therapeutic target.