Galectin-3: multiple clinical applications

Abstract

Galectin-3 is a β-galactoside binding lectin, containing carbohydrate-recognition domain, which interacts with a number of ligands. It is found in many tissues and is distributed intra– and extracellularly. The localization of the biomarker determines its function. Galectin-3 is involved in variety of biological processes sush as inflammation, fibrosis, immunological response and neoplastic growth. It may be used as a diagnostic or prognostic biomarker especially in cancer and cardiovascular diseases. The present review summarizes some of the properties of this biomarker. Biomed Rev 2019;30:83-88