LGALS3

Full Name

Galectin 3

Keywords

L31; GAL3; MAC2; CBP35; GALBP; GALIG; LGALS2; galectin-3; 35 kDa lectin; IgE-binding protein; MAC-2 antigen; advanced glycation end-product receptor 3; carbohydrate-binding protein 35; epididymis secretory sperm binding protein; galactose-specific lectin 3; laminin-binding protein; lectin L-29; lectin, galactoside-binding, soluble, 3

Background

This is a member of the galectin family of carbohydrate binding proteins. Members of this protein family have an affinity for beta-galactosides. The encoded protein is characterized by an N-terminal proline-rich tandem repeat domain and a single C-terminal carbohydrate recognition domain. This protein can self-associate through the N-terminal domain allowing it to bind to multivalent saccharide ligands. This protein localizes to the extracellular matrix, the cytoplasm and the nucleus. This protein plays a role in numerous cellular functions including apoptosis, innate immunity, cell adhesion and T-cell regulation. The protein exhibits antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi.