Description
Galectin 1 is a member of the beta-galactoside-binding family and is a dimeric protein of 14 kDa participating in a variety of normal and pathological processes, including cancer progression. Galectin 1 can affect the proliferation of normal and malignant cells. Inhibition of cell growth is observed in a lactose-dependent manner as lower concentrations of the lectin stimulate cell proliferation. Galectin 1 may also be implicated in the induction of apoptosis of activated T cells through the binding of exogenous galectin-1 to CD45 molecules present on the surface of lymphocytes. Galectin 1, reported to be present either at the surface of cancer cells or accumulated around these cells could act as an immunological shield to protect against a T cell immune response and provide an advantage for survival