Description
Galectin-3 is a member of the beta-galactosidase-binding lectin family. It is associated with cell growth, adhesion, inflammation, mRNA processing, and apoptosis. Aberrant expression of Galectin-3 is related to malignant transformation and metastasis in carcinomas of the breast, colon and thyroid. Galectin-3 reactivity can be seen in the nucleus of neutrophils, vascular endothelium, carcinomas of the colon, breast, and thyroid. Galectin-3 may be useful in the differentiation of benign and malignant thyroid neoplasms.Galectin-3 may also be useful in the identification of certain liver disorders