Galectins: An Amazing Marker and a Potential Therapeutic Target

Galectins (Gal) are a wide group of proteins expressed in various cells, and they are particularly known for their ability to recognize and bind carbohydrates. We present current evidence showing that Gal play roles in both acute and chronic inflammation pathways. They participate in extracellular events such as cell proliferation, cell adhesion, bacterial colonization, apoptosis, oncogenesis, chemotaxis, embryogenesis, oncogenesis, and differentiation. To date, 15 Gal have been identified. The most studied enzyme is galectin-3 (Gal-3). This lectin group is defined as a protein that activates oxidative stress and inflammation. Gal-3 is a multifunctional protein that participates in various biological processes, including proliferation, differentiation, angiogenesis, cancer progression, and metastasis. Additionally, Gal play an important role in fibrogenesis. Fibrotic diseases are seen in the lungs, heart, kidneys, and liver, and they cause permanent organ damage and loss of function. For these reasons, Gal are considered potential inflammatory markers. As the structure and functions of Gal become clearer, new molecules are expected to facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of vascular complications associated with inflammation, autoimmune diseases, tumor spread, cancers, allergic events, diabetes, and hypertension. Here, we aimed to review the most recent literature to draw attention to the importance of Gal and to remind patients of their potential benefits in diagnosis and treatment.