Galectin-7

Galectin-7 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the LGALS7 gene. It is a member of the galectin family, a group of beta-galactoside-binding proteins implicated in modulating cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. Galectin-7 is characterized by its conserved carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) that enables specific binding to beta-galactoside sugars, playing a crucial role in various biological processes including apoptosis, cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and cell adhesion.

Function

Galectin-7 is predominantly expressed in epithelial cells and has been identified as a pro-apoptotic protein, promoting cell death in response to cellular damage or stress conditions. This function is particularly important in maintaining the integrity of the epidermis, where galectin-7 is highly expressed. It is involved in the regulation of epidermal cell turnover and skin repair mechanisms, making it crucial for wound healing processes.

In addition to its role in apoptosis, galectin-7 participates in immune response modulation. It can influence the behavior of various immune cells, including T cells and neutrophils, thereby playing a part in the body's defense against infections and in the development of inflammatory conditions.

Clinical Significance

The expression of galectin-7 is altered in several types of cancer, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and thyroid cancer, where it can have either tumor-suppressing or tumor-promoting activities depending on the cancer type and the cellular context. Its role in cancer is complex and involves modulation of cell migration, angiogenesis, and tumor immune evasion.

Galectin-7's involvement in skin diseases such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis has also been reported. Its expression is typically upregulated in these conditions, contributing to the inflammatory response and disease pathology.

Genetic Regulation

The LGALS7 gene is located on chromosome 19q13.2 and consists of several exons that encode the galectin-7 protein. The regulation of this gene is complex and involves various transcription factors that respond to different cellular and environmental cues, including stress signals and inflammatory cytokines.

Research Directions

Ongoing research is focused on elucidating the detailed mechanisms by which galectin-7 influences cancer progression, immune responses, and wound healing. Understanding these mechanisms may lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting galectin-7 for the treatment of cancer, inflammatory diseases, and wound repair.

See Also

• Galectin
• Apoptosis
• Cell adhesion
• Immune system