The Role of Galectins in Disease

Galectins are a group of proteins that regulate how cells communicate and respond to their environment. They play a crucial role in immune responses, cell growth, and tissue repair. However, when galectins become unbalanced or overproduced, they can contribute to various diseases. For example, they may promote inflammation, support cancer growth by helping tumors evade the immune system, or worsen autoimmune conditions. Understanding galectins helps researchers develop targeted treatments for these diseases, offering new ways to manage or prevent them by modulating their activity.