A new family of lectins

Lectins are defined as carbohydrate binding proteins other than enzymes and antibodies. Until recently, lectins were considered to be exclusively plant proteins and as such drew only limited attention of biochemists. As soon as they were detected in animal cells and after their involvement in vital processes such as development, differentiation and neoplastic growth was recognized, widespread studies have focused on their specificity, structure, localization and specific biological functions. Very recently, several p-galactose specific lectins were organized into a new lectin family - galectins. Members of this family are present in nearly all animals, from lower invertebrates such as sponges and nematodes to mammals, including humans. Though not completely understood, the awareness of their physiological importance is increasing as their properties are unraveled, and the interest in them is ascending as multiple implications of their presence are emerging