The Role of Galectin-3 in the Kidneys

Int J Mol Sci. 2016 Apr 14;17(4):565. doi: 10.3390/ijms17040565.

Abstract

Galectin-3 is a 32- to 35-kDa member of the galectin family of b-galactoside-binding lectins, which is characterized by a carbohydrate recognition domain. Through its carbohydrate-binding function, it regulates cell growth, differentiation, and inflammation. It also plays a complex, context-dependent role in the kidneys. During development, it promotes nephrogenesis and is strongly expressed in the ureteric bud and its derivatives. An increase in the concentration of galectin-3 has been reported to be associated with fibrosis of the kidneys. Elevated levels of plasma galectin-3 are also associated with increased risks of rapid renal function decline, incident chronic kidney disease, and progressive renal impairment, and also with cardiovascular end points, infection, and all-cause mortality in patients with renal function impairment. This review discusses a general survey on galectin-3 expressions in nephrogenesis, kidney injury animal models, clinical renal diseases, renal transplantation and the potential role of galectin-3 for treatment in kidney disease.

Keywords: clinical renal disease; galectin-3; kidney; nephrogenesis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Galectin 3 / analysis
  • Galectin 3 / blood
  • Galectin 3 / metabolism*
  • Glycation End Products, Advanced / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Kidney / metabolism
  • Kidney / pathology*
  • Kidney Diseases / blood
  • Kidney Diseases / metabolism
  • Kidney Diseases / pathology*
  • Kidney Diseases / therapy
  • Kidney Transplantation

Substances

  • Galectin 3
  • Glycation End Products, Advanced