Functions of cell surface galectin-glycoprotein lattices

Curr Opin Struct Biol. 2007 Oct;17(5):513-20. doi: 10.1016/j.sbi.2007.09.002. Epub 2007 Oct 22.

Abstract

Programmed remodeling of cell surface glycans by the sequential action of specific glycosyltransferases can control biological processes by generating or masking ligands for endogenous lectins. Galectins, a family of animal lectins with affinity for beta-galactosides, can form multivalent complexes with cell surface glycoconjugates and deliver a variety of intracellular signals to modulate cell activation, differentiation, and survival. Recent efforts involving genetic or biochemical manipulation of O-glycosylation and N-glycosylation pathways, as well as blockade of the synthesis of endogenous galectins, have illuminated essential roles for galectin-glycoprotein lattices in the control of biological processes including receptor turnover and endocytosis, host-pathogen interactions, and immune cell activation and homeostasis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • B-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • B-Lymphocytes / physiology
  • Cell Membrane / chemistry*
  • Cell Membrane / physiology
  • Galectins / chemistry*
  • Galectins / physiology
  • Host-Pathogen Interactions
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Innate
  • Membrane Glycoproteins / chemistry*
  • Membrane Glycoproteins / physiology
  • Models, Molecular
  • Multiprotein Complexes
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes / physiology

Substances

  • Galectins
  • Membrane Glycoproteins
  • Multiprotein Complexes