LGALS3BP, also known as lectin galactoside-binding soluble 3 binding protein or galectin-3-binding protein, is a protein found in the human body. It is the subject of ongoing scientific research due to its wide-ranging implications in various biological processes. Understanding its precise mechanisms and influence on health is a topic of significant interest in immunology and disease research.
What is LGALS3BP?
LGALS3BP is a glycoprotein, a protein with attached sugar chains. Its gene, LGALS3BP, is located on human chromosome 17 at band 17q25.3. It is also known by several aliases, including 90K, M2BP, and MAC-2-BP.
This protein is primarily found in the extracellular matrix, the network of molecules outside of cells that provides structural and biochemical support. It is secreted into the extracellular space and found in various tissues, including the right adrenal cortex, gallbladder, and parts of the intestines. Within cells, it is present in structures like blood microparticles and platelet dense granules. The protein forms homodimers and larger homomultimers, which can assemble into ring-like structures measuring 30-40 nanometers in diameter.
The Multifaceted Roles of LGALS3BP
LGALS3BP plays several roles in the body, particularly in immune regulation and cell interactions. It interacts with other proteins, including galectins 1 and 3, a family of proteins involved in cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. This interaction suggests its involvement in modulating cell communication and their surroundings.
The protein contributes to host defense mechanisms by stimulating responses against viruses and tumor cells. It is implicated in immune responses linked to the activity of natural killer (NK) cells and lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cells. These immune cells are part of the innate immune system, responsible for identifying and eliminating infected or abnormal cells.
LGALS3BP also promotes cell adhesion, a process where cells attach to each other and to the extracellular matrix. This function is partly mediated by its interaction with integrins, cell surface receptors involved in cell adhesion and signaling. Through these interactions, LGALS3BP can influence cell survival, proliferation, motility, and migration.
LGALS3BP’s Link to Health and Disease
LGALS3BP levels are often elevated in the serum of individuals with certain health conditions, particularly various types of cancer and viral infections. In cancer, it is considered a tumor-associated protein, and high levels can be associated with a less favorable prognosis in some cases. For instance, it has been linked to increased invasiveness and reduced cell adhesion in certain epithelial cancers by affecting proteins like E-cadherin.
LGALS3BP has been identified in screening studies for tumor-secretory proteins in melanoma, lung carcinoma, and breast cancer. Its involvement in cell-matrix and cell-cell interactions within the tumor microenvironment suggests its role in cancer progression and metastasis. The protein’s ability to activate integrin signaling pathways, affecting cell survival and proliferation, highlights its contribution to oncogenic processes.
Beyond cancer, LGALS3BP levels are also elevated in individuals infected with viruses such as HIV and Hepatitis C. This suggests its involvement in the body’s response to viral infections, contributing to host defense. Understanding its precise role in these diseases could lead to new diagnostic tools or therapeutic strategies.