The lectins are proteins that recognize and bind to specific types of carbohydrate structures displayed on other proteins and/or lipids. Perhaps the most important homeostatic function of the animal lectins is their roles in the regulation of immune responses and autoimmunity. Which of the following classes of lectins have a member that exhibits potent anti-inflammatory effects due to its ability to induce apoptosis in activated T cells?
A) collectins
B) ficolins
C) galectins (S-type lectins)
D) pentraxins
E) siglecs (I-type lectins)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Galectins, specifically Galectin-1, are known for their ability to induce apoptosis in activated T cells, thereby exhibiting potent anti-inflammatory effects. The galectins are all defined by a canonical carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD), having an affinity for β-galactosides. One of the most crucial functions of the galectins is in the regulation of the inflammatory response. Galectin-1 is expressed by antigen-stimulated T cells, activated B cells, and macrophages. The action of galectin-1 in these systems is to stimulate apoptosis resulting in cell death. Negative growth effects of galectin-1 are also seen in the breast and prostate cancer cell lines. Although the collectins, ficolins, pentraxins, and siglecs all have roles in modulating immune responses, none have been shown to have the potent apoptosis-inducing effect of galectin-1.

The Lectins Are Proteins That Recognize and Bind to Specific