Journal of International Obstetrics and Gynecology ›› 2021, Vol. 48 ›› Issue (3): 251-254.doi: 10.12280/gjfckx.20200706

• Obstetric Physiology & Obstetric Disease Review • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Expression of Galectins in Pregnancy

ZHAO Tong-tong, SUN Li-qiang, SHAO Dan-hui, MU Wen-yu, HAN Qiu-yu()   

  1. Graduate School, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221004, Jiangsu Province, China (ZHAO Tong-tong, HAN Qiu-yu); Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou 221002, Jiangsu Province, China (SUN Li-qiang, SHAO Dan-hui, MU Wen-yu)
  • Received:2020-07-31 Published:2021-06-15 Online:2021-06-25
  • Contact: HAN Qiu-yu E-mail:h-hong@yeah.net

Abstract:

Galectins are a phylogenetically conserved family of soluble β-galactoside binding proteins, consisting of 15 different types, each with a specific function. Of the 13 galectins found in humans, 7 are expressed in the placenta and regulate immunity and development. Galectins contribute to placentation by regulating trophoblast development, migration, and invasion during early pregnancy. In addition, galectins are critical players regulating maternal immune tolerance to the embedded embryo. Recently, the role of galectins in pregnancy-associated process has gained attention. Altered expression of galectins is associated with abnormal pregnancies and infertility. This review focuses on the role of galectins in pregnancy-associated processes and discusses its relevance as potential therapeutic targets in pregnancy disorders.

Key words: Galectins, Pregnancy, Placenta, Immune tolerance, Pre-eclampsia