title: Galectin-3 in Renal Pathology: More Than Just an Innocent Bystander.
abstract: Galectin-3 is a member of a closely related lectin family, which is detected in several vertebrate epithelial and myeloid cell types. This beta-galactoside-binding soluble protein plays an important role in multiple biological processes. Depending on its location, type of injury or site of damage, the effects by galectin-3 can be various and sometimes contrasting.
  
  
  
  In this review, we discuss the general characteristics and functions of galectin-3. More specifically, we focus on the role of galectin-3 in the onset and development of diabetic and non-diabetic nephropathies. Finally, the therapeutic potential of anti-galectin-3 inhibitors is discussed.
  
  
  
  Due to its multifunctional character, galectin-3 plays a pivotal role in interstitial fibrosis and progression of chronic kidney disease. Inhibition of galectin-3 may be a promising therapeutic strategy to prevent end-stage renal disease.
authors.affiliation: Department of Nephrology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
authors.forename: Valérie
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Desmedt
authors.forename: Stéphanie
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Desmedt
authors.forename: Joris R
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Delanghe
authors.forename: Reinhart
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Speeckaert
authors.forename: Marijn M
authors.initials: MM
authors.lastname: Speeckaert
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D037502:Galectin 3 / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D007674:Kidney Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology* / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D037502:Galectin 3