Galectin-1 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the LGALS1 gene. The galectins are a family of beta-galactoside-binding proteins implicated in modulating cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. Galectin-1 may act as an autocrine negative growth factor that regulates cell proliferation. Its expression in Hodgkin Lymphoma has also been shown to mediate immunosuppression of CD8+ T-cells. Additionally, Galectin-1 is thought to play a role in creating immune tolerance in pregnancy.
