Galectin-3 in obesity and type 2 diabetes

Abstract

© 2015, University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Science. All rights reserved. Galectin-3 is an important regulator of inflammation and acts as a receptor for advanced-glycation (AGE) and lipoxidation end-products (ALE). Evidence indicates a significant upregulation in circulating levels and visceral adipose tissue production of Galectin-3 in obesity and type 2 diabetes. Recent studies demonstrate development of obesity and dysregulation of glucose metabolism in Galectin-3 “knockout” (KO) mice, which also develop accelerated and more severe pathology in models of atherosclerosis and metabolically-induced kidney damage. Thus, evidence that Galectin-3 is an important player in metabolic disease is accumulating. This review discusses current evidence on the connection between Galectin-3 and metabolic disease, focusing on mechanisms by which this galectin modulates adiposity, glucose metabolism and obesity-associated inflammatory responses.