Galectin-7 is a member of the galectin family, which consists of proteins that bind to β-galactoside sugars. These proteins play crucial roles in various cellular processes, including cell-cell adhesion, cell-matrix interactions, and apoptosis. Galectin-7, in particular, is known for its involvement in the regulation of apoptosis and its expression in epithelial tissues.
Galectin-7 is a 14 kDa protein encoded by the LGALS7 gene. The recombinant form of mouse Galectin-7 is typically expressed in Escherichia coli and purified to a high degree of purity, often exceeding 95% as determined by SDS-PAGE . The protein consists of 136 amino acids and includes a His tag at the N-terminus to facilitate purification .
Galectin-7 is primarily known for its pro-apoptotic functions. It acts upstream of the JNK activation and mitochondrial cytochrome c release, which are critical steps in the apoptosis pathway . This protein is particularly important in the context of UV-induced apoptosis of keratinocytes, playing a vital role in maintaining epidermal homeostasis .
Recombinant mouse Galectin-7 is widely used in research to study its role in apoptosis and other cellular processes. It is suitable for various applications, including SDS-PAGE and mass spectrometry (MS) . Researchers often use this protein to investigate the mechanisms underlying cell death and survival, as well as its potential implications in diseases such as cancer.