Structural characterization of Galectins and Galectin-Related Protein

The textbook "Structural Characterization of Galectins and Galectin-Related Protein" offers a comprehensive analysis of the structure and function of galectins, a family of beta-galactoside-binding proteins found in various organisms. The author, Andrea Flores-Ibarra, employs a protein engineering approach to create Galectin-3 constructs used for structural studies. These studies allow for the determination of the position of key amino acids in the N-terminal region, which play crucial roles in the functions of Galectin-3, such as apoptosis and metastasis. Additionally, a specific Galectin-Related Protein (GRP) is examined, which shows high sequence identity with galectins but is unable to bind beta-galactosides. The book provides valuable insights into the divergence and recognition within the galectin family and uses G. gallus GRP as a model for structural elucidation.