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1
Galectins are a family of β-galactoside-binding lectins that play critical roles in cancer progression through immune and metabolic regulation.
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2
Major galectin family members, including Gal-1, Gal-3, and Gal-9, induce T-cell dysfunction and reprogram immune cells, contributing to tumor immunosuppression.
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3
Galectins influence tumor metabolism by affecting glycolysis, lipid metabolism, and ferroptosis susceptibility, highlighting their functional diversity.
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4
Emerging evidence links galectins to resistance against various therapies, including chemotherapy and immune checkpoint blockade, making them potential therapeutic targets.
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Galectin-targeted strategies, such as small-molecule inhibitors and combination therapies, are being explored to improve cancer treatment outcomes.