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Increased expression of distinct galectins in multiple sclerosis lesions
M Stancic1, J van Horssen, V L Thijssen
1Department of Cell Biology, Section Membrane Cell Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, Groningen, The Netherlands.
Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology
|April 20, 2011
Summary
Galectins are elevated in multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions, with specific types like galectin-9 showing unique localization patterns in immune cells. These findings suggest galectins play a distinct role in MS pathology beyond general inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Cellular Biology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a central nervous system disorder involving inflammation and neurodegeneration.
- Galectins are immunomodulators, but their role in MS pathology is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression and localization of galectins in human central nervous system tissue from MS patients.
- To determine the potential role of galectins in the pathogenesis of MS.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry were used on post-mortem brain tissue.
- Galectin expression was analyzed in control white matter and MS lesions at various stages.
- Cultured astrocytes from MS patients and healthy subjects were also analyzed.
Main Results:
- Galectins-1, -3, -8, and -9 were detected in control white matter and significantly increased in active MS lesions.
- Galectins were localized to microglia/macrophages, astrocytes, and endothelial cells.
- Galectin-9 showed distinct nuclear localization in microglia/macrophages in active MS lesions versus cytoplasmic localization in inactive lesions.
Conclusions:
- Distinct galectins are associated with different aspects of MS pathology.
- Galectins may play a specific role in MS beyond their known immunomodulatory functions.
