SOX9 represses the human galectin-3 promoter in SW1353 cells: potential implications for osteoarthritis

Galectin-3 (Gal-3), a member of the β-galactoside-binding protein family, is critically involved in inflammation, extracellular matrix remodelling, and cartilage degeneration in osteoarthritis (OA). This study aims to elucidate the regulation of the human galectin-3 gene (LGALS3) promoter in SW1353 cells and its control by SOX transcription factors, known to be dysregulated during OA pathogenesis. We sought to identify key sequence elements in the LGALS3 promoter responsible for its transcriptional activity and relevant transcription factors (TFs). Using luciferase reporter assays, we examined deletion variants of the 5' region (-2638 bp to + 52 bp) and assessed their activation potential. We also identified potential transcription factor binding sites (TFBS) through in silico analyses and confirmed SOX9 binding in the - 93/+49 region by chromatin immunoprecipitation using HaloCHIP™. Functional assays revealed that the proximal promoter region (-97 bp to + 52 bp) is critical for reporter gene expression in SW1353 cells. This study demonstrates that the presence of SOX9 leads to a dose-dependent decrease in LGALS3 promoter activity in SW1353 cells. Consistent with this trend, SOX9 overexpression caused a modest reduction in endogenous LGALS3 mRNA levels. Together, these findings highlight the importance of SOX TF interactions in regulating LGALS3 expression and their potential role in chondrocytes.