abstract |
The present invention provides two novel human galectins (designated individually as GAL-5HA and GAL-5HB, and collectively as GAL-5H) and polynucleotides which identify and encode GAL-5H. The invention also provides genetically engineered expression vectors and host cells comprising the nucleic acid sequences encoding GAL-5H and a method for producing GAL-5H. The invention also provides for use of GAL-5H and agonists, antibodies, or antagonists specifically binding GAL-5H, in the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with expression of GAL-5H. Additionally, the invention provides for the use of antisense molecules to polynucleotides encoding GAL-5H for the treatment of diseases associated with the expression of GAL-5H. The invention also provides diagnostic assays which utilize the polynucleotide, or fragments or the complement thereof, and antibodies specifically binding GAL-5H. |