Insight of Lectins- A review

Lectins are the carbohydrate-binding proteins and are known for their toxic relevance. History provides various evidences for their toxicity profile and initially, it was thought that lectins are associated solely with toxic content. However, recent research shows a remarkable development in lectin science and their use in studying glycoprotein biosynthesis, investigating carbohydrates on cells/cellorganelles, mapping neuronal pathways, anti-cancer therapies and in mitogenic stimulation of lymphocytes is well documented. Even though lectins have intrigued current researchers for the investigation of their therapeutic values, not enough studies have been conducted so far and knowledge about lectins is limited to certain plants or animal sources and further research is important to identify lectins and their importance in as many sources as possible. This review is a comprehensive account of lectins starting from their initial discovery, their purification, biological role and also presents an outline of their toxic effects and therapeutic contribution. In the search for their functions, the end may not be in sight but, at last, it is conceivably around the corner. Lectins could be the next generation medicines if efficient research is contributed in their understanding.