Abstract: Galectins is a family of endogenous lectins that preferentially bind to β-galactosides. Fifteen galectins family members have been identified, which is widely distributed in epithelial cells and immune cells. Galectins are involved in many cell activities including cell growth and differentiation, adhesion, signal transduction and apoptosis. Galectin-1, -3, -7, -9, -12 may be associated with skin tumors, wound healing, psoriasis, scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus, atopic dermatitis and vitiligo. The update of galectin-1, -3, -7, -9, -12 and related dermatoses is reviewed.

Key words: galectin, skin disease, biomarker