Effects of galectin-1 on immunomodulatory properties of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells

Our study aimed to evaluate the effects of Gal-1 in dose depending manner on maturation and immunomodulatory properties of monocyte-derived (Mo) DCs in-vitro. The effects were analyzed by monitoring their phenotypic characteristics, cytokine profile, and the ability to direct the immune response in the co-culture with allogeneic CD4(+)T cells. Gal-1 reduced the expression of CD80 and CD86 molecules on MoDCs compared to untreated MoDCs. Gal-1 at concentrations of 1 and 6 mu g/mL significantly reduced IL-12 production, while the concentration of 3 mu g/mL led to its significant increase. Gal-1 in all concentrations induced a significant increase in the production of IL-10. Treatment of MoDCs with 3 and 6 mu g/mL of Gal-1 stimulated the production of IL-2 and IFN-gamma in the co-culture with CD4(+)T lymphocytes. This study demonstrated a dual immunomodulatory effect of Gal-1 on MoDCs in terms of immune stimulation and immune suppression, depending on the applied concentration.