Lectins of marine origin and their clinical applications

During the past several decades, intensive investigations have been conducted to clarify the biochemical and physiological properties of lectins from marine organisms, including cyanobacteria, algae, and invertebrates and fish. These investigations have revealed that lectins are highly diversified in terms of not only structural aspects but also functional aspects, including unique carbohydrate-binding specificities. Lectins are still being intensively investigated to understand their biological roles in cell recognition and biodefense as well as to employ them as valuable tools for studying complex carbohydrates in solution and on cell surfaces. Here, we review the structures and activities of lectins from marine organisms and their applications as carbohydrate recognition molecules and medicinal agents with antitumor and antiviral activities.