Published Online: Jan 21, 2025
Page range: 233 - 244
DOI: https://doi.org/10.2478/orvtudert-2022-0017
Keywords
© 2022 Varga Erzsébet et al., published by Sciendo
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 3.0 License.
In this article, we describe the functions of lectins, their biological properties and how they can help prevent disease. Lectins have received increasing attention in the food industry, and recently there has been some controversial information about them. Lectin is a protein found in many plants and animals. Plant lectins are proteins found in plants that are able to interact with many different molecules. The effect of these molecules may vary depending on the source, as they are able to bind to specific carbohydrates. This property allows them to inhibit the growth and spread of microorganisms. They perform a number of functions in the body, such as boosting immunity and supporting cell growth, including the proliferation of malignant cells. They help prevent infections and slow down the ageing process. In addition to the positive effects of lectins, there are negative aspects that should be taken into account by nutritionists.