Predicted to enable several functions, including IgE binding activity; advanced glycation end-product receptor activity; and signaling receptor binding activity. Involved in negative regulation of T cell receptor signaling pathway; negative regulation of endocytosis; and negative regulation of lymphocyte activation. Acts upstream of or within extracellular matrix organization and skeletal system development. Located in several cellular components, including external side of plasma membrane; glial cell projection; and immunological synapse. Is expressed in several structures, including alimentary system; genitourinary system; respiratory system; skeleton; and skin. Used to study fatty liver disease. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in asthma. Orthologous to human LGALS3 (galectin 3). [provided by Alliance of Genome Resources, Apr 2022]