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Rationale: Galectin-9 (Gal-9) belongs to the galectin family, which exhibits affinity for β-galactosides. Gal-9 has a variety of biological activities; however, its role in allergic inflammation is unknown.

Objectives: We evaluated the effect of a stable form of the human protein on allergic airway inflammation in a mite allergen–induced asthma model.

Methods: Human stable Gal-9 was given by intravenous injection to mice during antigen challenge. The effect of Gal-9 on airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) was then evaluated.

Measurements and Main Results: Gal-9 reduced AHR as well as Th2-associated airway inflammation. Furthermore, administration of Gal-9 as well as anti-CD44 monoclonal antibody inhibited the infiltration of peripheral blood Th2 cells into the airway. Interestingly, Gal-9 directly bound the CD44 adhesion molecule and inhibited interactions with hyaluronan (HA). Consistent …