It recognizes a 32 kDa protein, which is identified as homodimer of LGALS13/Galectin 13 (also known as PP13). Galectins are a family of soluble beta-galactoside-binding lectins that modulate cell-to-cell adhesion and cell-to-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions and play a role in tumor progression, pre-mRNA splicing and apoptosis. One such member, Galectin 13, is a 139 amino acid protein that contains one galectin domain. Possessing lysophospholipase activity, Galectin-13 exists as a disulfide-linked homodimer. Galectin 13 is suggested to have a developmental role in the placenta and may display immunobiological activity in feto-maternal blood-spaces. Screening for Galectin 13 in maternal serum during the first trimester of pregnancy may serve as a diagnostic marker to predict preterm pre-eclampsia.