The present invention relates to novel galectin 11 proteins which are members of the galectin superfamily. In particular, isolated nucleic acid molecules are provided encoding the human galectin 11 proteins. Galectin 11 polypeptides are also provided as are vectors, host cells and recombinant methods for producing the same. The invention further relates to screening methods for identifying agonists and antagonists of galectin 11 activity. Also provided are diagnostic and therapeutic methods.