Abstract: Disclosed are novel polypeptides possessing part or all of the amino acid sequence or primary structural conformation and one or more of the biological properties of certain galactoside-binding-proteins with apparent molecular weights of 34,000 and 31,000. Genomic DNA, cDNA and manufactured DNA sequences coding for part or all of the sequences of amino acid residues of L-34-gal-lectin and L-31-gal-lectin are incorporated into vectors used to transform a host cell in culture. Also provided are antibodies against L-34-gal-lectin and L-31-gal-lectin and a method for inhibiting mammalian cell metastasis by treating mammalian cells in a living host with antibodies against L-34-gal-lectin or L-31-gal-lectin. A method of determining the metastatic potential of mammalian cells is also provided by which cells in vitro are contacted with antibodies against L-34-gal-lectin or L-31-gal-lectin which are labeled with a detectable probe.

Abstract: Methods and compositions useful in the detection of human cancer cells and malignant tumors are provided. Certain human autocrine motility factor receptors or proteins (gp78-hAMFR) have been identified which are useful in the detection of human cancer cells and malignant tumors. Methods and assay kits for the detection of human cancer, human cancer cells, and tumors, are provided wherein antibodies or nucleotide hybridized probes are used to determine gp78-hAMFR expression. These methods and assays readily distinguish between non-malignant and malignant cancer cells and tumors and can be used to gauge metastatic potential.