Differential lectin binding, specifically Gal-1, to SLE T cells was explained by the increased gene expression ratio of sialyltransferases and neuraminidase 1 (NEU1), particularly by elevated ST6 beta-galactosamide alpha-2,6-sialyltranferase 1 (ST6GAL1)/NEU1 and ST3 beta-galactoside alpha-2,3-sialyltransferase 6 (ST3GAL6)/NEU1 ratios. The gene discussed is ST6GAL1; the disease is systemic lupus erythematosus.