Title:Structure and Functions of T-cell Immunoglobulin-domain and Mucin-
domain Protein 3 in Cancer
Volume: 29
Issue: 11
Author(s): Xinjie Lu*
Affiliation:
- The Mary and Garry Weston Molecular Immunology Laboratory, Thrombosis Research Institute, London,
SW3 6LR, United Kingdom
Keywords:
T-cell immunoglobulin, cancer, Galectin-9, TIM-3, receptor, ligand.
Abstract:
Background: T-cell immunoglobulin (Ig)-domain and mucin-domain (TIM)
proteins represent a family of receptors expressed on T-cells that play essential cellular
immunity roles. The TIM proteins span across the membrane belonging to type I
transmembrane proteins. The N terminus contains an Ig-like V-type domain and a
Ser/Thr-rich mucin stalk as a co-inhibitory receptor. The C-terminal tail oriented toward
the cytosol predominantly mediates intracellular signaling.
Methods: This review discusses the structural features and functions of TIM-3, specifically
on its role in mediating immune responses in different cell types and the rationale for
TIM-3-targeted cancer immunotherapy.
Results: TIM-3 has gained significant importance to be a potential biomarker in cancer
immunotherapy. It has been shown that blockade with checkpoint inhibitors promotes
anti-tumor immunity and inhibits tumor growth in several preclinical tumor models.
Conclusion: TIM-3 is an immune regulating molecule expressed on several cell types, including
IFNγ-producing T-cells, FoxP3+ Treg cells, and innate immune cells. The roles
of TIM-3 in immunosuppression support its merit as a target for cancer
immunotherapy.