T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 in malignant cancers

Immune checkpoints are one of the key factors comprising the extensive network of the human immune system. Immune checkpoints ensure T-cell homeostasis, activation and differentiation. The checkpoint T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 (Tim-3) plays an important role in immune system. Tim-3 is a member of TIM family and can negatively regulate T helper 1 (Th1) immunity. A literature search for Tim-3 was performed via PubMed. It is suggested that the overexpression of Tim-3 is correlated with poorer prognosis for multiple cancers. Co-expression of Tim-3 and other immune checkpoints has been revealed. Blockade of Tim-3 exerts antitumor function and may have synergistic activity being alone or combined with anti-PD-1 antibody or chemotherapy. Thus, Tim-3 is a promising target for cancer immunotherapy.