TIM-3 inhibition enhances breast tumor progression and metastasis: A paradoxical immune checkpoint response.

ABSTRACT: T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 (TIM-3) is an emerging immune checkpoint receptor. Blocking immune checkpoint signals is a promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy. While TIM-3 blockade is currently under clinical investigation, its context-dependent role remains poorly understood. This study investigates the molecular consequences of TIM-3 inhibition using an experimental murine breast tumor model. Contrary to therapeutic expectations, administration of an anti-TIM-3 monoclonal antibody led to accelerated tumor growth and a significant increase in liver metastases. Flow cytometry revealed a paradoxical increase in tumor-infiltrating CD8⁺ T cells, accompanied by a reduction in CD3⁺ and Foxp3⁺ T cells. Cytokine profiling showed elevate

SUBMITTER: Dolui B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12856319 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature