TIM-3 (T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-3), also known as Hepatitis A virus cellular receptor 2 (HAVCR2), is a transmembrane glycoprotein implicated in modulating innate and adaptive immune responses. TIM-3 was first discovered as a molecule expressed on IFN-γ producing CD4+T helper type 1 (Th1) and on CD8+ T cytotoxic type 1 (Tc1) cells. TIM-3 is now shown to be also expressed in Th17 cells, mast cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, monocytes, NK and NKT cells. TIM-3 negatively regulates Th1 T cell responses, but may also affect Th2-driven allergic diseases by indirectly modulating the balance between Th1 and Th2 type responses. Several genetic studies on TIM-3 polymorphisms suggest that TIM-3 is involved in susceptibility to Th2-driven allergic diseases. TIM-3 also plays a protective role in Rheumatoid arthritis. TIM-3 binding to Galectin-9 induces a range of immunosuppressive functions including Th1 cell death and a consequent decline in IFN- γ production. TIM-3 and Galectin-9 interaction leads to the enhancement of immune tolerance and the inhibition of anti-tumor immunity. Dysregulation of the TIM-3 and Galectin-9 pathway could underlie chronic autoimmune disease states, such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and TIM-3 may represent a novel target for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Cells expressing Tim-3 are present at high levels in the CNS of animals at the onset of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Tim-3 has also been shown to exist as a soluble protein.
Size
25 μg
Concentration
n/a
Applications
BA
Other Names
Hepatitis A virus cellular receptor 2, HAVCR2, T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain containing protein 3, CD366