The role of Galectin-3 in modulating tumor growth and immunosuppression within the tumor microenvironment.
Publication Title
Oncoimmunology
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-1-2018
Keywords
galectin-3; immunosuppression; immunotherapy; lectin; tumor immunology; tumor microenvironment
Abstract
The efficacy of cancer immunotherapy is limited, in part, by the multitude of immunosuppressive mechanisms present within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a lectin that contributes to TME immunosuppression and regulates diverse functions including cellular homeostasis and cancer biology. Increased Gal-3 expression during cancer progression augments tumor growth, invasiveness, metastatic potential, and immune suppression, which highlights the potential use of Gal-3 as a therapeutic target capable of modulating anti-tumor immunity. Here, we discuss the mechanisms by which Gal-3 regulates lymphocytes, the role of Gal-3 in lung and prostate tumors, and the contribution of Gal-3 to TME immunosuppression.
Area of Special Interest
Cancer
Specialty/Research Institute
Oncology
Specialty/Research Institute
Earle A. Chiles Research Institute
