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Published on: September 7, 2018
TIM-1 and TIM-3 proteins in immune regulation
Ee Wern Su1, Jean Y Lin, Lawrence P Kane
1Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop street, BST E-1056, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
The T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain (TIM) protein family regulates immune responses. This review proposes expanding the definition of TIM proteins beyond T cells to transmembrane immunoglobulin and mucin, reflecting their broader roles.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Increasing interest in the T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain (TIM) protein family's role in immune responses.
- Current understanding of TIM proteins is primarily focused on their function in T cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diverse functions of TIM proteins beyond T cells.
- To propose a revised definition for the TIM protein family.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on TIM protein family.
- Analysis of the expression and function of TIM proteins in various cell types.
Main Results:
- TIM proteins exhibit widespread functions beyond T cells, impacting various immune cells and processes.
- Evidence supports a broader role for TIM proteins in transmembrane signaling and cell adhesion.
Conclusions:
- The TIM protein family's functions are more extensive than previously recognized.
- A revised definition of TIM as 'transmembrane immunoglobulin and mucin' is proposed to accurately reflect their diverse roles in immunity.
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