PDCD1 is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily and contains an immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif (ITIM) and an immunoreceptor tyrosine-based switch motif (ITSM). When PDCD1 binds to its ligands, PD-L1 (CD274) and PD-L2 (CD273), it transmits an inhibitory signal that reduces T cell proliferation and cytokine production .
This inhibitory signal is crucial for maintaining immune tolerance and preventing autoimmunity. However, in the context of cancer, the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway can be exploited by tumor cells to evade immune detection and destruction .
The discovery of the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway has led to the development of immune checkpoint inhibitors, which are a class of drugs designed to block this pathway and enhance the body’s immune response against tumors. These inhibitors have shown significant promise in treating various types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, and renal cell carcinoma .