TIM-3 Antibody

The immune checkpoint protein TIM-3 is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily and TIM family of proteins that was initially identified as a specific marker of fully differentiated IFN-γ producing CD4 T helper 1 (Th1) and CD8 cytotoxic cells. It is a Th1-specific cell surface protein that regulates macrophage activation and negatively regulates Th1-mediated auto- and alloimmune responses, and is also highly expressed on regulatory T cells, monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells (1) . TIM-3 and PD-1 are co-expressed on most CD4 and CD8 T cells infiltrating solid tumors or in hematologic malignancy in mice; blocking TIM-3 in conjugation with a PD-1 blockade increases the functionality of exhausted T cells and synergizes with to inhibit tumor growth (2,3) .

TIM-3 antibody can be stored at 4˚ C for three months and -20˚ C, stable for up to one year. As with all antibodies care should be taken to avoid repeated freeze thaw cycles. Antibodies should not be exposed to prolonged high temperatures.

Monney L, Sabatos CA, Gaglia JL, et al. Th1-specific cell surface protein Tim-3 regulates macrophage activation and severity of autoimmune disease. Nature 2002; 415:536-41.

Sakuishi K, Apetoh L, Sullivan JM, et al. Targeting Tim-3 and PD-1 pathways to reverse T cell exhaustion and restore anti-tumor immunity. J Exp Med 2010; 207:2187–94.

Zhou Q, Munger ME, Veenstra RG, et al. Coexpression of Tim-3 and PD-1 identifies a CD8+ T-cell exhaustion phenotype in mice with disseminated acute myelogenous leukemia. Blood 2011; 117:4501–10.