A checkpoint cliffhanger at the dawn of placental mammals.

Dustin ML., Zenclussen AC.

The PD-1 ligands PD-L1 and PD-L2 are commonly expressed on the surface of cells, where they regulate immune system activation. However, the specific role played by each ligand has been unclear. Using site-directed mutagenesis, surface plasmon resonance, and crystallography, Philips et al. explore the distinct features of PD-L2 and identify a specific evolutionary event linked to its appearance. This work provides a deeper understanding of how the immune system adapted to mammalian placental gestation and could be an important consideration in the development of new immune checkpoint therapies.

DOI

10.1074/jbc.H120.013307

Type

Journal article

Journal

J biol chem

Publication Date

03/04/2020

Volume

295

Pages

4381 - 4382

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