Immune Checkpoint Molecule Detection

Immune checkpoints refer to a class of key molecules that regulate immune responses. The most common ones include programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), PD-L1, and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4), among others. These molecules primarily regulate the activation and inhibition of immune cells to maintain immune system balance. Under normal circumstances, immune checkpoint molecules prevent overactive immune responses, protecting tissues from autoimmune attacks. However, in diseases like cancer and chronic viral infections, these molecules may be exploited by tumor cells or pathogens to evade immune surveillance.