Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 3 (CXCL3)-CD274 (Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1)) axis

In certain tumors, some cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) express high levels of Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 3 (CXCL3). These are Bgn(+)Dcn(+) CAFs. CXCL3 affects neutrophils. It promotes PD-L1 expression on their surface. CD274 (Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1)) positive neutrophils interact with CD8+ Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes (CTLs) . This suppresses T cell cytotoxic activity. It promotes T cell exhaustion. Tumor cells then evade immune destruction.
Target this axis, reduce CXCL3 production, interfere with downstream PD-L1 signaling. This can blunt the immunosuppressive environment. It supports effective T cell–mediated tumor clearance.
Zhu et al. 2024 Cell Rep 43(6): 114306

see also:
Akkermansia muciniphila & Anti-PD-1 antibodies / PD-1 inhibitors