Elevated TIM3 expression of T helper cells affects immune system in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome

T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (TIM3) expression is associated with immunosuppression and clinical outcomes in many diseases. However, the specific mechanism of TIM3 in immune system has not been clarified. In order to illustrate the mechanism of TIM3 in immune system, we analyzed the expression, function and regulation of TIM3 in T helper (Th)1 cells, Th2 cells, Th17 cells and regulatory T cells (Treg) through flow cytometry in patients with myelodysplastic syndrom (MDS). Our data showed elevated proportion of Th2 and Treg cells, while the proportion of Th1 and Th17 cells decreased in patients with MDS (p