Galectin-9 is vital for dendritic cells to function properly, but tumors hijack this pathway to evade our immune defenses

Dendritic cells, specialized immune cells, detect and fight cancer and harmful germs. Their function depends on the protein galectin-9. In skin and colon cancers, tumors can break down this pathway, disabling the cells and letting tumors avoid immune defenses and grow unchecked. Recent findings indicate that repairing the damaged galectin-9 connection restores dendritic cell function and immune protection.