PD-L1 (Programmed Death-Ligand 1)

PD-L1, or Programmed Death-Ligand 1, is a protein found on the surface of some cells, including cancer cells. It plays a crucial role in the immune system by helping to regulate the body's immune response. When PD-L1 binds to its receptor, PD-1, on immune cells, it can inhibit their activity, effectively helping the cancer cells evade detection and destruction by the immune system. Understanding PD-L1 is essential in cancer treatment, as therapies that block this interaction can enhance the immune response against tumors, leading to improved outcomes for patients.