Radiotherapy induces galectin-1 (Gal-1) secretion by tumors, which induces CD8(+) T-cell apoptosis and lymphopenia. These effects are substantially decreased by Gal-1 shRNA. Inhibition of Gal-1 may be an effective strategy for overcoming radiation-induced lymphopenia, which may improve clinical outcomes.
©2014 American Association for Cancer Research.