DCLK1 and tuft cells: Immune-related functions and implications for cancer immunotherapy

comDCLK1, a tuft cell marker, is widely expressed in various tumors. Its high expression levels are closely linked to malignant tumor progression, making it a potential tumor-related marker. Recent studies have shed light on the critical roles of DCLK1 and tuft cells in the immune response and the maintenance of epithelial homeostasis, as well as targeted immune escape mechanisms in the tumor microenvironment. This review aims to comprehe-sively examine the current understanding of immune-related functions mediated by DCLK1 and tuft cells in epithelial tissues, including the roles of relevant cells and important factors involved. Additionally, this review will discuss recent advances in anti-tumor immunity mediated by DCLK1/tuft cells and their potential as immunotherapeutic targets. Furthermore, we will consider the potential impact of DCLK1 targeted therapy in cancer immunotherapy, particularly DCLK1 kinase inhibitors as potential therapeutic drugs in anti-tumor immunity, providing a new perspective and reference for future research.

Automated summary

This article reviews the roles of DCLK1 and tuft cells in tumors, highlighting their involvement in immune response, maintenance of epithelial homeostasis, and immune escape mechanisms in the tumor microenvironment. It also discusses recent advances in anti-tumor immunity mediated by DCLK1/tuft cells and their potential as immunotherapeutic targets.