Abstract: Abstract: T cell immunoglobulin-and mucin-domain-containing molecule-3（Tim-3）is one of the Tim family’s members, when combed with its ligand, half breast meat - 9 (coagulants Galectin - 9), it could significantly inhibit the activation and proliferation of T cell, and regulate the expression of cytokines and secretion. Tim - 3 / Galectin - 9 pathway is prone to participate in the immune response and to regulate the antiviral immune response. Blocking the path can promote the response of CD8 + T cell and the virus control. Therefore, there may be a close relationship between Tim - 3 / Galectin - 9pathway and the chronicity of virus infection. This article provides an review about the biological characteristics and functions of Tim - 3 and its ligand, Galectin - 9, and about the recent developments in research into the virus infection.

Key words: Tim-3, Galectin-9, virus infection