Together, our data suggest that through combined analysis of PD-1, CTLA-4, CD25, CD28, Foxp3, TGF-ß and IL-10 in peripheral blood, and the lymphocyte subpopulations, we may accurately evaluate the functional status of cellular immunity, thus providing clues for guiding blockade of PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathway for cancer treatment. The gene discussed is PDCD1; the disease is cancer.