Our previous studies showed that LPS, IFN‐γ and ConA could enhance TIM‐4 expression in macrophages.23, 24 It was also reported that damage‐associated molecular patterns released from chemotherapy‐damaged tumour cells induced TIM‐4 expression on tumour‐associated macrophages and dendritic cells.25 Recent studies have shown that TIM‐4 is overexpressed in several tumours,26, 27 which is related with the worse prognosis of lung cancer and colorectal cancer.10, 27 Therefore, it was essential to explore the key factors regulating the abnormal expression of TIM‐4. The gene discussed is TIMD4; the disease is colorectal cancer.