PDCD1 is an immune-inhibitory receptor expressed in activated T cells; it is involved in the regulation of T-cell functions, including those of effector CD8 + T cells. PDCD1 is expressed in many types of tumors including melanomas, and has demonstrated to play a role in anti-tumor immunity. Moreover, this protein has been shown to be involved in safeguarding against autoimmunity, however, it can also contribute to the inhibition of effective anti-tumor and anti-microbial immunity. This evidence concerns the gene PDCD1 and melanoma.