This study demonstrates that never in mitosis gene A-related kinase 2 (NEK2) phosphorylates PD-L1, maintaining its stability and hindering the efficacy of PD-L1-targeted pancreatic cancer immunotherapy. NEK2 deficiency suppresses PD-L1 expression and enhances lymphocyte infiltration. NEK2 inhibition sensitizes PD-L1 blockade, synergistically improving the anti-pancreatic cancer immune response, suggesting a promising strategy for enhancing pancreatic cancer immunotherapy.
