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Ding L, Qian J, Yu X, Wu Q, Mao J, Liu X, Wang Y, Guo D, Su R, Xie H, Yin S, Zhou L, Zheng S. Blocking MARCO + tumor-associated macrophages improves anti-PD-L1 therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma by promoting the activation of STING-IFN type I pathway. Cancer Lett 2024; 582:216568. [PMID: 38065400 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The PD-L1/PD-1 axis is a classic immunotherapy target. However, anti-PD-L1/PD-1 therapy alone can not achieve satisfactory results in solid tumors, especially liver cancer. Among the several factors involved in tumor anti-PD-L1/PD-1 treatment resistance, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) have attracted attention because of their immunosuppressive ability. TAMs with a macrophage receptor with a collagenous structure (MARCO) are a macrophage subset group with strong immunosuppressive abilities. Clinical specimens and animal experiments revealed a negative correlation between MARCO + TAMs and patient prognosis with liver cancer. Transcriptional data and in vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that MARCO + TAM immunosuppressive ability was related to secretion. MARCO suppressed IFN-β secretion from TAMs, reducing antigen presentation molecule expression, infiltration, and CD8+T cell dysfunction, thus producing an immunosuppressive microenvironment in liver cancer. MARCO can promote dying tumor cell clearance by macrophages, reducing tumor-derived cGAMP and ATP accumulation in the tumor microenvironment and inhibiting sting-IFN-β pathway activation mediated by P2X7R in MARCO+TAMs. Animal experiments revealed that the MARCO and PD-L1 monoclonal antibody combination could significantly inhibit liver cancer growth. Conclusively, targeting MARCO+TAMs can significantly improve anti-PD-L1 resistance in liver cancer, making it a potential novel immune target for liver cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limin Ding
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Junjie Qian
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xizhi Yu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qinchuan Wu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jing Mao
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xi Liu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yubo Wang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Danjing Guo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Rong Su
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Haiyang Xie
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Shengyong Yin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
| | - ShuSen Zheng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
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Huang R, Ning Q, Zhao J, Zhao X, Zeng L, Yi Y, Tang S. Targeting ENPP1 for cancer immunotherapy: Killing two birds with one stone. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 220:116006. [PMID: 38142838 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.116006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy, particularly with immune checkpoint inhibitors, has revolutionized the paradigm of cancer treatment. Nevertheless, the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy remains limited in most clinical settings due to the lack of a preexisting antitumor T-cell response in tumors. Therefore, the clinical outcomes of cancer immunotherapy must be improved crucially. With increased awareness of the importance of the innate immune response in the recruitment of T cells, as well as the onset and maintenance of the T cell response, great interest has been shown in activating the cGAS-STING signaling pathway to awaken the innate immune response, thereby orchestrating both innate and adaptive immune responses to induce tumor clearance. However, tumor cells have evolved to overexpress ectonucleotide pyrophosphate phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1), which degrades the immunotransmitter 2',3'-cGAMP and promotes the production of immune-suppressing adenosine, resulting in inhibition of the anticancer immune response in the tumor microenvironment. Clinically, ENPP1 overexpression is closely associated with poor prognosis in patients with cancer. Conversely, depleting or inhibiting ENPP1 has been verified to elevate extracellular 2',3'-cGAMP levels and inhibit the generation of adenosine, thereby reinvigorating the anticancer immune response for tumor elimination. A variety of ENPP1 inhibitors have recently been developed and have demonstrated significant promise for cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we provide an overview of ENPP1, dissect its immunosuppressive mechanisms, and discuss the development of ENPP1 inhibitors with the potential to further improve the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruilei Huang
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Qian Ning
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Jihui Zhao
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Xuhong Zhao
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Luting Zeng
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Yi Yi
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Shengsong Tang
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, and Institute of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China.
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53
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Lu B, Lim JM, Yu B, Song S, Neeli P, Sobhani N, K P, Bonam SR, Kurapati R, Zheng J, Chai D. The next-generation DNA vaccine platforms and delivery systems: advances, challenges and prospects. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1332939. [PMID: 38361919 PMCID: PMC10867258 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1332939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaccines have proven effective in the treatment and prevention of numerous diseases. However, traditional attenuated and inactivated vaccines suffer from certain drawbacks such as complex preparation, limited efficacy, potential risks and others. These limitations restrict their widespread use, especially in the face of an increasingly diverse range of diseases. With the ongoing advancements in genetic engineering vaccines, DNA vaccines have emerged as a highly promising approach in the treatment of both genetic diseases and acquired diseases. While several DNA vaccines have demonstrated substantial success in animal models of diseases, certain challenges need to be addressed before application in human subjects. The primary obstacle lies in the absence of an optimal delivery system, which significantly hampers the immunogenicity of DNA vaccines. We conduct a comprehensive analysis of the current status and limitations of DNA vaccines by focusing on both viral and non-viral DNA delivery systems, as they play crucial roles in the exploration of novel DNA vaccines. We provide an evaluation of their strengths and weaknesses based on our critical assessment. Additionally, the review summarizes the most recent advancements and breakthroughs in pre-clinical and clinical studies, highlighting the need for further clinical trials in this rapidly evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Lu
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Ming Lim
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Boyue Yu
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Siyuan Song
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Praveen Neeli
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Navid Sobhani
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Pavithra K
- School of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Thiruvananthapuram, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Srinivasa Reddy Bonam
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Rajendra Kurapati
- School of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Thiruvananthapuram, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Junnian Zheng
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Center of Clinical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dafei Chai
- Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Center for the Collaboration and Innovation of Cancer Biotherapy, Cancer Institute, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
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Liu D, Liang S, Ma K, Meng QF, Li X, Wei J, Zhou M, Yun K, Pan Y, Rao L, Chen X, Wang Z. Tumor Microenvironment-Responsive Nanoparticles Amplifying STING Signaling Pathway for Cancer Immunotherapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2304845. [PMID: 37723642 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202304845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Insufficient activation of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway and profoundly immunosuppressive microenvironment largely limits the effect of cancer immunotherapy. Herein, tumor microenvironment (TME)-responsive nanoparticles (PMM NPs) are exploited that simultaneously harness STING and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) to augment STING activation via TLR4-mediated nuclear factor-kappa B signaling pathway stimulation, leading to the increased secretion of type I interferons (i.e., 4.0-fold enhancement of IFN-β) and pro-inflammatory cytokines to promote a specific T cell immune response. Moreover, PMM NPs relieve the immunosuppression of the TME by decreasing the percentage of regulatory T cells, and polarizing M2 macrophages to the M1 type, thus creating an immune-supportive TME to unleash a cascade adaptive immune response. Combined with an anti-PD-1 antibody, synergistic efficacy is achieved in both inflamed colorectal cancer and noninflamed metastatic breast tumor models. Moreover, rechallenging tumor-free animals with homotypic cells induced complete tumor rejection, indicating the generation of systemic antitumor memory. These TME-responsive nanoparticles may open a new avenue to achieve the spatiotemporal orchestration of STING activation, providing a promising clinical candidate for next-generation cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Shuang Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Kongshuo Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Qian-Fang Meng
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
| | - Xingang Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Jian Wei
- Department of Interventional Radiography, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 10050, China
| | - Mengli Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Kaiqing Yun
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Yuanwei Pan
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
| | - Lang Rao
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research Centre, Centre for Translational Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| | - Zhaohui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Drug Delivery Technology and Novel Formulation, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
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Khorasani M, Alaei M. cGAS-STING and PD1/PDL-1 pathway in breast cancer: a window to new therapies. J Recept Signal Transduct Res 2024; 44:1-7. [PMID: 38470108 DOI: 10.1080/10799893.2024.2325353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a complex malignancy with diverse molecular and cellular subtypes and clinical outcomes. Despite advances in treatment, breast cancer remains a significant health challenge. However, recent advances in cancer immunotherapy have shown promising results in the treatment of breast cancer, particularly the use of inhibitors that target the immune checkpoint PD1/PDL1. Also, the cGAS-STING pathway, an important part of the innate immune response, has been considered as a major potential therapeutic target for breast cancer. In this narrative review, we provide an overview of the cGAS-STING and PD1/PDL-1 pathway in breast cancer, including their role in tumor development, progression, and response to treatment. We also discuss potential future directions for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Khorasani
- Healthy Ageing Research Centre, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
| | - Maryam Alaei
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Shen Q, Xu P, Mei C. Role of micronucleus-activated cGAS-STING signaling in antitumor immunity. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2024; 53:25-34. [PMID: 38273467 PMCID: PMC10945493 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2023-0485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling is a significant component of the innate immune system and functions as a vital sentinel mechanism to monitor cellular and tissue aberrations in microbial invasion and organ injury. cGAS, a cytosolic DNA sensor, is specialized in recognizing abnormally localized cytoplasmic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and catalyzes the formation of a second messenger cyclic-GMP-AMP (cGAMP), which initiates a cascade of type Ⅰ interferon and inflammatory responses mediated by STING. Micronucleus, a byproduct of chromosomal missegregation during anaphase, is also a significant contributor to cytoplasmic dsDNA. These unstable subcellular structures are susceptible to irreversible nuclear envelope rupture, exposing genomic dsDNA to the cytoplasm, which potently recruits cGAS and activates STING-mediated innate immune signaling and its downstream activities, including type Ⅰ interferon and classical nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathways lead to senescence, apoptosis, autophagy activating anti-cancer immunity or directly killing tumor cells. However, sustained STING activation-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress, activated chronic type Ⅰ interferon and nonclassical NF-κB signaling pathways remodel immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, leading to immune evasion and facilitating tumor metastasis. Therefore, activated cGAS-STING signaling plays a dual role of suppressing or facilitating tumor growth in tumorigenesis and therapy. This review elaborates on research advances in mechanisms of micronucleus inducing activation of cGAS-STING signaling and its implications in tumorigenesis and therapeutic strategies of malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Shen
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Pinglong Xu
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311200, China.
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Chen Mei
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311200, China.
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Pandey A, Shen C, Feng S, Enosi Tuipulotu D, Ngo C, Liu C, Kurera M, Mathur A, Venkataraman S, Zhang J, Talaulikar D, Song R, Wong JJL, Teoh N, Kaakoush NO, Man SM. Ku70 senses cytosolic DNA and assembles a tumor-suppressive signalosome. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadh3409. [PMID: 38277448 PMCID: PMC10816715 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh3409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
The innate immune response contributes to the development or attenuation of acute and chronic diseases, including cancer. Microbial DNA and mislocalized DNA from damaged host cells can activate different host responses that shape disease outcomes. Here, we show that mice and humans lacking a single allele of the DNA repair protein Ku70 had increased susceptibility to the development of intestinal cancer. Mechanistically, Ku70 translocates from the nucleus into the cytoplasm where it binds to cytosolic DNA and interacts with the GTPase Ras and the kinase Raf, forming a tripartite protein complex and docking at Rab5+Rab7+ early-late endosomes. This Ku70-Ras-Raf signalosome activates the MEK-ERK pathways, leading to impaired activation of cell cycle proteins Cdc25A and CDK1, reducing cell proliferation and tumorigenesis. We also identified the domains of Ku70, Ras, and Raf involved in activating the Ku70 signaling pathway. Therapeutics targeting components of the Ku70 signalosome could improve the treatment outcomes in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhimanu Pandey
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Disease, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Cheng Shen
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Disease, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Shouya Feng
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Disease, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Daniel Enosi Tuipulotu
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Disease, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Chinh Ngo
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Disease, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Cheng Liu
- Conjoint Gastroenterology Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
- Mater Pathology, Mater Hospital, South Brisbane, Australia
| | - Melan Kurera
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Disease, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Anukriti Mathur
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Disease, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Shweta Venkataraman
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Disease, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Jing Zhang
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Disease, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Dipti Talaulikar
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Disease, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Haematology Translational Research Unit, ACT Pathology, Canberra Health Services, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- Department of Human Genomics, ACT Pathology, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
- School of Medicine and Psychology, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Renhua Song
- Epigenetics and RNA Biology Program Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown 2050, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown 2050, Australia
| | - Justin J.-L. Wong
- Epigenetics and RNA Biology Program Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown 2050, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown 2050, Australia
| | - Narci Teoh
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, The Australian National University Medical School at The Canberra Hospital, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Nadeem O. Kaakoush
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Si Ming Man
- Division of Immunology and Infectious Disease, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
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Gu C, Wang X, Wang K, Xie F, Chen L, Ji H, Sun J. Cryoablation triggers type I interferon-dependent antitumor immunity and potentiates immunotherapy efficacy in lung cancer. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008386. [PMID: 38272564 PMCID: PMC10824009 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-008386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryoablation is a minimally invasive option for patients with medically inoperable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and can trigger abscopal immune-regulatory effects. However, it remains unclear how cryoablation affects the host-level immune response in NSCLC. In this study, we investigated the local and systemic immunological effects of cryoablation and the potential of combining cryoablation with programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) blockade to boost immunotherapy efficacy in NSCLC. METHODS We first investigated systemic immunological effects induced by cryoablation in patients with early-stage NSCLC. Subsequently, we explored cryoablation-induced antitumor immunity and the underlying biological mechanisms using KP (Kras G12D/+, Tp53 -/-) mutant lung cancer cell allograft mouse models. Moreover, the synergistic efficacy of cryoablation and PD-1 blockade was explored in both mouse models and patients with unresectable NSCLC. RESULTS We found that cryoablation significantly increased circulating CD8+ T cell subpopulations and proinflammatory cytokines in patients with early-stage NSCLC. In lung cancer cell allograft mouse models, we demonstrated that cryoablation resulted in abscopal growth inhibition of contralateral, non-ablated tumors. Integrated analysis of bulk, single-cell RNA and T cell receptor (TCR) sequencing data revealed that cryoablation reprogrammed the intratumoral immune microenvironment and increased CD8+ T cell infiltration with higher effector signature, interferon (IFN) response, and cytolytic activity. Mechanistically, cryoablation promoted antitumor effect through the STING-dependent type I IFN signaling pathway, and type I IFN signaling blockade attenuated this antitumor effect. We also found that the combination of PD-1 blockade with cryoablation further inhibited tumor growth compared with either treatment alone in an allograft mouse model. Moreover, the combination therapy induced notable tumor suppression and CD8+ T cell infiltration in patients with unresectable NSCLC. CONCLUSIONS Our results provide mechanistic insights into how cryoablation triggers the antitumor immune effect in lung cancer, thereby potentiating programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1)/PD-1 blockade efficacy in the clinical treatment of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanjia Gu
- Department of Respiratory Endoscopy, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Respiratory Endoscopy, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Kaiyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fangfang Xie
- Department of Respiratory Endoscopy, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Respiratory Endoscopy, Shanghai, China
| | - Luonan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
- Guangdong Institute of Intelligence Science and Technology, Hengqin, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Hongbin Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiayuan Sun
- Department of Respiratory Endoscopy, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Respiratory Endoscopy, Shanghai, China
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Zhou H, Zhang W, Li H, Xu F, Yinwang E, Xue Y, Chen T, Wang S, Wang Z, Sun H, Wang F, Mou H, Yao M, Chai X, Zhang J, Diarra MD, Li B, Zhang C, Gao J, Ye Z. Osteocyte mitochondria inhibit tumor development via STING-dependent antitumor immunity. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadi4298. [PMID: 38232158 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi4298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Bone is one of the most common sites of tumor metastases. During the last step of bone metastasis, cancer cells colonize and disrupt the bone matrix, which is maintained mainly by osteocytes, the most abundant cells in the bone microenvironment. However, the role of osteocytes in bone metastasis is still unclear. Here, we demonstrated that osteocytes transfer mitochondria to metastatic cancer cells and trigger the cGAS/STING-mediated antitumor response. Blocking the transfer of mitochondria by specifically knocking out mitochondrial Rho GTPase 1 (Rhot1) or mitochondrial mitofusin 2 (Mfn2) in osteocytes impaired tumor immunogenicity and consequently resulted in the progression of metastatic cancer toward the bone matrix. These findings reveal the protective role of osteocytes against cancer metastasis by transferring mitochondria to cancer cells and potentially offer a valuable therapeutic strategy for preventing bone metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Zhou
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wenkan Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hengyuan Li
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, China
| | - Fan Xu
- Department of Dermatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Eloy Yinwang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yucheng Xue
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tao Chen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shengdong Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zenan Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hangxiang Sun
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fangqian Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haochen Mou
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Minjun Yao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xupeng Chai
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiahao Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mohamed Diaty Diarra
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Binghao Li
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, China
| | - Changqing Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Junjie Gao
- Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200233, China
- Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Fujian, No. 16, Luoshan Section, Jinguang Road, Luoshan Street, Jinjiang City, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Zhaoming Ye
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310009, China
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Pinjusic K, Ambrosini G, Lourenco J, Fournier N, Iseli C, Guex N, Egorova O, Nassiri S, Constam DB. Inhibition of anti-tumor immunity by melanoma cell-derived Activin-A depends on STING. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1335207. [PMID: 38304252 PMCID: PMC10830842 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1335207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family member activin A (hereafter Activin-A) is overexpressed in many cancer types, often correlating with cancer-associated cachexia and poor prognosis. Activin-A secretion by melanoma cells indirectly impedes CD8+ T cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity and promotes resistance to immunotherapies, even though Activin-A can be proinflammatory in other contexts. To identify underlying mechanisms, we here analyzed the effect of Activin-A on syngeneic grafts of Braf mutant YUMM3.3 mouse melanoma cells and on their microenvironment using single-cell RNA sequencing. We found that the Activin-A-induced immune evasion was accompanied by a proinflammatory interferon signature across multiple cell types, and that the associated increase in tumor growth depended at least in part on pernicious STING activity within the melanoma cells. Besides corroborating a role for proinflammatory signals in facilitating immune evasion, our results suggest that STING holds considerable potential as a therapeutic target to mitigate tumor-promoting Activin-A signaling at least in melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Pinjusic
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), SV ISREC, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Giovanna Ambrosini
- Bioinformatics Competence Center, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Bioinformatics Competence Center, Université de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Joao Lourenco
- Translational Data Science Facility, Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, AGORA Cancer Research Center, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nadine Fournier
- Translational Data Science Facility, Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, AGORA Cancer Research Center, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Christian Iseli
- Bioinformatics Competence Center, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Bioinformatics Competence Center, Université de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Guex
- Bioinformatics Competence Center, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Bioinformatics Competence Center, Université de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Olga Egorova
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), SV ISREC, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sina Nassiri
- Translational Data Science Facility, Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, AGORA Cancer Research Center, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Daniel B Constam
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), SV ISREC, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Saulters EL, Kennedy PT, Carter RJ, Alsufyani A, Jones TM, Woolley JF, Dahal LN. Differential Regulation of the STING Pathway in Human Papillomavirus-Positive and -Negative Head and Neck Cancers. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:118-133. [PMID: 38147007 PMCID: PMC10793589 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinomas, which arise from the cells that line the mucosal surfaces of the head and neck, represent the most common type of head and neck cancers (HNSCC). Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been strongly associated with the development of oropharyngeal cancers, which are cancers that occur in the back of the throat, including the tonsils and base of the tongue. HNSCCs with and without HPV infection have distinct pathology, with HPV-positive patients having higher levels of immune infiltration, activation in the tumor microenvironment and better response to radiation and chemotherapy. It is, however, unclear whether HPV infection in HNSCCs has the potential to activate innate-immune sensing pathways and if these cancers possess intrinsic immunogenicity associated with HPV infection. Here we investigate the innate immune stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway and immune responses to STING activation in HNSCCs and uncover fundamental differences in the regulation of this pathway in cell lines versus primary human clinical specimens. We show that while STING is differentially expressed in HPV-positive and -negative HNSCC cell lines, they exhibit a gross functional defect in signaling through this pathway. However, STING activation in immune cell populations generated immune signatures predicted to elicit useful tumoricidal mechanisms. In contrast, IHC analysis of human tissue microarrays revealed enhanced STING expression in HPV-related tumors and high intratumoral expression of STING correlated with increased survival. SIGNIFICANCE STING is an important innate immune sensor of cytosolic DNA, inducing essential antiviral and antitumoral responses. This research shows that STING expression is enhanced in HPV-positive HNSCC patient tissue, with high intratumoral STING expression correlating with increased survival. In addition, STING activation in immune cell populations augmented antitumoral effects against HNSCCs, suggesting patients may benefit from the use of STING agonists in combination with traditional therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L. Saulters
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Paul T. Kennedy
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel J. Carter
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Abdullah Alsufyani
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Terence M. Jones
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - John F. Woolley
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Lekh N. Dahal
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Mardjuki R, Wang S, Carozza JA, Abhiraman GC, Lyu X, Li L. Identification of extracellular membrane protein ENPP3 as a major cGAMP hydrolase, cementing cGAMP's role as an immunotransmitter. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.12.575449. [PMID: 38260585 PMCID: PMC10802559 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.12.575449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
cGAMP is a second messenger that is synthesized in the cytosol upon detection of cytosolic dsDNA and passed between cells to facilitate downstream immune signaling. ENPP1, an extracellular enzyme, was the only metazoan cGAMP hydrolase known to regulate cGAMP levels to dampen anti-cancer immunity. Here, we uncover ENPP3 as the second and only other metazoan cGAMP hydrolase under homeostatic conditions. ENPP3 has a tissue expression pattern distinct from that of ENPP1 and accounts for all remaining cGAMP hydrolysis activity in mice lacking ENPP1. Importantly, we also show that as with ENPP1, selectively abolishing ENPP3's cGAMP hydrolase activity results in diminished cancer growth and metastasis of certain tumor types. Both ENPP1 and ENPP3 are extracellular enzymes, suggesting the dominant role that extracellular cGAMP must play as a mediator of cell-cell innate immune communication. Our work clearly shows that ENPP1 and ENPP3 non-redundantly dampen extracellular cGAMP-STING signaling, pointing to ENPP3 as a new target for cancer immunotherapy.
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Chen X, Xu Z, Li T, Thakur A, Wen Y, Zhang K, Liu Y, Liang Q, Liu W, Qin JJ, Yan Y. Nanomaterial-encapsulated STING agonists for immune modulation in cancer therapy. Biomark Res 2024; 12:2. [PMID: 38185685 PMCID: PMC10773049 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-023-00551-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The cGAS-STING signaling pathway has emerged as a critical mediator of innate immune responses, playing a crucial role in improving antitumor immunity through immune effector responses. Targeting the cGAS-STING pathway holds promise for overcoming immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments (TME) and promoting effective tumor elimination. However, systemic administration of current STING agonists faces challenges related to low bioavailability and potential adverse effects, thus limiting their clinical applicability. Recently, nanotechnology-based strategies have been developed to modulate TMEs for robust immunotherapeutic responses. The encapsulation and delivery of STING agonists within nanoparticles (STING-NPs) present an attractive avenue for antitumor immunotherapy. This review explores a range of nanoparticles designed to encapsulate STING agonists, highlighting their benefits, including favorable biocompatibility, improved tumor penetration, and efficient intracellular delivery of STING agonists. The review also summarizes the immunomodulatory impacts of STING-NPs on the TME, including enhanced secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, dendritic cell activation, cytotoxic T cell priming, macrophage re-education, and vasculature normalization. Furthermore, the review offers insights into co-delivered nanoplatforms involving STING agonists alongside antitumor agents such as chemotherapeutic compounds, immune checkpoint inhibitors, antigen peptides, and other immune adjuvants. These platforms demonstrate remarkable versatility in inducing immunogenic responses within the TME, ultimately amplifying the potential for antitumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhijie Xu
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Tongfei Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, 442000, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Abhimanyu Thakur
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, 60637, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Yu Wen
- National Engineering Research Center of Personalized Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, Furong Laboratory, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Kui Zhang
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, 60637, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Yuanhong Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qiuju Liang
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wangrui Liu
- Department of Interventional Oncology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200127, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jiang-Jiang Qin
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 310022, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yuanliang Yan
- Department of Pharmacy, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 410008, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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Wang Y, Liu F, Du X, Shi J, Yu R, Li S, Na R, Zhao Y, Zhou M, Guo Y, Cheng L, Wang G, Zheng T. Combination of Anti-PD-1 and Electroacupuncture Induces a Potent Antitumor Immune Response in Microsatellite-Stable Colorectal Cancer. Cancer Immunol Res 2024; 12:26-35. [PMID: 37956404 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-0309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) inhibitors are ineffective against microsatellite-stable (MSS) colorectal cancer. Electroacupuncture (EA) has oncosuppressive and immunomodulatory properties. Here, we investigated the antitumor effects of EA and explored the feasibility of EA combined with anti-PD-1 in MSS colorectal cancer. Results showed that EA exerted its antitumor effect in an intensity-specific manner, and moderate-intensity EA (1.0 mA) induced maximal tumor inhibition. EA enhanced antitumor immune responses by increasing lymphocytes and granzyme B (GzmB) levels, as well as activating the stimulator of IFN genes (STING) pathway. EA combined with anti-PD-1 showed superior efficacy compared with either monotherapy in multiple MSS colorectal cancer mouse models. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that cotreatment reprogrammed the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), as characterized by enhancement of cytotoxic functions. Mechanically, we found that the potentiated effect of EA was dependent upon the STING pathway. Collectively, EA reshapes the TIME of MSS colorectal cancer and sensitizes tumors to anti-PD-1 in a STING pathway-dependent manner. These results provide a mechanistic rationale for using EA as an immunomodulatory strategy to improve the clinical efficacy of anti-PD-1 in MSS colorectal cancer. EA is safe, well-tolerated, and feasible for clinical translation as a promising strategy for treating MSS colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Fengyi Liu
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoxue Du
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Jiaqi Shi
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Rui Yu
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Shuang Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Ruisi Na
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Ying Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Meng Zhou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Ying Guo
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Liang Cheng
- College of Bioinformatics Science and Technology, NHC Key Laboratory of Molecular Probe and Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Guangyu Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
| | - Tongsen Zheng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Department of Phase 1 Trials Center, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Harbin, P. R. China
- Heilongjiang Cancer Institute, Harbin, P. R. China
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Zhang J, Yu S, Peng Q, Wang P, Fang L. Emerging mechanisms and implications of cGAS-STING signaling in cancer immunotherapy strategies. Cancer Biol Med 2024; 21:j.issn.2095-3941.2023.0440. [PMID: 38172538 PMCID: PMC10875285 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2023.0440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The intricate interplay between the human immune system and cancer development underscores the central role of immunotherapy in cancer treatment. Within this landscape, the innate immune system, a critical sentinel protecting against tumor incursion, is a key player. The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) and stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway has been found to be a linchpin of innate immunity: activation of this signaling pathway orchestrates the production of type I interferon (IFN-α/β), thus fostering the maturation, differentiation, and mobilization of immune effectors in the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, STING activation facilitates the release and presentation of tumor antigens, and therefore is an attractive target for cancer immunotherapy. Current strategies to activate the STING pathway, including use of pharmacological agonists, have made substantial advancements, particularly when combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors. These approaches have shown promise in preclinical and clinical settings, by enhancing patient survival rates. This review describes the evolving understanding of the cGAS-STING pathway's involvement in tumor biology and therapy. Moreover, this review explores classical and non-classical STING agonists, providing insights into their mechanisms of action and potential for optimizing immunotherapy strategies. Despite challenges and complexities, the cGAS-STING pathway, a promising avenue for enhancing cancer treatment efficacy, has the potential to revolutionize patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawen Zhang
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Sihui Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Qiao Peng
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Lan Fang
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
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Chang H, Li Z, Zhang W, Lin C, Shen Y, Zhang G, Mao L, Ma C, Liu N, Lu H. Transfer of cGAMP from neuron to microglia activates microglial type I interferon responses after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:3. [PMID: 38169382 PMCID: PMC10763285 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01362-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a type of acute stroke, accounting for approximately 10% of cases, with high disability and mortality rate. Early brain injury (EBI) is a critical factor in determining SAH mortality; however, there are no effective treatment interventions for EBI. Based on our results, the transmission of cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) from neurons to microglia is a key molecular event that triggers type I interferon response, amplifies neuroinflammation, and leads to neuronal apoptosis. Abnormal intracytoplasmic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is the initiating factor of the cGAS-cGAMP-STING signaling axis. Overall, the cGAS-cGAMP-STING signaling axis is closely associated with neuroinflammation after subarachnoid hemorrhage. Targeting cGAS triggered by cytoplasmic mtDNA may be useful for comprehensive clinical treatment of patients after SAH. Further studies targeting cGAS-specific antagonists for treating SAH are warranted. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanxiao Chang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weiwei Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Third Medical Center of Chinese, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100000, China
| | - Chao Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuqi Shen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guangjian Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lei Mao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chencheng Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Hua Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jiangsu Province Hospital and Nanjing Medical University First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China.
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Zhang S, Song D, Yu W, Li J, Wang X, Li Y, Zhao Z, Xue Q, Zhao J, Li JP, Guo Z. Combining cisplatin and a STING agonist into one molecule for metalloimmunotherapy of cancer. Natl Sci Rev 2024; 11:nwae020. [PMID: 38332843 PMCID: PMC10852989 DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwae020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Mounting evidence suggests that strategies combining DNA-damaging agents and stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists are promising cancer therapeutic regimens because they can amplify STING activation and remodel the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. However, a single molecular entity comprising both agents has not yet been developed. Herein, we designed two PtIV-MSA-2 conjugates (I and II) containing the DNA-damaging chemotherapeutic drug cisplatin and the innate immune-activating STING agonist MSA-2; these conjugates showed great potential as multispecific small-molecule drugs against pancreatic cancer. Mechanistic studies revealed that conjugate I upregulated the expression of transcripts associated with innate immunity and metabolism in cancer cells, significantly differing from cisplatin and MSA-2. An analysis of the tumor microenvironment demonstrated that conjugate I could enhance the infiltration of natural killer (NK) cells into tumors and promote the activation of T cells, NK cells and dendritic cells in tumor tissues. These findings indicated that conjugate I, which was created by incorporating a Pt chemotherapeutic drug and STING agonist into one molecule, is a promising and potent anticancer drug candidate, opening new avenues for small-molecule-based cancer metalloimmunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuren Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Dongfan Song
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Wenhao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Ji Li
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Yachao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zihan Zhao
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Qi Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
- Nanchuang (Jiangsu) Institute of Chemistry and Health, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Jie P Li
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zijian Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Chemistry and Biomedicine Innovation Center (ChemBIC), Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
- Nanchuang (Jiangsu) Institute of Chemistry and Health, Nanjing 210023, China
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Reghu G, Vemula PK, Bhat SG, Narayanan S. Harnessing the innate immune system by revolutionizing macrophage-mediated cancer immunotherapy. J Biosci 2024; 49:63. [PMID: 38864238 PMCID: PMC11286319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy is a promising and safer alternative to conventional cancer therapies. It involves adaptive T-cell therapy, cancer vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) based therapies. However, most of these modalities encounter restrictions in solid tumours owing to a dense, highly hypoxic and immune-suppressive microenvironment as well as the heterogeneity of tumour antigens. The elevated intra-tumoural pressure and mutational rates within fastgrowing solid tumours present challenges in efficient drug targeting and delivery. The tumour microenvironment is a dynamic niche infiltrated by a variety of immune cells, most of which are macrophages. Since they form a part of the innate immune system, targeting macrophages has become a plausible immunotherapeutic approach. In this review, we discuss several versatile approaches (both at pre-clinical and clinical stages) such as the direct killing of tumour-associated macrophages, reprogramming pro-tumour macrophages to anti-tumour phenotypes, inhibition of macrophage recruitment into the tumour microenvironment, novel CAR macrophages, and genetically engineered macrophages that have been devised thus far. These strategies comprise a strong and adaptable macrophage-toolkit in the ongoing fight against cancer and by understanding their significance, we may unlock the full potential of these immune cells in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayatri Reghu
- Department of Biotechnology, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi 682 022, India
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Hasan A, Khan NA, Uddin S, Khan AQ, Steinhoff M. Deregulated transcription factors in the emerging cancer hallmarks. Semin Cancer Biol 2024; 98:31-50. [PMID: 38123029 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Cancer progression is a multifaceted process that entails several stages and demands the persistent expression or activation of transcription factors (TFs) to facilitate growth and survival. TFs are a cluster of proteins with DNA-binding domains that attach to promoter or enhancer DNA strands to start the transcription of genes by collaborating with RNA polymerase and other supporting proteins. They are generally acknowledged as the major regulatory molecules that coordinate biological homeostasis and the appropriate functioning of cellular components, subsequently contributing to human physiology. TFs proteins are crucial for controlling transcription during the embryonic stage and development, and the stability of different cell types depends on how they function in different cell types. The development and progression of cancer cells and tumors might be triggered by any anomaly in transcription factor function. It has long been acknowledged that cancer development is accompanied by the dysregulated activity of TF alterations which might result in faulty gene expression. Recent studies have suggested that dysregulated transcription factors play a major role in developing various human malignancies by altering and rewiring metabolic processes, modifying the immune response, and triggering oncogenic signaling cascades. This review emphasizes the interplay between TFs involved in metabolic and epigenetic reprogramming, evading immune attacks, cellular senescence, and the maintenance of cancer stemness in cancerous cells. The insights presented herein will facilitate the development of innovative therapeutic modalities to tackle the dysregulated transcription factors underlying cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adria Hasan
- Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory, Integral Information and Research Centre-4 (IIRC-4), Integral University, Lucknow 226026, India; Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Lucknow 226026, India
| | - Naushad Ahmad Khan
- Department of Surgery, Trauma and Vascular Surgery Clinical Research, Hamad General Hospital, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Biosciences, Integral University, Lucknow 226026, India; Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Abdul Q Khan
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar.
| | - Martin Steinhoff
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha 24144, Qatar; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA; College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
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Nguyen T, Chen PC, Pham J, Kaur K, Raman SS, Jewett A, Chiang J. Current and Future States of Natural Killer Cell-Based Immunotherapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Crit Rev Immunol 2024; 44:71-85. [PMID: 38618730 DOI: 10.1615/critrevimmunol.2024052486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphoid cells that exhibit high levels of cytotoxicity against NK-specific targets. NK cells also produce various cytokines, and interact with T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells to effectively serve as frontliners of the innate immune system. Produce various cytokines, and interact with T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells to effectively serve as frontliners of the innate immune system. Moreover, NK cells constitute the second most common immune cell in the liver. These properties have drawn significant attention towards leveraging NK cells in treating liver cancer, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which accounts for 75% of all primary liver cancer and is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Notable anti-cancer functions of NK cells against HCC include activating antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity (ADCC), facilitating Gasdermin E-mediated pyroptosis of HCC cells, and initiating an antitumor response via the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. In this review, we describe how these mechanisms work in the context of HCC. We will then discuss the existing preclinical and clinical studies that leverage NK cell activity to create single and combined immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tu Nguyen
- UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine
| | - Po-Chun Chen
- Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, The Jane and Jerry Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, University of California School of Dentistry, 10833 Le Conte Ave, 90095 Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Janet Pham
- Department of Radiology, Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kawaljit Kaur
- Division of Oral Biology and Medicine The Jane and Jerry Weintraub Center of Reconstructive Biotechnology University of California School of Dentistry Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Steven S Raman
- Department of Radiology, Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; The Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA School of Dentistry and Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Anahid Jewett
- Division of Oral Biology and Medicine, The Jane and Jerry Weintraub Center for Reconstructive Biotechnology, University of California School of Dentistry, 10833 Le Conte Ave, 90095 Los Angeles, CA, USA; The Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA School of Dentistry and Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jason Chiang
- Department of Radiology, Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; The Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, UCLA School of Dentistry and Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Cossu C, Di Lorenzo A, Fiorilla I, Todesco AM, Audrito V, Conti L. The Role of the Toll-like Receptor 2 and the cGAS-STING Pathways in Breast Cancer: Friends or Foes? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:456. [PMID: 38203626 PMCID: PMC10778705 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer stands as a primary malignancy among women, ranking second in global cancer-related deaths. Despite treatment advancements, many patients progress to metastatic stages, posing a significant therapeutic challenge. Current therapies primarily target cancer cells, overlooking their intricate interactions with the tumor microenvironment (TME) that fuel progression and treatment resistance. Dysregulated innate immunity in breast cancer triggers chronic inflammation, fostering cancer development and therapy resistance. Innate immune pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) have emerged as crucial regulators of the immune response as well as of several immune-mediated or cancer cell-intrinsic mechanisms that either inhibit or promote tumor progression. In particular, several studies showed that the Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathways play a central role in breast cancer progression. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the role of TLR2 and STING in breast cancer, and we explore the potential to target these PRRs for drug development. This information will significantly impact the scientific discussion on the use of PRR agonists or inhibitors in cancer therapy, opening up new and promising avenues for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Cossu
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences–Molecular Biotechnology Center “Guido Tarone”, University of Turin, Piazza Nizza 44, 10126 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (A.D.L.)
| | - Antonino Di Lorenzo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences–Molecular Biotechnology Center “Guido Tarone”, University of Turin, Piazza Nizza 44, 10126 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (A.D.L.)
| | - Irene Fiorilla
- Department of Science and Technological Innovation (DISIT), University of Eastern Piedmont, 15121 Alessandria, Italy; (I.F.); (A.M.T.); (V.A.)
| | - Alberto Maria Todesco
- Department of Science and Technological Innovation (DISIT), University of Eastern Piedmont, 15121 Alessandria, Italy; (I.F.); (A.M.T.); (V.A.)
| | - Valentina Audrito
- Department of Science and Technological Innovation (DISIT), University of Eastern Piedmont, 15121 Alessandria, Italy; (I.F.); (A.M.T.); (V.A.)
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences–Molecular Biotechnology Center “Guido Tarone”, University of Turin, Piazza Nizza 44, 10126 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (A.D.L.)
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Zheng LW, Liu CC, Yu KD. Phase separations in oncogenesis, tumor progressions and metastasis: a glance from hallmarks of cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:123. [PMID: 38110976 PMCID: PMC10726551 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01522-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a novel principle for interpreting precise spatiotemporal coordination in living cells through biomolecular condensate (BMC) formation via dynamic aggregation. LLPS changes individual molecules into membrane-free, droplet-like BMCs with specific functions, which coordinate various cellular activities. The formation and regulation of LLPS are closely associated with oncogenesis, tumor progressions and metastasis, the specific roles and mechanisms of LLPS in tumors still need to be further investigated at present. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the conditions of LLPS and identify mechanisms involved in abnormal LLPS in cancer processes, including tumor growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis from the perspective of cancer hallmarks. We have also reviewed the clinical applications of LLPS in oncologic areas. This systematic summary of dysregulated LLPS from the different dimensions of cancer hallmarks will build a bridge for determining its specific functions to further guide basic research, finding strategies to intervene in LLPS, and developing relevant therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le-Wei Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Oncology, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Cui-Cui Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Oncology, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ke-Da Yu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Department of Oncology, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Bertuccio FR, Agustoni F, Galli G, Bortolotto C, Saddi J, Baietto G, Baio N, Montini S, Putignano P, D’Ambrosio G, Corsico AG, Pedrazzoli P, Stella GM. Pleural Mesothelioma: Treatable Traits of a Heterogeneous Disease. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5731. [PMID: 38136277 PMCID: PMC10741585 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15245731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Pleural mesothelioma is an aggressive disease with diffuse nature, low median survival, and prolonged latency presenting difficulty in prognosis, diagnosis, and treatment. Here, we review all these aspects to underline the progress being made in its investigation and to emphasize how much work remains to be carried out to improve prognosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Rocco Bertuccio
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapeutics, University of Pavia Medical School, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (F.R.B.); (F.A.); (G.G.); (N.B.); (S.M.); (P.P.); (A.G.C.); (P.P.)
- Cardiothoracic and Vascular Department, Unit of Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesco Agustoni
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapeutics, University of Pavia Medical School, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (F.R.B.); (F.A.); (G.G.); (N.B.); (S.M.); (P.P.); (A.G.C.); (P.P.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Giulia Galli
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapeutics, University of Pavia Medical School, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (F.R.B.); (F.A.); (G.G.); (N.B.); (S.M.); (P.P.); (A.G.C.); (P.P.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Chandra Bortolotto
- Diagnostic Imaging and Radiotherapy Unit, Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic, and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- Radiology Institute, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Jessica Saddi
- Department of Oncology, Clinical-Surgical, Unit of Radiation Therapy, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Guido Baietto
- Cardiothoracic and Vascular Department, Unit of Thoracic Surgery, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Nicola Baio
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapeutics, University of Pavia Medical School, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (F.R.B.); (F.A.); (G.G.); (N.B.); (S.M.); (P.P.); (A.G.C.); (P.P.)
- Cardiothoracic and Vascular Department, Unit of Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Simone Montini
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapeutics, University of Pavia Medical School, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (F.R.B.); (F.A.); (G.G.); (N.B.); (S.M.); (P.P.); (A.G.C.); (P.P.)
- Cardiothoracic and Vascular Department, Unit of Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Paola Putignano
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapeutics, University of Pavia Medical School, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (F.R.B.); (F.A.); (G.G.); (N.B.); (S.M.); (P.P.); (A.G.C.); (P.P.)
- Cardiothoracic and Vascular Department, Unit of Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Gioacchino D’Ambrosio
- Pathology Unit, Department of Diagnostical Services and Imaging, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Angelo G. Corsico
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapeutics, University of Pavia Medical School, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (F.R.B.); (F.A.); (G.G.); (N.B.); (S.M.); (P.P.); (A.G.C.); (P.P.)
- Cardiothoracic and Vascular Department, Unit of Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Paolo Pedrazzoli
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapeutics, University of Pavia Medical School, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (F.R.B.); (F.A.); (G.G.); (N.B.); (S.M.); (P.P.); (A.G.C.); (P.P.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Giulia Maria Stella
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Therapeutics, University of Pavia Medical School, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (F.R.B.); (F.A.); (G.G.); (N.B.); (S.M.); (P.P.); (A.G.C.); (P.P.)
- Cardiothoracic and Vascular Department, Unit of Respiratory Diseases, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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Hildreth AD, Padilla ET, Gupta M, Wong YY, Sun R, Legala AR, O'Sullivan TE. Adipose cDC1s contribute to obesity-associated inflammation through STING-dependent IL-12 production. Nat Metab 2023; 5:2237-2252. [PMID: 37996702 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-023-00934-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Obesity is associated with chronic low-grade white adipose tissue (WAT) inflammation that can contribute to the development of insulin resistance in mammals. Previous studies have identified interleukin (IL)-12 as a critical upstream regulator of WAT inflammation and metabolic dysfunction during obesity. However, the cell types and mechanisms that initiate WAT IL-12 production remain unclear. Here we show that conventional type 1 dendritic cells (cDC1s) are the cellular source of WAT IL-12 during obesity through analysis of mouse and human WAT single-cell transcriptomic datasets, IL-12 reporter mice and IL-12p70 protein levels by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We demonstrate that cDC1s contribute to obesity-associated inflammation by increasing group 1 innate lymphocyte interferon-γ production and inflammatory macrophage accumulation. Inducible depletion of cDC1s increased WAT insulin sensitivity and systemic glucose tolerance during diet-induced obesity. Mechanistically, endocytosis of apoptotic bodies containing self-DNA by WAT cDC1s drives stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-dependent IL-12 production. Together, these results suggest that WAT cDC1s act as critical regulators of adipose tissue inflammation and metabolic dysfunction during obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D Hildreth
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Eddie T Padilla
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Meha Gupta
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yung Yu Wong
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ryan Sun
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Akshara R Legala
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Timothy E O'Sullivan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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75
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Balzasch BM, Cerwenka A. Microenvironmental signals shaping NK-cell reactivity in cancer. Eur J Immunol 2023; 53:e2250103. [PMID: 37194594 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202250103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Since the postulation of the "missing-self" concept, much progress has been made in defining requirements for NK-cell activation. Unlike T lymphocytes that process signals from receptors in a hierarchic manner dominated by the T-cell receptors, NK cells integrate receptor signals more "democratically." Signals originate not only the downstream of cell-surface receptors triggered by membrane-bound ligands or cytokines, but are also mediated by specialized microenvironmental sensors that perceive the cellular surrounding by detecting metabolites or the availability of oxygen. Thus, NK-cell effector functions are driven in an organ and disease-dependent manner. Here, we review the latest findings on how NK-cell reactivity in cancer is determined by the reception and integration of complex signals. Finally, we discuss how this knowledge can be exploited to guide novel combinatorial approaches for NK-cell-based anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca M Balzasch
- Department of Immunobiochemistry, Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunosciences (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Adelheid Cerwenka
- Department of Immunobiochemistry, Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunosciences (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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76
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Gregorczyk M, Parkes EE. Targeting mitotic regulators in cancer as a strategy to enhance immune recognition. DNA Repair (Amst) 2023; 132:103583. [PMID: 37871511 DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2023.103583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Eukaryotic DNA has evolved to be enclosed within the nucleus to protect the cellular genome from autoinflammatory responses driven by the immunogenic nature of cytoplasmic DNA. Cyclic GMP-AMP Synthase (cGAS) is the cytoplasmic dsDNA sensor, which upon activation of Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING), mediates production of pro-inflammatory interferons (IFNs) and interferon stimulated genes (ISGs). However, although this pathway is crucial in detection of viral and microbial genetic material, cytoplasmic DNA is not always of foreign origin. It is now recognised that specifically in genomic instability, a hallmark of cancer, extranuclear material in the form of micronuclei (MN) can be generated as a result of unresolved DNA lesions during mitosis. Activation of cGAS-STING in cancer has been shown to regulate numerous tumour-immune interactions such as acquisition of 'immunologically hot' phenotype which stimulates immune-mediated elimination of transformed cells. Nonetheless, a significant percentage of poorly prognostic cancers is 'immunologically cold'. As this state has been linked with low proportion of tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), improving immunogenicity of cold tumours could be clinically relevant by exhibiting synergy with immunotherapy. This review aims to present how inhibition of vital mitotic regulators could provoke cGAS-STING response in cancer and improve the efficacy of current immunotherapy regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Gregorczyk
- Oxford Centre for Immuno-Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom
| | - Eileen E Parkes
- Oxford Centre for Immuno-Oncology, Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom.
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77
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Han Y, Zheng J, Ge L. Activated STING1 rides the Rafeesome. Autophagy 2023; 19:3230-3233. [PMID: 37543953 PMCID: PMC10621249 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2023.2240154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, accumulated studies have reported the presence of non-canonical macroautophagy/autophagy characterized by the shared usage of the autophagy machinery and distinct components that function in multiple scenarios but do not involve lysosomal degradation. One type of non-canonical autophagy is secretory autophagy, which facilitates the secretion of various cargoes. In a recent work from Gao et al. the ER-membrane protein STING1 has been identified as a novel substrate of secretory autophagy. The secretion of activated STING1 is mediated by its packing into the rafeesome, a newly identified organelle formed upon the fusion of RAB22A-mediated non-canonical autophagosome with an early endosome. Moreover, extracellular vesicles containing activated STING1 induce antitumor immunity in recipient cells, a process potentially promoted by RAB22A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaping Han
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University-Peking University Joint Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianfei Zheng
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University-Peking University Joint Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Liang Ge
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University-Peking University Joint Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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78
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Huang C, Shao N, Huang Y, Chen J, Wang D, Hu G, Zhang H, Luo L, Xiao Z. Overcoming challenges in the delivery of STING agonists for cancer immunotherapy: A comprehensive review of strategies and future perspectives. Mater Today Bio 2023; 23:100839. [PMID: 38024837 PMCID: PMC10630661 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
STING (Stimulator of Interferon Genes) agonists have emerged as promising agents in the field of cancer immunotherapy, owing to their excellent capacity to activate the innate immune response and combat tumor-induced immunosuppression. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of the strategies employed to develop effective formulations for STING agonists, with particular emphasis on versatile nano-delivery systems. The recent advancements in delivery systems based on lipids, natural/synthetic polymers, and proteins for STING agonists are summarized. The preparation methodologies of nanoprecipitation, self-assembly, and hydrogel, along with their advantages and disadvantages, are also discussed. Furthermore, the challenges and opportunities in developing next-generation STING agonist delivery systems are elaborated. This review aims to serve as a reference for researchers in designing novel and effective STING agonist delivery systems for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuiqing Huang
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
- Department of Ultrasound, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, 511400, China
| | - Ni Shao
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yanyu Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Jifeng Chen
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Duo Wang
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Genwen Hu
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
- Department of Radiology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen, 518020, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Interventional Vascular Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Dongguan, 523560, China
| | - Liangping Luo
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Zeyu Xiao
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
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79
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Li Y, Duan HY, Yang KD, Ye JF. Advancements and challenges in oncolytic virus therapy for gastrointestinal tumors. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115627. [PMID: 37812894 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumors of the gastrointestinal tract impose a substantial healthcare burden due to their prevalence and challenging prognosis. METHODS We conducted a review of peer-reviewed scientific literature using reputable databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) with a focus on oncolytic virus therapy within the context of gastrointestinal tumors. Our search covered the period up to the study's completion in June 2023. INCLUSION AND EXCLUSION CRITERIA This study includes articles from peer-reviewed scientific journals, written in English, that specifically address oncolytic virus therapy for gastrointestinal tumors, encompassing genetic engineering advances, combined therapeutic strategies, and safety and efficacy concerns. Excluded are articles not meeting these criteria or focusing on non-primary gastrointestinal metastatic tumors. RESULTS Our review revealed the remarkable specificity of oncolytic viruses in targeting tumor cells and their potential to enhance anti-tumor immune responses. However, challenges related to safety and efficacy persist, underscoring the need for ongoing research and improvement. CONCLUSION This study highlights the promising role of oncolytic virus therapy in enhancing gastrointestinal tumor treatments. Continued investigation and innovative combination therapies hold the key to reducing the burden of these tumors on patients and healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Li
- General Surgery Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China; School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hao-Yu Duan
- General Surgery Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Kai-di Yang
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jun-Feng Ye
- General Surgery Center, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.
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80
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Classen S, Petersen C, Borgmann K. Crosstalk between immune checkpoint and DNA damage response inhibitors for radiosensitization of tumors. Strahlenther Onkol 2023; 199:1152-1163. [PMID: 37420037 PMCID: PMC10674014 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-023-02103-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This review article is intended to provide a perspective overview of potential strategies to overcome radiation resistance of tumors through the combined use of immune checkpoint and DNA repair inhibitors. METHODS A literature search was conducted in PubMed using the terms ("DNA repair* and DNA damage response* and intracellular immune response* and immune checkpoint inhibition* and radio*") until January 31, 2023. Articles were manually selected based on their relevance to the topics analyzed. RESULTS Modern radiotherapy offers a wide range of options for tumor treatment. Radiation-resistant subpopulations of the tumor pose a particular challenge for complete cure. This is due to the enhanced activation of molecular defense mechanisms that prevent cell death because of DNA damage. Novel approaches to enhance tumor cure are provided by immune checkpoint inhibitors, but their effectiveness, especially in tumors without increased mutational burden, also remains limited. Combining inhibitors of both immune checkpoints and DNA damage response with radiation may be an attractive option to augment existing therapies and is the subject of the data summarized here. CONCLUSION The combination of tested inhibitors of DNA damage and immune responses in preclinical models opens additional attractive options for the radiosensitization of tumors and represents a promising application for future therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Classen
- Laboratory of Radiobiology and Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, Center of Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Cordula Petersen
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kerstin Borgmann
- Laboratory of Radiobiology and Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, Center of Oncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246, Hamburg, Germany.
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81
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Zhang S, Zeng Y, Wang K, Song G, Yu Y, Meng T, Yuan H, Hu F. Chitosan-based nano-micelles for potential anti-tumor immunotherapy: Synergistic effect of cGAS-STING signaling pathway activation and tumor antigen absorption. Carbohydr Polym 2023; 321:121346. [PMID: 37739513 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon gene (STING) signaling pathway is an essential DNA-sensing pathway to regulate the innate and adaptive immune response, which plays an important role in tumor immunotherapy. Although the STING agonists can be used, they are limited by their inability to target immune cells and systemic immunotoxicity, calling for novel strategies to accurately and effectively activate the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. Herein, mannose-modified stearic acid-grafted chitosan (M-CS-SA) micelles with the ability to activate the cGAS-STING signaling pathway and absorb tumor antigens were constructed. The chitosan-based nano-micelles showed valid dendritic cell (DCs) targeting and could escape from lysosomes leading to the activation of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway and the maturation of DCs. In addition, a combinatorial therapy was presented based on the programmed administration of oxaliplatin and M-CS-SA. M-CS-SA adsorbed tumor antigens released by chemotherapy to construct an autologous tumor vaccine and built a comprehensive antitumor immune response. In vivo, the combinatorial therapy achieved a tumor inhibition rate of 76.31 % at the oxaliplatin dose of 5 mg/kg and M-CS-SA dose of 15 mg/kg, and increased the CD3+ CD8+ T cell infiltration. This work demonstrated that M-CS-SA and its co-treatment with oxaliplatin showed great potential in tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shufen Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yingping Zeng
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Kai Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Guangtao Song
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yiru Yu
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Tingting Meng
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Hong Yuan
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Jinhua Institute of Zhejiang University, Jinhua 321299, China
| | - Fuqiang Hu
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Jinhua Institute of Zhejiang University, Jinhua 321299, China.
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82
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Liu Z, Wang D, Zhang J, Xiang P, Zeng Z, Xiong W, Shi L. cGAS-STING signaling in the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Lett 2023; 577:216409. [PMID: 37748723 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
The cGAS-STING signaling is an important pathway involved in the regulation of tumor microenvironment, which affects many cellular functions including immune activation. Its role in combating tumor progression is widely recognized, especially with its function in inducing innate and adaptive immune responses, on which many immunotherapies have been developed. However, a growing number of findings also suggest a diversity of its roles in shaping tumor microenvironment, including functions that promote tumor progression. Here, we summarize the functions of the cGAS-STING signaling in tumor microenvironment to maintain tumor survival and proliferation through facilitating the forming of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and discuss the current advances of STING-related immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqi Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Dan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jiarong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Pingjuan Xiang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zeng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Lei Shi
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Department of Pathology, the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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83
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Mathieu M, Budhu S, Nepali PR, Russell J, Powell SN, Humm J, Deasy JO, Haimovitz-Friedman A. Activation of STING in Response to Partial-Tumor Radiation Exposure. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 117:955-965. [PMID: 37244631 PMCID: PMC11334988 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the mechanisms involved in partial volume radiation therapy (RT)-induced tumor response. METHODS AND MATERIALS We investigated 67NR murine orthotopic breast tumors in Balb/c mice and Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC cells; WT, Crispr/Cas9 Sting KO, and Atm KO) injected in the flank of C57Bl/6, cGAS, or STING KO mice. RT was delivered to 50% or 100% of the tumor volume using a 2 × 2 cm collimator on a microirradiator allowing precise irradiation. Tumors and blood were collected at 6, 24, and 48 hours post-RT and assessed for cytokine measurements. RESULTS There is a significant activation of the cGAS/STING pathway in the hemi-irradiated tumors compared with control and to 100% exposed 67NR tumors. In the LLC model, we determined that an ATM-mediated noncanonical activation of STING is involved. We demonstrated that the partial exposure RT-mediated immune response is dependent on ATM activation in the tumor cells and on the STING activation in the host, and cGAS is dispensable. Our results also indicate that partial volume RT stimulates a proinflammatory cytokine response compared with the anti-inflammatory profile induced by 100% tumor volume exposure. CONCLUSIONS Partial volume RT induces an antitumor response by activating STING, which stimulates a specific cytokine signature as part of the immune response. However, the mechanism of this STING activation, via the canonical cGAS/STING pathway or a noncanonical ATM-driven pathway, depends on the tumor type. Identifying the upstream pathways responsible for STING activation in the partial RT-mediated immune response in different tumor types would improve this therapy and its potential combination with immune checkpoint blockade and other antitumor therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sadna Budhu
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, NY, USA
| | | | - James Russell
- Department of Medical Physics, New York City, NY, USA
| | | | - John Humm
- Department of Medical Physics, New York City, NY, USA
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84
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Zhao K, Huang J, Zhao Y, Wang S, Xu J, Yin K. Targeting STING in cancer: Challenges and emerging opportunities. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188983. [PMID: 37717857 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway is a key pathway through which the host regulates immune responses by recognizing cytoplasmic double-stranded DNA of abnormal origin, and it plays an important role in tumor growth as well as metastasis, with relevant molecular details constantly being explored and updated. The significant immunomodulatory effects make STING an attractive target for cancer immunotherapy, and STING agonists have been receiving great attention for their development and clinical translation. Despite exciting results in preclinical work, the application of STING agonists to cancer therapy remains challenging due to their poor pharmacokinetic and physicochemical properties, as well as toxic side effects they produce. Here, we summarize the dichotomous role of cGAS-STING in cancer and discuss the limitations of cancer immunotherapy based on STING activation as well as feasible strategies to overcome them to achieve tumor regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China; Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Jiaojiao Huang
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yue Zhao
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Shengjun Wang
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China; Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated People's Hospital, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
| | - Juan Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China.
| | - Kai Yin
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China.
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85
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Kong LZ, Kim SM, Wang C, Lee SY, Oh SC, Lee S, Jo S, Kim TD. Understanding nucleic acid sensing and its therapeutic applications. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:2320-2331. [PMID: 37945923 PMCID: PMC10689850 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01118-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid sensing is involved in viral infections, immune response-related diseases, and therapeutics. Based on the composition of nucleic acids, nucleic acid sensors are defined as DNA or RNA sensors. Pathogen-associated nucleic acids are recognized by membrane-bound and intracellular receptors, known as pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which induce innate immune-mediated antiviral responses. PRR activation is tightly regulated to eliminate infections and prevent abnormal or excessive immune responses. Nucleic acid sensing is an essential mechanism in tumor immunotherapy and gene therapies that target cancer and infectious diseases through genetically engineered immune cells or therapeutic nucleic acids. Nucleic acid sensing supports immune cells in priming desirable immune responses during tumor treatment. Recent studies have shown that nucleic acid sensing affects the efficiency of gene therapy by inhibiting translation. Suppression of innate immunity induced by nucleic acid sensing through small-molecule inhibitors, virus-derived proteins, and chemical modifications offers a potential therapeutic strategy. Herein, we review the mechanisms and regulation of nucleic acid sensing, specifically covering recent advances. Furthermore, we summarize and discuss recent research progress regarding the different effects of nucleic acid sensing on therapeutic efficacy. This study provides insights for the application of nucleic acid sensing in therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Zu Kong
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Min Kim
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Chunli Wang
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Yun Lee
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Chan Oh
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunyoung Lee
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| | - Seona Jo
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Korea
| | - Tae-Don Kim
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Korea.
- Biomedical Mathematics Group, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Convergence, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Republic of Korea.
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86
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Wang T, Liu W, Shen Q, Tao R, Li C, Shen Q, Lin Y, Huang Y, Yang L, Xie G, Bai J, Li R, Wang L, Tao K, Yin Y. Combination of PARP inhibitor and CDK4/6 inhibitor modulates cGAS/STING-dependent therapy-induced senescence and provides "one-two punch" opportunity with anti-PD-L1 therapy in colorectal cancer. Cancer Sci 2023; 114:4184-4201. [PMID: 37702298 PMCID: PMC10637067 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Although PARP inhibitor (PARPi) has been proven to be a promising anticancer drug in cancer patients harboring BRCA1/2 mutation, it provides limited clinical benefit in colorectal cancer patients with a low prevalence of BRCA1/2 mutations. In our study, we found PARPi talazoparib significantly induced cellular senescence via inhibiting p53 ubiquitination and activating p21. Furthermore, CDK4/6i palbociclib amplified this therapy-induced senescence (TIS) in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, talazoparib and palbociclib combination induced senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), and characterization of SASP components revealed type I interferon (IFN)-related mediators, which were amplified by cGAS/STING signaling. More importantly, RNA sequencing data indicated that combination therapy activated T cell signatures and combination treatment transformed the tumor microenvironment (TME) into a more antitumor state with increased CD8 T cells and natural killer (NK) cells and decreased macrophages and granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (G-MDSCs). Moreover, clearance of the TIS cells by αPD-L1 promoted survival in immunocompetent mouse colorectal cancer models. Collectively, we elucidated the synergistic antitumor and immunomodulatory mechanisms of the talazoparib-palbociclib combination. Further combination with PD-L1 antibody might be a promising "one-two punch" therapeutic strategy for colorectal cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhouChina
| | - Weizhen Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Qian Shen
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Ruikang Tao
- Center for Biomolecular Science and EngineeringUniversity of California Santa CruzSanta CruzCaliforniaUSA
| | - Chengguo Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Qian Shen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Yao Lin
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Yongzhou Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Lei Yang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Gengchen Xie
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Jie Bai
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Ruidong Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Lulu Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Technologies Enabling Development of Clinical Therapeutics and Diagnostics, School of PharmacyTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Kaixiong Tao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Yuping Yin
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
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87
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Meibers HE, Warrick KA, VonHandorf A, Vallez CN, Kawarizadeh K, Saha I, Donmez O, Jain VG, Kottyan LC, Weirauch MT, Pasare C. Effector memory T cells induce innate inflammation by triggering DNA damage and a non-canonical STING pathway in dendritic cells. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113180. [PMID: 37794597 PMCID: PMC10654673 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cognate interaction between CD4+ effector memory T (TEM) cells and dendritic cells (DCs) induces innate inflammatory cytokine production, resulting in detrimental autoimmune pathology and cytokine storms. While TEM cells use tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily ligands to activate DCs, whether TEM cells prompt other DC-intrinsic changes that influence the innate inflammatory response has never been investigated. We report the surprising discovery that TEM cells trigger double-strand DNA breaks via mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in interacting DCs. Initiation of the DNA damage response in DCs induces activation of a cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP)-AMP synthase (cGAS)-independent, non-canonical stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-TNF receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6)-nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling axis. Consequently, STING-deficient DCs display reduced NF-κB activation and subsequent defects in transcriptional induction and functional production of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and IL-6 following their interaction with TEM cells. The discovery of TEM cell-induced innate inflammation through DNA damage and a non-canonical STING-NF-κB pathway presents this pathway as a potential target to alleviate T cell-driven inflammation in autoimmunity and cytokine storms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah E Meibers
- Immunology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Center for Inflammation and Tolerance, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Kathrynne A Warrick
- Immunology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Center for Inflammation and Tolerance, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Andrew VonHandorf
- Center for Autoimmune Genetics and Etiology and Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Divisions of Biomedical Informatics and Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Charles N Vallez
- Immunology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Center for Inflammation and Tolerance, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Kiana Kawarizadeh
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, and Microbiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA; Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Center for Inflammation and Tolerance, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Irene Saha
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Center for Inflammation and Tolerance, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Omer Donmez
- Center for Autoimmune Genetics and Etiology and Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Divisions of Biomedical Informatics and Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Viral G Jain
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA
| | - Leah C Kottyan
- Center for Autoimmune Genetics and Etiology and Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Divisions of Biomedical Informatics and Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Matthew T Weirauch
- Center for Autoimmune Genetics and Etiology and Division of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Divisions of Biomedical Informatics and Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | - Chandrashekhar Pasare
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Center for Inflammation and Tolerance, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA.
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88
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Joo YK, Black EM, Trier I, Haakma W, Zou L, Kabeche L. ATR promotes clearance of damaged DNA and damaged cells by rupturing micronuclei. Mol Cell 2023; 83:3642-3658.e4. [PMID: 37788673 PMCID: PMC10599252 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
The human ataxia telangiectasia mutated and Rad3-related (ATR) kinase functions in the nucleus to protect genomic integrity. Micronuclei (MN) arise from genomic and chromosomal instability and cause aneuploidy and chromothripsis, but how MN are removed is poorly understood. Here, we show that ATR is active in MN and promotes their rupture in S phase by phosphorylating Lamin A/C at Ser395, which primes Ser392 for CDK1 phosphorylation and destabilizes the MN envelope. In cells harboring MN, ATR or CDK1 inhibition reduces MN rupture. Consequently, ATR inhibitor (ATRi) diminishes activation of the cytoplasmic DNA sensor cGAS and compromises cGAS-dependent autophagosome accumulation in MN and clearance of micronuclear DNA. Furthermore, ATRi reduces cGAS-mediated senescence and killing of MN-bearing cancer cells by natural killer cells. Thus, in addition to the canonical ATR signaling pathway, an ATR-CDK1-Lamin A/C axis promotes MN rupture to clear damaged DNA and cells, protecting the genome in cell populations through unexpected cell-autonomous and cell-non-autonomous mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Ki Joo
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; Yale Cancer Biology Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Black
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; Yale Cancer Biology Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Isabelle Trier
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; Yale Cancer Biology Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06516, USA
| | - Wisse Haakma
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Boston, MA 02129, USA
| | - Lee Zou
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, Boston, MA 02129, USA; Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Lilian Kabeche
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; Yale Cancer Biology Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06516, USA.
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89
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Wang X, Lin M, Zhu L, Ye Z. GAS-STING: a classical DNA recognition pathways to tumor therapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1200245. [PMID: 37920470 PMCID: PMC10618366 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1200245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclic GMP-AMP synthetase (cGAS), recognized as the primary DNA sensor within cells, possesses the capability to identify foreign DNA molecules along with free DNA fragments. This identification process facilitates the production of type I IFNs through the activator of the interferon gene (STING) which induces the phosphorylation of downstream transcription factors. This action characterizes the most archetypal biological functionality of the cGAS-STING pathway. When treated with anti-tumor agents, cells experience DNA damage that triggers activation of the cGAS-STING pathway, culminating in the expression of type I IFNs and associated downstream interferon-stimulated genes. cGAS-STING is one of the important innate immune pathways,the role of type I IFNs in the articulation between innate immunity and T-cell antitumour immunity.type I IFNs promote the recruitment and activation of inflammatory cells (including NK cells) at the tumor site.Type I IFNs also can promote the activation and maturation of dendritic cel(DC), improve the antigen presentation of CD4+T lymphocytes, and enhance the cross-presentation of CD8+T lymphocytes to upregulating anti-tumor responses. This review discussed the cGAS-STING signaling and its mechanism and biological function in traditional tumor therapy and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinrui Wang
- National Health Commission (NHC), Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-Human Primate, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Meijia Lin
- National Health Commission (NHC), Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-Human Primate, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Liping Zhu
- National Health Commission (NHC), Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-Human Primate, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Zhoujie Ye
- National Health Commission (NHC), Key Laboratory of Technical Evaluation of Fertility Regulation for Non-Human Primate, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Medical Research Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
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90
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Fan H, Liu W, Zeng Y, Zhou Y, Gao M, Yang L, Liu H, Shi Y, Li L, Ma J, Ruan J, Cao R, Jin X, Chen J, Cheng G, Yang H. DNA damage induced by CDK4 and CDK6 blockade triggers anti-tumor immune responses through cGAS-STING pathway. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1041. [PMID: 37833461 PMCID: PMC10575937 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05412-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
CDK4/6 are important regulators of cell cycle and their inhibitors have been approved as anti-cancer drugs. Here, we report a STING-dependent anti-tumor immune mechanism responsible for tumor suppression by CDK4/6 blockade. Clinical datasets show that in human tissues, CDK4 and CDK6 are over-expressed and their expressions are negatively correlated with patients' overall survival and T cell infiltration. Deletion of Cdk4 or Cdk6 in tumor cells significantly reduce tumor growth. Mechanistically, we find that Cdk4 or Cdk6 deficiency contributes to an increased level of endogenous DNA damage, which triggers the cGAS-STING signaling pathway to activate type I interferon response. Knockout of Sting is sufficient to reverse and partially reverse the anti-tumor effect of Cdk4 and Cdk6 deficiency respectively. Therefore, our findings suggest that CDK4/6 inhibitors may enhance anti-tumor immunity through the STING-dependent type I interferon response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Fan
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammation, Suzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Wancheng Liu
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yanqiong Zeng
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammation, Suzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215006, China
| | - Meiling Gao
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammation, Suzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Liping Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, No. 158 Shangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hao Liu
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammation, Suzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Suzhou, 215123, China
- Department of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, No. 24 Tongjiaxiang Road, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yueyue Shi
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammation, Suzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Lili Li
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammation, Suzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Jiayuan Ma
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammation, Suzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Jiayin Ruan
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammation, Suzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Suzhou, 215123, China
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Ruyun Cao
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammation, Suzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Suzhou, 215123, China
- Department of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, No. 24 Tongjiaxiang Road, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xiaoxia Jin
- The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong Tumor Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Jian Chen
- The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong Tumor Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Genhong Cheng
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Heng Yang
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammation, Suzhou Institute of Systems Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Suzhou, 215123, China.
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
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91
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Tian Z, Hu Q, Sun Z, Wang N, He H, Tang Z, Chen W. A Booster for Radiofrequency Ablation: Advanced Adjuvant Therapy via In Situ Nanovaccine Synergized with Anti-programmed Death Ligand 1 Immunotherapy for Systemically Constraining Hepatocellular Carcinoma. ACS NANO 2023; 17:19441-19458. [PMID: 37733578 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c08064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is one of the most common minimally invasive techniques for treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which could destroy tumors through hyperthermia and generate massive tumor-associated antigens (TAAs). However, residual malignant tissues or small satellite lesions are hard to eliminate, generally resulting in metastases and recurrence. Herein, an advanced in situ nanovaccine formed by layered double hydroxides carrying cGAMP (STING agonist) (LDHs-cGAMP) and adsorbed TAAs was designed to potentiate the RFA-induced antitumor immune response. As-prepared LDHs-cGAMP could effectively enter cancerous or immune cells, inducing a stronger type I interferon (IFN-I) response. After further adsorption of TAAs, nanovaccine generated sustained immune stimulation and efficiently promoted activation of dendritic cells (DCs). Notably, infiltrations of cytotoxic lymphocytes (CTLs) and activated DCs in tumor and lymph nodes were significantly enhanced after nanovaccine treatment, which distinctly inhibited primary, distant, and metastasis of liver cancer. Furthermore, such a nanovaccine strategy greatly changed the tumor immune microenvironment and promoted the response efficiency of anti-programmed death ligand 1 (αPD-L1) immunotherapy, significantly arresting the poorly immunogenic hepa1-6 liver cancer progression. These findings demonstrate the potential of nanovaccine as a booster for RFA in liver cancer therapy and provide a promising in situ cancer vaccination strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Tian
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Qitao Hu
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Zhouyi Sun
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Ning Wang
- Institute of Immunology, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, China
| | - Huiling He
- Department of Ultrasonography, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Zhe Tang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
- Department of Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, HangZhou, Zhejiang 310000, China
| | - Weiyu Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
- International Institutes of Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
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92
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Wang Z, Li H, Gou L, Li W, Wang Y. Antibody-drug conjugates: Recent advances in payloads. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:4025-4059. [PMID: 37799390 PMCID: PMC10547921 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibody‒drug conjugates (ADCs), which combine the advantages of monoclonal antibodies with precise targeting and payloads with efficient killing, show great clinical therapeutic value. The ADCs' payloads play a key role in determining the efficacy of ADC drugs and thus have attracted great attention in the field. An ideal ADC payload should possess sufficient toxicity, low immunogenicity, high stability, and modifiable functional groups. Common ADC payloads include tubulin inhibitors and DNA damaging agents, with tubulin inhibitors accounting for more than half of the ADC drugs in clinical development. However, due to clinical limitations of traditional ADC payloads, such as inadequate efficacy and the development of acquired drug resistance, novel highly efficient payloads with diverse targets and reduced side effects are being developed. This perspective summarizes the recent research advances of traditional and novel ADC payloads with main focuses on the structure-activity relationship studies, co-crystal structures, and designing strategies, and further discusses the future research directions of ADC payloads. This review also aims to provide valuable references and future directions for the development of novel ADC payloads that will have high efficacy, low toxicity, adequate stability, and abilities to overcome drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhijia Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu 610212, China
| | - Hanxuan Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Lantu Gou
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Yuxi Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Targeted Tracer Research and Development Laboratory, Institute of Respiratory Health, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Precision Medicine Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province & Precision Medicine Research Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu 610212, China
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93
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Lu X, Cheng H, Xu Q, Tan X. Encapsulation of STING Agonist cGAMP with Folic Acid-Conjugated Liposomes Significantly Enhances Antitumor Pharmacodynamic Effect. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2023; 38:543-557. [PMID: 33719535 DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2020.4085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: 2',3'-cGAMP (2',3'-cyclic AMP-GMP) has been reported as an agonist of the STING (stimulator of interferon genes) signaling pathway. However, cGAMP has poor membrane permeability and can be hydrolyzed by ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase (ENPP1), limiting its ability to activate the STING-IRF3 pathway. This study aimed to investigate that the folate-targeted liposomal cGAMP could overcome the defects of free cGAMP to enhance the antitumor effect. Materials and Methods: cGAMP was encapsulated in PEGylated folic acid-targeted liposomes to construct a carrier-delivered formulation. The particle size and morphology were detected by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy. The sustained-release ability was measured by drug release and pharmacokinetics. Animal models were applied to evaluate the tumor inhibition efficiency in vivo. Flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to detect the expression of immune cells, secreted cytokines, and target genes. The activation of the STING-IRF3 pathway was evaluated by immunofluorescence. Results: Physical characters of liposomes revealed that the prepared liposomes were stable in neutral humoral environments and released more internal drugs in acidic tumor tissues. Systemic therapy with liposomes on Colorectal 26 tumor-bearing mice in vivo effectively inhibited tumor growth via stimulating the expression of CD8+ T cells and reversed the immunosuppressed tumor microenvironment (TME). Conclusions: The study suggests that the folic acid-targeted cGAMP-loaded liposomes deliver drugs to the TME to enhance the STING agonist activity, improving the efficiency of tumor therapy via the cGAMP-STING-IRF3 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Lu
- Department of Chemistry, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Cheng
- Department of Chemistry, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiming Xu
- Department of Chemistry, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiangshi Tan
- Department of Chemistry, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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94
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Slavik KM, Kranzusch PJ. CBASS to cGAS-STING: The Origins and Mechanisms of Nucleotide Second Messenger Immune Signaling. Annu Rev Virol 2023; 10:423-453. [PMID: 37380187 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-virology-111821-115636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Host defense against viral pathogens is an essential function for all living organisms. In cell-intrinsic innate immunity, dedicated sensor proteins recognize molecular signatures of infection and communicate to downstream adaptor or effector proteins to activate immune defense. Remarkably, recent evidence demonstrates that much of the core machinery of innate immunity is shared across eukaryotic and prokaryotic domains of life. Here, we review a pioneering example of evolutionary conservation in innate immunity: the animal cGAS-STING (cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes) signaling pathway and its ancestor in bacteria, CBASS (cyclic nucleotide-based antiphage signaling system) antiphage defense. We discuss the unique mechanism by which animal cGLRs (cGAS-like receptors) and bacterial CD-NTases (cGAS/dinucleotide-cyclase in Vibrio (DncV)-like nucleotidyltransferases) in these pathways link pathogen detection with immune activation using nucleotide second messenger signals. Comparing the biochemical, structural, and mechanistic details of cGAS-STING, cGLR signaling, and CBASS, we highlight emerging questions in the field and examine evolutionary pressures that may have shaped the origins of nucleotide second messenger signaling in antiviral defense.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kailey M Slavik
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Philip J Kranzusch
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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95
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Wheeler OPG, Unterholzner L. DNA sensing in cancer: Pro-tumour and anti-tumour functions of cGAS-STING signalling. Essays Biochem 2023; 67:905-918. [PMID: 37534795 PMCID: PMC10539950 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20220241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
The DNA sensor cGAS (cyclic GMP-AMP synthase) and its adaptor protein STING (Stimulator of Interferon Genes) detect the presence of cytosolic DNA as a sign of infection or damage. In cancer cells, this pathway can be activated through persistent DNA damage and chromosomal instability, which results in the formation of micronuclei and the exposure of DNA fragments to the cytosol. DNA damage from radio- or chemotherapy can further activate DNA sensing responses, which may occur in the cancer cells themselves or in stromal and immune cells in the tumour microenvironment (TME). cGAS-STING signalling results in the production of type I interferons, which have been linked to immune cell infiltration in 'hot' tumours that are susceptible to immunosurveillance and immunotherapy approaches. However, recent research has highlighted the complex nature of STING signalling, with tumours having developed mechanisms to evade and hijack this signalling pathway for their own benefit. In this mini-review we will explore how cGAS-STING signalling in different cells in the TME can promote both anti-tumour and pro-tumour responses. This includes the role of type I interferons and the second messenger cGAMP in the TME, and the influence of STING signalling on local immune cell populations. We examine how alternative signalling cascades downstream of STING can promote chronic interferon signalling, the activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and the production of inflammatory cytokines, which can have pro-tumour functions. An in-depth understanding of DNA sensing in different cell contexts will be required to harness the anti-tumour functions of STING signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Otto P G Wheeler
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, U.K
| | - Leonie Unterholzner
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, U.K
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96
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Lu L, Yang C, Zhou X, Wu L, Hong X, Li W, Wang X, Yang Y, Cao D, Zhang A, Di W, Deng L. STING signaling promotes NK cell antitumor immunity and maintains a reservoir of TCF-1 + NK cells. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113108. [PMID: 37708030 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are cytotoxic innate lymphocytes that eradicate tumor cells. Inducing durable antitumor immune responses by NK cells represents a major priority of cancer immunotherapy. While cytosolic DNA sensing plays an essential role in initiating antitumor immunity, the role of NK cell-intrinsic STING signaling remains unclear. Here, we find that NK cell-intrinsic STING promotes antitumor responses and maintains a reservoir of TCF-1+ NK cells. In contrast, tumor cell-intrinsic cGAS and mtDNA are required for NK cell antitumor activity, indicating that tumor mtDNA recognition by cGAS partially triggers NK cell-intrinsic STING activation. Moreover, addition of cGAMP enables STING activation and type I interferon production in NK cells, thereby supporting the activation of NK cells in vitro. In humans, STING agonism promotes the expansion of TCF-1+ NK cells. This study provides insight into understanding how STING signaling drives NK cell antitumor immunity and the development of NK cell-based cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Lu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Chao Yang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xingyue Zhou
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Lingling Wu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xiaochuan Hong
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Wenwen Li
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xinran Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Yuanqin Yang
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Dongqing Cao
- Shanghai Institute of Immunology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ao Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Wen Di
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Liufu Deng
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
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97
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Heidegger S, Stritzke F, Dahl S, Daßler-Plenker J, Joachim L, Buschmann D, Fan K, Sauer CM, Ludwig N, Winter C, Enssle S, Li S, Perl M, Görgens A, Haas T, Orberg ET, Göttert S, Wölfel C, Engleitner T, Cortés-Ciriano I, Rad R, Herr W, Giebel B, Ruland J, Bassermann F, Coch C, Hartmann G, Poeck H. Targeting nucleic acid sensors in tumor cells to reprogram biogenesis and RNA cargo of extracellular vesicles for T cell-mediated cancer immunotherapy. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101171. [PMID: 37657445 PMCID: PMC10518594 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been associated with immune evasion and tumor progression. We show that the RNA-sensing receptor RIG-I within tumor cells governs biogenesis and immunomodulatory function of EVs. Cancer-intrinsic RIG-I activation releases EVs, which mediate dendritic cell maturation and T cell antitumor immunity, synergizing with immune checkpoint blockade. Intact RIG-I, autocrine interferon signaling, and the GTPase Rab27a in tumor cells are required for biogenesis of immunostimulatory EVs. Active intrinsic RIG-I signaling governs composition of the tumor EV RNA cargo including small non-coding stimulatory RNAs. High transcriptional activity of EV pathway genes and RIG-I in melanoma samples associate with prolonged patient survival and beneficial response to immunotherapy. EVs generated from human melanoma after RIG-I stimulation induce potent antigen-specific T cell responses. We thus define a molecular pathway that can be targeted in tumors to favorably alter EV immunomodulatory function. We propose "reprogramming" of tumor EVs as a personalized strategy for T cell-mediated cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Heidegger
- Department of Medicine III, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
| | - Florian Stritzke
- Department of Medicine III, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sarah Dahl
- Department of Medicine III, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Juliane Daßler-Plenker
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany; Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
| | - Laura Joachim
- Department of Medicine III, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Dominik Buschmann
- Division of Animal Physiology and Immunology, TUM School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Kaiji Fan
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Carolin M Sauer
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nils Ludwig
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Christof Winter
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Enssle
- Department of Medicine III, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Suqi Li
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Markus Perl
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - André Görgens
- Clinical Research Center, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden; Institute for Transfusion Medicine, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Tobias Haas
- Department of Medicine III, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Erik Thiele Orberg
- Department of Medicine III, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sascha Göttert
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Catherine Wölfel
- Internal Medicine III, University Cancer Center and Research Center for Immunotherapy, University Medical Center Johannes Gutenberg University and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Frankfurt/Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Thomas Engleitner
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Isidro Cortés-Ciriano
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - Roland Rad
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; Department of Medicine II, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Herr
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Bernd Giebel
- Institute for Transfusion Medicine, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jürgen Ruland
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Florian Bassermann
- Department of Medicine III, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christoph Coch
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany; Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Gunther Hartmann
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Hendrik Poeck
- Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany; Leibniz Institute for Immunotherapy (LIT), Regensburg, Germany; Center for Immunomedicine in Transplantation and Oncology (CITO), Regensburg, Germany.
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98
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He Y, Hong C, Huang S, Kaskow JA, Covarrubias G, Pires IS, Sacane JC, Hammond PT, Belcher AM. STING Protein-Based In Situ Vaccine Synergizes CD4 + T, CD8 + T, and NK Cells for Tumor Eradication. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300688. [PMID: 37015729 PMCID: PMC10964211 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling is a promising target in cancer immunotherapy, with many ongoing clinical studies in combination with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). Existing STING-based therapies largely focus on activating CD8+ T cell or NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity, while the role of CD4+ T cells in STING signaling has yet to be extensively studied in vivo. Here, a distinct CD4-mediated, protein-based combination therapy of STING and ICB as an in situ vaccine, is reported. The treatment eliminates subcutaneous MC38 and YUMM1.7 tumors in 70-100% of mice and protected all cured mice against rechallenge. Mechanistic studies reveal a robust TH 1 polarization and suppression of Treg of CD4+ T cells, followed by an effective collaboration of CD4+ T, CD8+ T, and NK cells to eliminate tumors. Finally, the potential to overcome host STING deficiency by significantly decreasing MC38 tumor burden in STING KO mice is demonstrated, addressing the translational challenge for the 19% of human population with loss-of-function STING variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanpu He
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
| | - Celestine Hong
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
| | - Shengnan Huang
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
| | - Justin A Kaskow
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
| | - Gil Covarrubias
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
| | - Ivan S Pires
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
| | - James C Sacane
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
| | - Paula T Hammond
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
| | - Angela M Belcher
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
- Department of Material Science and Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
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99
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Guan J, Li GM. DNA mismatch repair in cancer immunotherapy. NAR Cancer 2023; 5:zcad031. [PMID: 37325548 PMCID: PMC10262306 DOI: 10.1093/narcan/zcad031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumors defective in DNA mismatch repair (dMMR) exhibit microsatellite instability (MSI). Currently, patients with dMMR tumors are benefitted from anti-PD-1/PDL1-based immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy. Over the past several years, great progress has been made in understanding the mechanisms by which dMMR tumors respond to ICI, including the identification of mutator phenotype-generated neoantigens, cytosolic DNA-mediated activation of the cGAS-STING pathway, type-I interferon signaling and high tumor-infiltration of lymphocytes in dMMR tumors. Although ICI therapy shows great clinical benefits, ∼50% of dMMR tumors are eventually not responsive. Here we review the discovery, development and molecular basis of dMMR-mediated immunotherapy, as well as tumor resistant problems and potential therapeutic interventions to overcome the resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhong Guan
- Cuiying Biomedical Research Center, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, Gansu 730030, China
| | - Guo-Min Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
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100
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Kim Y, Cho NY, Jin L, Jin HY, Kang GH. Prognostic significance of STING expression in solid tumor: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1244962. [PMID: 37711192 PMCID: PMC10497868 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1244962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is a key regulator in initiating innate immune response from sensing cytosolic DNA. Recent studies have revealed that the cGAS-STING signaling pathway has a crucial role in tumor development and progression across cancer types. Herein, we conducted a meta-analysis to explore the relationship between the immunoexpression of STING and the survival outcome of patients in various solid tumors. Studies relevant to the subject were searched from PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Results Eleven studies including 2,345 patients were eligible for the analysis. STING expression in tumor cells was related to improved disease-free survival/recurrence-free survival (DFS/RFS) (HR = 0.656, 95% CI = 0.455-0.946, p = 0.024) but not with overall survival (OS) (HR = 0.779, 95% CI = 0.534-1.136, p = 0.194). STING expression in stromal cells, however, did not show significant correlation with DFS/RFS and OS (HR = 0.979, 95% CI = 0.565-1.697, p-value = 0.940 and HR = 1.295, 95% CI = 0.845-1.985, p = 0.235, respectively). In a subgroup analysis, STING expression in tumor cells was associated with better DFS (HR = 0.622, 95% CI = 0.428-0.903, p = 0.012). In tumor cells, favorable DFS/RFS were also related to studies from univariate analysis and the gastrointestinal system (HR = 0.667, 95% CI = 0.482-0.923, p = 0.015 and HR = 0.566, 95% CI = 0.330-0.971, p = 0.039). Conclusions STING expression in tumor cells is associated with favorable outcome in solid tumors. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, registration number: CRD42023427027.
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Affiliation(s)
- Younghoon Kim
- Department of Hospital Pathology, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam-Yun Cho
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Lingyan Jin
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Yeong Jin
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyeong Hoon Kang
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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