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He X, Wedn A, Wang J, Gu Y, Liu H, Zhang J, Lin Z, Zhou R, Pang X, Cui Y. IUPHAR ECR review: The cGAS-STING pathway: Novel functions beyond innate immune and emerging therapeutic opportunities. Pharmacol Res 2024; 201:107063. [PMID: 38216006 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is a crucial innate immune sensor responsible for distinguishing pathogens and cytosolic DNA, mediating innate immune signaling pathways to defend the host. Recent studies have revealed additional regulatory functions of STING beyond its innate immune-related activities, including the regulation of cellular metabolism, DNA repair, cellular senescence, autophagy and various cell deaths. These findings highlight the broader implications of STING in cellular physiology beyond its role in innate immunity. Currently, approximately 10 STING agonists have entered the clinical stage. Unlike inhibitors, which have a maximum inhibition limit, agonists have the potential for infinite amplification. STING signaling is a complex process that requires precise regulation of STING to ensure balanced immune responses and prevent detrimental autoinflammation. Recent research on the structural mechanism of STING autoinhibition and its negative regulation by adaptor protein complex 1 (AP-1) provides valuable insights into its different effects under physiological and pathological conditions, offering a new perspective for developing immune regulatory drugs. Herein, we present a comprehensive overview of the regulatory functions and molecular mechanisms of STING beyond innate immune regulation, along with updated details of its structural mechanisms. We discuss the implications of these complex regulations in various diseases, emphasizing the importance and feasibility of targeting the immunity-dependent or immunity-independent functions of STING. Moreover, we highlight the current trend in drug development and key points for clinical research, basic research, and translational research related to STING.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu He
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China; Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Abdalla Wedn
- School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, 5051 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Yanlun Gu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China; Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hongjin Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Juqi Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China; Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Zhiqiang Lin
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Renpeng Zhou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui 230601, China; Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT06519, USA.
| | - Xiaocong Pang
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China; Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, Beijing 100034, China.
| | - Yimin Cui
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China; Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, Beijing 100034, China.
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Wang Y, Liu Y, Zhang J, Peng Q, Wang X, Xiao X, Shi K. Nanomaterial-mediated modulation of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway for enhanced cancer immunotherapy. Acta Biomater 2024; 176:51-76. [PMID: 38237711 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.01.008] [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] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Despite the current promise of immunotherapy, many cancer patients still suffer from challenges such as poor immune response rates, resulting in unsatisfactory clinical efficacy of existing therapies. There is an urgent need to combine emerging biomedical discoveries and innovations in traditional therapies. Modulation of the cGAS-STING signalling pathway represents an important innate immunotherapy pathway that serves as a crucial DNA sensing mechanism in innate immunity and viral defense. It has attracted increasing attention as an emerging target for cancer therapy. The recent advancements in nanotechnology have led to the significant utilization of nanomaterials in cancer immunotherapy, owing to their exceptional physicochemical properties such as large specific surface area and efficient permeability. Given the rapid development of cancer immunotherapy driven by the cGAS-STING activation, this study reviews the latest research progress in employing nanomaterials to modulate this signaling pathway. Based on the introduction of the main activation mechanisms of cGAS-STING pathway, this review focuses on nanomaterials that mediate the agonists involved and effectively activate this signaling pathway. In addition, combination nanotherapeutics based on the activation of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway are also discussed, including emerging strategies combining nanoformulated agonists with chemotherapy, radiotherapy as well as other immunomodulation in tumor targeting therapy. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Given the rapid development of cancer immunotherapy driven by the cGAS / STING activation, this study reviews the latest research advances in the use of nanomaterials to modulate this signaling pathway. Based on the introduction of key cGAS-STING components and their activation mechanisms, this review focuses on nanomaterials that can mediate the corresponding agonists and effectively activate this signaling pathway. In addition, combination nanotherapies based on the activation of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway are also discussed, including emerging strategies combining nanoformulated agonists with chemotherapy, radiotherapy as well as immunomodulation in cancer therapy,.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaxin Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, PR China
| | - Yunmeng Liu
- College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, PR China
| | - Jincheng Zhang
- College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, PR China
| | - Qikai Peng
- College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, PR China
| | - Xingdong Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, PR China
| | - Xiyue Xiao
- College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, PR China
| | - Kai Shi
- College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, PR China.
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Khoo A, Boyer M, Jafri Z, Makeham T, Pham T, Khachigian LM, Floros P, Dowling E, Fedder K, Shonka D, Garneau J, O'Meara CH. Human Papilloma Virus Positive Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma and the Immune System: Pathogenesis, Immunotherapy and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2798. [PMID: 38474047 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), a subset of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), involves the palatine tonsils, soft palate, base of tongue, and uvula, with the ability to spread to adjacent subsites. Personalized treatment strategies for Human Papillomavirus-associated squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx (HPV+OPSCC) are yet to be established. In this article, we summarise our current understanding of the pathogenesis of HPV+OPSCC, the intrinsic role of the immune system, current ICI clinical trials, and the potential role of small molecule immunotherapy in HPV+OPSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Khoo
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Canberra Health Services, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - M Boyer
- Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Z Jafri
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - T Makeham
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Canberra Health Services, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- ANU School of Medicine & Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
| | - T Pham
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Canberra Health Services, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- ANU School of Medicine & Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
| | - L M Khachigian
- Vascular Biology and Translational Research, Department of Pathology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - P Floros
- St Vincent's Hospital, 390 Victoria Street, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - E Dowling
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - K Fedder
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - D Shonka
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - J Garneau
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - C H O'Meara
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Canberra Health Services, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- ANU School of Medicine & Psychology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
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Cao Y, Ding S, Hu Y, Zeng L, Zhou J, Lin L, Zhang X, Ma Q, Cai R, Zhang Y, Duan G, Bian XW, Tian G. An Immunocompetent Hafnium Oxide-Based STING Nanoagonist for Cancer Radio-immunotherapy. ACS NANO 2024; 18:4189-4204. [PMID: 38193384 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c09293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
cGAS-STING signaling plays a critical role in radiotherapy (RT)-mediated immunomodulation. However, RT alone is insufficient to sustain STING activation in tumors under a safe X-ray dose. Here, we propose a radiosensitization cooperated with cGAS stimulation strategy by engineering a core-shell structured nanosized radiosensitizer-based cGAS-STING agonist, which is constituted with the hafnium oxide (HfO2) core and the manganese oxide (MnO2) shell. HfO2-mediated radiosensitization enhances immunogenic cell death to afford tumor associated antigens and adequate cytosolic dsDNA, while the GSH-degradable MnO2 sustainably releases Mn2+ in tumors to improve the recognition sensitization of cGAS. The synchronization of sustained Mn2+ supply with cumulative cytosolic dsDNA damage synergistically augments the cGAS-STING activation in irradiated tumors, thereby enhancing RT-triggered local and system effects when combined with an immune checkpoint inhibitor. Therefore, the synchronous radiosensitization with sustained STING activation is demonstrated as a potent immunostimulation strategy to optimize cancer radio-immuotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhua Cao
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing 400038, P. R. China
| | - Shuaishuai Ding
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing 400038, P. R. China
| | - Yunping Hu
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing 400038, P. R. China
| | - Lijuan Zeng
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing 400038, P. R. China
| | - Jingrong Zhou
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing 400038, P. R. China
| | - Ling Lin
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing 400038, P. R. China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing 400038, P. R. China
| | - Qinghua Ma
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing 400038, P. R. China
| | - Ruili Cai
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing 400038, P. R. China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing 400038, P. R. China
| | - Guangjie Duan
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing 400038, P. R. China
| | - Xiu-Wu Bian
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing 400038, P. R. China
- Chongqing Institute of Advanced Pathology, Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing 401329, P. R. China
| | - Gan Tian
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunopathology Ministry of Education of China, Chongqing 400038, P. R. China
- Chongqing Institute of Advanced Pathology, Jinfeng Laboratory, Chongqing 401329, P. R. 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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Ding F, Liu J, Ai K, Xu C, Mao X, Liu Z, Xiao H. Simultaneous Activation of Pyroptosis and cGAS-STING Pathway with Epigenetic/ Photodynamic Nanotheranostic for Enhanced Tumor Photoimmunotherapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2306419. [PMID: 37796042 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202306419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Promoting innate immunity through pyroptosis induction or the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon gene (cGAS-STING) pathway activation has emerged as a potent approach to counteract the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and elicit systemic antitumor immunity. However, current pyroptosis inducers and STING agonists often suffer from limitations including instability, unpredictable side effects, or inadequate intracellular expression of gasdermin and STING. Here, a tumor-specific nanotheranostic platform that combines photodynamic therapy (PDT) with epigenetic therapy to simultaneously activate pyroptosis and the cGAS-STING pathway in a light-controlled manner is constructed. This approach involves the development of oxidation-sensitive nanoparticles (NP1) loaded with the photosensitizer TBE, along with decitabine nanomicelles (NP2). NP2 enables the restoration of STING and gasdermin E (GSDME) expression, while NP1-mediated PDT facilitates the release of DNA fragments from damaged mitochondria to potentiate the cGAS-STING pathway, and promotes the activation of caspase-3 to cleave the upregulated GSDME into pore-forming GSDME-N terminal. Subsequently, the released inflammatory cytokines facilitate the maturation of antigen-presentation cells, triggering T cell-mediated antitumor immunity. Overall, this study presents an elaborate strategy for simultaneous photoactivation of pyroptosis and the cGAS-STING pathway, enabling targeted photoimmunotherapy in immunotolerant tumors. This innovative approach holds significant promise in overcoming the limitations associated with existing therapeutic modalities and represents a valuable avenue for future clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feixiang Ding
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Engineering Research Center for Applied Technology of Pharmacogenomics of Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Junyan Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Kelong Ai
- Department of Pharmacology, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Chun Xu
- School of Dentistry, University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4006, Australia
| | - Xiaoyuan Mao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Engineering Research Center for Applied Technology of Pharmacogenomics of Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Zhaoqian Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Engineering Research Center for Applied Technology of Pharmacogenomics of Ministry of Education, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, China
| | - Haihua Xiao
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Laboratory of Polymer Physics and Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China
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Hu X, Li G, Li S, Wang Q, Wang Y, Zhang P, Yang T, Yang B, Yu L, Liu Z. TTK inhibition activates STING signal and promotes anti-PD1 immunotherapy in breast cancer. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 694:149388. [PMID: 38150917 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.149388] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Despite progress in the application of checkpoint immunotherapy against various tumors, attempts to utilize immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) agents in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) have yielded limited clinical benefits. The low overall response rate of checkpoint immunotherapy in TNBC may be attributed to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, we investigated the role of mitogen-associated kinase TTK in reprogramming immune microenvironment in TNBC. Notably, TTK inhibition by BAY-1217389 induced DNA damage and the formation of micronuclei containing dsDNA in the cytosol, resulting in elicition of STING signal pathway and promoted antitumor immunity via the infiltration and activation of CD8+ T cells. Moreover, TTK inhibition also upregulated the expression of PD-L1, demonstrating a synergistic effect with anti-PD1 therapy in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice. Taken together, TTK inhibition facilitated anti-tumor immunity mediated by T cells and enhanced sensitivity to PD-1 blockade, providing a rationale for the combining TTK inhibitors with immune checkpoint blockade in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Hu
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Guangmei Li
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Sisi Li
- Department of Breast Cancer, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, 400030, China
| | - Qiwei Wang
- Yangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yangzhou, 225007, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuerong Wang
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Western Theater Command Air Force Hospital of PLA, Chengdu, 610083, Sichuan, China
| | - Peidong Zhang
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Tianqiong Yang
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Nanchong Central Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 6091248, Sichuan, China
| | - Luoting Yu
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Zhihao Liu
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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Wang M, Cai Y, He T, Zhang Y, Yi L, Li W, Zhou P. Antitumor Effect of Platinum-Modified STING Agonist MSA-2. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:2650-2656. [PMID: 38250379 PMCID: PMC10795137 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c07498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
The stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-activated innate immune pathway is strong and durable for tumor immunotherapy. MSA-2 is an available non-nucleotide human STING agonist that promotes the tumor immunotherapy of STING activation. However, strategies for remolding and improving the immunotherapy effects of MSA-2 are of value for clinical applications. Here, we synthesized the platinum salt-modified MSA-2 (MSA-2-Pt) due to platinum salt being a classic chemotherapeutic drug. We found that MSA-2-Pt could achieve double-effect antitumor immunotherapy, including inducing cell death by platinum and activating the STING pathway by MSA-2. In the colon carcinoma MC38 model (sensitive to immune checkpoint immunotherapy tumor) and melanoma B16F10 model (poorly immunogenic and highly aggressive tumor), the MSA-2-Pt had a good antitumor effect, which was a little better than MSA-2 with intratumor injections. The results present a promising strategy for STING activation in tumor immunotherapy and broadening platinum-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo Wang
- Institute of Reproductive
Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226000, China
| | - Ya Cai
- Institute of Reproductive
Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226000, China
| | - Tian He
- Institute of Reproductive
Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226000, China
| | - Yuhang Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive
Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226000, China
| | - Lirong Yi
- Institute of Reproductive
Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226000, China
| | - Wenqing Li
- Institute of Reproductive
Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226000, China
| | - Peng Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive
Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226000, China
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Zhao M, Fan W, Wang Y, Qiang P, Zheng Z, Shan H, Zhang M, Liu P, Wang Y, Li G, Li M, Hong L. M335, a novel small-molecule STING agonist activates the immune response and exerts antitumor effects. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 264:116018. [PMID: 38091891 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116018] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
In the context of antitumor immune responses, the activation of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) assumes a critical role and imparts enhanced immunogenicity. An effective strategy for exogenously activating the immune system involves the utilization of STING agonists, and prior investigations primarily concentrated on modifying endogenous cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) to achieve this. Nevertheless, the practical utility of CDNs was restricted due to limitations associated with their physicochemical attributes and administration protocols. In this article, we present the discovery of a novel small-molecule agonist denoted as M335, identified through high-throughput screening using surface plasmon resonance (SPR). M335 demonstrates the ability to activate the TBK1-IRF3-IFN axis in a STING-dependent manner in vitro. Through experimentation on mouse models bearing tumors, we observed that the administration of M335 resulted in the activation of immune cells. Notably, significant antitumor effects were achieved with both intratumoral and intraperitoneal administration of M335. These findings suggest the potential of M335 as a promising agent for cancer immunotherapy, which will promote the development of STING agonists in anti-tumor applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Zhao
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Weizhen Fan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Ying Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Pengfei Qiang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Zhihua Zheng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Hao Shan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Pengyutian Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yao Wang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Guofeng Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Min Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Liang Hong
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Chiral Molecule and Drug Discovery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Design and Evaluation, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
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60
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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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61
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Caldwell SE, Janosko CP, Deiters A. Development of a light-activated STING agonist. Org Biomol Chem 2024; 22:302-308. [PMID: 38054844 DOI: 10.1039/d3ob01578e] [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] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
The STING pathway is critical to innate immunity and is being investigated as a potential therapeutic target. Existing agents targeting STING suffer from several undesirable effects, particularly the possibility of systematic activation, which increases the risk of autoimmune disorders. In this proof-of-concept study, we report the development of a light-activated STING agonist, based on the potent compound SR-717. We first screened the activity of the non-caged agonist toward 5 human STING variants to identify the most viable target. A photocaged agonist was designed and synthesized in order to block an essential interaction between the carboxy acid group of the ligand with the R238 residue of the STING protein. We then investigated the selective activation of STING with the photocaged agonist, demonstrating an irradiation-dependent response. The development and characterization of this selective agonist expands the growing toolbox of conditionally controlled STING agonists to avoid systematic immune activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven E Caldwell
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA.
| | - Chasity P Janosko
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA.
| | - Alexander Deiters
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA.
- Center for Systems Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
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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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Huang X, Huo L, Xiao B, Ouyang Y, Chen F, Li J, Zheng X, Wei D, Wu Y, Zhang R, Cao X, Kang T, Gao Y. Activating STING/TBK1 suppresses tumor growth via degrading HPV16/18 E7 oncoproteins in cervical cancer. Cell Death Differ 2024; 31:78-89. [PMID: 38007552 PMCID: PMC10781763 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-023-01242-w] [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: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer is the most common gynecologic cancer, etiologically related to persistent infection of human papillomavirus (HPV). Both the host innate immunity system and the invading HPV have developed sophisticated and effective mechanisms to counteract each other. As a central innate immune sensing signaling adaptor, stimulator of interferon genes (STING) plays a pivotal role in antiviral and antitumor immunity, while viral oncoproteins E7, especially from HPV16/18, are responsible for cell proliferation in cervical cancer, and can inhibit the activity of STING as reported. In this report, we find that activation of STING-TBK1 (TANK-binding kinase 1) promotes the ubiquitin-proteasome degradation of E7 oncoproteins to suppress cervical cancer growth. Mechanistically, TBK1 is able to phosphorylate HPV16/18 E7 oncoproteins at Ser71/Ser78, promoting the ubiquitination and degradation of E7 oncoproteins by E3 ligase HUWE1. Functionally, activated STING inhibits cervical cancer cell proliferation via down-regulating E7 oncoproteins in a TBK1-dependent manner and potentially synergizes with radiation to achieve better effects for antitumor. Furthermore, either genetically or pharmacologically activation of STING-TBK1 suppresses cervical cancer growth in mice, which is independent on its innate immune defense. In conclusion, our findings represent a new layer of the host innate immune defense against oncovirus and provide that activating STING/TBK1 could be a promising strategy to treat patients with HPV-positive cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
| | - Lanqing Huo
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
| | - Beibei Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
| | - Yi Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
| | - Foping Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
| | - Junyun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
| | - Xueping Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
| | - Denghui Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
| | - Yuanzhong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
| | - Ruhua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China
| | - Xinping Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China.
| | - Tiebang Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China.
| | - Ying Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510060, P. R. China.
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64
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Wang R, Hussain A, Guo Q, Ma M. cGAS-STING at the crossroads in cancer therapy. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 193:104194. [PMID: 37931770 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104194] [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: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA is highly immunogenic, both exogenous and endogenous DNA can activate the pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) and danger-associated molecular pattern (DAMP), respectively, and hence activate the evolutionarily conserved cGAS-STING pathway for inflammatory responses. The cGAS-STING signaling pathway plays a very important role in the pathogenesis and progression of neoplastic diseases. For cancer therapy, there are some discrepancies on whether cGAS-STING should be inhibited or activated. Deregulated cGAS-STING signaling pathway might be the origin and pathogenesis of tumor, understanding and modulating cGAS-STING signaling holds great promise for cancer therapy. In this review article, we discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying cGAS-STING deregulation, highlighting the tumor inhibiting and promoting roles and challenges with cGAS-STING agonists in the context of cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wang
- Department of Hematology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 215004 Suzhou, China; Department of Oncology, Suqian Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 223800 Suqian, China.
| | - Aashiq Hussain
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 119077 CSI, Singapore
| | - Quanquan Guo
- Department of Hematology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 215004 Suzhou, China; Department of Oncology, Suqian Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 223800 Suqian, China
| | - Meimei Ma
- Department of Pathology, Suqian Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 223800 Suqian, China
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65
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Li R, Chen L, He X, Cao D, Zhang Z, Jiang H, Chen K, Cheng X. Loops Mediate Agonist-Induced Activation of the Stimulator of Interferon Genes Protein. J Chem Inf Model 2023; 63:7373-7381. [PMID: 37831484 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.3c00984] [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: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is an important therapeutic target for cancer diseases. The activated STING recruits downstream tank-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) to trigger several important immune responses. However, the molecular mechanism of how agonist molecules mediate the STING-TBK1 interactions remains elusive. Here, we performed molecular dynamics simulations to capture the conformational changes of STING and TBK1 upon agonist binding. Our simulations revealed that multiple helices (α5-α7) and especially three loops (loop 6, loop 8, and C-terminal tail) of STING participated in the allosteric mediation of the STING-TBK1 interactions. Consistent results were also observed in the simulations of the constitutive activating mutant of STING (R284S). We further identified α5 as a key region in this agonist-induced activation mechanism of STING. Free-energy perturbation calculations of multiple STING agonists demonstrated that an alkynyl group targeting α5 is a determinant for agonist activities. These results not only offer deeper insights into the agonist-induced allosteric mediation of STING-TKB1 interactions but also provide a guidance for future drug development of this important therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Li
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Road, Nanjing 211198, China
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Lin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xinheng He
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.1 Yanqihu East Rd, Huairou District, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Duanhua Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zehong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hualiang Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Road, Nanjing 211198, China
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Kaixian Chen
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, 639 Longmian Road, Nanjing 211198, China
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.1 Yanqihu East Rd, Huairou District, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Xi Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.1 Yanqihu East Rd, Huairou District, Beijing 101408, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute of Advanced Study, No.1 Xiangshan Branch Lane, Hangzhou 310024, China
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66
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Jeon MJ, Lee H, Jo S, Kang M, Jeong JH, Jeong SH, Lee JY, Song GY, Choo H, Lee S, Kim H. Discovery of novel amidobenzimidazole derivatives as orally available small molecule modulators of stimulator of interferon genes for cancer immunotherapy. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 261:115834. [PMID: 37862818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115834] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists show promise as immunomodulatory agents for cancer therapy. In this study, we report the discovery of a novel orally available STING agonist, SAP-04, that exhibits potent immunomodulatory effects for cancer therapy. By optimizing the amidobenzimidazole core with various pyridine-based heterocyclic substituents, we identified a monomeric variant that displayed more efficient STING agonistic activity than the corresponding dimer. SAP-04 efficiently induced cytokine secretion related to innate immunity by directly binding of the compound to the STING protein, followed by sequential signal transduction for the STING signaling pathway and type I interferon (IFN) responses. Further pharmacological validation in vitro and in vivo demonstrated the potential utility of SAP-04 as an immunomodulatory agent for cancer therapy in vivo. The in vivo anticancer effect was observed in a 4T1 breast tumor syngeneic mouse model through oral administration of the compound. Our findings suggest a possible strategy for developing synthetically accessible monomeric variants as orally available STING agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Jae Jeon
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyelim Lee
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongman Jo
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea; Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Miso Kang
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea; Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Hyun Jeong
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - So Hyeon Jeong
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea; Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Joo-Youn Lee
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyu Yong Song
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunah Choo
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghee Lee
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea; Department for HY-KIST Bio-convergence, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyejin Kim
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea.
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Hu MM, Shu HB. Mitochondrial DNA-triggered innate immune response: mechanisms and diseases. Cell Mol Immunol 2023; 20:1403-1412. [PMID: 37932533 PMCID: PMC10687031 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-023-01086-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Various cellular stress conditions trigger mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) release from mitochondria into the cytosol. The released mtDNA is sensed by the cGAS-MITA/STING pathway, resulting in the induced expression of type I interferon and other effector genes. These processes contribute to the innate immune response to viral infection and other stress factors. The deregulation of these processes causes autoimmune diseases, inflammatory metabolic disorders and cancer. Therefore, the cGAS-MITA/STING pathway is a potential target for intervention in infectious, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases as well as cancer. In this review, we focus on the mechanisms underlying the mtDNA-triggered activation of the cGAS-MITA/STING pathway, the effects of the pathway under various physiological and pathological conditions, and advances in the development of drugs that target cGAS and MITA/STING.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Ming Hu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Research Unit of Innate Immune and Inflammatory Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China.
- Research Unit of Innate Immune and Inflammatory Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China.
| | - Hong-Bing Shu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Research Unit of Innate Immune and Inflammatory Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China.
- Research Unit of Innate Immune and Inflammatory Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, 430072, China.
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Xuan C, Hu R. Chemical Biology Perspectives on STING Agonists as Tumor Immunotherapy. ChemMedChem 2023; 18:e202300405. [PMID: 37794702 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202300405] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is a crucial adaptor protein in the innate immune response. STING activation triggers cytokine secretion, including type I interferon and initiates T cell-mediated adaptive immunity. The activated immune system converts "cold tumors" into "hot tumors" that are highly responsive to T cells by recruiting them to the tumor microenvironment, ultimately leading to potent and long-lasting antitumor effects. Unlike most immune checkpoint inhibitors, STING agonists represent a groundbreaking class of innate immune agonists that hold great potential for effectively targeting various cancer populations and are poised to become a blockbuster in tumor immunotherapy. This review will focus on the correlation between the STING signaling pathway and tumor immunity, as well as explore the impact of STING activation on other biological processes. Ultimately, we will summarize the development and optimization of STING agonists from a medicinal chemistry perspective, evaluate their potential in cancer therapy, and identify possible challenges for future advancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyuan Xuan
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, No 24, TongJiaXiang, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009, P. R. China
| | - Rong Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, No 24, TongJiaXiang, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210009, P. R. China
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69
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Elahi R, Hozhabri S, Moradi A, Siahmansouri A, Jahani Maleki A, Esmaeilzadeh A. Targeting the cGAS-STING pathway as an inflammatory crossroad in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2023; 45:639-649. [PMID: 37335770 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2023.2215405] [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: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE The emerging pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), has imposed significant mortality and morbidity on the world. An appropriate immune response is necessary to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 spread throughout the body. RESULTS During the early stages of infection, the pathway of stimulators of interferon genes (STING), known as the cGAS-STING pathway, has a significant role in the induction of the antiviral immune response by regulating nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and Interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3), two key pathways responsible for proinflammatory cytokines and type I IFN secretion, respectively. DISCUSSION During the late stages of COVID-19, the uncontrolled inflammatory responses, also known as cytokine storm, lead to the progression of the disease and poor prognosis. Hyperactivity of STING, leading to elevated titers of proinflammatory cytokines, including Interleukin-I (IL-1), IL-4, IL-6, IL-18, and tissue necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), is considered one of the primary mechanisms contributing to the cytokine storm in COVID-19. CONCLUSION Exploring the underlying molecular processes involved in dysregulated inflammation can bring up novel anti-COVID-19 therapeutic options. In this article, we aim to discuss the role and current studies targeting the cGAS/STING signaling pathway in both early and late stages of COVID-19 and COVID-19-related complications and the therapeutic potential of STING agonists/antagonists. Furthermore, STING agonists have been discussed as a vaccine adjuvant to induce a potent and persistent immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Elahi
- School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Salar Hozhabri
- School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Amirhosein Moradi
- School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Amir Siahmansouri
- School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | | | - Abdolreza Esmaeilzadeh
- Department of Immunology, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
- Cancer Gene Therapy Research Center (CGRC), Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
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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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71
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Tsukidate T, Hespen CW, Hang HC. Small molecule modulators of immune pattern recognition receptors. RSC Chem Biol 2023; 4:1014-1036. [PMID: 38033733 PMCID: PMC10685800 DOI: 10.1039/d3cb00096f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) represent a re-emerging class of therapeutic targets for vaccine adjuvants, inflammatory diseases and cancer. In this review article, we summarize exciting developments in discovery and characterization of small molecule PRR modulators, focusing on Toll-like receptors (TLRs), NOD-like receptors (NLRs) and the cGAS-STING pathway. We also highlight PRRs that are currently lacking small molecule modulators and opportunities for chemical biology and therapeutic discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taku Tsukidate
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Microbial Pathogenesis, The Rockefeller University, New York New York 10065 USA
| | - Charles W Hespen
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Microbial Pathogenesis, The Rockefeller University, New York New York 10065 USA
| | - Howard C Hang
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Microbial Pathogenesis, The Rockefeller University, New York New York 10065 USA
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology and Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla California 92037 USA
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72
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Lin C, Kuffour EO, Fuchs NV, Gertzen CGW, Kaiser J, Hirschenberger M, Tang X, Xu HC, Michel O, Tao R, Haase A, Martin U, Kurz T, Drexler I, Görg B, Lang PA, Luedde T, Sparrer KMJ, Gohlke H, König R, Münk C. Regulation of STING activity in DNA sensing by ISG15 modification. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113277. [PMID: 37864791 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Sensing of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) DNA is mediated by the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) signaling axis. Signal transduction and regulation of this cascade is achieved by post-translational modifications. Here we show that cGAS-STING-dependent HIV-1 sensing requires interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15). ISG15 deficiency inhibits STING-dependent sensing of HIV-1 and STING agonist-induced antiviral response. Upon external stimuli, STING undergoes ISGylation at residues K224, K236, K289, K347, K338, and K370. Inhibition of STING ISGylation at K289 suppresses STING-mediated type Ⅰ interferon induction by inhibiting its oligomerization. Of note, removal of STING ISGylation alleviates gain-of-function phenotype in STING-associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy (SAVI). Molecular modeling suggests that ISGylation of K289 is an important regulator of oligomerization. Taken together, our data demonstrate that ISGylation at K289 is crucial for STING activation and represents an important regulatory step in DNA sensing of viruses and autoimmune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaohui Lin
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Edmund Osei Kuffour
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Nina V Fuchs
- Host-Pathogen Interactions, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany
| | - Christoph G W Gertzen
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany; Center for Structural Studies (CSS), Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jesko Kaiser
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | | | - Xiao Tang
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Haifeng C Xu
- Department of Molecular Medicine II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Oliver Michel
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ronny Tao
- Institute for Virology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alexandra Haase
- Leibniz Research Laboratories for Biotechnology and Artificial Organs (LEBAO), Department of Cardiothoracic, Transplantation and Vascular Surgery (HTTG), Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany; REBIRTH-Research Center for Translational and Regenerative Medicine, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Ulrich Martin
- Leibniz Research Laboratories for Biotechnology and Artificial Organs (LEBAO), Department of Cardiothoracic, Transplantation and Vascular Surgery (HTTG), Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany; REBIRTH-Research Center for Translational and Regenerative Medicine, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany; Biomedical Research in Endstage and Obstructive Lung Disease (BREATH), Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas Kurz
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ingo Drexler
- Institute for Virology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Boris Görg
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Philipp A Lang
- Department of Molecular Medicine II, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Tom Luedde
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | | | - Holger Gohlke
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany; Institute of Bio- and Geosciences (IBG-4: Bioinformatics), Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, 52425 Jülich, Germany
| | - Renate König
- Host-Pathogen Interactions, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Langen, Germany
| | - Carsten Münk
- Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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73
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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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74
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Morita TY, Yu J, Kashima Y, Kamata R, Yamamoto G, Minamide T, Mashima C, Yoshiya M, Sakae Y, Yamauchi T, Hakozaki Y, Kageyama SI, Nakamura A, Lightcap E, Tanaka K, Niu H, Kannan K, Ohashi A. CDC7 inhibition induces replication stress-mediated aneuploid cells with an inflammatory phenotype sensitizing tumors to immune checkpoint blockade. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7490. [PMID: 37980406 PMCID: PMC10657413 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43274-3] [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: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Serine/threonine kinase, cell division cycle 7 (CDC7) is critical for initiating DNA replication. TAK-931 is a specific CDC7 inhibitor, which is a next-generation replication stress (RS) inducer. This study preclinically investigates TAK-931 antitumor efficacy and immunity regulation. TAK-931 induce RS, generating senescence-like aneuploid cells, which highly expressed inflammatory cytokines and chemokines (senescence-associated secretory phenotype, SASP). In vivo multilayer-omics analyses in gene expression panel, immune panel, immunohistochemistry, RNA sequencing, and single-cell RNA sequencing reveal that the RS-mediated aneuploid cells generated by TAK-931 intensively activate inflammatory-related and senescence-associated pathways, resulting in accumulation of tumor-infiltrating immune cells and potent antitumor immunity and efficacy. Finally, the combination of TAK-931 and immune checkpoint inhibitors profoundly enhance antiproliferative activities. These findings suggest that TAK-931 has therapeutic antitumor properties and improved clinical benefits in combination with conventional immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Yamamori Morita
- Division of Translational Genomics, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
| | - Jie Yu
- Oncology Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Development Center Americas (TDCA), Inc., Lexington, MA, USA
| | - Yukie Kashima
- Division of Translational Genomics, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
- Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ryo Kamata
- Division of Translational Genomics, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
| | - Gaku Yamamoto
- Division of Translational Genomics, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tatsunori Minamide
- Division of Translational Genomics, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Chiba, Japan
| | - Chiaki Mashima
- Division of Translational Genomics, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
| | - Miyuki Yoshiya
- Division of Translational Genomics, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yuta Sakae
- Division of Translational Genomics, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
| | - Toyohiro Yamauchi
- Division of Translational Genomics, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
- Department of Integrated Bioscience, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yumi Hakozaki
- Division of Translational Genomics, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
| | - Shun-Ichiro Kageyama
- Department of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Chiba, Japan
| | - Akito Nakamura
- Oncology Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Development Center Americas (TDCA), Inc., Lexington, MA, USA
| | - Eric Lightcap
- Oncology Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Development Center Americas (TDCA), Inc., Lexington, MA, USA
| | - Kosuke Tanaka
- Division of Translational Genomics, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan
| | - Huifeng Niu
- Oncology Translational Science., TDCA, Inc., Lexington, MA, USA
| | | | - Akihiro Ohashi
- Division of Translational Genomics, Exploratory Oncology Research & Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center, Chiba, Japan.
- Oncology Drug Discovery Unit, Takeda Development Center Americas (TDCA), Inc., Lexington, MA, USA.
- Department of Integrated Bioscience, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
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75
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Xie W, Lama L, Yang X, Kuryavyi V, Bhattacharya S, Nudelman I, Yang G, Ouerfelli O, Glickman JF, Jones RA, Tuschl T, Patel DJ. Arabinose- and xylose-modified analogs of 2',3'-cGAMP act as STING agonists. Cell Chem Biol 2023; 30:1366-1376.e7. [PMID: 37536341 PMCID: PMC10808274 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.07.002] [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: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists are promising candidates for vaccine adjuvants and antitumor immune stimulants. The most potent natural agonist of STING, 2',3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (2',3'-cGAMP), is subject to nuclease-mediated inherent metabolic instability, thereby placing limits on its clinical efficacy. Here, we report on a new class of chemically synthesized sugar-modified analogs of 2',3'-cGAMP containing arabinose and xylose sugar derivatives that bind mouse and human STING alleles with high affinity. The co-crystal structures demonstrate that such analogs act as 2',3'-cGAMP mimetics that induce the "closed" conformation of human STING. These analogs show significant resistance to hydrolysis mediated by ENPP1 and increased stability in human serum, while retaining similar potency as 2',3'-cGAMP at inducing IFN-β secretion from human THP1 cells. The arabinose- and xylose-modified 2',3'-cGAMP analogs open a new strategy for overcoming the inherent nuclease-mediated vulnerability of natural ribose cyclic nucleotides, with the additional benefit of high translational potential as cancer therapeutics and vaccine adjuvants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xie
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lodoe Lama
- Laboratory of RNA Molecular Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Xuejing Yang
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Vitaly Kuryavyi
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | - Ilona Nudelman
- High-Throughput and Spectroscopy Resource Center, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Guangli Yang
- Organic Synthesis Core Facility, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Ouathek Ouerfelli
- Organic Synthesis Core Facility, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - J Fraser Glickman
- High-Throughput and Spectroscopy Resource Center, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Roger A Jones
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA.
| | - Thomas Tuschl
- Laboratory of RNA Molecular Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| | - Dinshaw J Patel
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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76
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Li X, Chen Y, Wang R, Lu E, Luo K, Sha X. Enhancement of cancer immunotherapy using CRT valgus tumor cell membranes coated bacterial whole peptidoglycan combined with radiotherapy. Int J Pharm 2023; 646:123430. [PMID: 37742823 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has achieved some success in preclinical and clinical studies, but the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) leads to a low response rate of this therapy. In this paper, we describe a calreticulin (CRT) valgus CT-26 tumor cell membranes-coated bacterial whole peptidoglycan (WPG) from P. aeruginosa (CPW/SR) with a high rate of the STING agonist loading. In the construct, WPG from P. aeruginosa (P.WPG) was used as a carrier with the immunoadjuvant function while synergistically promoting the maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) through the delivery of the STING agonist SR-717. CRT valgus tumor cell membranes were identified and internalized by DCs via CRT on the surface. In addition, this construct was able to reverse the immunosuppressive TME in vivo and achieve synergies with radiotherapy by creating a personalized tumor vaccine, therefore achieving more resultful antitumor efficacy. In conclusion, CPW/SR constructed in this paper provides a new approach for achieving efficient cancer immunotherapy and combination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhong Li
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yiting Chen
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Enhao Lu
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Kuankuan Luo
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xianyi Sha
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery, Ministry of Education, Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China; The Institutes of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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77
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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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78
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Lei J, Zhang W, Ma L, He Y, Liang H, Zhang X, Li G, Feng X, Tan L, Yang C. Sonodynamic amplification of cGAS-STING activation by cobalt-based nanoagonist against bone and metastatic tumor. Biomaterials 2023; 302:122295. [PMID: 37666101 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122295] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
The therapeutic effect of cancer immunotherapy is restrained by limited patient response rate caused by 'cold' tumors with an intrinsically immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Activating stimulator of interferon genes (STING) confers promising antitumor immunity even in 'cold' tumors, but the further promotion of STING agonists is hindered by undesirable toxicity, low specificity and lack of controllability. Herein, an ultrasound-controllable cGAS-STING amplifying nanoagonist was constructed by coordinating mitochondria-targeting ligand triphenylphosphonium (TPP) to sonodynamic cobalt organic framework nanosheets (TPP@CoTCPP). The Co ions specifically amplify STING activation only when cytosolic mitochondrial DNA leakage is caused by sonocatalysis-induced ROS production and sensed by cGAS. A series of downstream innate immune proinflammatory responses induced by local cGAS-STING pathway activation under spatiotemporal ultrasound stimulation efficiently prime the antitumor T-cell response against bone metastatic tumor, a typical immunosuppressive tumor. We also found that the coordination of TPP augments the sonodynamic effect of CoTCPP nanosheets by reducing the band gap, improving O2 adsorption and enhancing electron transfer. Overall, our study demonstrates that the targeted and amplified cGAS-STING activation in cancer cell controlled by spatiotemporal ultrasound irradiation boosts high-efficiency sonodynamic-ionicimmunotherapy against immunosuppressive tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Lei
- Orthopaedic Department, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, PR China
| | - Weifeng Zhang
- Orthopaedic Department, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, PR China
| | - Liang Ma
- Orthopaedic Department, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, PR China
| | - Yaqi He
- Orthopaedic Department, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, PR China
| | - Huaizhen Liang
- Orthopaedic Department, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, PR China
| | - Xiaoguang Zhang
- Orthopaedic Department, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, PR China
| | - Gaocai Li
- Orthopaedic Department, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, PR China
| | - Xiaobo Feng
- Orthopaedic Department, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, PR China.
| | - Lei Tan
- Orthopaedic Department, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, PR China.
| | - Cao Yang
- Orthopaedic Department, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, PR China.
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79
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Guo S, Xiong W, Zhu J, Feng J, Zhou R, Fan Q, Zhang Q, Li Z, Yang J, Zhou H, Yi P, Feng Y, Yang S, Qiu X, Xu Y, Shen Z. A STING pathway-activatable contrast agent for MRI-guided tumor immunoferroptosis synergistic therapy. Biomaterials 2023; 302:122300. [PMID: 37659110 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
The immunotherapy efficiency of stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-activatable drugs (e.g., 7-ethyl-10-hydroxycamptothecin, SN38) is limited by their non-specificity to tumor cells and the slow excretion of the DNA-containing exosomes from the treated cancer cells. The efficacy of tumor ferroptosis therapy is always limited by the elimination of lipid peroxides (LPO) by the pathways of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) and ferroptosis suppressor protein 1(FSP1). To solve these problems, in this study, we developed a STING pathway-activatable contrast agent (i.e., FeGd-HN@TA-Fe2+-SN38 nanoparticles) for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided tumor immunoferroptosis synergistic therapy. The remarkable in vivo MRI performance of FeGd-HN@TA-Fe2+-SN38 is attributed to its high accumulation at tumor location, the high relaxivities of FeGd-HN core, and the pH-sensitive TA-Fe2+-SN38 layer. The effectiveness and biosafety of the immunoferroptosis synergistic therapy induced by FeGd-HN@TA-Fe2+-SN38 are demonstrated by the in vivo investigations on the 4T1 tumor-bearing mice. The mechanisms of in vivo immunoferroptosis synergistic therapy by FeGd-HN@TA-Fe2+-SN38 are demonstrated by measurements of in vivo ROS, LPO, GPX4 and SLC7A11 levels, the intratumor matured DCs and CD8+ T cells, the protein expresion of STING and IRF-3, and the secretion of IFN-β and IFN-γ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Guo
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- Medical Imaging Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Jiaoyang Zhu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Jie Feng
- Medical Imaging Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Ruilong Zhou
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Qingdeng Fan
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Qianqian Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Zongheng Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Jing Yang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Huimin Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Peiwei Yi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Yanqiu Feng
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Sugeun Yang
- Department of Biomedical Science, BK21 FOUR Program in Biomedical Science and Engineering, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, 22212, South Korea
| | - Xiaozhong Qiu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Construction and Detection in Tissue Engineering, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Yikai Xu
- Medical Imaging Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China
| | - Zheyu Shen
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, 1023 Shatai South Road, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510515, China.
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80
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Yang J, Yang M, Wang Y, Sun J, Liu Y, Zhang L, Guo B. STING in tumors: a focus on non-innate immune pathways. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1278461. [PMID: 37965570 PMCID: PMC10642211 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1278461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) and downstream stimulator of interferon genes (STING) are involved in mediating innate immunity by promoting the release of interferon and other inflammatory factors. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) with a double-stranded structure has greater efficiency and sensitivity in being detected by DNA sensors and thus has an important role in the activation of the cGAS-STING pathway. Many previous findings suggest that the cGAS-STING pathway-mediated innate immune regulation is the most important aspect affecting tumor survival, not only in its anti-tumor role but also in shaping the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) through a variety of pathways. However, recent studies have shown that STING regulation of non-immune pathways is equally profound and also involved in tumor cell progression. In this paper, we will focus on the non-innate immune system pathways, in which the cGAS-STING pathway also plays an important role in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaying Yang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Biomedical Science, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Mei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Biomedical Science, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yingtong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Biomedical Science, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jicheng Sun
- Department of Plastic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yiran Liu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, and Department of Biomedical Science, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Baofeng Guo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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81
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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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82
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Hernando-Calvo A, Vila-Casadesús M, Bareche Y, Gonzalez-Medina A, Abbas-Aghababazadeh F, Lo Giacco D, Martin A, Saavedra O, Brana I, Vieito M, Fasani R, Stagg J, Mancuso F, Haibe-Kains B, Han M, Berche R, Pugh TJ, Mirallas O, Jimenez J, Gonzalez NS, Valverde C, Muñoz-Couselo E, Suarez C, Diez M, Élez E, Capdevila J, Oaknin A, Saura C, Macarulla T, Galceran JC, Felip E, Dienstmann R, Bedard PL, Nuciforo P, Seoane J, Tabernero J, Garralda E, Vivancos A. A pan-cancer clinical platform to predict immunotherapy outcomes and prioritize immuno-oncology combinations in early-phase trials. MED 2023; 4:710-727.e5. [PMID: 37572657 DOI: 10.1016/j.medj.2023.07.006] [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: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapy is effective, but current biomarkers for patient selection have proven modest sensitivity. Here, we developed VIGex, an optimized gene signature based on the expression level of 12 genes involved in immune response with RNA sequencing. METHODS We implemented VIGex using the nCounter platform (Nanostring) on a large clinical cohort encompassing 909 tumor samples across 45 tumor types. VIGex was developed as a continuous variable, with cutoffs selected to detect three main categories (hot, intermediate-cold and cold) based on the different inflammatory status of the tumor microenvironment. FINDINGS Hot tumors had the highest VIGex scores and exhibited an increased abundance of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes as compared with the intermediate-cold and cold. VIGex scores varied depending on tumor origin and anatomic site of metastases, with liver metastases showing an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. The predictive power of VIGex-Hot was observed in a cohort of 98 refractory solid tumor from patients treated in early-phase immunotherapy trials and its clinical performance was confirmed through an extensive metanalysis across 13 clinically annotated gene expression datasets from 877 patients treated with immunotherapy agents. Last, we generated a pan-cancer biomarker platform that integrates VIGex categories with the expression levels of immunotherapy targets under development in early-phase clinical trials. CONCLUSIONS Our results support the clinical utility of VIGex as a tool to aid clinicians for patient selection and personalized immunotherapy interventions. FUNDING BBVA Foundation; 202-2021 Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology Fellowship award; Princess Margaret Cancer Center.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Hernando-Calvo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Department of Medicine, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G2C4, Canada; Departamento de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Yacine Bareche
- Institut du Cancer de Montréal, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H2X0A9, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3T1J4, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Agatha Martin
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Omar Saavedra
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Irene Brana
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Vieito
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roberta Fasani
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - John Stagg
- Institut du Cancer de Montréal, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H2X0A9, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3T1J4, Canada
| | | | - Benjamin Haibe-Kains
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G2C4, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G1L7, Canada; Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S2E4, Canada; Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON M5G0A3, Canada; Vector Institute for Artificial Intelligence, Toronto, ON M5G1M1, Canada
| | - Ming Han
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G2C4, Canada
| | - Roger Berche
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Trevor J Pugh
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G2C4, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G1L7, Canada; Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON M5G0A3, Canada
| | - Oriol Mirallas
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jose Jimenez
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nadia Saoudi Gonzalez
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Claudia Valverde
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eva Muñoz-Couselo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Suarez
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marc Diez
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Élez
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Capdevila
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Oaknin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Saura
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Teresa Macarulla
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan Carles Galceran
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enriqueta Felip
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Philippe L Bedard
- Division of Medical Oncology and Hematology, Department of Medicine, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G2C4, Canada
| | - Paolo Nuciforo
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joan Seoane
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Tabernero
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Garralda
- Department of Medical Oncology, Vall D'Hebron University Hospital, 08035 Barcelona, Spain; Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Vivancos
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology, 08035 Barcelona, Spain.
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83
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Sasaki N, Homme M, Kitajima S. Targeting the loss of cGAS/STING signaling in cancer. Cancer Sci 2023; 114:3806-3815. [PMID: 37475576 PMCID: PMC10551601 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The cGAS/STING pathway provides a key host defense mechanism by detecting the accumulation of cytoplasmic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and mediating innate and adaptive immune signaling. In addition to detecting pathogen-derived dsDNA, cGAS senses intrinsic dsDNA, such as those associated with defective cell cycle progression and mitophagy that has leaked from the nucleus or mitochondria, and subsequently evokes host immunity to eliminate pathogenic cells. In cancer cells, dysregulation of DNA repair and cell cycle caused at the DNA replication checkpoint and spindle assembly checkpoint results in aberrant cytoplasmic dsDNA accumulation, stimulating anti-tumor immunity. Therefore, the suppression of cGAS/STING signaling is beneficial for survival and frequently observed in cancer cells as a way to evade detection by the immune system, and is likely to be related to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) resistance. Indeed, the mechanisms of ICB resistance overlap with those acquired in cancers during immunoediting to evade immune surveillance. This review highlights the current understanding of cGAS/STING suppression in cancer cells and discusses how to establish effective strategies to regenerate effective anti-tumor immunity through reactivation of the cGAS/STING pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobunari Sasaki
- Department of Cell BiologyCancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer ResearchTokyoJapan
| | - Mizuki Homme
- Department of Cell BiologyCancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer ResearchTokyoJapan
| | - Shunsuke Kitajima
- Department of Cell BiologyCancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer ResearchTokyoJapan
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84
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Zhao X, Stein KR, Chen V, Griffin ME, Lairson LL, Hang HC. Chemoproteomics reveals microbiota-derived aromatic monoamine agonists for GPRC5A. Nat Chem Biol 2023; 19:1205-1214. [PMID: 37248411 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01328-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The microbiota generates diverse metabolites to modulate host physiology and disease, but their protein targets and mechanisms of action have not been fully elucidated. To address this challenge, we explored microbiota-derived indole metabolites and developed photoaffinity chemical reporters for proteomic studies. We identified many potential indole metabolite-interacting proteins, including metabolic enzymes, transporters, immune sensors and G protein-coupled receptors. Notably, we discovered that aromatic monoamines can bind the orphan receptor GPRC5A and stimulate β-arrestin recruitment. Metabolomic and functional profiling also revealed specific amino acid decarboxylase-expressing microbiota species that produce aromatic monoamine agonists for GPRC5A-β-arrestin recruitment. Our analysis of synthetic aromatic monoamine derivatives identified 7-fluorotryptamine as a more potent agonist of GPRC5A. These results highlight the utility of chemoproteomics to identify microbiota metabolite-interacting proteins and the development of small-molecule agonists for orphan receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Zhao
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Kathryn R Stein
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Victor Chen
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Microbial Pathogenesis, The Rockefeller University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Matthew E Griffin
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Luke L Lairson
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Howard C Hang
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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85
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Spangenberg SH, Palermo A, Gazaniga NR, Martínez-Peña F, Guijas C, Chin EN, Rinschen MM, Sander PN, Webb B, Pereira LE, Jia Y, Meitz L, Siuzdak G, Lairson LL. Hydroxyproline metabolism enhances IFN-γ-induced PD-L1 expression and inhibits autophagic flux. Cell Chem Biol 2023; 30:1115-1134.e10. [PMID: 37467751 PMCID: PMC11426993 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.06.016] [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: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
The immune checkpoint protein PD-L1 plays critical roles in both immune system homeostasis and tumor progression. Impaired PD-1/PD-L1 function promotes autoimmunity and PD-L1 expression within tumors promotes immune evasion. If and how changes in metabolism or defined metabolites regulate PD-L1 expression is not fully understood. Here, using a metabolomics activity screening-based approach, we have determined that hydroxyproline (Hyp) significantly and directly enhances adaptive (i.e., IFN-γ-induced) PD-L1 expression in multiple relevant myeloid and cancer cell types. Mechanistic studies reveal that Hyp acts as an inhibitor of autophagic flux, which allows it to regulate this negative feedback mechanism, thereby contributing to its overall effect on PD-L1 expression. Due to its prevalence in fibrotic tumors, these findings suggest that hydroxyproline could contribute to the establishment of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and that Hyp metabolism could be targeted to pharmacologically control PD-L1 expression for the treatment of cancer or autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amelia Palermo
- Scripps Center for Metabolomics, the Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Nathalia R Gazaniga
- Department of Chemistry, the Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | | | - Carlos Guijas
- Scripps Center for Metabolomics, the Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Emily N Chin
- Department of Chemistry, the Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Markus M Rinschen
- Scripps Center for Metabolomics, the Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Philipp N Sander
- Department of Chemistry, the Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Bill Webb
- Scripps Center for Metabolomics, the Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Laura E Pereira
- Department of Chemistry, the Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Ying Jia
- Department of Chemistry, the Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Lance Meitz
- Department of Chemistry, the Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Gary Siuzdak
- Scripps Center for Metabolomics, the Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
| | - Luke L Lairson
- Department of Chemistry, the Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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86
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Xie S, Su E, Song X, Xue J, Yu P, Zhang B, Liu M, Jiang H. GSDME in Endothelial Cells: Inducing Vascular Inflammation and Atherosclerosis via Mitochondrial Damage and STING Pathway Activation. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2579. [PMID: 37761020 PMCID: PMC10526370 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The initiation of atherosclerotic plaque is characterized by endothelial cell inflammation. In light of gasdermin E's (GSDME) role in pyroptosis and inflammation, this study elucidates its function in atherosclerosis onset. Employing Gsdme- and apolipoprotein E-deficient (Gsdme-/-/ApoE-/-) and ApoE-/- mice, an atherosclerosis model was created on a Western diet (WD). In vitro examinations with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) included oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) exposure. To explore the downstream mechanisms linked to GSDME, we utilized an agonist targeting the stimulator of the interferon genes (STING) pathway. The results showed significant GSDME activation in ApoE-/- mice arterial tissues, corresponding with atherogenesis. Gsdme-/-/ApoE-/- mice displayed fewer plaques and decreased vascular inflammation. Meanwhile, GSDME's presence was confirmed in endothelial cells. GSDME inhibition reduced the endothelial inflammation induced by ox-LDL. GSDME was linked to mitochondrial damage in endothelial cells, leading to an increase in cytoplasmic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA). Notably, STING activation partially offset the effects of GSDME inhibition in both in vivo and in vitro settings. Our findings underscore the pivotal role of GSDME in endothelial cells during atherogenesis and vascular inflammation, highlighting its influence on mitochondrial damage and the STING pathway, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for vascular pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyao Xie
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Innovative Center for New Drug Development of Immune Inflammatory Diseases, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Enyong Su
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Innovative Center for New Drug Development of Immune Inflammatory Diseases, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiaoyue Song
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Innovative Center for New Drug Development of Immune Inflammatory Diseases, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Junqiang Xue
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Innovative Center for New Drug Development of Immune Inflammatory Diseases, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Peng Yu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fudan Institute of Metabolic Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Baoli Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Innovative Center for New Drug Development of Immune Inflammatory Diseases, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Health Management Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of AI Technology for Cardiopulmonary Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hong Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Innovative Center for New Drug Development of Immune Inflammatory Diseases, Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Interventional Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of AI Technology for Cardiopulmonary Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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87
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Long Q, Yang Y, Liao F, Chen H, He D, Li S, Li P, Guo W, Xiao Y. NIR-II fluorescence and PA imaging guided activation of STING pathway in photothermal therapy for boosting cancer immunotherapy by theranostic thermosensitive liposomes. J Mater Chem B 2023; 11:8528-8540. [PMID: 37608753 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb00711a] [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: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Photothermal immunotherapy has shown great potential for efficient cancer treatment. However, the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment forms a heavy barrier for photothermal-induced anti-tumor immunity by inhibiting dendritic cell (DC) maturation and cytotoxic T cell response. Moreover, the lack of reliable spatiotemporal imaging modalities makes photothermal immunotherapy difficult to guide tumor ablation and monitor therapeutic outcomes in real time. Herein, we designed a theranostic thermosensitive liposome (PLDD) as a versatile nanoplatform to boost the adaptive anti-tumor immunity of photothermal immunotherapy and to achieve multiple bioimaging modalities in a real-time manner. PLDD contains two major functional components: a multifunctional photothermal agent (DTTB) and an immune potentiator STING pathway agonist (DMXAA). Upon irradiation, the heat generated by DTTB induced the immunogenic cell death (ICD) of the tumor and dissociated the structure of thermosensitive liposome to release DMXAA, which ultimately activated the STING pathway and promoted the ICD-induced immune response by increasing DC cell maturation and T cell recruitment. Moreover, the DTTB in PLDD displayed excellent second near-infrared (NIR-II) fluorescence and photoacoustic (PA) dual-modal imaging, which provided omnibearing information on the tumor and guided the subsequent therapeutic operation. Therefore, this versatile PLDD with light-triggered promotion of anti-tumor immunity and multiple spatiotemporal imaging profiles holds great potential for the future development of cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Long
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, School of Biomedical Engineering & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, P. R. China.
| | - Yuliang Yang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
| | - Fangling Liao
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, School of Biomedical Engineering & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, P. R. China.
| | - Haoting Chen
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, School of Biomedical Engineering & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, P. R. China.
| | - Dongyue He
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, School of Biomedical Engineering & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, P. R. China.
| | - Shengliang Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, P. R. China
| | - Pengcheng Li
- Department of Orthopedics Trauma and Microsurgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, P. R. China.
| | - Weisheng Guo
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, School of Biomedical Engineering & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, P. R. China.
| | - Yafang Xiao
- Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Radiology, School of Biomedical Engineering & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510260, P. R. China.
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88
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Chen K, Liao J, Patel DJ, Xie W. Advances in structure-guided mechanisms impacting on the cGAS-STING innate immune pathway. Adv Immunol 2023; 159:1-32. [PMID: 37996205 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ai.2023.08.001] [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: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The metazoan cGAS-STING innate immunity pathway is triggered in response to cytoplasmic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), thereby providing host defense against microbial pathogens. This pathway also impacts on autoimmune diseases, cellular senescence and anti-tumor immunity. The cGAS-STING pathway was also observed in the bacterial antiviral immune response, known as the cyclic oligonucleotide (CDN)-based anti-phage signaling system (CBASS). This review highlights a structure-based mechanistic perspective of recent advances in metazoan and bacterial cGAS-STING innate immune signaling by focusing on the cGAS sensor, cGAMP second messenger and STING adaptor components, thereby elucidating the specificity, activation, regulation and signal transduction features of the pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Jialing Liao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; School of Biomedical Engineering, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Dinshaw J Patel
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Wei Xie
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China.
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89
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Dou Y, Chen R, Liu S, Lee YT, Jing J, Liu X, Ke Y, Wang R, Zhou Y, Huang Y. Optogenetic engineering of STING signaling allows remote immunomodulation to enhance cancer immunotherapy. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5461. [PMID: 37673917 PMCID: PMC10482946 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41164-2] [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: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The cGAS-STING signaling pathway has emerged as a promising target for immunotherapy development. Here, we introduce a light-sensitive optogenetic device for control of the cGAS/STING signaling to conditionally modulate innate immunity, called 'light-inducible SMOC-like repeats' (LiSmore). We demonstrate that photo-activated LiSmore boosts dendritic cell (DC) maturation and antigen presentation with high spatiotemporal precision. This non-invasive approach photo-sensitizes cytotoxic T lymphocytes to engage tumor antigens, leading to a sustained antitumor immune response. When combined with an immune checkpoint blocker (ICB), LiSmore improves antitumor efficacy in an immunosuppressive lung cancer model that is otherwise unresponsive to conventional ICB treatment. Additionally, LiSmore exhibits an abscopal effect by effectively suppressing tumor growth in a distal site in a bilateral mouse model of melanoma. Collectively, our findings establish the potential of targeted optogenetic activation of the STING signaling pathway for remote immunomodulation in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaling Dou
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rui Chen
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Siyao Liu
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yi-Tsang Lee
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ji Jing
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Xiaoxuan Liu
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yuepeng Ke
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rui Wang
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yubin Zhou
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Yun Huang
- Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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90
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Zou Y, Zhang M, Zhou J. Recent trends in STING modulators: Structures, mechanisms, and therapeutic potential. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103694. [PMID: 37393985 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103694] [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: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase stimulator (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon gene (STING) signaling pathway has an integral role in the host immune response through DNA sensing followed by inducing a robust innate immune defense program. STING has become a promising therapeutic target associated with multiple diseases, including various inflammatory diseases, cancer, and infectious diseases, among others. Thus, modulators of STING are regarded as emerging therapeutic agents. Recent progress has been made in STING research, including recently identified STING-mediated regulatory pathways, the development of a new STING modulator, and the new association of STING with disease. In this review, we focus on recent trends in the development of STING modulators, including structures, mechanisms, and clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zou
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua 321004, China; Drug Development and Innovation Center, College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua 321004, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua 321004, China; Drug Development and Innovation Center, College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua 321004, China
| | - Jinming Zhou
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua 321004, China; Drug Development and Innovation Center, College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua 321004, China.
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91
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Li L, Zhang M, Li J, Liu T, Bao Q, Li X, Long J, Fu L, Zhang Z, Huang S, Liu Z, Zhang L. Cholesterol removal improves performance of a model biomimetic system to co-deliver a photothermal agent and a STING agonist for cancer immunotherapy. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5111. [PMID: 37607938 PMCID: PMC10444796 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40814-9] [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: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Biological membranes often play important functional roles in biomimetic drug delivery systems. We discover that the circulation time and targeting capability of biological membrane coated nanovehicles can be significantly improved by reducing cholesterol level in the coating membrane. A proof-of-concept system using cholesterol-reduced and PD-1-overexpressed T cell membrane to deliver a photothermal agent and a STING agonist is thus fabricated. Comparing with normal membrane, this engineered membrane increases tumor accumulation by ~2-fold. In a melanoma model in male mice, tumors are eliminated with no recurrence in >80% mice after intravenous injection and laser irradiation; while in a colon cancer model in male mice, ~40% mice are cured without laser irradiation. Data suggest that the engineered membranes escape immune surveillance to avoid blood clearance while keeping functional surface molecules exposed. In summary, we develop a simple, effective, safe and widely-applicable biological membrane modification strategy. This "subtractive" strategy displays some advantages and is worth further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Mengxing Zhang
- Med-X center for Materials, College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Jing Li
- Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Tiantian Liu
- Med-X center for Materials, College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Qixue Bao
- Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xi Li
- Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jiaying Long
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems of Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Leyao Fu
- Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhirong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targeting and Drug Delivery Systems of Ministry of Education, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Shiqi Huang
- Med-X center for Materials, College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Zhenmi Liu
- Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Ling Zhang
- Institute of Systems Epidemiology, West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Med-X center for Materials, College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China.
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92
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Shen C, Xu P, Zhang C, Su Z, Shan B, Li R, Sui Q, Zhang K, Chen Z, Zhou J, Lu X, Chen K, Zheng M, Zhang S, Hou H. Structure-Activity Relationship Study of 1 H-Pyrrole-3-carbonitrile Derivatives as STING Receptor Agonists. ACS Med Chem Lett 2023; 14:1079-1087. [PMID: 37583816 PMCID: PMC10424313 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.3c00208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of small agonists to target stimulators of interferon genes (STING) has been demonstrated to be a promising strategy for the treatment of various cancers and infectious diseases. Herein, we discovered a series of 1H-pyrrole-3-carbonitrile derivatives as potential STING agonists. On this basis, the structure-activity relationship of this scaffold was studied by introducing various substituents on the aniline ring system. Representative compounds 7F, 7P, and 7R all displayed comparable activities to the reported STING agonist SR-717 in binding various hSTING alleles and induced reporter signal in human THP1 cell lines. Model compound 7F induced phosphorylation of TBK1, IRF3, p65, and STAT3 in a STING-dependent fashion and stimulated the expression of target genes IFNB1, CXCL10, and IL6 in a time-dependent manner in human THP1 cells. Our findings afforded a series of novel STING agonists with promising potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Shen
- School
of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced
Study, University of Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Peijia Xu
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- School
of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University
of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Changfa Zhang
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- School
of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University
of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zhaoming Su
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- School
of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University
of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Bin Shan
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Rui Li
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Qibang Sui
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Keke Zhang
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- School
of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University
of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Zhengyang Chen
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jingyi Zhou
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xiaojie Lu
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kaixian Chen
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- School
of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University
of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Mingyue Zheng
- School
of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced
Study, University of Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- School
of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University
of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Sulin Zhang
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Hui Hou
- Drug
Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy
of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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93
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Dai K, Xu Y, Yang Y, Shen J, Liu X, Tu X, Yu L, Qi X, Li J, Wang L, Zuo X, Liu Y, Yan H, Fan C, Yao G. Edge Length-Programmed Single-Stranded RNA Origami for Predictive Innate Immune Activation and Therapy. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:17112-17124. [PMID: 37498993 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c03477] [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: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Ligands targeting nucleic acid-sensing receptors activate the innate immune system and play a critical role in antiviral and antitumoral therapy. However, ligand design for in situ stability, targeted delivery, and predictive immunogenicity is largely hampered by the sophisticated mechanism of the nucleic acid-sensing process. Here, we utilize single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) origami with precise structural designability as nucleic acid sensor-based ligands to achieve improved biostability, organelle-level targeting, and predictive immunogenicity. The natural ssRNAs self-fold into compact nanoparticles with defined shapes and morphologies and exhibit resistance against RNase digestion in vitro and prolonged retention in macrophage endolysosomes. We find that programming the edge length of ssRNA origami can precisely regulate the degree of macrophage activation via a toll-like receptor-dependent pathway. Further, we demonstrate that the ssRNA origami-based ligand elicits an anti-tumoral immune response of macrophages and neutrophils in the tumor microenvironment and retards tumor growth in the mouse pancreatic tumor model. Our ssRNA origami strategy utilizes structured RNA ligands to achieve predictive immune activation, providing a new solution for nucleic acid sensor-based ligand design and biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Dai
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yang Xu
- School of Molecular Sciences and Biodesign Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jianfeng Shen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xiaoguo Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xinyi Tu
- School of Molecular Sciences and Biodesign Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Lu Yu
- School of Molecular Sciences and Biodesign Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Xiaodong Qi
- School of Molecular Sciences and Biodesign Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Jiang Li
- Institute of Materiobiology, Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Lihua Wang
- Institute of Materiobiology, Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Xiaolei Zuo
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Nucleic Acids Chemistry and Nanomedicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Yingbin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Hao Yan
- School of Molecular Sciences and Biodesign Center for Molecular Design and Biomimetics, Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Chunhai Fan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Guangbao Yao
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Zhangjiang Institute for Advanced Study and National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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94
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Wang J, Liu Q, Zhao Y, Fu J, Su J. Tumor Cells Transmit Drug Resistance via Cisplatin-Induced Extracellular Vesicles. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12347. [PMID: 37569723 PMCID: PMC10418773 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512347] [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: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Cisplatin is a first-line clinical agent used for treating solid tumors. Cisplatin damages the DNA of tumor cells and induces the production of high levels of reactive oxygen species to achieve tumor killing. Tumor cells have evolved several ways to tolerate this damage. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are an important mode of information transfer in tumor cells. EVs can be substantially activated under cisplatin treatment and mediate different responses of tumor cells under cisplatin treatment depending on their different cargoes. However, the mechanism of action of tumor-cell-derived EVs under cisplatin treatment and their potential cargoes are still unclear. This review considers recent advances in cisplatin-induced release of EVs from tumor cells, with the expectation of providing a new understanding of the mechanisms of cisplatin treatment and drug resistance, as well as strategies for the combined use of cisplatin and other drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jing Su
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Department of Pathophysiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130012, China; (J.W.); (Q.L.); (Y.Z.); (J.F.)
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95
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Tang Z, Zhao J, Li Y, Tomer S, Selvaraju M, Tien N, Sun D, Johnson DK, Zhen A, Li P, Wang J. Structural and Biological Evaluations of a Non-Nucleoside STING Agonist Specific for Human STING A230 Variants. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.02.547363. [PMID: 37425806 PMCID: PMC10327114 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.02.547363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Previously we identified a non-nucleotide tricyclic agonist BDW568 that activates human STING (stimulator of interferon genes) gene variant containing A230 in a human monocyte cell line (THP-1). STINGA230 alleles, including HAQ and AQ, are less common STING variants in human population. To further characterize the mechanism of BDW568, we obtained the crystal structure of the C-terminal domain of STINGA230 complexed with BDW-OH (active metabolite of BDW568) at 1.95 Å resolution and found the planar tricyclic structure in BDW-OH dimerizes in the STING binding pocket and mimics the two nucleobases of the endogenous STING ligand 2',3'-cGAMP. This binding mode also resembles a known synthetic ligand of human STING, MSA-2, but not another tricyclic mouse STING agonist DMXAA. Structure-activity-relationship (SAR) studies revealed that all three heterocycles in BDW568 and the S-acetate side chain are critical for retaining the compound's activity. BDW568 could robustly activate the STING pathway in human primary peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with STINGA230 genotype from healthy individuals. We also observed BDW568 could robustly activate type I interferon signaling in purified human primary macrophages that were transduced with lentivirus expressing STINGA230, suggesting its potential use to selectively activate genetically engineered macrophages in macrophage-based approaches, such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-macrophage immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhichao Tang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66047, United States
| | - Junxing Zhao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66047, United States
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Shallu Tomer
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Manikandan Selvaraju
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66047, United States
| | - Nicholas Tien
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Diyun Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - David K. Johnson
- Computation Chemical Biology Core, and Molecular Graphics and Modeling Laboratory, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66047, United States
| | - Anjie Zhen
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Pingwei Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843, United States
| | - Jingxin Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66047, United States
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96
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Liu X, Cen X, Wu R, Chen Z, Xie Y, Wang F, Shan B, Zeng L, Zhou J, Xie B, Cai Y, Huang J, Liang Y, Wu Y, Zhang C, Wang D, Xia H. ARIH1 activates STING-mediated T-cell activation and sensitizes tumors to immune checkpoint blockade. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4066. [PMID: 37429863 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39920-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in cancer treatment, immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) only achieves complete response in some patients, illustrating the need to identify resistance mechanisms. Using an ICB-insensitive tumor model, here we discover cisplatin enhances the anti-tumor effect of PD-L1 blockade and upregulates the expression of Ariadne RBR E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase 1 (ARIH1) in tumors. Arih1 overexpression promotes cytotoxic T cell infiltration, inhibits tumor growth, and potentiates PD-L1 blockade. ARIH1 mediates ubiquitination and degradation of DNA-PKcs to trigger activation of the STING pathway, which is blocked by the phospho-mimetic mutant T68E/S213D of cGAS protein. Using a high-throughput drug screen, we further identify that ACY738, less cytotoxic than cisplatin, effectively upregulates ARIH1 and activates STING signaling, sensitizing tumors to PD-L1 blockade. Our findings delineate a mechanism that tumors mediate ICB resistance through the loss of ARIH1 and ARIH1-DNA-PKcs-STING signaling and indicate that activating ARIH1 is an effective strategy to improve the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolan Liu
- Department of Biochemistry & Research Center of Clinical Pharmacy of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xufeng Cen
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Ronghai Wu
- Hangzhou PhecdaMed Co.Ltd, 2626 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Ziyan Chen
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yanqi Xie
- Department of Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Fengqi Wang
- Department of Biochemistry & Research Center of Clinical Pharmacy of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Bing Shan
- Interdisciplinary Research Center on Biology and Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Linghui Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, 50# Huzhou Rd., Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jichun Zhou
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310000, China
| | - Bojian Xie
- Affiliated Taizhou Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, 318000, China
| | - Yangjun Cai
- Affiliated Taizhou Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, 318000, China
| | - Jinyan Huang
- Biomedical big data center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yingjiqiong Liang
- Biomedical big data center, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Youqian Wu
- International Institutes of Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chao Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310009, China
| | - Dongrui Wang
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Hongguang Xia
- Department of Biochemistry & Research Center of Clinical Pharmacy of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, 1369 West Wenyi Road, Hangzhou, 311121, China.
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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97
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Liu Y, Fei Y, Wang X, Yang B, Li M, Luo Z. Biomaterial-enabled therapeutic modulation of cGAS-STING signaling for enhancing antitumor immunity. Mol Ther 2023; 31:1938-1959. [PMID: 37002605 PMCID: PMC10362396 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.03.026] [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: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
cGAS-STING signaling is a central component in the therapeutic action of most existing cancer therapies. The accumulated knowledge of tumor immunoregulatory network in recent years has spurred the development of cGAS-STING agonists for tumor treatment as an effective immunotherapeutic strategy. However, the clinical translation of these agonists is thus far unsatisfactory because of the low immunostimulatory efficacy and unrestricted side effects under clinically relevant conditions. Interestingly, the rational integration of biomaterial technology offers a promising approach to overcome these limitations for more effective and safer cGAS-STING-mediated tumor therapy. Herein, we first outline the cGAS-STING signaling axis and generally discuss its association with tumors. We then symmetrically summarize the recent progress in those biomaterial-based cGAS-STING agonism strategies to generate robust antitumor immunity, categorized by the chemical nature of those cGAS-STING stimulants and carrier substrates. Finally, a perspective is provided to discuss the existing challenges and potential opportunities in cGAS-STING modulation for tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingqi Liu
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China
| | - Yang Fei
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China
| | - Xuan Wang
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China
| | - Bingbing Yang
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China
| | - Menghuan Li
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China.
| | - Zhong Luo
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China.
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98
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Pan X, Zhang W, Guo H, Wang L, Wu H, Ding L, Yang B. Strategies involving STING pathway activation for cancer immunotherapy: Mechanism and agonists. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 213:115596. [PMID: 37201875 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have expanded the known functions of cGAS-STING in inflammation to a role in cancer due to its participation in activating immune surveillance. In cancer cells, the cGAS-STING pathway can be activated by cytosolic dsDNA derived from genomic, mitochondrial and exogenous origins. The resulting immune-stimulatory factors from this cascade can either attenuate tumor growth or recruit immune cells for tumor clearance. Furthermore, STING-IRF3-induced type I interferon signaling can enforce tumor antigen presentation on dendritic cells and macrophages and thus cross-prime CD8+ T cells for antitumor immunity. Given the functions of the STING pathway in antitumor immunity, multiple strategies are being developed and tested with the rationale of activating STING in tumor cells or tumor-infiltrating immune cells to elicit immunostimulatory effects, either alone or in combination with a range of established chemotherapeutic and immunotherapeutic regimens. Based on the canonical molecular mechanism of STING activation, numerous strategies for inducing mitochondrial and nuclear dsDNA release have been used to activate the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. Other noncanonical strategies that activate cGAS-STING signaling, including the use of direct STING agonists and STING trafficking facilitation, also show promise in type I interferon release and antitumor immunity priming. Here, we review the key roles of the STING pathway in different steps of the cancer-immunity cycle and characterize the canonical and noncanonical mechanisms of cGAS-STING pathway activation to understand the potential of cGAS-STING agonists for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Pan
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Wenxin Zhang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Hongjie Guo
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Longsheng Wang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Honghai Wu
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ling Ding
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Bo Yang
- Zhejiang Province Key Laboratory of Anti-Cancer Drug Research, Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; The Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310018, China.
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99
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Ying-Rui M, Bu-Fan B, Deng L, Rong S, Qian-Mei Z. Targeting the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) in breast cancer. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1199152. [PMID: 37448962 PMCID: PMC10338072 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1199152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer has a high occurrence rate globally and its treatment has demonstrated clinical efficacy with the use of systemic chemotherapy and immune checkpoint blockade. Insufficient cytotoxic T lymphocyte infiltration and the accumulation of immunosuppressive cells within tumours are the primary factors responsible for the inadequate clinical effectiveness of breast cancer treatment. The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) represents a pivotal protein in the innate immune response. Upon activation, STING triggers the activation and enhancement of innate and adaptive immune functions, resulting in therapeutic benefits for malignant tumours. The STING signalling pathway in breast cancer is influenced by various factors such as deoxyribonucleic acid damage response, tumour immune microenvironment, and mitochondrial function. The use of STING agonists is gaining momentum in breast cancer research. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase-STING pathway, its agonists, and the latest findings related to their application in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ma Ying-Rui
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bai Bu-Fan
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Liu Deng
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shi Rong
- Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhou Qian-Mei
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Institute of Stem Cell Research and Clinical Translation, Shanghai, China
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100
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Zheng Y, Chen XX, Zhang DY, Wang WJ, Peng K, Li ZY, Mao ZW, Tan CP. Activation of the cGAS-STING pathway by a mitochondrial DNA-targeted emissive rhodium(iii) metallointercalator. Chem Sci 2023; 14:6890-6903. [PMID: 37389261 PMCID: PMC10306090 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc01737k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon (STING) pathway is a key mediator of innate immunity involved in cancer development and treatment. The roles of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in cancer immunotherapy have gradually emerged. Herein, we report a highly emissive rhodium(iii) complex (Rh-Mito) as the mtDNA intercalator. Rh-Mito can specifically bind to mtDNA to cause the cytoplasmic release of mtDNA fragments to activate the cGAS-STING pathway. Moreover, Rh-Mito activates the mitochondrial retrograde signaling by disturbing the key metabolites involved in epigenetic modifications, which alters the nuclear genome methylation landscape to influence the expression of genes related to immune signaling pathways. Finally, we demonstrate that ferritin-encapsulated Rh-Mito elicits potent anticancer activities and evokes intense immune responses in vivo by intravenous injection. Overall, we report for the first time that small molecules targeting mtDNA can activate the cGAS-STING pathway, which gives insights into the development of biomacromolecule-targeted immunotherapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zheng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Xiao Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Dong-Yang Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Wen-Jin Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Kun Peng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Zhi-Yuan Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Zong-Wan Mao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
| | - Cai-Ping Tan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic and Synthetic Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Guangzhou 510006 P. R. China
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