1
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Yang J, Luo Z, Ma J, Wang Y, Cheng N. A next-generation STING agonist MSA-2: From mechanism to application. J Control Release 2024; 371:273-287. [PMID: 38789087 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.05.042] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) connects the innate and adaptive immune system and plays a significant role in antitumor immunity. Over the past decades, endogenous and CDN-derived STING agonists have been a hot topic in the research of cancer immunotherapies. However, these STING agonists are either in infancy with limited biological effects or have failed in clinical trials. In 2020, a non-nucleotide STING agonist MSA-2 was identified, which exhibited satisfactory antitumor effects in animal studies and is amenable to oral administration. Due to its distinctive binding mode and enhanced bioavailability, there have been accumulating interests and an array of studies on MSA-2 and its derivatives, spanning its structure-activity relationship, delivery systems, applications in combination therapies, etc. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of MSA-2 and interventional strategies based on this family of STING agonists to help more researchers extend the investigation on MSA-2 in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhan Yang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Zhenyu Luo
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Jingyi Ma
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Pharmaceutical Informatics Institute, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Ningtao Cheng
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China.
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2
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Tian X, Ai J, Tian X, Wei X. cGAS-STING pathway agonists are promising vaccine adjuvants. Med Res Rev 2024; 44:1768-1799. [PMID: 38323921 DOI: 10.1002/med.22016] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Adjuvants are of critical value in vaccine development as they act on enhancing immunogenicity of antigen and inducing long-lasting immunity. However, there are only a few adjuvants that have been approved for clinical use, which highlights the need for exploring and developing new adjuvants to meet the growing demand for vaccination. Recently, emerging evidence demonstrates that the cGAS-STING pathway orchestrates innate and adaptive immunity by generating type I interferon responses. Many cGAS-STING pathway agonists have been developed and tested in preclinical research for the treatment of cancer or infectious diseases with promising results. As adjuvants, cGAS-STING agonists have demonstrated their potential to activate robust defense immunity in various diseases, including COVID-19 infection. This review summarized the current developments in the field of cGAS-STING agonists with a special focus on the latest applications of cGAS-STING agonists as adjuvants in vaccination. Potential challenges were also discussed in the hope of sparking future research interests to further the development of cGAS-STING as vaccine adjuvants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Tian
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Jiayuan Ai
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohe Tian
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
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3
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Lanng KRB, Lauridsen EL, Jakobsen MR. The balance of STING signaling orchestrates immunity in cancer. Nat Immunol 2024:10.1038/s41590-024-01872-3. [PMID: 38918609 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-024-01872-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Over the past decade, it has become clear that the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway is critical for a variety of immune responses. This endoplasmic reticulum-anchored adaptor protein has regulatory functions in host immunity across a spectrum of conditions, including infectious diseases, autoimmunity, neurobiology and cancer. In this Review, we outline the central importance of STING in immunological processes driven by expression of type I and III interferons, as well as inflammatory cytokines, and we look at therapeutic options for targeting STING. We also examine evidence that challenges the prevailing notion that STING activation is predominantly beneficial in combating cancer. Further exploration is imperative to discern whether STING activation in the tumor microenvironment confers true benefits or has detrimental effects. Research in this field is at a crossroads, as a clearer understanding of the nuanced functions of STING activation in cancer is required for the development of next-generation therapies.
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4
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Kawaguchi M, Minami S, Ieda N, Nakagawa H. [1,2,4]Triazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine derivatives: Structure-activity relationship study leading to highly selective ENPP1 inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2024:129820. [PMID: 38851358 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2024.129820] [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: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
The STING (stimulator of interferon genes) pathway is one of the pathways that regulate innate immunity, and the extracellular hydrolytic enzyme ecto-nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) has been identified as its dominant negative regulator. Since activation of the innate immune system is a promising strategy for the treatment of various infectious diseases and cancers, ENPP1 inhibitors have attracted great attention as candidate drugs. We have previously identified small-molecule ENPP1 inhibitors having a [1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine scaffold by means of chemical screening using a fluorescence probe, TG-mAMP. In this study, we evaluated the structure-activity relationships of the hit and lead compounds in detail, and succeeded in developing compounds that strongly and selectively inhibit ENPP1 not only in vitro, but also in cellular systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuyasu Kawaguchi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, 3-1 Tanabe-dori, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8603, Japan.
| | - Shohei Minami
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, 3-1 Tanabe-dori, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8603, Japan
| | - Naoya Ieda
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, 3-1 Tanabe-dori, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8603, Japan
| | - Hidehiko Nakagawa
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University, 3-1 Tanabe-dori, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8603, Japan.
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5
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Bonhomme D, Poirier EZ. Early signaling pathways in virus-infected cells. Curr Opin Virol 2024; 66:101411. [PMID: 38718574 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2024.101411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Virus infection activates specific pattern recognition receptors and immune signal transduction, resulting in pro-inflammatory cytokine production and activation of innate immunity. We describe here the molecular organization of early signaling pathways downstream of viral recognition, including conformational changes, post-translational modifications, formation of oligomers, and generation of small-molecule second messengers. Such molecular organization allows tight regulation of immune signal transduction, characterized by swift but transient responses, nonlinearity, and signal amplification. Pathologies of early immune signaling caused by genomic mutations illustrate the fine regulation of the immune transduction cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine Bonhomme
- Institut Curie, Stem Cell Immunity Lab, PSL Research University, INSERM U932, Paris, France
| | - Enzo Z Poirier
- Institut Curie, Stem Cell Immunity Lab, PSL Research University, INSERM U932, Paris, France.
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6
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Wang Y, Li S, Hu M, Yang Y, McCabe E, Zhang L, Withrow AM, Ting JPY, Liu R. Universal STING mimic boosts antitumour immunity via preferential activation of tumour control signalling pathways. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 19:856-866. [PMID: 38480836 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-024-01624-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
The efficacy of STING (stimulator of interferon genes) agonists is due to various factors, primarily inefficient intracellular delivery, low/lack of endogenous STING expression in many tumours, and a complex balance between tumour control and progression. Here we report a universal STING mimic (uniSTING) based on a polymeric architecture. UniSTING activates STING signalling in a range of mouse and human cell types, independent of endogenous STING expression, and selectively stimulates tumour control IRF3/IFN-I pathways, but not tumour progression NF-κB pathways. Intratumoural or systemic injection of uniSTING-mRNA via lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) results in potent antitumour efficacy across established and advanced metastatic tumour models, including triple-negative breast cancer, lung cancer, melanoma and orthotopic/metastatic liver malignancies. Furthermore, uniSTING displays an effective antitumour response superior to 2'3'-cGAMP and ADU-S100. By favouring IRF3/IFN-I activity over the proinflammatory NF-κB signalling pathway, uniSTING promotes dendritic cell maturation and antigen-specific CD8+ T-cell responses. Extracellular vesicles released from uniSTING-treated tumour cells further sensitize dendritic cells via exosome-containing miRNAs that reduced the immunosuppressive Wnt2b, and a combination of LNP-uniSTING-mRNA with α-Wnt2b antibodies synergistically inhibits tumour growth and prolongs animal survival. Collectively, these results demonstrate the LNP-mediated delivery of uniSTING-mRNA as a strategy to overcome the current STING therapeutic barriers, particularly for the treatment of multiple cancer types in which STING is downregulated or absent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Sirui Li
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Mengying Hu
- Children's Cancer and Blood Foundation Laboratories, Departments of Pediatrics, and Cell and Developmental Biology, Drukier Institute for Children's Health, Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Yuchen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Ecology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ellie McCabe
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lillian Zhang
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Andrew M Withrow
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jenny P-Y Ting
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Rihe Liu
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Carolina Center for Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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7
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Ednacot EMQ, Nabhani A, Dinh DM, Morehouse BR. Pharmacological potential of cyclic nucleotide signaling in immunity. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 258:108653. [PMID: 38679204 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108653] [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: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Cyclic nucleotides are important signaling molecules that play many critical physiological roles including controlling cell fate and development, regulation of metabolic processes, and responding to changes in the environment. Cyclic nucleotides are also pivotal regulators in immune signaling, orchestrating intricate processes that maintain homeostasis and defend against pathogenic threats. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the pharmacological potential of cyclic nucleotide signaling pathways within the realm of immunity. Beginning with an overview of the fundamental roles of cAMP and cGMP as ubiquitous second messengers, this review delves into the complexities of their involvement in immune responses. Special attention is given to the challenges associated with modulating these signaling pathways for therapeutic purposes, emphasizing the necessity for achieving cell-type specificity to avert unintended consequences. A major focus of the review is on the recent paradigm-shifting discoveries regarding specialized cyclic nucleotide signals in the innate immune system, notably the cGAS-STING pathway. The significance of cyclic dinucleotides, exemplified by 2'3'-cGAMP, in controlling immune responses against pathogens and cancer, is explored. The evolutionarily conserved nature of cyclic dinucleotides as antiviral agents, spanning across diverse organisms, underscores their potential as targets for innovative immunotherapies. Findings from the last several years have revealed a striking diversity of novel bacterial cyclic nucleotide second messengers which are involved in antiviral responses. Knowledge of the existence and precise identity of these molecules coupled with accurate descriptions of their associated immune defense pathways will be essential to the future development of novel antibacterial therapeutic strategies. The insights presented herein may help researchers navigate the evolving landscape of immunopharmacology as it pertains to cyclic nucleotides and point toward new avenues or lines of thinking about development of therapeutics against the pathways they regulate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirene Marie Q Ednacot
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Ali Nabhani
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - David M Dinh
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Benjamin R Morehouse
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Institute for Immunology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; Center for Virus Research, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
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8
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Zhou Z, Huang S, Fan F, Xu Y, Moore C, Li S, Han C. The multiple faces of cGAS-STING in antitumor immunity: prospects and challenges. MEDICAL REVIEW (2021) 2024; 4:173-191. [PMID: 38919400 PMCID: PMC11195429 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2023-0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
As a key sensor of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) detects cytosolic dsDNA and initiates the synthesis of 2'3' cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) that activates the stimulator of interferon genes (STING). This finally promotes the production of type I interferons (IFN-I) that is crucial for bridging innate and adaptive immunity. Recent evidence show that several antitumor therapies, including radiotherapy (RT), chemotherapy, targeted therapies and immunotherapies, activate the cGAS-STING pathway to provoke the antitumor immunity. In the last decade, the development of STING agonists has been a major focus in both basic research and the pharmaceutical industry. However, up to now, none of STING agonists have been approved for clinical use. Considering the broad expression of STING in whole body and the direct lethal effect of STING agonists on immune cells in the draining lymph node (dLN), research on the optimal way to activate STING in tumor microenvironment (TME) appears to be a promising direction. Moreover, besides enhancing IFN-I signaling, the cGAS-STING pathway also plays roles in senescence, autophagy, apoptosis, mitotic arrest, and DNA repair, contributing to tumor development and metastasis. In this review, we summarize the recent advances on cGAS-STING pathway's response to antitumor therapies and the strategies involving this pathway for tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheqi Zhou
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Sanling Huang
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Fangying Fan
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Casey Moore
- Departments of Immunology, Pathology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Sirui Li
- Department of Genetics, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Chuanhui Han
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, China
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9
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Yang L, Wang Y, Song Y, Li Z, Lei L, Li H, He B, Cao J, Gao H. Metal coordination nanotheranostics mediated by nucleoside metabolic inhibitors potentiate STING pathway activation for cancer metalloimmunotherapy. J Control Release 2024; 370:354-366. [PMID: 38685387 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.04.042] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Activation of the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) pathway is an effective way to initiate an immune response against tumors, and the research on agonists targeting STING has become a new hotspot in the development of antitumor drugs. However, as a novel STING agonist, the limited bioavailability and activation routes of manganese ions (Mn2+) significantly hinder its antitumor effects. To address these challenges, we have designed a metal-coordinated nucleoside metabolic inhibitor (gemcitabine, Gem)-induced metal nanotheranostic (MGP) with PEGylation. This formulation synergistically enhanced the immune response against cancer cells by sensitizing the cGAS-STING pathway and promoting immunogenic cell death (ICD). Modified with PEG derivatives, MGP was efficiently delivered to the tumor site and was internalized by cancer cells. Upon internalization, the release of Mn2+ triggered the activation of the cGAS-STING pathway, while the release of Gem induced DNA damage. On the one hand, the damaged DNA caused by Gem leaked into the cytoplasm, synergistically amplified Mn2+-induced activation of the cGAS-STING pathway, and induced the production of the tumor cytotoxic factor IFN-β. On the other hand, Mn2+-mediated chemodynamic therapy (CDT) exhibited an ICD effect, which further synergized with the activation of the cGAS-STING pathway to promote dendritic cells (DCs) maturation and antigen-specific T cells infiltration. Both in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that MGP nanotheranostics could elicit a robust antitumor effect, especially when combined with anti-PD-1. This study provided a new paradigm for intensifying immune activation by constructing metal coordination nanotheranostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianyi Yang
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, PR China
| | - Yazhen Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, PR China
| | - Yujun Song
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Zeya Li
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Lei Lei
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, PR China
| | - Hanmei Li
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu 610106, China
| | - Bin He
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, PR China
| | - Jun Cao
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, PR China.
| | - Huile Gao
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry and Sichuan Province, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China.
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10
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Mardjuki R, Wang S, Carozza J, Zirak B, Subramanyam V, Abhiraman G, Lyu X, Goodarzi H, Li L. Identification of the extracellular membrane protein ENPP3 as a major cGAMP hydrolase and innate immune checkpoint. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114209. [PMID: 38749434 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114209] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
2'3'-Cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP)-AMP (cGAMP) is a second messenger synthesized upon detection of cytosolic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and passed between cells to facilitate downstream immune signaling. Ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase phosphodiesterase I (ENPP1), an extracellular enzyme, was the only metazoan hydrolase known to regulate cGAMP levels to dampen anti-cancer immunity. Here, we uncover ENPP3 as the second and likely the only other metazoan cGAMP hydrolase under homeostatic conditions. ENPP3 has a tissue expression pattern distinct from ENPP1's and accounts for all cGAMP hydrolysis activity in ENPP1-deficient mice. Importantly, we also show that, as with ENPP1, selectively abolishing ENPP3's cGAMP hydrolysis activity results in diminished cancer growth and metastasis of certain tumor types in a stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-dependent manner. Both ENPP1 and ENPP3 are extracellular enzymes, suggesting the dominant role that extracellular cGAMP must play as a mediator of cell-cell innate immune communication. Our work demonstrates that ENPP1 and ENPP3 non-redundantly dampen extracellular cGAMP-STING signaling, pointing to ENPP3 as a target for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Mardjuki
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA; Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Songnan Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | | | - Bahar Zirak
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA; Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Biophysics & Biochemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Baker Computational Health Science Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Vishvak Subramanyam
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA; Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Biophysics & Biochemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Baker Computational Health Science Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Gita Abhiraman
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Xuchao Lyu
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Hani Goodarzi
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA; Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Biophysics & Biochemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Baker Computational Health Science Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Lingyin Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA.
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11
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Blest HTW, Redmond A, Avissar J, Barker J, Bridgeman A, Fowler G, Chauveau L, Hertzog J, Vendrell I, Fischer R, Iversen MB, Jing L, Koelle DM, Paludan SR, Kessler BM, Crump CM, Rehwinkel J. HSV-1 employs UL56 to antagonize expression and function of cGAMP channels. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114122. [PMID: 38652659 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114122] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA sensing is important for antiviral immunity. The DNA sensor cGAS synthesizes 2'3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP), a second messenger that activates STING, which induces innate immunity. cGAMP not only activates STING in the cell where it is produced but cGAMP also transfers to other cells. Transporters, channels, and pores (including SLC19A1, SLC46A2, P2X7, ABCC1, and volume-regulated anion channels (VRACs)) release cGAMP into the extracellular space and/or import cGAMP. We report that infection with multiple human viruses depletes some of these cGAMP conduits. This includes herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) that targets SLC46A2, P2X7, and the VRAC subunits LRRC8A and LRRC8C for degradation. The HSV-1 protein UL56 is necessary and sufficient for these effects that are mediated at least partially by proteasomal turnover. UL56 thereby inhibits cGAMP uptake via VRAC, SLC46A2, and P2X7. Taken together, HSV-1 antagonizes intercellular cGAMP transfer. We propose that this limits innate immunity by reducing cell-to-cell communication via the immunotransmitter cGAMP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry T W Blest
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK
| | - Alexander Redmond
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK
| | - Jed Avissar
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK
| | - Jake Barker
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, CB2 1QP Cambridge, UK
| | - Anne Bridgeman
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK
| | - Gerissa Fowler
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK
| | - Lise Chauveau
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK
| | - Jonny Hertzog
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK
| | - Iolanda Vendrell
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Oxford Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Roman Fischer
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Oxford Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Marie B Iversen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Lichen Jing
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - David M Koelle
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Benaroya Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Søren R Paludan
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Benedikt M Kessler
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Oxford Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Colin M Crump
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, CB2 1QP Cambridge, UK
| | - Jan Rehwinkel
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK.
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12
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Ansh AJ, Stabach PR, Ciccone C, Cao W, De La Cruz EM, Sabbagh Y, Carpenter TO, Ferreira CR, Braddock DT. Quantitative correlation of ENPP1 pathogenic variants with disease phenotype. Bone 2024:117136. [PMID: 38806089 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2024.117136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) codes for a type 2 transmembrane glycoprotein which hydrolyzes extracellular phosphoanhydrides into bio-active molecules that regulate, inter alia, ectopic mineralization, bone formation, vascular endothelial proliferation, and the innate immune response. The clinical phenotypes produced by ENPP1 deficiency are disparate, ranging from life-threatening arterial calcifications to cutaneous hypopigmentation. To investigate associations between disease phenotype and enzyme activity we quantified the enzyme velocities of 29 unique ENPP1 pathogenic variants in 41 patients enrolled in an NIH study along with 33 other variants reported in literature. We correlated the relative enzyme velocities with the presenting clinical diagnoses, performing the catalytic velocity measurements simultaneously in triplicate using a high-throughput assay to reduce experimental variation. We found that ENPP1 variants associated with autosomal dominant phenotypes reduced enzyme velocities by 50 % or more, whereas variants associated with insulin resistance had non-significant effects on enzyme velocity. In Cole's disease the catalytic velocities of ENPP1 variants associated with AD forms trended to lower values than those associated with autosomal recessive forms - 8-32 % vs. 33 % of WT, respectively. Additionally, ENPP1 variants leading to life-threatening vascular calcifications in GACI patients had widely variable enzyme activities, ranging from no significant differences compared to WT to the complete abolishment of enzyme velocity. Finally, disease severity in GACI did not correlate with the mean enzyme velocity of the variants present in affected compound heterozygotes but did correlate with the more severely damaging variant. In summary, correlation of ENPP1 enzyme velocity with disease phenotypes demonstrate that enzyme velocities below 50 % of WT levels are likely to occur in the context of autosomal dominant disease (due to a monoallelic variant), and that disease severity in GACI infants correlates with the more severely damaging ENPP1 variant in compound heterozygotes, not the mean velocity of the pathogenic variants present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anenya Jai Ansh
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Paul R Stabach
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Carla Ciccone
- Medical Genetics Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Wenxiang Cao
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Enrique M De La Cruz
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Yves Sabbagh
- Inozyme Pharma, 321 Summer St., Suite 400, Boston, MA 02201, USA
| | - Thomas O Carpenter
- Department of Pediatrics (Endocrinology), Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Carlos R Ferreira
- Metabolic Medicine Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Demetrios T Braddock
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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13
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Yeboah SK, Sintim HO. PDE-stable 2'3'-cGAMP analogues, containing 5'-S-phosphorothioester linkage, as STING agonists. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:1508-1514. [PMID: 38784462 PMCID: PMC11110794 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00593c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) has emerged as a promising target for cancer immunotherapy. 2'3'-cGAMP, a natural agonist of STING, shows anticancer activity via stimulation of immune cells but it is susceptible to degradation in vivo by hydrolytic enzymes. Consequently, the cyclic dinucleotide analogues that are being evaluated in the clinic as immunotherapies contain the hydrolytically stable phosphorothioate moiety, whereby the sulfur moiety is exo to the phosphate containing ring. The synthesis of these phosphorothioates however produces diastereomers, which presents separation challenges. An alternative phosphorothioate (referred to as endo-S-phosphorothioate) whereby the sulfur atom is endo to the cyclic phosphate ring (i.e. 5'-S-phosphorothioester linkage) would not have chirality at phosphorus and hence not pose diastereomer separation problems. Herein, we report the design and synthesis of novel 5'-endo-phosphorothioate substituted 2'3'cGAMP analogues that are hydrolytically stable towards both ectonucleotide phosphodiesterase I (ENPP1, a mammalian phosphodiesterase) and poxvirus immune nucleases (poxin, a phosphodiesterase in Poxvirus) but retains STING-TBK1-IRF activation, comparable to clinical candidate, ADU-S100 in THP1 monocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simpa K Yeboah
- Department of Chemistry 560 Oval Drive West Lafayette Indiana 47907-2084 USA
- Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University 720 Clinic Drive West Lafayette IN 47907 USA
| | - Herman O Sintim
- Department of Chemistry 560 Oval Drive West Lafayette Indiana 47907-2084 USA
- Institute for Drug Discovery, Purdue University 720 Clinic Drive West Lafayette IN 47907 USA
- Purdue Institute of Inflammation, Immunology, and Infectious Disease West Lafayette IN 47907 USA
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14
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Li L. Stimulating STING for cancer therapy: Taking the extracellular route. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:851-861. [PMID: 38723635 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Ten years ago, the second messenger cGAMP was discovered as the activator of the anti-cancer STING pathway. The characterization of cGAMP's paracrine action and dominant extracellular hydrolase ENPP1 cemented cGAMP as an intercellular immunotransmitter that coordinates the innate and adaptive immune systems to fight cancer. In this Perspective, I look back at a decade of discovery of extracellular cGAMP biology and drug development aiming to supply or preserve extracellular cGAMP for cancer treatment. Reviewing our understanding of the cell type-specific regulatory mechanisms of STING agonists, including their transporters and degradation enzymes, I explain on a molecular and cellular level the successes and challenges of direct STING agonists for cancer therapy. Based on what we know now, I propose new ways to stimulate the STING pathway in a manner that is not only cancer specific, but also cell type specific to fully harness the anti-cancer effect of cGAMP while avoiding collateral damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyin Li
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA, 94304 USA; Department of Biochemistry and Sarafan ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305 USA.
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15
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Li L, Liu F, Feng C, Chen Z, Zhang N, Mao J. Role of mitochondrial dysfunction in kidney disease: Insights from the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. Chin Med J (Engl) 2024; 137:1044-1053. [PMID: 38445370 PMCID: PMC11062705 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000003022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Over the past decade, mitochondrial dysfunction has been investigated as a key contributor to acute and chronic kidney disease. However, the precise molecular mechanisms linking mitochondrial damage to kidney disease remain elusive. The recent insights into the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (GMP-AMP) synthetase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon gene (STING) signaling pathway have revealed its involvement in many renal diseases. One of these findings is that mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) induces inflammatory responses via the cGAS-STING pathway. Herein, we provide an overview of the mechanisms underlying mtDNA release following mitochondrial damage, focusing specifically on the association between mtDNA release-activated cGAS-STING signaling and the development of kidney diseases. Furthermore, we summarize the latest findings of cGAS-STING signaling pathway in cell, with a particular emphasis on its downstream signaling related to kidney diseases. This review intends to enhance our understanding of the intricate relationship among the cGAS-STING pathway, kidney diseases, and mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Li
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310052, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310052, China
| | - Chunyue Feng
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310052, China
| | - Zhenjie Chen
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310052, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310052, China
| | - Jianhua Mao
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310052, China
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16
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Sefat KMSR, Kumar M, Kehl S, Kulkarni R, Leekha A, Paniagua MM, Ackart DF, Jones N, Spencer C, Podell BK, Ouellet H, Varadarajan N. An intranasal nanoparticle vaccine elicits protective immunity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Vaccine 2024:S0264-410X(24)00482-1. [PMID: 38704256 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.04.055] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Mucosal vaccines have the potential to elicit protective immune responses at the point of entry of respiratory pathogens, thus preventing even the initial seed infection. Unlike licensed injectable vaccines, mucosal vaccines comprising protein subunits are only in development. One of the primary challenges associated with mucosal vaccines has been identifying and characterizing safe yet effective mucosal adjuvants that can effectively prime multi-factorial mucosal immunity. In this study, we tested NanoSTING, a liposomal formulation of the endogenous activator of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway, cyclic guanosine adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP), as a mucosal adjuvant. We formulated a vaccine based on the H1 antigen (fusion protein of Ag85b and ESAT-6) adjuvanted with NanoSTING. Intranasal immunization of NanoSTING-H1 elicited a strong T-cell response in the lung of vaccinated animals characterized by (a) CXCR3+ KLRG1- lung resident T cells that are known to be essential for controlling bacterial infection, (b) IFNγ-secreting CD4+ T cells which is necessary for intracellular bactericidal activity, and (c) IL17-secreting CD4+ T cells that can confer protective immunity against multiple clinically relevant strains of Mtb. Upon challenge with aerosolized Mycobacterium tuberculosis Erdman strain, intranasal NanoSTING-H1 provides protection comparable to subcutaneous administration of the live attenuated Mycobacterium bovis vaccine strain Bacille-Calmette-Guérin (BCG). Our results indicate that NanoSTING adjuvanted protein vaccines can elicit a multi-factorial immune response that protects from infection by M. tuberculosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Samiur Rahman Sefat
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Monish Kumar
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Stephanie Kehl
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Rohan Kulkarni
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Ankita Leekha
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Melisa-Martinez Paniagua
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - David F Ackart
- Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Nicole Jones
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Charles Spencer
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Brendan K Podell
- Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Hugues Ouellet
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas, El Paso, TX 79968, USA
| | - Navin Varadarajan
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77054, USA.
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17
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An Y, Zhu J, Xie Q, Feng J, Gong Y, Fan Q, Cao J, Huang Z, Shi W, Lin Q, Wu L, Yang C, Ji T. Tumor Exosomal ENPP1 Hydrolyzes cGAMP to Inhibit cGAS-STING Signaling. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308131. [PMID: 38498770 PMCID: PMC11132070 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
To evade immune surveillance, tumor cells express ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) on the surface of their membrane, which degrades extracellular cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP), thereby inhibiting the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) stimulator of interferon gene (STING) DNA-sensing pathway. To fully understand this tumor stealth mechanism, it is essential to determine whether other forms of ENPP1 with hydrolytic cGAMP activity also are present in the tumor microenvironment to regulate this innate immune pathway. Herein, it is reported that various tumor-derived exosomes carry ENPP1, and can hydrolyze synthetic 2'3'-cGAMP and endogenous 2'3'-cGAMP produced by cells to inhibit cGAS-STING pathway in immune cells. Moreover, tumor exosomal ENPP1 also can hydrolyze 2'3'-cGAMP bound to LL-37 (an effective transporter of 2'3'-cGAMP) to inhibit STING signaling. Furthermore, high expression of ENPP1 in exosomes is observed isolated from human breast and lung cancer tissue, and tumor exosomal ENPP1 inhibited the immune infiltration of CD8+ T cells and CD4+ T cells. The results elucidate the essential function of tumor exosomal ENPP1 in the cGAS-STING pathway, furthering understanding of the crosstalk between the tumor cells and immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu An
- Department of PathologyShanghai Ninth People's HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200011P. R. China
| | - Jinchao Zhu
- Department of PathologyShanghai Ninth People's HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200011P. R. China
| | - Qihui Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and RegenerationKey Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of EducationHubei Key Laboratory of StomatologySchool & Hospital of StomatologyWuhan UniversityWuhan430070P. R. China
| | - Jianzhou Feng
- Institute of Molecular MedicineRenji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200127P. R. China
| | - Yanli Gong
- Institute of Molecular MedicineRenji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200127P. R. China
| | - Qian Fan
- Institute of Molecular MedicineRenji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200127P. R. China
| | - Jiao Cao
- Institute of Molecular MedicineRenji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200127P. R. China
| | - Zhi Huang
- Institute of Molecular MedicineRenji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200127P. R. China
| | - Weixiong Shi
- Institute of Molecular MedicineRenji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200127P. R. China
| | - Qingyuan Lin
- Department of PathologyShanghai Ninth People's HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200011P. R. China
| | - Lingling Wu
- Institute of Molecular MedicineRenji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200127P. R. China
| | - Chaoyong Yang
- Institute of Molecular MedicineRenji HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200127P. R. China
- The MOE Key Laboratory of Spectrochemical Analysis and InstrumentationState Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces, Department of Chemical Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringXiamen UniversityXiamen361005P. R. China
| | - Tianhai Ji
- Department of PathologyShanghai Ninth People's HospitalShanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineShanghai200011P. R. China
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18
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Ma XY, Chen MM, Meng LH. Second messenger 2'3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (2'3'-cGAMP): the cell autonomous and non-autonomous roles in cancer progression. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:890-899. [PMID: 38177693 PMCID: PMC11053103 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01210-7] [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: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Cytosolic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) is frequently accumulated in cancer cells due to chromosomal instability or exogenous stimulation. Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) acts as a cytosolic DNA sensor, which is activated upon binding to dsDNA to synthesize the crucial second messenger 2'3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (2'3'-cGAMP) that in turn triggers stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling. The canonical role of cGAS-cGAMP-STING pathway is essential for innate immunity and viral defense. Recent emerging evidence indicates that 2'3'-cGAMP plays an important role in cancer progression via cell autonomous and non-autonomous mechanisms. Beyond its role as an intracellular messenger to activate STING signaling in tumor cells, 2'3'-cGAMP also serves as an immunotransmitter produced by cancer cells to modulate the functions of non-tumor cells especially immune cells in the tumor microenvironment by activating STING signaling. In this review, we summarize the synthesis, transmission, and degradation of 2'3'-cGAMP as well as the dual functions of 2'3'-cGAMP in a STING-dependent manner. Additionally, we discuss the potential therapeutic strategies that harness the cGAMP-mediated antitumor response for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yu Ma
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Man-Man Chen
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ling-Hua Meng
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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19
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Xin GF, Chen NN, Li LL, Liu XC, Che CC, Wu BD, You QD, Xu XL. An updated patent review of stimulator of interferon genes agonists (2021 - present). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2024; 34:297-313. [PMID: 38849323 DOI: 10.1080/13543776.2024.2365409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) is an innate immune sensor. Activation of STING triggers a downstream response that results in the expression of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β) via nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) or the expression of type I interferons (IFNs) via an interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3). IFNs can eventually result in promotion of the adaptive immune response including activation of tumor-specific CD8+ T cells to abolish the tumor. Consequently, activation of STING has been considered as a potential strategy for cancer treatment. AREAS COVERED This article provides an overview on structures and pharmacological data of CDN-like and non-nucleotide STING agonists acting as anticancer agents (January 2021 to October 2023) from a medicinal chemistry perspective. The data in this review come from EPO, WIPO, RCSB PDB, CDDI. EXPERT OPINION In recent years, several structurally diverse STING agonists have been identified. As an immune enhancer, they are used in the treatment of tumors, which has received extensive attention from scientific community and pharmaceutical companies. Despite the multiple challenges that have appeared, STING agonists may offer opportunities for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Feng Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Nan-Nan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lin-Lin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xue-Chun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chun-Chen Che
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bei-Duo Wu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qi-Dong You
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao-Li Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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20
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Colangelo NW, Gerber NK, Vatner RE, Cooper BT. Harnessing the cGAS-STING pathway to potentiate radiation therapy: current approaches and future directions. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1383000. [PMID: 38659582 PMCID: PMC11039815 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1383000] [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: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
In this review, we cover the current understanding of how radiation therapy, which uses ionizing radiation to kill cancer cells, mediates an anti-tumor immune response through the cGAS-STING pathway, and how STING agonists might potentiate this. We examine how cGAS-STING signaling mediates the release of inflammatory cytokines in response to nuclear and mitochondrial DNA entering the cytoplasm. The significance of this in the context of cancer is explored, such as in response to cell-damaging therapies and genomic instability. The contribution of the immune and non-immune cells in the tumor microenvironment is considered. This review also discusses the burgeoning understanding of STING signaling that is independent of inflammatory cytokine release and the various mechanisms by which cancer cells can evade STING signaling. We review the available data on how ionizing radiation stimulates cGAS-STING signaling as well as how STING agonists may potentiate the anti-tumor immune response induced by ionizing radiation. There is also discussion of how novel radiation modalities may affect cGAS-STING signaling. We conclude with a discussion of ongoing and planned clinical trials combining radiation therapy with STING agonists, and provide insights to consider when planning future clinical trials combining these treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas W. Colangelo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Naamit K. Gerber
- Department of Radiation Oncology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ralph E. Vatner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Benjamin T. Cooper
- Department of Radiation Oncology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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21
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Dvorkin S, Cambier S, Volkman HE, Stetson DB. New frontiers in the cGAS-STING intracellular DNA-sensing pathway. Immunity 2024; 57:718-730. [PMID: 38599167 PMCID: PMC11013568 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2024.02.019] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
The cGAS-STING intracellular DNA-sensing pathway has emerged as a key element of innate antiviral immunity and a promising therapeutic target. The existence of an innate immune sensor that can be activated by any double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) of any origin raises fundamental questions about how cGAS is regulated and how it responds to "foreign" DNA while maintaining tolerance to ubiquitous self-DNA. In this review, we summarize recent evidence implicating important roles for cGAS in the detection of foreign and self-DNA. We describe two recent and surprising insights into cGAS-STING biology: that cGAS is tightly tethered to the nucleosome and that the cGAMP product of cGAS is an immunotransmitter acting at a distance to control innate immunity. We consider how these advances influence our understanding of the emerging roles of cGAS in the DNA damage response (DDR), senescence, aging, and cancer biology. Finally, we describe emerging approaches to harness cGAS-STING biology for therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Dvorkin
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Stephanie Cambier
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Hannah E Volkman
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Daniel B Stetson
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98109, USA.
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22
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Wenzl SJ, de Oliveira Mann CC. How enzyme-centered approaches are advancing research on cyclic oligo-nucleotides. FEBS Lett 2024; 598:839-863. [PMID: 38453162 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14838] [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: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Cyclic nucleotides are the most diversified category of second messengers and are found in all organisms modulating diverse pathways. While cAMP and cGMP have been studied over 50 years, cyclic di-nucleotide signaling in eukaryotes emerged only recently with the anti-viral molecule 2´3´cGAMP. Recent breakthrough discoveries have revealed not only the astonishing chemical diversity of cyclic nucleotides but also surprisingly deep-rooted evolutionary origins of cyclic oligo-nucleotide signaling pathways and structural conservation of the proteins involved in their synthesis and signaling. Here we discuss how enzyme-centered approaches have paved the way for the identification of several cyclic nucleotide signals, focusing on the advantages and challenges associated with deciphering the activation mechanisms of such enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon J Wenzl
- Department of Bioscience, TUM School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany
| | - Carina C de Oliveira Mann
- Department of Bioscience, TUM School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany
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23
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Li Q, Wu P, Du Q, Hanif U, Hu H, Li K. cGAS-STING, an important signaling pathway in diseases and their therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e511. [PMID: 38525112 PMCID: PMC10960729 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.511] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Since cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway was discovered in 2013, great progress has been made to elucidate the origin, function, and regulating mechanism of cGAS-STING signaling pathway in the past decade. Meanwhile, the triggering and transduction mechanisms have been continuously illuminated. cGAS-STING plays a key role in human diseases, particularly DNA-triggered inflammatory diseases, making it a potentially effective therapeutic target for inflammation-related diseases. Here, we aim to summarize the ancient origin of the cGAS-STING defense mechanism, as well as the triggers, transduction, and regulating mechanisms of the cGAS-STING. We will also focus on the important roles of cGAS-STING signal under pathological conditions, such as infections, cancers, autoimmune diseases, neurological diseases, and visceral inflammations, and review the progress in drug development targeting cGAS-STING signaling pathway. The main directions and potential obstacles in the regulating mechanism research and therapeutic drug development of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway for inflammatory diseases and cancers will be discussed. These research advancements expand our understanding of cGAS-STING, provide a theoretical basis for further exploration of the roles of cGAS-STING in diseases, and open up new strategies for targeting cGAS-STING as a promising therapeutic intervention in multiple diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qijie Li
- Sichuan province Medical and Engineering Interdisciplinary Research Center of Nursing & Materials/Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceWest China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of NursingSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Ping Wu
- Department of Occupational DiseasesThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College (China National Nuclear Corporation 416 Hospital)ChengduSichuanChina
| | - Qiujing Du
- Sichuan province Medical and Engineering Interdisciplinary Research Center of Nursing & Materials/Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceWest China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of NursingSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Ullah Hanif
- Sichuan province Medical and Engineering Interdisciplinary Research Center of Nursing & Materials/Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceWest China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of NursingSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Hongbo Hu
- Center for Immunology and HematologyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Ka Li
- Sichuan province Medical and Engineering Interdisciplinary Research Center of Nursing & Materials/Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceWest China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of NursingSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
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24
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Zhang BC, Laursen MF, Hu L, Hazrati H, Narita R, Jensen LS, Hansen AS, Huang J, Zhang Y, Ding X, Muyesier M, Nilsson E, Banasik A, Zeiler C, Mogensen TH, Etzerodt A, Agger R, Johannsen M, Kofod-Olsen E, Paludan SR, Jakobsen MR. Cholesterol-binding motifs in STING that control endoplasmic reticulum retention mediate anti-tumoral activity of cholesterol-lowering compounds. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2760. [PMID: 38553448 PMCID: PMC10980718 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47046-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The cGAS-STING pathway plays a crucial role in anti-tumoral responses by activating inflammation and reprogramming the tumour microenvironment. Upon activation, STING traffics from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to Golgi, allowing signalling complex assembly and induction of interferon and inflammatory cytokines. Here we report that cGAMP stimulation leads to a transient decline in ER cholesterol levels, mediated by Sterol O-Acyltransferase 1-dependent cholesterol esterification. This facilitates ER membrane curvature and STING trafficking to Golgi. Notably, we identify two cholesterol-binding motifs in STING and confirm their contribution to ER-retention of STING. Consequently, depletion of intracellular cholesterol levels enhances STING pathway activation upon cGAMP stimulation. In a preclinical tumour model, intratumorally administered cholesterol depletion therapy potentiated STING-dependent anti-tumoral responses, which, in combination with anti-PD-1 antibodies, promoted tumour remission. Collectively, we demonstrate that ER cholesterol sets a threshold for STING signalling through cholesterol-binding motifs in STING and we propose that this could be exploited for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao-Cun Zhang
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Marlene F Laursen
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, DK-9220, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Lili Hu
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Hossein Hazrati
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Aarhus University, DK-8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Ryo Narita
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Lea S Jensen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Aida S Hansen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Jinrong Huang
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Engineering, Aarhus University, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Xiangning Ding
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | | | - Emil Nilsson
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Agnieszka Banasik
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, DK-9220, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Christina Zeiler
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, DK-9220, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Trine H Mogensen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, DK-8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Anders Etzerodt
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Ralf Agger
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, DK-9220, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mogens Johannsen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Aarhus University, DK-8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Emil Kofod-Olsen
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, DK-9220, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Søren R Paludan
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Martin R Jakobsen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000, Aarhus C, Denmark.
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25
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Boda AR, Liu AJ, Castro-Pando S, Whitfield BT, Molldrem JJ, Al-Atrash G, Di Francesco ME, Jones P, Ager CR, Curran MA. Identification of Nonfunctional Alternatively Spliced Isoforms of STING in Human Acute Myeloid Leukemia. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:911-918. [PMID: 38477596 PMCID: PMC10962316 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-24-0095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Lack of robust activation of Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) pathway and subsequent induction of type I IFN responses is considered a barrier to antitumor immunity in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Using common human AML cell lines as in vitro tools to evaluate the efficacy of novel STING agonists, we found most AML lines to be poor producers of IFNs upon exposure to extremely potent agonists, suggesting cell-intrinsic suppression of STING signaling may occur. We observed unexpected patterns of response that did not correlate with levels of STING pathway components or of known enzymes associated with resistance. To identify a genetic basis for these observations, we cloned and sequenced STING from the cDNA of human AML cell lines and found both frequent mutations and deviations from normal RNA splicing. We identified two novel spliced isoforms of STING in these lines and validated their expression in primary human AML samples. When transduced into reporter cells, these novel STING isoforms exhibited complete insensitivity to agonist stimulation. These observations identify alternative splicing as a mechanism of STING pathway suppression and suggest that most AML silences the STING pathway through direct modification rather than through engagement of external inhibitory factors. SIGNIFICANCE We find that AML acquires resistance to innate immune activation via the STING pathway through aberrant splicing of the STING transcript including two novel forms described herein that act as dominant negatives. These data broaden understanding of how cancers evolve STING resistance, and suggest that the AML tumor microenvironment, not the cancer cell, should be the target of therapeutic interventions to activate STING.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash R. Boda
- Immunology Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Arthur J. Liu
- Immunology Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Susana Castro-Pando
- Immunology Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Benjamin T. Whitfield
- Immunology Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas
| | - Jeffrey J. Molldrem
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Gheath Al-Atrash
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Maria Emilia Di Francesco
- Institute for Applied Cancer Science, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Philip Jones
- Institute for Applied Cancer Science, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Casey R. Ager
- Department of Immunology, The Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, Arizona
| | - Michael A. Curran
- Immunology Program, The University of Texas MD Anderson UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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26
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Wang P, Wang Y, Li H, Wang M, Wang Y, Wang X, Ran L, Xin H, Ma J, Tian G, Gao W, Zhang G. A homologous-targeting cGAS-STING agonist multimodally activates dendritic cells for enhanced cancer immunotherapy. Acta Biomater 2024; 177:400-413. [PMID: 38336268 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.02.003] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Herein, we developed a doxorubicin (Dox)-loaded and 4T1 cancer cell membrane-modified hydrogenated manganese oxide nanoparticles (mHMnO-Dox) to elicit systemic antitumor immune responses. The results revealed that mHMnO-Dox actively recognized tumor cells and then effectively delivered Dox into the cells. Upon entering tumor cells, the mHMnO-Dox underwent rapid degradation and abundant release of Mn2+ and chemotherapeutic drugs. The released Mn2+ not only catalysed a Fenton-type reaction to produce excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) but also activated the cGAS-STING pathway to boost dendritic cell (DC) maturation. This process increased cytotoxic T lymphocyte infiltration as well as natural killer cell recruitment into the tumor site. In addition, the released Dox could contribute to a chemotherapeutic effect, while activating DC cells and subsequently intensifying immune responses through immunogenic cell death (ICD) of tumor cells. Consequently, the mHMnO-Dox suppressed the primary and distal tumor growth and inhibited tumor relapse and metastasis, as well as prolonged the lifespan of tumor-bearing mice. Thus, the mHMnO-Dox multimodally activated DC cells to demonstrate synergistic antitumor activity, which was mediated via the activation of the cGAS-STING signalling pathway to regulate tumor microenvironment, ICD-mediated immunotherapy and ROS-mediated CDT. These findings suggest the therapeutic potential of mHMnO-Dox in cancer immunotherapy. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: A cancer cell membrane-camouflaged hydrogenated mesoporous manganese oxide (mHMnO) has been developed as a cGAS-STING agonist and ICD inducer. The mHMnO effectively induced abundance of ROS production in cancer cells, which caused cancer cell death and then promoted DC maturation via tumour-associated antigen presentation. Meanwhile, the mHMnO significantly activated cGAS-STING pathway to facilitate DC maturation and cytotoxic T lymphocyte infiltration as well as natural killer cell recruitment, which further enhanced tumour immune response. In addition, the combination of the mHMnO and Dox could synergistically promote tumour ICD and then multimodally induce DC maturation, achieving an enhanced CIT. Overall, this study provides a potential strategy to design novel immunologic adjuvant for enhanced CIT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Yinfeng Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Huimin Li
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Miaomiao Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Yue Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Lang Ran
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Huan Xin
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Jingyi Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Geng Tian
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China
| | - Wenjuan Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China.
| | - Guilong Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai 264003, PR China.
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27
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Sun Y, Chen M, Han Y, Li W, Ma X, Shi Z, Zhou Y, Xu L, Yu L, Wang Y, Yu J, Diao X, Meng L, Xu S. Discovery of Pyrido[2,3- d]pyrimidin-7-one Derivatives as Highly Potent and Efficacious Ectonucleotide Pyrophosphatase/Phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) Inhibitors for Cancer Treatment. J Med Chem 2024; 67:3986-4006. [PMID: 38387074 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02288] [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: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) is an extracellular enzyme responsible for hydrolyzing cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP), the endogenous agonist for the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway. Inhibition of ENPP1 can trigger STING and promote antitumor immunity, offering an attractive therapeutic target for cancer immunotherapy. Despite progress in the discovery of ENPP1 inhibitors, the diversity in chemical structures and the efficacy of the agents are far from desirable, emphasizing the demand for novel inhibitors. Herein, we describe the design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of a series of ENPP1 inhibitors based on the pyrido[2,3-d]pyrimidin-7-one scaffold. Optimization efforts led to compound 31 with significant potency in both ENPP1 inhibition and STING pathway stimulation in vitro. Notably, 31 demonstrated in vivo efficacy in a syngeneic 4T1 mouse triple negative breast cancer model. These findings provide a promising lead compound with a novel scaffold for further drug development in cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoliang Sun
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Manman Chen
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuyan Han
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Weiqiang Li
- Center for Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaoyu Ma
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zihan Shi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment, International Cooperative Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Modernization and Innovative Drug Discovery of Chinese Ministry of Education, Guangzhou City Key Laboratory of Precision Chemical Drug Development, School of Pharmacy, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Lan Xu
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Lei Yu
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yuxiang Wang
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jinghua Yu
- Center for Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xingxing Diao
- Center for Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Linghua Meng
- Division of Antitumor Pharmacology, State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shilin Xu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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28
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Shi Y, Bashian EE, Hou Y, Wu P. Chemical immunology: Recent advances in tool development and applications. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:S2451-9456(24)00080-1. [PMID: 38508196 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.02.006] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Immunology was one of the first biological fields to embrace chemical approaches. The development of new chemical approaches and techniques has provided immunologists with an impressive arsenal of tools to address challenges once considered insurmountable. This review focuses on advances at the interface of chemistry and immunobiology over the past two decades that have not only opened new avenues in basic immunological research, but also revolutionized drug development for the treatment of cancer and autoimmune diseases. These include chemical approaches to understand and manipulate antigen presentation and the T cell priming process, to facilitate immune cell trafficking and regulate immune cell functions, and therapeutic applications of chemical approaches to disease control and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Shi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Eleanor E Bashian
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Yingqin Hou
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Peng Wu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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29
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Zhang C, Cao Q, Li Y, Lu J, Xiong S, Yue Y. Exosome co-delivery of a STING agonist augments immunogenicity elicited by CVB3 VP1 vaccine via promoting antigen cross-presentation of CD8 + DCs. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 261:129518. [PMID: 38244740 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
The induction of a robust CD8+ T cell response is critical for the success of an antiviral vaccine. In this study, we incorporated a STING agonist (SA) 2'3'-cGAMP into a previously developed exosome-based CVB3 viral myocarditis vaccine (Exo-VP1) to enhance its ability to induce CD8+ T cell responses and immunoprotection. Our results showed that compared to free SA adjuvant, exosome-mediated co-delivery (ExoSA-VP1) significantly enhanced SA uptake by dendritic cells (DCs) and more potently stimulated DC maturation. Immunization of mice showed that the ExoSA-VP1 vaccine-induced higher levels of CVB3-specific T cell proliferation and cytotoxicity, significantly increased the percentage of IFN-γ+CD8+ rather than CD4+ T cells, effectively reduced cardiac viral loads, attenuated myocarditis and improved survival in mice compared to the previous Exo-VP1 vaccine. Further investigation showed that ExoSA-VP1 significantly increased both the percentage and antigen cross-presentation capacity of splenic CD8+ DCs. Depletion of these CD8+ DCs by cytochrome C administration nearly abolished the advantage of ExoSA-VP1 in dominantly inducing IFN-γ+CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) production in immunized mice. Taken together, our results demonstrated the potential of ExoSA-VP1 as a promising candidate for anti-CVB3 vaccines and provide insights into immune-enhancing strategies aiming at augmenting antigen cross-presentation by DCs and enhancing potent CTL responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changwei Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institutes of Biology and Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Qinghui Cao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institutes of Biology and Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yuanyu Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institutes of Biology and Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Juan Lu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institutes of Biology and Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Sidong Xiong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institutes of Biology and Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Yan Yue
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Institutes of Biology and Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
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30
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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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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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Ferreira CR, Carpenter TO, Braddock DT. ENPP1 in Blood and Bone: Skeletal and Soft Tissue Diseases Induced by ENPP1 Deficiency. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PATHOLOGY 2024; 19:507-540. [PMID: 37871131 PMCID: PMC11062289 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-pathmechdis-051222-121126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
The enzyme ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) codes for a type 2 transmembrane glycoprotein that hydrolyzes extracellular ATP to generate pyrophosphate (PPi) and adenosine monophosphate, thereby contributing to downstream purinergic signaling pathways. The clinical phenotypes induced by ENPP1 deficiency are seemingly contradictory and include early-onset osteoporosis in middle-aged adults and life-threatening vascular calcifications in the large arteries of infants with generalized arterial calcification of infancy. The progressive overmineralization of soft tissue and concurrent undermineralization of skeleton also occur in the general medical population, where it is referred to as paradoxical mineralization to highlight the confusing pathophysiology. This review summarizes the clinical presentation and pathophysiology of paradoxical mineralization unveiled by ENPP1 deficiency and the bench-to-bedside development of a novel ENPP1 biologics designed to treat mineralization disorders in the rare disease and general medical population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos R Ferreira
- Metabolic Medicine Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Thomas O Carpenter
- Department of Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Demetrios T Braddock
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA;
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Xie Z, Yang Y, Ma D, Xi Z. Design, synthesis, and cell-based in vitro assay of deoxyinosine-mixed SATE-dCDN prodrugs that activate all common STING variants. Org Biomol Chem 2024; 22:606-620. [PMID: 38131469 DOI: 10.1039/d3ob01838e] [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: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Developing therapeutic strategies to modulate the activity of all prevalent variants (wild-type, HAQ, R232H, AQ, and R293Q) of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is still of great interest to treating immune-related diseases. Herein, we synthesized six novel deoxyinosine-mixed deoxyribose cyclic dinucleotide prodrugs (SATE-dCDN) including a combination of hypoxanthine and other bases (A, U, C, T, and G) for a cell-based in vitro assay. The HPLC assay indicated that deoxyinosine-mixed SATE (S-acylthioalkyl ester)-dCDN prodrugs retained high serum stability. The IRF3-responsive luciferase assay in THP1-Lucia cells showed that the activity of the prodrugs with purine bases (SATE-3',3'-c-di-dIMP, SATE-3',3'-c-di-dIdAMP, and SATE-3',3'-c-di-dIdGMP) was higher than that of the prodrugs with pyrimidine bases (SATE-3',3'-c-di-dIdUMP, SATE-3',3'-c-di-dIdTMP, and SATE-3',3'-c-di-dIdCMP), among which prodrug 14a (SATE-3',3'-c-di-dIdAMP) with hypoxanthine and adenine bases exhibited the highest activity with an EC50 value of 0.046 μM. The IRF3 responsive dual-luciferase reporter assay in HEK293T cells transfected with plasmids expressing different STING variants further showed that prodrug 14a could activate all five most common hSTING variants, including the refractory hSTINGR232H and hSTINGQ variants. Furthermore, prodrug 14a also induced the production of the highest levels of mRNA of IFN-β, CXCL10, IL-6 and TNF-α through STING-dependent IRF and NF-κB signaling pathways in THP-1 cells. These results suggested that the combination of deoxyinosine with a SATE-dCDN prodrug could modulate the broad-spectrum activity of all common STING variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
| | - Yuchen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
| | - Dejun Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
| | - Zhen Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Elemento-organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
- National Pesticide Engineering Research Centre, Tianjin 300071, China
- Haihe Laboratory of Sustainable Chemical Transformations, Tianjin 300192, China
- Collaborative Innovation Centre of Chemical Science and Engineering (Tianjin), Tianjin 300071, 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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Mardjuki R, Wang S, Carozza JA, Abhiraman GC, Lyu X, Li L. Identification of extracellular membrane protein ENPP3 as a major cGAMP hydrolase, cementing cGAMP's role as an immunotransmitter. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.12.575449. [PMID: 38260585 PMCID: PMC10802559 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.12.575449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
cGAMP is a second messenger that is synthesized in the cytosol upon detection of cytosolic dsDNA and passed between cells to facilitate downstream immune signaling. ENPP1, an extracellular enzyme, was the only metazoan cGAMP hydrolase known to regulate cGAMP levels to dampen anti-cancer immunity. Here, we uncover ENPP3 as the second and only other metazoan cGAMP hydrolase under homeostatic conditions. ENPP3 has a tissue expression pattern distinct from that of ENPP1 and accounts for all remaining cGAMP hydrolysis activity in mice lacking ENPP1. Importantly, we also show that as with ENPP1, selectively abolishing ENPP3's cGAMP hydrolase activity results in diminished cancer growth and metastasis of certain tumor types. Both ENPP1 and ENPP3 are extracellular enzymes, suggesting the dominant role that extracellular cGAMP must play as a mediator of cell-cell innate immune communication. Our work clearly shows that ENPP1 and ENPP3 non-redundantly dampen extracellular cGAMP-STING signaling, pointing to ENPP3 as a new target for cancer immunotherapy.
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Rohilla A, Singh AK, Koleske B, Srikrishna G, Bishai WR. Structure-based virtual screening and in vitro validation of inhibitors of cyclic dinucleotide phosphodiesterases ENPP1 and CdnP. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0201223. [PMID: 38095464 PMCID: PMC10783014 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02012-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE In this paper, we describe novel inhibitors of cyclic dinucleotide phosphodiesterase enzymes from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) (CdnP) and mammals (ENPP1). The phosphodiesterase enzymes hydrolyze cyclic dinucleotides, such as 2',3'-cyclic GMP-AMP and c-di-AMP, which are stimulator of interferon gene (STING) agonists. By blocking the hydrolysis of STING agonists, the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-STING-IRF3 pathway is potentiated. There is strong evidence in tuberculosis and in cancer biology that potentiation of the cGAS-STING-IRF3 pathway leads to improved M.tb clearance and also improved antitumor responses in cancer. In addition to the identification of novel inhibitors and their biochemical characterization, we provide proof-of-concept evidence that our E-3 inhibitor potentiates the cGAS-STING-IRF3 pathway in both macrophage cell lines and also in primary human monocyte-derived macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Rohilla
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Alok Kumar Singh
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Benjamin Koleske
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Geetha Srikrishna
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - William R. Bishai
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Center for Tuberculosis Research, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Monti M, Ferrari G, Grosso V, Missale F, Bugatti M, Cancila V, Zini S, Segala A, La Via L, Consoli F, Orlandi M, Valerio A, Tripodo C, Rossato M, Vermi W. Impaired activation of plasmacytoid dendritic cells via toll-like receptor 7/9 and STING is mediated by melanoma-derived immunosuppressive cytokines and metabolic drift. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1227648. [PMID: 38239354 PMCID: PMC10795195 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1227648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) infiltrate a large set of human cancers. Interferon alpha (IFN-α) produced by pDCs induces growth arrest and apoptosis in tumor cells and modulates innate and adaptive immune cells involved in anti-cancer immunity. Moreover, effector molecules exert tumor cell killing. However, the activation state and clinical relevance of pDCs infiltration in cancer is still largely controversial. In Primary Cutaneous Melanoma (PCM), pDCs density decreases over disease progression and collapses in metastatic melanoma (MM). Moreover, the residual circulating pDC compartment is defective in IFN-α production. Methods The activation of tumor-associated pDCs was evaluated by in silico and microscopic analysis. The expression of human myxovirus resistant protein 1 (MxA), as surrogate of IFN-α production, and proximity ligation assay (PLA) to test dsDNA-cGAS activation were performed on human melanoma biopsies. Moreover, IFN-α and CXCL10 production by in vitro stimulated (i.e. with R848, CpG-A, ADU-S100) pDCs exposed to melanoma cell lines supernatants (SN-mel) was tested by intracellular flow cytometry and ELISA. We also performed a bulk RNA-sequencing on SN-mel-exposed pDCs, resting or stimulated with R848. Glycolytic rate assay was performed on SN-mel-exposed pDCs using the Seahorse XFe24 Extracellular Flux Analyzer. Results Based on a set of microscopic, functional and in silico analyses, we demonstrated that the melanoma milieu directly impairs IFN-α and CXCL10 production by pDCs via TLR-7/9 and cGAS-STING signaling pathways. Melanoma-derived immunosuppressive cytokines and a metabolic drift represent relevant mechanisms enforcing pDC-mediated melanoma escape. Discussion These findings propose a new window of intervention for novel immunotherapy approaches to amplify the antitumor innate immune response in cutaneous melanoma (CM).
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilde Monti
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giorgia Ferrari
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Valentina Grosso
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesco Missale
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Head & Neck Oncology & Surgery Otorhinolaryngology, Nederlands Kanker Instituut, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mattia Bugatti
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Valeria Cancila
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Stefania Zini
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Agnese Segala
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Luca La Via
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesca Consoli
- Oncology Unit, Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Matteo Orlandi
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Alessandra Valerio
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Claudio Tripodo
- Tumor Immunology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- IFOM ETS, the AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Marzia Rossato
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - William Vermi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, United States
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Solomon PE, Bracken CJ, Carozza JA, Wang H, Young EP, Wellner A, Liu CC, Sweet-Cordero EA, Li L, Wells JA. Discovery of VH domains that allosterically inhibit ENPP1. Nat Chem Biol 2024; 20:30-41. [PMID: 37400538 PMCID: PMC10746542 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-023-01368-5] [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: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Ectodomain phosphatase/phosphodiesterase-1 (ENPP1) is overexpressed on cancer cells and functions as an innate immune checkpoint by hydrolyzing extracellular cyclic guanosine monophosphate adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP). Biologic inhibitors have not yet been reported and could have substantial therapeutic advantages over current small molecules because they can be recombinantly engineered into multifunctional formats and immunotherapies. Here we used phage and yeast display coupled with in cellulo evolution to generate variable heavy (VH) single-domain antibodies against ENPP1 and discovered a VH domain that allosterically inhibited the hydrolysis of cGAMP and adenosine triphosphate (ATP). We solved a 3.2 Å-resolution cryo-electron microscopy structure for the VH inhibitor complexed with ENPP1 that confirmed its new allosteric binding pose. Finally, we engineered the VH domain into multispecific formats and immunotherapies, including a bispecific fusion with an anti-PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitor that showed potent cellular activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paige E Solomon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Colton J Bracken
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Cartography Biosciences, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jacqueline A Carozza
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Haoqing Wang
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Macromolecular Structural Knowledge Center, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth P Young
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Alon Wellner
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Chang C Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - E Alejandro Sweet-Cordero
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lingyin Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University Medical School, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - James A Wells
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Pharmacology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Lu Y, You L, Li L, Kilgore JA, Liu S, Wang X, Dai Y, Wei Q, Shi H, Han L, Sun L, Chen ZJ, Zhang X, Williams NS, Chen C. Orthogonal Hydroxyl Functionalization of cGAMP Confers Metabolic Stability and Enables Antibody Conjugation. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2023; 9:2298-2305. [PMID: 38161369 PMCID: PMC10755847 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.3c01122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
cGAMP is a signaling molecule produced by the cGAS-DNA complex to establish antimicrobial and antitumor immunity through STING. Whereas STING activation holds potential as a new strategy to treat cancer, cGAMP is generally considered unsuitable for in vivo use because of the rapid cleavage of its phosphodiester linkages and the limited cellular uptake under physiological conditions. Consequently, phosphorothioation and fluorination are commonly used to improve the metabolic stability and permeability of cGAMP and its synthetic analogues. We now show that methylation of the 3'-hydroxyl group of cGAMP also confers metabolic stability and that acylation of the 2'-hydroxyl group can be achieved directly and selectively to enable receptor-mediated intracellular delivery. Unlike phosphorothioation and fluorination, these modifications do not create a new stereogenic center and do not require laborious building block synthesis. As such, orthogonal hydroxyl functionalization is a simple solution to issues associated with the in vivo use of cGAMP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Lu
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Lin You
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Liping Li
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Jessica A. Kilgore
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Shun Liu
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Yuanwei Dai
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Qi Wei
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Heping Shi
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Lei Han
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Lijun Sun
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Zhijian J. Chen
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Xuewu Zhang
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Noelle S. Williams
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Chuo Chen
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
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Wang S, Böhnert V, Joseph AJ, Sudaryo V, Skariah G, Swinderman JT, Yu FB, Subramanyam V, Wolf DM, Lyu X, Gilbert LA, van’t Veer LJ, Goodarzi H, Li L. ENPP1 is an innate immune checkpoint of the anticancer cGAMP-STING pathway in breast cancer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2313693120. [PMID: 38117852 PMCID: PMC10756298 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2313693120] [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: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) expression correlates with poor prognosis in many cancers, and we previously discovered that ENPP1 is the dominant hydrolase of extracellular cGAMP: a cancer-cell-produced immunotransmitter that activates the anticancer stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway. However, ENPP1 has other catalytic activities and the molecular and cellular mechanisms contributing to its tumorigenic effects remain unclear. Here, using single-cell RNA-seq, we show that ENPP1 in both cancer and normal tissues drives primary breast tumor growth and metastasis by dampening extracellular 2'3'-cyclic-GMP-AMP (cGAMP)-STING-mediated antitumoral immunity. ENPP1 loss-of-function in both cancer cells and normal tissues slowed primary tumor growth and abolished metastasis. Selectively abolishing the cGAMP hydrolysis activity of ENPP1 phenocopied ENPP1 knockout in a STING-dependent manner, demonstrating that restoration of paracrine cGAMP-STING signaling is the dominant anti-cancer mechanism of ENPP1 inhibition. Finally, ENPP1 expression in breast tumors deterministically predicated whether patients would remain free of distant metastasis after pembrolizumab (anti-PD-1) treatment followed by surgery. Altogether, ENPP1 blockade represents a strategy to exploit cancer-produced extracellular cGAMP for controlled local activation of STING and is therefore a promising therapeutic approach against breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songnan Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA94304
| | - Volker Böhnert
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
| | - Alby J. Joseph
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA94304
| | - Valentino Sudaryo
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA94304
| | - Gemini Skariah
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
| | - Jason T. Swinderman
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA94304
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
| | | | - Vishvak Subramanyam
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
- Department of Biophysics & Biochemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
- Baker Computational Health Science Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
| | - Denise M. Wolf
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA94115
| | - Xuchao Lyu
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA94305
| | - Luke A. Gilbert
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA94304
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
| | - Laura J. van’t Veer
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA94115
| | - Hani Goodarzi
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
- Department of Biophysics & Biochemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
- Baker Computational Health Science Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
| | - Lingyin Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA94304
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42
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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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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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44
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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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Joseph JV, Blaavand MS, Cai H, Vernejoul F, Knopper RW, Lindhardt TB, Skipper KA, Axelgaard E, Reinert L, Mikkelsen JG, Borghammer P, Degn SE, Perouzel E, Hager H, Hansen B, Kalucka JM, Vendelbo M, Paludan SR, Thomsen MK. STING activation counters glioblastoma by vascular alteration and immune surveillance. Cancer Lett 2023; 579:216480. [PMID: 37931834 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216480] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive brain tumor with a median survival of 15 months and has limited treatment options. Immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors has shown minimal efficacy in combating GBM, and large clinical trials have failed. New immunotherapy approaches and a deeper understanding of immune surveillance of GBM are needed to advance treatment options for this devastating disease. In this study, we used two preclinical models of GBM: orthotopically delivering either GBM stem cells or employing CRISPR-mediated tumorigenesis by adeno-associated virus, to establish immunologically proficient and non-inflamed tumors, respectively. After tumor development, the innate immune system was activated through long-term STING activation by a pharmacological agonist, which reduced tumor progression and prolonged survival. Recruitment and activation of cytotoxic T-cells were detected in the tumors, and T-cell specificity towards the cancer cells was observed. Interestingly, prolonged STING activation altered the tumor vasculature, inducing hypoxia and activation of VEGFR, as measured by a kinome array and VEGF expression. Combination treatment with anti-PD1 did not provide a synergistic effect, indicating that STING activation alone is sufficient to activate immune surveillance and hinder tumor development through vascular disruption. These results guide future studies to refine innate immune activation as a treatment approach for GBM, in combination with anti-VEGF to impede tumor progression and induce an immunological response against the tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin V Joseph
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Huiqiang Cai
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Rasmus W Knopper
- Center of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Thomas B Lindhardt
- Center of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Esben Axelgaard
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Line Reinert
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Per Borghammer
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Søren E Degn
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Henrik Hager
- Department of Pathology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Brian Hansen
- Center of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Mikkel Vendelbo
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & PET Centre, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Søren R Paludan
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Martin K Thomsen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies (AIAS), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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46
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Cho Y, Kang M, Ji SH, Jeong HJ, Jung JE, Oh DH, Park S, Park YY, Choi J, Kim S, Kim NJ, Lee DH, Park CS, Han SJ, Lee S, Choi J. Discovery of Orally Bioavailable Phthalazinone Analogues as an ENPP1 Inhibitor for STING-Mediated Cancer Immunotherapy. J Med Chem 2023; 66:15141-15170. [PMID: 37963811 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01061] [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: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
A lack of the T cell-inflamed tumor microenvironment limits the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Activation of stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-mediated innate immunity has emerged as a novel therapeutic approach in cancer therapy. 2',3'-Cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) is a natural STING agonist; however, cGAMP is subjected to endogenous degradation by ecto-nucleotide pyrophosphatase phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1). To improve the ICI response rate, we developed 29f, a novel ENPP1 inhibitor with phthalazin-1(2H)-one as the core scaffold. 29f inhibited the cGAMP hydrolysis by ENPP1 in vitro (IC50 = 68 nM) and enhanced the STING-mediated type I interferon response in both immune and tumor cells. 29f demonstrated excellent metabolic stability and bioavailability (F = 65%). Orally administered 29f promoted tumor growth inhibition in a CT26 syngeneic model and increased the anti-PD-L1 response. Furthermore, 29f-induced immunological memory prevented the tumor relapse against tumor rechallenge, suggesting the promising therapeutic potential of 29f.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeonguk Cho
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Miso Kang
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Su Hyun Ji
- Chemical and Biological Integrative Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemistry, Sogang University, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Jin Jeong
- Chemical and Biological Integrative Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Eun Jung
- Chemical and Biological Integrative Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Do Hee Oh
- Chemical and Biological Integrative Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunyoung Park
- Txinno Bioscience Inc., Yongin 16942, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Yea Park
- Txinno Bioscience Inc., Yongin 16942, Republic of Korea
| | - Junghwan Choi
- Txinno Bioscience Inc., Yongin 16942, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungjoon Kim
- Txinno Bioscience Inc., Yongin 16942, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam-Jung Kim
- Department of Fundamental Pharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Duck-Hyung Lee
- Department of Chemistry, Sogang University, Seoul 04107, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan Sun Park
- Txinno Bioscience Inc., Yongin 16942, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo-Jung Han
- Chemical and Biological Integrative Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghee Lee
- 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
| | - Junwon Choi
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Ajou University, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
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47
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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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48
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Shin H, Chung H. SMPDL3A links cholesterol metabolism to the cGAS-STING pathway. Immunity 2023; 56:2459-2461. [PMID: 37967525 PMCID: PMC11056274 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2023.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Liver X receptor (LXR), well known for its role in cholesterol metabolism, also has anti-inflammatory properties. In this issue of Immunity, Hou et al. demonstrate that LXR signaling induces SMPDL3A, a cGAMP-degrading enzyme that restricts cGAS-cGAMP-STING innate immune signaling, providing a mechanistic link between lipid metabolism and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heegwon Shin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hachung Chung
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
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49
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Hou Y, Wang Z, Liu P, Wei X, Zhang Z, Fan S, Zhang L, Han F, Song Y, Chu L, Zhang C. SMPDL3A is a cGAMP-degrading enzyme induced by LXR-mediated lipid metabolism to restrict cGAS-STING DNA sensing. Immunity 2023; 56:2492-2507.e10. [PMID: 37890481 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2023.10.001] [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: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Lipid metabolism has been associated with the cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP)-AMP synthase (cGAS) stimulator of interferon genes (STING) DNA-sensing pathway, but our understanding of how these signals are integrated into a cohesive immunometabolic program is lacking. Here, we have identified liver X receptor (LXR) agonists as potent inhibitors of STING signaling. We show that stimulation of lipid metabolism by LXR agonists specifically suppressed cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP)-STING signaling. Moreover, we developed cyclic dinucleotide-conjugated beads to biochemically isolate host effectors for cGAMP inhibition, and we found that LXR ligands stimulated the expression of sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase acid-like 3A (SMPDL3A), which is a 2'3'-cGAMP-degrading enzyme. Results of crystal structures suggest that cGAMP analog induces dimerization of SMPDL3A, and the dimerization is critical for cGAMP degradation. Additionally, we have provided evidence that SMPDL3A cleaves cGAMP to restrict STING signaling in cell culture and mouse models. Our results reveal SMPDL3A as a cGAMP-specific nuclease and demonstrate a mechanism for how LXR-associated lipid metabolism modulates STING-mediated innate immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfei Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Zhimeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Peiyuan Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Xubiao Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China; State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhengyin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Shilong Fan
- Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Lulu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Fangping Han
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yikang Song
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Ling Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Conggang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing 100084, China.
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Jekle A, Thatikonda SK, Jaisinghani R, Ren S, Kinkade A, Stevens SK, Stoycheva A, Rajwanshi VK, Williams C, Deval J, Mukherjee S, Zhang Q, Chanda S, Smith DB, Blatt LM, Symons JA, Gonzalvez F, Beigelman L. Tumor Regression upon Intratumoral and Subcutaneous Dosing of the STING Agonist ALG-031048 in Mouse Efficacy Models. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16274. [PMID: 38003463 PMCID: PMC10671074 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216274] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists have shown potent anti-tumor efficacy in various mouse tumor models and have the potential to overcome resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) by linking the innate and acquired immune systems. First-generation STING agonists are administered intratumorally; however, a systemic delivery route would greatly expand the clinical use of STING agonists. Biochemical and cell-based experiments, as well as syngeneic mouse efficacy models, were used to demonstrate the anti-tumoral activity of ALG-031048, a novel STING agonist. In vitro, ALG-031048 is highly stable in plasma and liver microsomes and is resistant to degradation via phosphodiesterases. The high stability in biological matrices translated to good cellular potency in a HEK 293 STING R232 reporter assay, efficient activation and maturation of primary human dendritic cells and monocytes, as well as long-lasting, antigen-specific anti-tumor activity in up to 90% of animals in the CT26 mouse colon carcinoma model. Significant reductions in tumor growth were observed in two syngeneic mouse tumor models following subcutaneous administration. Combinations of ALG-031048 and ICIs further enhanced the in vivo anti-tumor activity. This initial demonstration of anti-tumor activity after systemic administration of ALG-031048 warrants further investigation, while the combination of systemically administered ALG-031048 with ICIs offers an attractive approach to overcome key limitations of ICIs in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Jekle
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Santosh Kumar Thatikonda
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Ruchika Jaisinghani
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Suping Ren
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - April Kinkade
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Sarah K. Stevens
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Antitsa Stoycheva
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Vivek K. Rajwanshi
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Caroline Williams
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Jerome Deval
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Sucheta Mukherjee
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Qingling Zhang
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Sushmita Chanda
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - David B. Smith
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Lawrence M. Blatt
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Julian A. Symons
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
| | | | - Leonid Beigelman
- Aligos Therapeutics, Inc., South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA (S.K.S.); (A.S.); (V.K.R.); (S.C.); (D.B.S.); (L.M.B.); (J.A.S.); (L.B.)
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