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Qian L, Zhang Z, Zhang R, Zheng X, Xiao B, Zhang X, Wu Y, Chen Y, Zhang X, Zhou P, Fu Q, Kang T, Gao Y. Activated STING-containing R-EVs from iPSC-derived MSCs promote antitumor immunity. Cancer Lett 2024; 597:217081. [PMID: 38909776 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217081] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
We recently revealed that activated STING is secreted into RAB22A-induced extracellular vesicles (R-EVs) and promotes antitumor immunity in cancer cells. Whether mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived R-EVs containing activated STING can be used as a novel antitumor immunotherapy remains unclear, as MSC-derived EVs are promising cell-free therapeutics due to their superior biocompatibility and safety, as well as low immunogenicity. Here, we report that induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived MSCs can generate R-EVs with a size and mechanism of formation that are similar to those of R-EVs produced from cancer cells. Furthermore, these MSC-derived R-EVs containing activated STING induced IFNβ expression in recipient THP-1 monocytes and antitumor immunity in mice. Our findings reveal that the use of MSC-derived R-EVs containing activated STING is a promising cell-free strategy for antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linxia Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China; School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhonghan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Ruhua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Xueping Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Beibei Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaomin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuanzhong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Yang Chen
- Departments of Endodontics, Stomatological Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, Guangdong, China
| | - Xingding Zhang
- School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, Guangdong, China
| | - Penghui Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingling Fu
- Otorhinolaryngology Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, China.
| | - Tiebang Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China.
| | - Ying Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, 510060, Guangdong, China.
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2
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Seadawy MG, Lotfy MM, Saeed AA, Ageez AM. Novel HER2-based multi-epitope vaccine (HER2-MEV) against HER2-positive breast cancer: In silico design and validation. Hum Immunol 2024; 85:110832. [PMID: 38905717 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2024.110832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) continues to be the malignancy with the highest diagnosis rate worldwide. Between 15 % and 30 % of BC patients show overexpressed human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), which is linked to poor clinical results in terms of invasiveness and recurrence risk. Passive immunity-based therapeutic approaches for treating HER2-enriched BC, are not effective and significant problems need to be tackled. Constructing multi-epitope vaccines is favored over single-epitope vaccines due to its ability to induce immunity against a variety of antigenic targets which will improve the efficacy of the vaccine. The current study describes a multi-epitope vaccine from HER2 protein against HER2-positive BC using several immunoinformatic techniques to achieve a potent and durable immune response. Nine Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) and five Helper T lymphocytes (HTL) epitopes were predicted and validated from HER2 protein using in silico tools. The expressed protein of the designed vaccine is predicted to be highly thermostable with better solubility. The predicted vaccine 3D structure was validated by ProSA servers and by the ERRAT server. Molecular docking analysis revealed a high binding affinity and stability of the designed vaccine with MHCI and TLR-2, 4, 7, and 9 receptors. The analysis of the C-ImmSim server revealed that the novel vaccine construct had the ability to elicit robust anti-cancerous innate, humoral, and cell-mediated immune responses. The vaccine can be a suitable option for HER2-positive BC patients and other patients with HER2-positive cancers to evoke immune responses. However, in vitro and in vivo experiments are needed to assess its effectiveness and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed G Seadawy
- Biodefense Center for Infectious and Emerging Diseases, Ministry of Defense, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Mai M Lotfy
- Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt.
| | - Aya A Saeed
- Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt.
| | - Amr M Ageez
- Faculty of Biotechnology, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts, MSA University, 6 October City 12451, Giza, Egypt.
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3
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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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4
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Xiao Z, Cui X, Liu F, Wang Y, Liu X, Zhou W, Zhang Y. Tumor vascular disrupting agent 5,6-dimethylxanthenone-4-acetic acid (DMXAA): Suppresses macrophage capping protein beyond STING activation. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167149. [PMID: 38565383 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167149] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The vascular disrupting agent (VDA) 5,6-dimethylxanthenone-4-acetic acid (DMXAA) induces apoptosis in vascular endothelial cells and leads to tumor hemorrhagic necrosis. While DMXAA has been proven to be a potent agonist of murine stimulator of interferon genes (mSTING), it has little effect on human-STING (hSTING). This species selectivity of DMXAA may explain its effectiveness against solid tumors in mice and its failure in clinical trials. However, DMXAA did reduce tumor volume in some patients during clinical trials. These paradoxical results have prompted us to investigate the anti-tumor mechanism of DMXAA beyond STING in the destruction of tumor vasculature in humans. In this study, we demonstrated that DMXAA binds to both human and mouse macrophage capping protein (CapG), with a KD of 5.839 μM for hCapG and a KD of 2.867 μM for mCapG, as determined by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis. Homology modeling and molecular docking analysis of hCapG indicated that the critical residues involved in the hydrogen bond interaction of DMXAA with hCapG were Arg153, Thr151, and GLN141, Asn234. In addition, electrostatic pi-cation interaction occurred between DMXAA and hCapG. Further functional studies revealed that CapG protein plays a crucial role in the effects of DMXAA on human umbilical endothelial vein cell (HUEVC) angiogenesis and migration, as well as the expression of cytoskeletal proteins actin and tubulin, and the invasion of A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells. Our study has originally uncovered a novel cross-species pathway underlying the antitumor vascular disruption of DMXAA extends beyond STING activation. This finding deepens our understanding of the multifaceted actions of flavonoid VDAs in animal models and in clinical settings, and may provide insights for the precise therapy of DMXAA based on the biomarker CapG protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyong Xiao
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing 100850, China; Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Xia Cui
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing 100850, China; Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Feng Liu
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Xiao Liu
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing 100850, China; Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Wenxia Zhou
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing 100850, China; Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
| | - Yongxiang Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing 100850, China; Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China.
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5
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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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6
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Jeon MJ, Lee H, Jo S, Kang M, Jeong JH, Jeong SH, Lee JY, Song GY, Choo H, Lee S, Kim H. Discovery of novel amidobenzimidazole derivatives as orally available small molecule modulators of stimulator of interferon genes for cancer immunotherapy. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 261:115834. [PMID: 37862818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists show promise as immunomodulatory agents for cancer therapy. In this study, we report the discovery of a novel orally available STING agonist, SAP-04, that exhibits potent immunomodulatory effects for cancer therapy. By optimizing the amidobenzimidazole core with various pyridine-based heterocyclic substituents, we identified a monomeric variant that displayed more efficient STING agonistic activity than the corresponding dimer. SAP-04 efficiently induced cytokine secretion related to innate immunity by directly binding of the compound to the STING protein, followed by sequential signal transduction for the STING signaling pathway and type I interferon (IFN) responses. Further pharmacological validation in vitro and in vivo demonstrated the potential utility of SAP-04 as an immunomodulatory agent for cancer therapy in vivo. The in vivo anticancer effect was observed in a 4T1 breast tumor syngeneic mouse model through oral administration of the compound. Our findings suggest a possible strategy for developing synthetically accessible monomeric variants as orally available STING agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Jae Jeon
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyelim Lee
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongman Jo
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea; Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Miso Kang
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea; Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Hyun Jeong
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - So Hyeon Jeong
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea; Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Joo-Youn Lee
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyu Yong Song
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunah Choo
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghee Lee
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea; Department for HY-KIST Bio-convergence, Hanyang University, Seoul, 04763, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyejin Kim
- Therapeutics & Biotechnology Division, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, 34114, Republic of Korea.
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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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8
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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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Chang J, Hou S, Yan X, Li W, Xiao J. Discovery of Novel STING Inhibitors Based on the Structure of the Mouse STING Agonist DMXAA. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28072906. [PMID: 37049669 PMCID: PMC10095708 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28072906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The stimulator-of-interferon-gene (STING) protein is involved in innate immunity. The drug DMXAA (5,6-dimethylxanthenone-4-acetic acid) proved to be a potent murine-STING (mSTING) agonist but had little effect on human-STING (hSTING). In this paper, we draw upon the comparison of different crystal structures and protein-ligand interaction relationships analysis to venture the hypothesis that the drug design of DMXAA variants has the potential to convert STING agonists to inhibitors. Based on our previous discovery of two DMXAA analogs, 3 and 4 (both could bind to STING), we structurally optimized them and synthesized new derivatives, respectively. In binding assays, we found compounds 11 and 27 to represent STING binders that were superior to the original structures and discussed the structure-activity relationships. All target compounds were inactive in cellular assays for the screening of STING agonistic activity. Gratifyingly, we identified 11 and 27 as STING inhibitors with micromolar activity in both hSTING and mSTING pathways. In addition, 11 and 27 inhibited the induction of interferon and inflammatory cytokines activated by 2'3'-cGAMP without apparent cytotoxicity. These findings break the rigid thinking that DMXAA provides the structural basis specifically for STING agonists and open up more possibilities for developing novel STING agonists or inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Chang
- National Engineering Research Center for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Shi Hou
- National Engineering Research Center for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Xinlin Yan
- National Engineering Research Center for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Wei Li
- National Engineering Research Center for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Junhai Xiao
- National Engineering Research Center for the Emergency Drug, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, China
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10
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Chen S, Peng A, Chen M, Zhan M. Nanomedicines targeting activation of STING to reshape tumor immune microenvironment and enhance immunotherapeutic efficacy. Front Oncol 2023; 12:1093240. [PMID: 36741735 PMCID: PMC9890065 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1093240] [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: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has greatly enhanced the effectiveness of cancer treatments, but the efficacy of many current immunotherapies is still limited by the tumor-suppressive immune microenvironment. Multiple studies have shown that activating the stimulation of IFN genes (STING) pathway and inducing innate immunity can significantly impact the tumor immune microenvironment and improve antitumor therapy. While natural or synthetic STING agonists have been identified or developed for preclinical and clinical use, small molecule agonists have limited utility due to degradation and lack of targeting. As such, the delivery and release of STING agonists into tumor tissue is a major challenge that must be addressed in order to further advance the use of STING agonists. To address this challenge, various nanomedicines have been developed. In this paper, we concisely review the antitumor immunotherapeutic mechanisms of STING agonists, highlighting the latest developments in STING agonists and the current progress of nanomedicines for activating STING. We classify the different nanomedicines according to the STING agonists they utilize in order to facilitate understanding of recent advances in this field. Finally, we also discuss the prospects and challenges of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Chen
- Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai People’s Hospital, Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People’s Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Anghui Peng
- Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai People’s Hospital, Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People’s Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Muhe Chen
- Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai People’s Hospital, Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People’s Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China,*Correspondence: Muhe Chen, ; Meixiao Zhan,
| | - Meixiao Zhan
- Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai People’s Hospital, Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People’s Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China,*Correspondence: Muhe Chen, ; Meixiao Zhan,
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11
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Alarcon NO, Jaramillo M, Mansour HM, Sun B. Therapeutic Cancer Vaccines—Antigen Discovery and Adjuvant Delivery Platforms. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14071448. [PMID: 35890342 PMCID: PMC9325128 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14071448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
For decades, vaccines have played a significant role in protecting public and personal health against infectious diseases and proved their great potential in battling cancers as well. This review focused on the current progress of therapeutic subunit vaccines for cancer immunotherapy. Antigens and adjuvants are key components of vaccine formulations. We summarized several classes of tumor antigens and bioinformatic approaches of identification of tumor neoantigens. Pattern recognition receptor (PRR)-targeting adjuvants and their targeted delivery platforms have been extensively discussed. In addition, we emphasized the interplay between multiple adjuvants and their combined delivery for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neftali Ortega Alarcon
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (N.O.A.); (M.J.); (H.M.M.)
| | - Maddy Jaramillo
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (N.O.A.); (M.J.); (H.M.M.)
| | - Heidi M. Mansour
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (N.O.A.); (M.J.); (H.M.M.)
- The University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
- BIO5 Institute, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Bo Sun
- Skaggs Pharmaceutical Sciences Center, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (N.O.A.); (M.J.); (H.M.M.)
- The University of Arizona Cancer Center, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- BIO5 Institute, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-520-621-6420
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12
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Van Herck S, Feng B, Tang L. Delivery of STING agonists for adjuvanting subunit vaccines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 179:114020. [PMID: 34756942 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Adjuvant is an essential component in subunit vaccines. Many agonists of pathogen recognition receptors have been developed as potent adjuvants to optimize the immunogenicity and efficacy of vaccines. Recently discovered cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) pathway has attracted much attention as it is a key mediator for modulating immune responses. Vaccines adjuvanted with STING agonists are found to mediate a robust immune defense against infections and cancer. In this review, we first discuss the mechanisms of STING agonists in the context of vaccination. Next, we present recent progress in novel STING agonist discovery and the delivery strategies. We next highlight recent work in optimizing the efficacy while minimizing toxicity of STING agonist-assisted subunit vaccines for protection against infectious diseases or treatment of cancer. Finally, we share our perspectives of current issues and future directions in further developing STING agonists for adjuvanting subunit vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Van Herck
- Institute of Bioengineering, École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Pharmaceutics, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bing Feng
- Institute of Bioengineering, École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Institute of Materials Science & Engineering, EPFL, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Li Tang
- Institute of Bioengineering, École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Institute of Materials Science & Engineering, EPFL, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
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13
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Gobbi S, Belluti F, Rampa A, Bisi A. Flavonoid-Inspired Vascular Disrupting Agents: Exploring Flavone-8-Acetic Acid and Derivatives in the New Century. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26144228. [PMID: 34299503 PMCID: PMC8305436 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26144228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Naturally occurring flavonoids are found as secondary metabolites in a wide number of plants exploited for both medicine and food and have long been known to be endowed with multiple biological activities, making them useful tools for the treatment of different pathologies. Due to the versatility of the scaffolds and the vast possibilities of appropriate decoration, they have also been regarded as fruitful sources of lead compounds and excellent chemical platforms for the development of bioactive synthetic compounds. Flavone-8-acetic acid (FAA) and 5,6-dimethylxanthone acetic acid (DMXAA) emerged for their antitumour potential due to the induction of cytokines and consequent rapid haemorrhagic necrosis of murine tumour vasculature, and different series of derivatives have been designed thereafter. Although the promising DMXAA failed in phase III clinical trials because of strict species-specificity, a boost in research came from the recent identification of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING), responsible for supporting tumoural innate immune responses, as a possible biological target. Consequently, in the last decade a renewal of interest for these flavonoid-based structures was noticed, and novel derivatives have been synthesised and evaluated for a deeper understanding of the molecular features needed for affecting human cells. Undoubtedly, these natural-derived molecules deserve further investigation and still appear attractive in an anticancer perspective.
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14
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Liu Y, Lu X, Qin N, Qiao Y, Xing S, Liu W, Feng F, Liu Z, Sun H. STING, a promising target for small molecular immune modulator: A review. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 211:113113. [PMID: 33360799 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.113113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) plays a crucial role in human innate immune system, which is gradually concerned following the emerging immunotherapy. Activated STING induces the production of type I interferons (IFNs) and proinflammatory cytokines through STING-TBK1-IRF3/NF-κB pathway, which could be applied into the treatment of infection, inflammation, and tumorigenesis. Here, we provided a detailed summary of STING from its structure, function and regulation. Especially, we illustrated the canonical or noncanonical cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) and synthetic small molecules for STING activation or inhibition and their efficacy in related diseases. Importantly, we particularly emphasized the discovery, development and modification of STING agonist or antagonist, attempting to enlighten reader's mind for enriching small molecular modulator of STING. In addition, we summarized biological evaluation methods for the assessment of small molecules activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijun Liu
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Lu
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Qin
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuting Qiao
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuaishuai Xing
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenyuan Liu
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Feng
- Department of Natural Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, People's Republic of China; Jiangsu Food and Pharmaceuticals Science College, Institute of Food and Pharmaceuticals Research, 223005, People's Republic of China
| | - Zongliang Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, PR China.
| | - Haopeng Sun
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, People's Republic of China.
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15
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Small molecules targeting the innate immune cGAS‒STING‒TBK1 signaling pathway. Acta Pharm Sin B 2020; 10:2272-2298. [PMID: 33354501 PMCID: PMC7745059 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2020.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple cancer immunotherapies including chimeric antigen receptor T cell and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been successfully developed to treat various cancers by motivating the adaptive anti-tumor immunity. Particularly, the checkpoint blockade approach has achieved great clinic success as evidenced by several U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved anti-programmed death receptor 1/ligand 1 or anti-cytotoxic T lymphocyte associated protein 4 antibodies. However, the majority of cancers have low clinical response rates to these ICIs due to poor tumor immunogenicity. Indeed, the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase‒stimulator of interferon genes‒TANK-binding kinase 1 (cGAS‒STING‒TBK1) axis is now appreciated as the major signaling pathway in innate immune response across different species. Aberrant signaling of this pathway has been closely linked to multiple diseases, including auto-inflammation, virus infection and cancers. In this perspective, we provide an updated review on the latest progress on the development of small molecule modulators targeting the cGAS‒STING‒TBK1 signaling pathway and their preclinical and clinical use as a new immune stimulatory therapy. Meanwhile, highlights on the clinical candidates, limitations and challenges, as well as future directions in this field are also discussed. Further, small molecule inhibitors targeting this signaling axis and their potential therapeutic use for various indications are discussed as well.
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Key Words
- ABZI, amidobenzimidazole
- ACMA, 9-amino-6-chloro-2-methoxyacridine
- AMP, adenosine monophosphate
- ATP, adenosine triphosphate
- Anti-tumor
- BNBC, 6-bromo-N-(naphthalen-1-yl)benzo[d][1,3]dioxole-5-carboxamide
- CBD, cyclic dinucleotide-binding domain
- CDA, cyclic diadenosine monophosphate (c-di-AMP)
- CDG, cyclic diguanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP)
- CDN, cyclic dinucleotide
- CMA, 10-carboxymethyl-9-acridanone
- CTD, C-terminal domain
- CTLA-4, cytotoxic T lymphocyte associated protein 4
- CTT, C-terminal tail
- CXCL, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand
- DC50, concentration for 50% degradation
- DCs, dendritic cells
- DMXAA, 5,6-dimethylxanthenone-4-acetic acid
- DSDP, dispiro diketopiperzine
- EM, cryo-electron microscopy
- ENPP1, ecto-nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase
- ER, endoplasmic reticulum
- FAA, flavone-8-acetic acid
- FDA, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- FP, fluorescence polarization
- GMP, guanosine monophosphate
- GTP, guanosine triphosphate
- HCQ, hydrochloroquine
- HTS, high throughput screening
- ICI, immune checkpoint inhibitor
- IKK, IκB kinase
- IO, immune-oncology
- IRF3, interferon regulatory factor 3
- ISG, interferon stimulated gene
- ITC, isothermal titration calorimetry
- Immunotherapy
- KD, kinase domain
- LBD, ligand-binding domain
- MDCK, Madin–Darby canine kidney
- MG, Mangostin
- MI, maximum induction
- MLK, mixed lineage kinase
- MinEC5×, minimum effective concentration for inducing 5-fold luciferase activity
- NF-κB, nuclear factor-κB
- Ntase, nucleotidyl transferase
- PBMCs, peripheral-blood mononuclear cells
- PD-1, programmed death receptor 1
- PD-L1, programmed death ligand 1
- PDE, phosphodiesterases
- PDK1, 3-phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase 1
- PPi, pyrophosphoric acid
- PROTACs, proteolysis targeting chimeras
- PRRs, pattern recognition receptors
- QC, quinacrine
- SAR, structure–activity relationship
- SDD, scaffold and dimerization domain
- STAT, signal transducer and activator of transcription
- STING
- STING, stimulator of interferon genes
- Small molecule modulators
- TBK1
- TBK1, TANK-binding kinase 1
- THIQCs, tetrahydroisoquinolone acetic acids
- TNFRSF, tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily
- ULD, ubiquitin-like domain
- VHL, von Hippel–Lindau
- cAIMP, cyclic adenosine-inosine monophosphate
- cGAMP, cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate
- cGAS
- cGAS, cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase
- dsDNA, double-stranded DNA
- i.t., intratumoral
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16
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Liu K, Lan Y, Li X, Li M, Cui L, Luo H, Luo L. Development of small molecule inhibitors/agonists targeting STING for disease. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 132:110945. [PMID: 33254439 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS) -stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway is the primary immune response pathway in the cytoplasm. Pharmacological regulation of the STING pathway has good characteristics in both structure and function, which plays a significant role in the immunotherapy of autoimmune diseases, autoinflammatory diseases, and cancer. In this review, we summarized the activation of STING signaling pathway, the STING-related diseases, the development principle and the latest progress of inhibitors and agonists targeting STING. Our review demonstrates that STING signal pathway is a promising drug target, providing effective clues and correct guidance for the discovery of novel small molecule inhibitors/agonists that targeted STING for cancer, autoimmune, and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaifeng Liu
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524023, China
| | - Yongqi Lan
- The First Clinical College, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524023, China
| | - Xiaoling Li
- Animal Experiment Center of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, China
| | - Mingyue Li
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Liao Cui
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Research and Development of Natural Drugs, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, 524023, China
| | - Hui Luo
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, China
| | - Lianxiang Luo
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, China; The Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Guangdong Zhanjiang, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, 524023, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Zhanjiang), Zhanjiang, Guangdong, 524023, China.
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17
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Smolarczyk R, Czapla J, Jarosz-Biej M, Czerwinski K, Cichoń T. Vascular disrupting agents in cancer therapy. Eur J Pharmacol 2020; 891:173692. [PMID: 33130277 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Tumor blood vessel formation is a key process for tumor expansion. Tumor vessels are abnormal and differ from normal vessels in architecture and components. Besides oxygen and nutrients supply, the tumor vessels system, due to its abnormality, is responsible for: hypoxia formation, and metastatic routes. Tumor blood vessels can be a target of anti-cancer therapies. There are two types of therapies that target tumor vessels. The first one is the inhibition of the angiogenesis process. However, the inhibition is often ineffective because of alternative angiogenesis mechanism activation. The second type is a specific targeting of existing tumor blood vessels by vascular disruptive agents (VDAs). There are three groups of VDAs: microtubule destabilizing drugs, flavonoids with anti-vascular functions, and tumor vascular targeted drugs based on endothelial cell receptors. However, VDAs possess some limitations. They may be cardiotoxic and their application in therapy may leave viable residual, so called, rim cells on the edge of the tumor. However, it seems that a well-designed combination of VDAs with other anti-cancer drugs may bring a significant therapeutic effect. In this article, we describe three groups of vascular disruptive agents with their advantages and disadvantages. We mention VDAs clinical trials. Finally, we present the current possibilities of VDAs combination with other anti-cancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryszard Smolarczyk
- Center for Translational Research and Molecular Biology of Cancer, Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, Wybrzeże Armii Krajowej Street 15, 44-102, Gliwice, Poland.
| | - Justyna Czapla
- Center for Translational Research and Molecular Biology of Cancer, Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, Wybrzeże Armii Krajowej Street 15, 44-102, Gliwice, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Jarosz-Biej
- Center for Translational Research and Molecular Biology of Cancer, Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, Wybrzeże Armii Krajowej Street 15, 44-102, Gliwice, Poland.
| | - Kyle Czerwinski
- University of Manitoba, Faculty of Science. 66 Chancellors Cir, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Tomasz Cichoń
- Center for Translational Research and Molecular Biology of Cancer, Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Gliwice Branch, Wybrzeże Armii Krajowej Street 15, 44-102, Gliwice, Poland.
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18
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Li Z, Cai S, Sun Y, Li L, Ding S, Wang X. When STING Meets Viruses: Sensing, Trafficking and Response. Front Immunol 2020; 11:2064. [PMID: 33133062 PMCID: PMC7550420 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
To effectively defend against microbial pathogens, the host cells mount antiviral innate immune responses by producing interferons (IFNs), and hundreds of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). Upon recognition of cytoplasmic viral or bacterial DNAs and abnormal endogenous DNAs, the DNA sensor cGAS synthesizes 2',3'-cGAMP that induces STING (stimulator of interferon genes) undergoing conformational changes, cellular trafficking, and the activation of downstream factors. Therefore, STING plays a pivotal role in preventing microbial pathogen infection by sensing DNAs during pathogen invasion. This review is dedicated to the recent advances in the dynamic regulations of STING activation, intracellular trafficking, and post-translational modifications (PTMs) by the host and microbial proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaohe Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs of Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Siqi Cai
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs of Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Yutong Sun
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs of Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Li Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs of Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Center for Innovation Marine Drug Screening and Evaluation, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China.,Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Qingdao, Qingdao, China
| | - Siyuan Ding
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Xin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs of Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Center for Innovation Marine Drug Screening and Evaluation, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China.,Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Qingdao, Qingdao, China
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19
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Abstract
The activation of the cGAS-STING pathway has tremendous potential to improve anti-tumor immunity by generating type I interferons. In recent decades, we have witnessed that producing dsDNA upon various stimuli is an initiative factor, triggering the cGAS-SING pathway for a defensive host. The understanding of both intracellular cascade reaction and the changes of molecular components gains insight into type I IFNs and adaptive immunity. Based on the immunological study, the STING-cGAS pathway is coupled to cancer biotherapy. The most challenging problem is the limited therapeutic effect. Therefore, people view 5, 6-dimethylxanthenone-4-acetic acid, cyclic dinucleotides and various derivative as cGAS-STING pathway agonists. Even so, these agonists have flaws in decreasing biotherapeutic efficacy. Subsequently, we exploited agonist delivery systems (nanocarriers, microparticles and hydrogels). The article will discuss the activation of the cGAS-STING pathway and underlying mechanisms, with an introduction of cGAS-STING agonists, related clinical trials and agonist delivery systems.
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20
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Pan BS, Perera SA, Piesvaux JA, Presland JP, Schroeder GK, Cumming JN, Trotter BW, Altman MD, Buevich AV, Cash B, Cemerski S, Chang W, Chen Y, Dandliker PJ, Feng G, Haidle A, Henderson T, Jewell J, Kariv I, Knemeyer I, Kopinja J, Lacey BM, Laskey J, Lesburg CA, Liang R, Long BJ, Lu M, Ma Y, Minnihan EC, O’Donnell G, Otte R, Price L, Rakhilina L, Sauvagnat B, Sharma S, Tyagarajan S, Woo H, Wyss DF, Xu S, Bennett DJ, Addona GH. An orally available non-nucleotide STING agonist with antitumor
activity. Science 2020; 369:369/6506/eaba6098. [DOI: 10.1126/science.aba6098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Pharmacological activation of the STING (stimulator of interferon
genes)–controlled innate immune pathway is a promising therapeutic strategy for
cancer. Here we report the identification of MSA-2, an orally available
non-nucleotide human STING agonist. In syngeneic mouse tumor models, subcutaneous
and oral MSA-2 regimens were well tolerated and stimulated interferon-β secretion
in tumors, induced tumor regression with durable antitumor immunity, and
synergized with anti–PD-1 therapy. Experimental and theoretical analyses showed
that MSA-2 exists as interconverting monomers and dimers in solution, but only
dimers bind and activate STING. This model was validated by using synthetic
covalent MSA-2 dimers, which were potent agonists. Cellular potency of MSA-2
increased upon extracellular acidification, which mimics the tumor
microenvironment. These properties appear to underpin the favorable activity and
tolerability profiles of effective systemic administration of MSA-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Sheng Pan
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Samanthi A. Perera
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | | | - Jeremy P. Presland
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | | | - Jared N. Cumming
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - B. Wesley Trotter
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Michael D. Altman
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Alexei V. Buevich
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Brandon Cash
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Saso Cemerski
- Department of Discovery Oncology, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Wonsuk Chang
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Yiping Chen
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Peter J. Dandliker
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Guo Feng
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Andrew Haidle
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Timothy Henderson
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - James Jewell
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Ilona Kariv
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Ian Knemeyer
- Department of Pharmacokinetics, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Johnny Kopinja
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Brian M. Lacey
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Jason Laskey
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Charles A. Lesburg
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Rui Liang
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Brian J. Long
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Min Lu
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Yanhong Ma
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Ellen C. Minnihan
- Department of Discovery Pharmaceutical Sciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Greg O’Donnell
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Ryan Otte
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Laura Price
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Larissa Rakhilina
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Berengere Sauvagnat
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Sharad Sharma
- Department of Discovery Oncology, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Sriram Tyagarajan
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Hyun Woo
- Department of Pharmacokinetics, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Daniel F. Wyss
- Department of Discovery Chemistry, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | - Serena Xu
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
| | | | - George H. Addona
- Department of Quantitative Biosciences, Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
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21
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van der Zanden SY, Luimstra JJ, Neefjes J, Borst J, Ovaa H. Opportunities for Small Molecules in Cancer Immunotherapy. Trends Immunol 2020; 41:493-511. [PMID: 32381382 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2020.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2019] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has proven remarkably successful through instigation of systemic antitumor T cell responses. Despite this achievement, further advancements are needed to expand the scope of susceptible cancer types and overcome variation in treatment outcomes between patients. Small-molecule drugs targeting defined pathways and/or cells capable of immune modulation are expected to substantially improve efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. Small-molecule drugs possess unique properties compatible with systemic administration and amenable to both extracellular and intracellular targets. These compounds can modify molecular pathways to overcome immune tolerance and suppression towards effective antitumor responses. Here, we provide an overview of how such effects might be achieved by combining immunotherapy with conventional and/or new small-molecule chemotherapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Y van der Zanden
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jolien J Luimstra
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jacques Neefjes
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Jannie Borst
- Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Huib Ovaa
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Hou S, Lan XJ, Li W, Yan XL, Chang JJ, Yang XH, Sun W, Xiao JH, Li S. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of acridone analogues as novel STING receptor agonists. Bioorg Chem 2020; 95:103556. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2019.103556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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23
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Zhang H, You QD, Xu XL. Targeting Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING): A Medicinal Chemistry Perspective. J Med Chem 2019; 63:3785-3816. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.9b01039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Han Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qi-Dong You
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiao-Li Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiang Su Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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24
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Feng X, Liu D, Li Z, Bian J. Bioactive modulators targeting STING adaptor in cGAS-STING pathway. Drug Discov Today 2019; 25:230-237. [PMID: 31758915 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-pathway triggers innate immune responses by recognizing cytosolic DNA. Recent studies revealed that STING adaptor associates with various diseases, and several modulators targeting STING have been identified including three agonists that have entered clinical trials for treating cancer over the past 2 years. In particular, the efficacy of STING agonists and/or antagonists suggests adaptor STING as a potential therapeutic target for diverse diseases. Herein, we summarize the latest advances in understanding STING functioning and provide an overview of recent STING modulator discoveries, including structural details and the potential therapeutic applications of these modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Feng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Dongyu Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zhiyu Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Jinlei Bian
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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25
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Lian Y, Duffy KJ, Yang J. STING Activation and its Application in Immuno-Oncology. Curr Top Med Chem 2019; 19:2205-2227. [DOI: 10.2174/1568026619666191010155903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Recent regulatory approval of several immune checkpoint inhibitors has ushered in a new era
of cancer immunotherapies with the promise of achieving a durable response. This represents a paradigm
shift in cancer treatment from directly targeting tumor cells to harnessing the power of a patient’s
own immune system to destroy them. The cGAS-STING pathway is the major cytosolic dsDNA sensing
pathway that plays a pivotal role in the innate antitumor immune response. With a fundamentally different
mode of action (MOA) than immune checkpoint modulators, STING activation can potentially enhance
tumor immunogenicity and improve patient responses as a single agent or by synergizing with
existing anti-cancer drugs. Therefore, there has been intense interest from the pharmaceutical industry
and academic institutions in the search for potent STING agonists as immunotherapies in oncology. In
this article, we review briefly the cGAS-STING pathway and STING agonists that are in the clinical and
preclinical studies, summarize recently disclosed patent applications and published journal articles in the
field and cover both cyclic dinucleotide (CDN) analogs and non-nucleic acid derived STING agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqian Lian
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, GlaxoSmithKline, 1250 South Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA 19426, United States
| | - Kevin J. Duffy
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, GlaxoSmithKline, 1250 South Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA 19426, United States
| | - Jingsong Yang
- Immuno-Oncology and Combinations Research Unit, GlaxoSmithKline, 1250 South Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA 19426, United States
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26
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Cui X, Zhang R, Cen S, Zhou J. STING modulators: Predictive significance in drug discovery. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 182:111591. [PMID: 31419779 PMCID: PMC7172983 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.111591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS) - stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway plays the critical role in the immune response to DNA. Pharmacological modulation of the STING pathway has been well characterized both from structural and functional perspectives, which paves the way for the drug design of small modulators by medicinal chemists. Here, we outline recent progress in studies on the STING pathway, the structure and biological function of STING, the STING related disease, as well as the rationale and progress in the development of STING modulators. Our review demonstrates that STING is a promising drug target, and providing clues for the discovery of novel STING agonists and antagonists for the potential treatment of various disease including microbial infectious diseases, cancer, and autoimmune disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangling Cui
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua, 321004, PR China,Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Rongyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua, 321004, PR China,Drug Development and Innovation Center, College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua, 321004, PR China
| | - Shan Cen
- Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, China
| | - Jinming Zhou
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua, 321004, PR China; Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science, Beijing, China; Drug Development and Innovation Center, College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua, 321004, PR China.
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27
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Zhang X, Liu B, Tang L, Su Q, Hwang N, Sehgal M, Cheng J, Ma J, Zhang X, Tan Y, Zhou Y, Duan Z, DeFilippis VR, Viswanathan U, Kulp J, Du Y, Guo JT, Chang J. Discovery and Mechanistic Study of a Novel Human-Stimulator-of-Interferon-Genes Agonist. ACS Infect Dis 2019; 5:1139-1149. [PMID: 31060350 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.9b00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is an integral ER-membrane protein that can be activated by 2'3'-cGAMP synthesized by cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS) upon binding of double-stranded DNA. It activates interferon (IFN) and inflammatory cytokine responses to defend against infection by microorganisms. Pharmacologic activation of STING has been demonstrated to induce an antiviral state and boost antitumor immunity. We previously reported a cell-based high-throughput-screening assay that allowed for identification of small-molecule cGAS-STING-pathway agonists. We report herein a compound, 6-bromo-N-(naphthalen-1-yl)benzo[d][1,3]dioxole-5-carboxamide (BNBC), that induces a proinflammatory cytokine response in a human-STING-dependent manner. Specifically, we showed that BNBC induced type I and III IFN dominant cytokine responses in primary human fibroblasts and peripheral-blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). BNBC also induced cytokine response in PBMC-derived myeloid dendritic cells and promoted their maturation, suggesting that STING-agonist treatment could potentially regulate the activation of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes. As anticipated, treatment of primary human fibroblast cells with BNBC induced an antiviral state that inhibited the infection of several kinds of flaviviruses. Taken together, our results indicate that BNBC is a human-STING agonist that not only induces innate antiviral immunity against a broad spectrum of viruses but may also stimulate the activation of adaptive immune responses, which is important for the treatment of chronic viral infections and tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Zhang
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, United States
- Artificial Liver Center, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, 8 Xitoutiao, Fengtai, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Bowei Liu
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, United States
- Department of Gastroenterology, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 7 Weiwu Road, Jinshui, Zhengzhou, Henan 450016, China
| | - Liudi Tang
- Microbiology and Immunology Graduate Program, Drexel University College of Medicine, 2900 West Queen Lane, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19129, United States
| | - Qing Su
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, United States
| | - Nicky Hwang
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, United States
| | - Mohit Sehgal
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, United States
| | - Junjun Cheng
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, United States
| | - Julia Ma
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, United States
| | - Xuexiang Zhang
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, United States
| | - Yinfei Tan
- Genomics Facilities, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19111, United States
| | - Yan Zhou
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Facility, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19111, United States
| | - Zhongping Duan
- Artificial Liver Center, Beijing Youan Hospital, Capital Medical University, 8 Xitoutiao, Fengtai, Beijing 100069, China
| | - Victor R. DeFilippis
- Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, 505 Northwest 185th Avenue, Beaverton, Oregon 97006, United States
| | - Usha Viswanathan
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, United States
| | - John Kulp
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, United States
| | - Yanming Du
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, United States
| | - Ju-Tao Guo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, United States
| | - Jinhong Chang
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, 3805 Old Easton Road, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, United States
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28
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Berger G, Marloye M, Lawler SE. Pharmacological Modulation of the STING Pathway for Cancer Immunotherapy. Trends Mol Med 2019; 25:412-427. [PMID: 30885429 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2019.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The advent of immunotherapy in recent years has shown the potential to revolutionize the treatment of cancer. Unleashing antitumor T cell responses via immune checkpoint blockade has led to remarkable responses in previously untreatable tumors. The master regulator of interferon-mediated antiviral responses - stimulator of interferon genes (STING) - has now emerged as a critical mediator of innate immune sensing of cancer, and is a promising target for local immunostimulation, promoting intratumoral inflammation, and facilitating antitumor T cell responses. Pharmacological activation of the STING pathway can lead to T cell-mediated tumor regression in preclinical tumor models, and novel STING activating small molecules are now being tested in clinical trials. Here we will introduce the STING pathway and review the current state of drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilles Berger
- Microbiology, Bioorganic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Université libre de Bruxelles, Boulevard du Triomphe, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Harvey Cushing Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mickaël Marloye
- Microbiology, Bioorganic and Macromolecular Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Université libre de Bruxelles, Boulevard du Triomphe, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sean E Lawler
- Harvey Cushing Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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