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Khojasteh SC, Argikar UA, Chatzopoulou M, Cheruzel L, Cho S, Dhaware D, Johnson KM, Kalgutkar AS, Liu J, Ma B, Maw H, Rowley JA, Seneviratne HK, Wang S. Biotransformation research advances - 2023 year in review. Drug Metab Rev 2024:1-33. [PMID: 38989688 DOI: 10.1080/03602532.2024.2370330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
This annual review marks the eighth in the series starting with Baillie et al. (2016) Our objective is to explore and share articles which we deem influential and significant in the field of biotransformation. Its format is to highlight important aspects captured in synopsis followed by a commentary with relevant figure and references.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Cyrus Khojasteh
- Department of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Upendra A Argikar
- Non-clinical Development, Bill and Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Maria Chatzopoulou
- Early Clinical Development and Translational Science, UCB Biopharma UK, Slough, UK
| | - Lionel Cheruzel
- Department of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sungjoon Cho
- Department of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Kevin M Johnson
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Inotiv, MD Heights, MO, USA
| | - Amit S Kalgutkar
- Medicine Design, Pfizer Worldwide Research, Development and Medical, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Joyce Liu
- Department of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Bin Ma
- Department of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hlaing Maw
- Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Ridgefield, CT, USA
| | - Jessica A Rowley
- Early Clinical Development and Translational Science, UCB Biopharma UK, Slough, UK
| | - Herana Kamal Seneviratne
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shuai Wang
- Department of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, CA, USA
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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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Martínez-López MF, Muslin C, Kyriakidis NC. STINGing Defenses: Unmasking the Mechanisms of DNA Oncovirus-Mediated Immune Escape. Viruses 2024; 16:574. [PMID: 38675916 PMCID: PMC11054469 DOI: 10.3390/v16040574] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA oncoviruses represent an intriguing subject due to their involvement in oncogenesis. These viruses have evolved mechanisms to manipulate the host immune response, facilitating their persistence and actively contributing to carcinogenic processes. This paper describes the complex interactions between DNA oncoviruses and the innate immune system, with a particular emphasis on the cGAS-STING pathway. Exploring these interactions highlights that DNA oncoviruses strategically target and subvert this pathway, exploiting its vulnerabilities for their own survival and proliferation within the host. Understanding these interactions lays the foundation for identifying potential therapeutic interventions. Herein, we sought to contribute to the ongoing efforts in advancing our understanding of the innate immune system in oncoviral pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayra F Martínez-López
- Cancer Research Group (CRG), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de las Américas, Quito 170503, Ecuador;
| | - Claire Muslin
- One Health Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad de las Américas, Quito 170503, Ecuador;
| | - Nikolaos C. Kyriakidis
- Cancer Research Group (CRG), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de las Américas, Quito 170503, Ecuador;
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Su X, Wang Z, Li J, Gao S, Fan Y, Wang K. Hypermethylation of the glutathione peroxidase 4 gene promoter is associated with the occurrence of immune tolerance phase in chronic hepatitis B. Virol J 2024; 21:72. [PMID: 38515187 PMCID: PMC10958902 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-024-02346-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a public health problem that seriously threatens human health. This study aimed to investigate the clinical significance of glutathione peroxidase 4(GPX4) in the occurrence and development of chronic hepatitis B (CHB). METHODS A total of 169 participants including 137 patients with CHB and 32 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. We detected the expression of GPX4 and stimulator of interferon genes (STING) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The methylation level of GPX4 gene promoter in PBMCs was detected by TaqMan probe-based quantitative methylation-specific PCR (MethyLight). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to detect the serum levels of GPX4, IFN-β, oxidative stress (OS) related molecules, and pro-inflammatory cytokines. RESULTS The expression levels of GPX4 in PBMCs and serum of CHB patients were lower than those of HCs, but the methylation levels of GPX4 promoter were higher than those of HCs, especially in patients at the immune tolerance phase. STING mRNA expression levels in PBMCs and serum IFN-β levels of patients at the immune activation phase and reactivation phase of CHB were higher than those at other clinical phases of CHB and HCs. GPX4 mRNA expression level and methylation level in PBMCs from patients with CHB had a certain correlation with STING and IFN-β expression levels. In addition, the methylation level of the GPX4 promoter in PBMCs from patients with CHB was correlated with molecules associated with OS and inflammation. CONCLUSIONS GPX4 may play an important role in the pathogenesis and immune tolerance of CHB, which may provide new ideas for the functional cure of CHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Su
- Department of Hepatology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Wenhuaxi Road 107#, 250012, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Zhaohui Wang
- Department of Hepatology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Wenhuaxi Road 107#, 250012, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jihui Li
- Department of Hepatology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Wenhuaxi Road 107#, 250012, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Shuai Gao
- Department of Hepatology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Wenhuaxi Road 107#, 250012, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
- Hepatology Institute of Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuchen Fan
- Department of Hepatology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Wenhuaxi Road 107#, 250012, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China
- Hepatology Institute of Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Department of Hepatology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Wenhuaxi Road 107#, 250012, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China.
- Hepatology Institute of Shandong University, 250012, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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Elahi R, Hozhabri S, Moradi A, Siahmansouri A, Jahani Maleki A, Esmaeilzadeh A. Targeting the cGAS-STING pathway as an inflammatory crossroad in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2023; 45:639-649. [PMID: 37335770 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2023.2215405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE The emerging pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), has imposed significant mortality and morbidity on the world. An appropriate immune response is necessary to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 spread throughout the body. RESULTS During the early stages of infection, the pathway of stimulators of interferon genes (STING), known as the cGAS-STING pathway, has a significant role in the induction of the antiviral immune response by regulating nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and Interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3), two key pathways responsible for proinflammatory cytokines and type I IFN secretion, respectively. DISCUSSION During the late stages of COVID-19, the uncontrolled inflammatory responses, also known as cytokine storm, lead to the progression of the disease and poor prognosis. Hyperactivity of STING, leading to elevated titers of proinflammatory cytokines, including Interleukin-I (IL-1), IL-4, IL-6, IL-18, and tissue necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), is considered one of the primary mechanisms contributing to the cytokine storm in COVID-19. CONCLUSION Exploring the underlying molecular processes involved in dysregulated inflammation can bring up novel anti-COVID-19 therapeutic options. In this article, we aim to discuss the role and current studies targeting the cGAS/STING signaling pathway in both early and late stages of COVID-19 and COVID-19-related complications and the therapeutic potential of STING agonists/antagonists. Furthermore, STING agonists have been discussed as a vaccine adjuvant to induce a potent and persistent immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Elahi
- School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Salar Hozhabri
- School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Amirhosein Moradi
- School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Amir Siahmansouri
- School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | | | - Abdolreza Esmaeilzadeh
- Department of Immunology, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
- Cancer Gene Therapy Research Center (CGRC), Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
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Lok J, Guerra Veloz MF, Agarwal K. Overview of New Targets for Hepatitis B Virus: Immune Modulators, Interferons, Bifunctional Peptides, Therapeutic Vaccines and Beyond. Clin Liver Dis 2023; 27:857-876. [PMID: 37778774 DOI: 10.1016/j.cld.2023.05.003] [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] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Nucleos(t)ide analogs are the cornerstone of treatment against hepatitis B virus; however, they have no direct effect on its transcriptional template (ie, covalently closed circular DNA) and so functional cure is rarely achieved. Over recent years, there has been a significant improvement in our understanding of the viral life cycle and its mechanisms of immune evasion. In this review article, we will explore novel therapeutic targets, discuss the latest data from clinical trials, and highlight future research priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Lok
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, SE5 9RS, UK
| | | | - Kosh Agarwal
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, SE5 9RS, UK.
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Zhao J, Xu G, Hou X, Mu W, Yang H, Shi W, Wen J, Liu T, Wu Z, Bai J, Zhang P, Wang Z, Xiao X, Zou W, Bai Z, Zhan X. Schisandrin C enhances cGAS-STING pathway activation and inhibits HBV replication. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 311:116427. [PMID: 37001770 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Schisandra Chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. is a long-term used traditional Chinese medicine with the functions of tonifying the kidney and calming the heart, tonifying qi and engendering fluid. It can be used to treat insomnia and dreaminess, spermatorrhea, coughs, as well as liver and kidney deficiency of Yin or Yang Syndrome. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that Schisandra Chinensis regulates host immunity and exhibits anti-cancer, antiviral and liver-protecting effects. However, the specific mechanism by which Schisandra Chinensis modulates antiviral immunity is unknown. AIM OF THE STUDY We sought to explore the therapeutic effect of the active components of Schisandra Chinensis on anti-viral immunity and further investigate the underlying mechanism. MATERIALS AND METHODS Immunoblotting, quantitative real-time PCR, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescence, and immunoprecipitation were used to investigate the effect of schisandrin C (SC), one of the most abundant and biologically active components of Schisandra Chinensis, on the activation of cGAS-STING signaling pathway and the underlying mechanism. In addition, CMA-mediated STING activation and hydrodynamic injection-mediated HBV-replicating mouse model were used to investigate the effect of SC on the activation of STING signaling pathway and its antiviral effect in vivo. RESULTS SC promoted cGAS-STING pathway activation, accompanied by increased production of interferon β (IFN β) and downstream gene expression. Moreover, SC also exerted anti-HBV effects, reducing HBeAg, HBcAg, HBsAg, and HBV DNA levels in hydrodynamic injection-mediated HBV-replicating mouse model and elevating the production of IFN β and expression of interferon-stimulated genes (IFIT1, ISG15, and CXCL10). Mechanistically, SC could facilitate the interaction between TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) and STING, which is important for IRF3 phosphorylation and production of IFN β. CONCLUSIONS Our study confirmed that SC enhances cGAS-STING pathway activation and inhibits HBV replication, as well as provides clues for chronic hepatitis B and other infectious diseases treated by SC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China; School of Pharmacy, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, China
| | - Guang Xu
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China; School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Xiaorong Hou
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China; Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Wenqing Mu
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Huijie Yang
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Wei Shi
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Jincai Wen
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Zhixin Wu
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Jun Bai
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of Chinese People Liberty Army, Beijing, 100853, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Zhongxia Wang
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Xiaohe Xiao
- China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
| | - Wenjun Zou
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, China.
| | - Zhaofang Bai
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China; China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
| | - Xiaoyan Zhan
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
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Fritsch LE, Kelly C, Pickrell AM. The role of STING signaling in central nervous system infection and neuroinflammatory disease. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1597. [PMID: 36632700 PMCID: PMC10175194 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (GMP-AMP) synthase-Stimulator of Interferon Genes (cGAS-STING) pathway is a critical innate immune mechanism for detecting the presence of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and prompting a robust immune response. Canonical cGAS-STING activation occurs when cGAS, a predominantly cytosolic pattern recognition receptor, binds microbial DNA to promote STING activation. Upon STING activation, transcription factors enter the nucleus to cause the production of Type I interferons, inflammatory cytokines whose primary function is to prime the host for viral infection by producing a number of antiviral interferon-stimulated genes. While the pathway was originally described in viral infection, more recent studies have implicated cGAS-STING signaling in a number of different contexts, including autoimmune disease, cancer, injury, and neuroinflammatory disease. This review focuses on how our understanding of the cGAS-STING pathway has evolved over time with an emphasis on the role of STING-mediated neuroinflammation and infection in the nervous system. We discuss recent findings on how STING signaling contributes to the pathology of pain, traumatic brain injury, and stroke, as well as how mitochondrial DNA may promote STING activation in common neurodegenerative diseases. We conclude by commenting on the current knowledge gaps that should be filled before STING can be an effective therapeutic target in neuroinflammatory disease. This article is categorized under: Neurological Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology Infectious Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology Immune System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E. Fritsch
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Roanoke, Virginia, USA
| | - Colin Kelly
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Roanoke, Virginia, USA
| | - Alicia M. Pickrell
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
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Paulis A, Tramontano E. Unlocking STING as a Therapeutic Antiviral Strategy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087448. [PMID: 37108610 PMCID: PMC10138487 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087448] [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: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Invading pathogens have developed weapons that subvert physiological conditions to weaken the host and permit the spread of infection. Cells, on their side, have thus developed countermeasures to maintain cellular physiology and counteract pathogenesis. The cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) is a pattern recognition receptor that recognizes viral DNA present in the cytosol, activating the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) protein and leading to the production of type I interferons (IFN-I). Given its role in innate immunity activation, STING is considered an interesting and innovative target for the development of broad-spectrum antivirals. In this review, we discuss the function of STING; its modulation by the cellular stimuli; the molecular mechanisms developed by viruses, through which they escape this defense system; and the therapeutical strategies that have been developed to date to inhibit viral replication restoring STING functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalaura Paulis
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Enzo Tramontano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
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10
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Pan J, Fei CJ, Hu Y, Wu XY, Nie L, Chen J. Current understanding of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway: Structure, regulatory mechanisms, and related diseases. Zool Res 2023; 44:183-218. [PMID: 36579404 PMCID: PMC9841179 DOI: 10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2022.464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The innate immune system protects the host from external pathogens and internal damage in various ways. The cGAS-STING signaling pathway, comprised of cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), stimulator of interferon genes (STING), and downstream signaling adaptors, plays an essential role in protective immune defense against microbial DNA and internal damaged-associated DNA and is responsible for various immune-related diseases. After binding with DNA, cytosolic cGAS undergoes conformational change and DNA-linked liquid-liquid phase separation to produce 2'3'-cGAMP for the activation of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-localized STING. However, further studies revealed that cGAS is predominantly expressed in the nucleus and strictly tethered to chromatin to prevent binding with nuclear DNA, and functions differently from cytosolic-localized cGAS. Detailed delineation of this pathway, including its structure, signaling, and regulatory mechanisms, is of great significance to fully understand the diversity of cGAS-STING activation and signaling and will be of benefit for the treatment of inflammatory diseases and cancer. Here, we review recent progress on the above-mentioned perspectives of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway and discuss new avenues for further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Pan
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Meishan Campus, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315832, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Bioengineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315832, China
| | - Chen-Jie Fei
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Meishan Campus, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315832, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Bioengineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315832, China
| | - Yang Hu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Meishan Campus, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315832, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Bioengineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315832, China
| | - Xiang-Yu Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Meishan Campus, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315832, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Bioengineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315832, China
| | - Li Nie
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Meishan Campus, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315832, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Bioengineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315832, China. E-mail:
| | - Jiong Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Marine Sciences, Meishan Campus, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315832, China
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Marine Bioengineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315832, China. E-mail:
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11
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Pimkova Polidarova M, Vanekova L, Brehova P, Dejmek M, Vavrina Z, Birkus G, Brazdova A. Synthetic Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) Agonists Induce a Cytokine-Mediated Anti-Hepatitis B Virus Response in Nonparenchymal Liver Cells. ACS Infect Dis 2023; 9:23-32. [PMID: 36472628 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remains a major public health problem worldwide, with limited treatment options, but inducing an antiviral response by innate immunity activation may provide a therapeutic alternative. We assessed the cytokine-mediated anti-hepatitis B virus (HBV) potential for stimulating the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway using STING agonists in primary human hepatocytes (PHH) and nonparenchymal liver cells (NPCs). The natural STING agonist, 2',3'-cyclic GMP-AMP, the synthetic analogue 3',3'-c-di(2'F,2'dAMP), and its bis(pivaloyloxymethyl) prodrug had strong indirect cytokine-mediated anti-HBV effects in PHH regardless of HBV genotype. Furthermore, STING agonists induced anti-HBV cytokine secretion in vitro, in both human and mouse NPCs, and triggered hepatic T cell activation. Cytokine secretion and lymphocyte activation were equally stimulated in NPCs isolated from control and HBV-persistent mice. Therefore, STING agonists modulate immune activation regardless of HBV persistence, paving the way toward a CHB therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marketa Pimkova Polidarova
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo namesti 2, Prague 16000, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Vanekova
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo namesti 2, Prague 16000, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Science, Charles University, Albertov 6, Prague 12800, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Brehova
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo namesti 2, Prague 16000, Czech Republic
| | - Milan Dejmek
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo namesti 2, Prague 16000, Czech Republic
| | - Zdenek Vavrina
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo namesti 2, Prague 16000, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Science, Charles University, Albertov 6, Prague 12800, Czech Republic
| | - Gabriel Birkus
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo namesti 2, Prague 16000, Czech Republic
| | - Andrea Brazdova
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo namesti 2, Prague 16000, Czech Republic
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12
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Ko CN, Zang S, Zhou Y, Zhong Z, Yang C. Nanocarriers for effective delivery: modulation of innate immunity for the management of infections and the associated complications. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:380. [PMID: 35986268 PMCID: PMC9388998 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-022-01582-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate immunity is the first line of defense against invading pathogens. Innate immune cells can recognize invading pathogens through recognizing pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) via pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). The recognition of PAMPs by PRRs triggers immune defense mechanisms and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. However, sustained and overwhelming activation of immune system may disrupt immune homeostasis and contribute to inflammatory disorders. Immunomodulators targeting PRRs may be beneficial to treat infectious diseases and their associated complications. However, therapeutic performances of immunomodulators can be negatively affected by (1) high immune-mediated toxicity, (2) poor solubility and (3) bioactivity loss after long circulation. Recently, nanocarriers have emerged as a very promising tool to overcome these obstacles owning to their unique properties such as sustained circulation, desired bio-distribution, and preferred pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles. In this review, we aim to provide an up-to-date overview on the strategies and applications of nanocarrier-assisted innate immune modulation for the management of infections and their associated complications. We first summarize examples of important innate immune modulators. The types of nanomaterials available for drug delivery, as well as their applications for the delivery of immunomodulatory drugs and vaccine adjuvants are also discussed.
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13
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Jain A, Mittal S, Tripathi LP, Nussinov R, Ahmad S. Host-pathogen protein-nucleic acid interactions: A comprehensive review. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:4415-4436. [PMID: 36051878 PMCID: PMC9420432 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Recognition of pathogen-derived nucleic acids by host cells is an effective host strategy to detect pathogenic invasion and trigger immune responses. In the context of pathogen-specific pharmacology, there is a growing interest in mapping the interactions between pathogen-derived nucleic acids and host proteins. Insight into the principles of the structural and immunological mechanisms underlying such interactions and their roles in host defense is necessary to guide therapeutic intervention. Here, we discuss the newest advances in studies of molecular interactions involving pathogen nucleic acids and host factors, including their drug design, molecular structure and specific patterns. We observed that two groups of nucleic acid recognizing molecules, Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and the cytoplasmic retinoic acid-inducible gene (RIG)-I-like receptors (RLRs) form the backbone of host responses to pathogen nucleic acids, with additional support provided by absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) and DNA-dependent activator of Interferons (IFNs)-regulatory factors (DAI) like cytosolic activity. We review the structural, immunological, and other biological aspects of these representative groups of molecules, especially in terms of their target specificity and affinity and challenges in leveraging host-pathogen protein-nucleic acid interactions (HP-PNI) in drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuja Jain
- School of Computational and Integrative Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Shikha Mittal
- School of Computational and Integrative Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173234, India
| | - Lokesh P. Tripathi
- National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Ibaraki, Osaka, Japan
- Riken Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Tsurumi, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Ruth Nussinov
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Basic Science Program, Frederick National, Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Shandar Ahmad
- School of Computational and Integrative Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
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14
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Suresh M, Menne S. Recent Drug Development in the Woodchuck Model of Chronic Hepatitis B. Viruses 2022; 14:v14081711. [PMID: 36016334 PMCID: PMC9416195 DOI: 10.3390/v14081711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is responsible for the increasing global hepatitis burden, with an estimated 296 million people being carriers and living with the risk of developing chronic liver disease and cancer. While the current treatment options for chronic hepatitis B (CHB), including oral nucleos(t)ide analogs and systemic interferon-alpha, are deemed suboptimal, the path to finding an ultimate cure for this viral disease is rather challenging. The lack of suitable laboratory animal models that support HBV infection and associated liver disease progression is one of the major hurdles in antiviral drug development. For more than four decades, experimental infection of the Eastern woodchuck with woodchuck hepatitis virus has been applied for studying the immunopathogenesis of HBV and developing new antiviral therapeutics against CHB. There are several advantages to this animal model that are beneficial for performing both basic and translational HBV research. Previous review articles have focused on the value of this animal model in regard to HBV replication, pathogenesis, and immune response. In this article, we review studies of drug development and preclinical evaluation of direct-acting antivirals, immunomodulators, therapeutic vaccines, and inhibitors of viral entry, gene expression, and antigen release in the woodchuck model of CHB since 2014 until today and discuss their significance for clinical trials in patients.
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15
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Kundu N, Kumar A, Corona C, Chen Y, Seth S, Karuppagounder SS, Ratan RR. A STING agonist preconditions against ischaemic stroke via an adaptive antiviral Type 1 interferon response. Brain Commun 2022; 4:fcac133. [PMID: 35694149 PMCID: PMC9175192 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcac133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Converging lines of inquiry have highlighted the importance of the Type I Antiviral Response not only in defending against viruses but also in preconditioning the brain against ischaemic stroke. Despite this understanding, treatments that foster brain resilience by driving antiviral interferon responses have yet to be developed for human use. Studies from our lab showed that tilorone, the first human antiviral immunomodulatory agent to be developed, robustly preconditioned against stroke in mice and rats. Tilorone is a DNA intercalator; therefore, we hypothesized that it stabilizes cytosolic DNA (released from the mitochondria or the nucleus), thereby activating cGAS (Cyclic GMP-AMP Synthase), a homeostatic DNA sensor, and its downstream pathway. This pathway involves STING (Stimulator of Interferon Genes), TBK1 (Tank Binding Kinase 1), and IRF-3 (Interferon Regulatory Protein-3) and culminates in a protective Type I Interferon Response. We tested this hypothesis by examining the ability of structurally diverse small molecule agonists of STING to protect against oxygen/glucose deprivation in vitro in mouse cortical cultures and in vivo against transient ischaemia in mice. The STING agonists significantly reduced cell death both in vitro and in vivo but failed to do so in STING knockout mice. As expected, STING agonist-induced protection was associated with the induction of interferon related genes and the effects could be abrogated in vitro by a TBK1 inhibitor. Taken together, these findings in mice identify STING as a therapeutic target for preconditioning the brain against ischaemic stroke in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, they suggest that clinically approved STING agonists such as Ganciclovir or α-Mangostin are candidate drugs that could be tested in humans as a prophylactic treatment to alleviate brain injury associated with ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandini Kundu
- Burke Neurological Institute and Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, 785 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains, NY, USA
| | - Amit Kumar
- Burke Neurological Institute and Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, 785 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains, NY, USA
| | - Carlo Corona
- Burke Neurological Institute and Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, 785 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains, NY, USA
| | - Yingxin Chen
- Burke Neurological Institute and Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, 785 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains, NY, USA
| | - Sonia Seth
- Burke Neurological Institute and Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, 785 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains, NY, USA
| | - Saravanan S. Karuppagounder
- Burke Neurological Institute and Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, 785 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains, NY, USA
| | - Rajiv R. Ratan
- Burke Neurological Institute and Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, 785 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains, NY, USA
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16
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Yan Y, Qiu Y, Davgadorj C, Zheng C. Novel Molecular Therapeutics Targeting Signaling Pathway to Control Hepatitis B Viral Infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:847539. [PMID: 35252042 PMCID: PMC8894711 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.847539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous canonical cellular signaling pathways modulate hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication. HBV genome products are known to play a significant role in regulating these cellular pathways for the liver’s viral-related pathology and physiology and have been identified as the main factor in hepatocarcinogenesis. Signaling changes during viral replication ultimately affect cellular persistence, multiplication, migration, genome instability, and genome damage, leading to proliferation, evasion of apoptosis, block of differentiation, and immortality. Recent studies have documented that numerous signaling pathway agonists or inhibitors play an important role in reducing HBV replication in vitro and in vivo, and some have been used in phase I or phase II clinical trials. These optional agents as molecular therapeutics target cellular pathways that could limit the replication and transcription of HBV or inhibit the secretion of the small surface antigen of HBV in a signaling-independent manner. As principle-based available information, a combined strategy including antiviral therapy and immunomodulation will be needed to control HBV infection effectively. In this review, we summarize recent findings on interventions of molecular regulators in viral replication and the interactions of HBV proteins with the components of the various targeting cellular pathways, which may assist in designing novel agents to modulate signaling pathways to prevent HBV replication or carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yan
- Laboratory for Infection and Immunity, Hepatology Institute of Wuxi, The Fifth People’s Hospital of Wuxi, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
- *Correspondence: Yan Yan, ; Chunfu Zheng,
| | - Yuanwang Qiu
- Laboratory for Infection and Immunity, Hepatology Institute of Wuxi, The Fifth People’s Hospital of Wuxi, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Chantsalmaa Davgadorj
- Laboratory for Infection and Immunity, Hepatology Institute of Wuxi, The Fifth People’s Hospital of Wuxi, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Chunfu Zheng
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- *Correspondence: Yan Yan, ; Chunfu Zheng,
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17
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Zhou J, Ventura CJ, Fang RH, Zhang L. Nanodelivery of STING agonists against cancer and infectious diseases. Mol Aspects Med 2022; 83:101007. [PMID: 34353637 PMCID: PMC8792206 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2021.101007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Vaccination is a modality that has been widely explored for the treatment of various diseases. To increase the potency of vaccine formulations, immunostimulatory adjuvants have been regularly exploited, and the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway has recently emerged as a remarkable therapeutic target. STING is an endogenous protein on the endoplasmic reticulum that is a downstream sensor to cytosolic DNA. Upon activation, STING initiates a series of intracellular signaling cascades that ultimately generate potent type I interferon-mediated immune responses. Both natural and synthetic agonists have been used to stimulate the STING pathway, but they are usually administered locally due to low bioavailability, instability, and difficulty in bypassing the plasma membrane. With excellent pharmacokinetic profiles and versatility, nanocarriers can address many of these challenges and broaden the application of STING vaccines. Along these lines, STING-inducing nanovaccines are being developed to address a wide range of diseases. In this review, we discuss the recent advances in STING nanovaccines for anticancer, antiviral, and antibacterial applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarong Zhou
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Christian J Ventura
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Ronnie H Fang
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
| | - Liangfang Zhang
- Department of NanoEngineering, Chemical Engineering Program, Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
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18
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STING signaling activation inhibits HBV replication and attenuates the severity of liver injury and HBV-induced fibrosis. Cell Mol Immunol 2022; 19:92-107. [PMID: 34811496 PMCID: PMC8752589 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-021-00801-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) of HBV plays a crucial role in viral persistence and is also a risk factor for developing HBV-induced diseases, including liver fibrosis. Stimulator of interferon genes (STING), a master regulator of DNA-mediated innate immune activation, is a potential therapeutic target for viral infection and virus-related diseases. In this study, agonist-induced STING signaling activation in macrophages was revealed to inhibit cccDNA-mediated transcription and HBV replication via epigenetic modification in hepatocytes. Notably, STING activation could efficiently attenuate the severity of liver injury and fibrosis in a chronic recombinant cccDNA (rcccDNA) mouse model, which is a proven suitable research platform for HBV-induced fibrosis. Mechanistically, STING-activated autophagic flux could suppress macrophage inflammasome activation, leading to the amelioration of liver injury and HBV-induced fibrosis. Overall, the activation of STING signaling could inhibit HBV replication through epigenetic suppression of cccDNA and alleviate HBV-induced liver fibrosis through the suppression of macrophage inflammasome activation by activating autophagic flux in a chronic HBV mouse model. This study suggests that targeting the STING signaling pathway may be an important therapeutic strategy to protect against persistent HBV replication and HBV-induced fibrosis.
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19
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Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the leading cause of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, estimated to be globally responsible for ∼800,000 deaths annually. Although effective vaccines are available to prevent new HBV infection, treatment of existing chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is limited, as the current standard-of-care antiviral drugs can only suppress viral replication without achieving cure. In 2016, the World Health Organization called for the elimination of viral hepatitis as a global public health threat by 2030. The United States and other nations are working to meet this ambitious goal by developing strategies to cure CHB, as well as prevent HBV transmission. This review considers recent research progress in understanding HBV pathobiology and development of therapeutics for the cure of CHB, which is necessary for elimination of hepatitis B by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy M Block
- Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, USA;
| | - Kyong-Mi Chang
- The Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center and University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
| | - Ju-Tao Guo
- Baruch S. Blumberg Institute, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18902, USA;
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20
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Kayesh MEH, Kohara M, Tsukiyama-Kohara K. Toll-Like Receptor Response to Hepatitis B Virus Infection and Potential of TLR Agonists as Immunomodulators for Treating Chronic Hepatitis B: An Overview. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10462. [PMID: 34638802 PMCID: PMC8508807 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major global health problem. The immunopathology of the disease, especially the interplay between HBV and host innate immunity, is poorly understood. Moreover, inconsistent literature on HBV and host innate immunity has led to controversies. However, recently, there has been an increase in the number of studies that have highlighted the link between innate immune responses, including Toll-like receptors (TLRs), and chronic HBV infection. TLRs are the key sensing molecules that detect pathogen-associated molecular patterns and regulate the induction of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, thereby shaping the adaptive immunity. The suppression of TLR response has been reported in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), as well as in other models, including tree shrews, suggesting an association of TLR response in HBV chronicity. Additionally, TLR agonists have been reported to improve the host innate immune response against HBV infection, highlighting the potential of these agonists as immunomodulators for enhancing CHB treatment. In this study, we discuss the current understanding of host innate immune responses during HBV infection, particularly focusing on the TLR response and TLR agonists as immunomodulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Enamul Hoque Kayesh
- Transboundary Animal Diseases Centre, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan;
- Department of Microbiology and Public Health, Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Barishal 8210, Bangladesh
| | - Michinori Kohara
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan;
| | - Kyoko Tsukiyama-Kohara
- Transboundary Animal Diseases Centre, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan;
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21
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Wang Z, Chen N, Li Z, Xu G, Zhan X, Tang J, Xiao X, Bai Z. The Cytosolic DNA-Sensing cGAS-STING Pathway in Liver Diseases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:717610. [PMID: 34386500 PMCID: PMC8353273 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.717610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is regulated by the host and is a protective response activated by the evolutionarily conserved immune system in response to harmful stimuli, such as dead cells or pathogens. cGAS-STING pathway is a vital natural sensor of host immunity that can defend various tissues and organs against pathogenic infection, metabolic syndrome, cellular stress and cancer metastasis. The potential impact of cGAS-STING pathway in hepatic ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury, alcoholic/non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (ASH), hepatic B virus infection, and other liver diseases has recently attracted widespread attention. In this review, the relationship between cGAS-STING pathway and the pathophysiological mechanisms and progression of liver diseases is summarized. Additionally, we discuss various pharmacological agonists and antagonists of cGAS-STING signaling as novel therapeutics for the treatment of liver diseases. A detailed understanding of mechanisms and biology of this pathway will lay a foundation for the development and clinical application of therapies for related liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhilei Wang
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.,Department of Liver Diseases, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Nian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhiyong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Guang Xu
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhan
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jianyuan Tang
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaohe Xiao
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.,China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaofang Bai
- Department of Liver Diseases, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.,China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, The Fifth Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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22
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Rech L, Rainer PP. The Innate Immune cGAS-STING-Pathway in Cardiovascular Diseases - A Mini Review. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:715903. [PMID: 34381828 PMCID: PMC8349977 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.715903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation plays a central role in cardiovascular diseases (CVD). One pathway under investigation is the innate immune DNA sensor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) and its downstream receptor stimulator of interferon genes (STING). cGAS-STING upregulates type I interferons in response to pathogens. Recent studies show that also self-DNA may activate cGAS-STING, for instance, DNA released from nuclei or mitochondria during obesity or myocardial infarction. Here, we focus on emerging evidence describing the interaction of cGAS-STING with cardiovascular risk factors and disease. We also touch on translational therapeutic opportunities and potential further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavinia Rech
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Peter P Rainer
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,BioTechMed Graz, Graz, Austria
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23
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Chen R, Du J, Zhu H, Ling Q. The role of cGAS-STING signalling in liver diseases. JHEP Rep 2021; 3:100324. [PMID: 34381984 PMCID: PMC8340306 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2021.100324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The recently identified novel cytosolic DNA sensor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) activates the downstream adaptor protein stimulator of interferon genes (STING) by catalysing the synthesis of cyclic GMP-AMP. This in turn initiates an innate immune response through the release of various cytokines, including type I interferon. Foreign DNA (microbial infection) or endogenous DNA (nuclear or mitochondrial leakage) can serve as cGAS ligands and lead to the activation of cGAS-STING signalling. Therefore, the cGAS-STING pathway plays essential roles in infectious diseases, sterile inflammation, tumours, and autoimmune diseases. In addition, cGAS-STING signalling affects the progression of liver inflammation through other mechanisms, such as autophagy and metabolism. In this review, we summarise recent advances in our understanding of the role of cGAS-STING signalling in the innate immune modulation of different liver diseases. Furthermore, we discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting the cGAS-STING pathway in the treatment of liver diseases.
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Key Words
- AIM2, absent in melanoma 2
- ALD, alcohol-related liver disease
- APCs, antigen-presenting cells
- CDNs, cyclic dinucleotides
- DAMPs, damage-associated molecular patterns
- DCs, dendritic cells
- ER, endoplasmic reticulum
- GVHD, graft-versus-host disease
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HSCs, hepatic stellate cells
- IFN-I, type I interferon
- IL, interleukin
- IRF3, interferon regulatory factor 3
- IRI, ischaemia refusion injury
- KCs, Kupffer cells
- LSECs, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells
- MHC, major histocompatibility complex
- NAFLD, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- NK cells, natural killer cells
- NPCs, non-parenchymal cells
- PAMPs, pathogen-associated molecular patterns
- PD-1, programmed cell death protein-1
- PD-L1, programmed cell death protein ligand-1
- PPRs, pattern recognition receptors
- SAVI, STING-associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy
- STING, stimulator of interferon genes
- TBK1, TANK-binding kinase 1
- TGF-β1, transforming growth factor-β1
- TLR, Toll-like receptor
- TNF, tumour necrosis factor
- XRCC, X-ray repair cross complementing
- aHSCT, allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
- cGAMP, cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate
- cGAS, cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase
- cGAS-STING signalling
- dsDNA, double-strand DNA
- hepatocellular carcinoma
- innate immune response
- liver injury
- mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin
- mtDNA, mitochondrial DNA
- nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
- siRNA, small interfering RNA
- ssRNA, single-stranded RNA
- viral hepatitis
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruihan Chen
- Department of Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiamin Du
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Zhu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qi Ling
- Department of Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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24
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Tsounis EP, Tourkochristou E, Mouzaki A, Triantos C. Toward a new era of hepatitis B virus therapeutics: The pursuit of a functional cure. World J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:2727-2757. [PMID: 34135551 PMCID: PMC8173382 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v27.i21.2727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, although preventable by vaccination, remains a global health problem and a major cause of chronic liver disease. Although current treatment strategies suppress viral replication very efficiently, the optimal endpoint of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) clearance is rarely achieved. Moreover, the thorny problems of persistent chromatin-like covalently closed circular DNA and the presence of integrated HBV DNA in the host genome are ignored. Therefore, the scientific community has focused on developing innovative therapeutic approaches to achieve a functional cure of HBV, defined as undetectable HBV DNA and HBsAg loss over a limited treatment period. A deeper understanding of the HBV life cycle has led to the introduction of novel direct-acting antivirals that exert their function through multiple mechanisms, including inhibition of viral entry, transcriptional silencing, epigenetic manipulation, interference with capsid assembly, and disruption of HBsAg release. In parallel, another category of new drugs aims to restore dysregulated immune function in chronic hepatitis B accompanied by lethargic cellular and humoral responses. Stimulation of innate immunity by pattern-recognition receptor agonists leads to upregulation of antiviral cytokine expression and appears to contribute to HBV containment. Immune checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive transfer of genetically engineered T cells are breakthrough technologies currently being explored that may elicit potent HBV-specific T-cell responses. In addition, several clinical trials are attempting to clarify the role of therapeutic vaccination in this setting. Ultimately, it is increasingly recognized that elimination of HBV requires a treatment regimen based on a combination of multiple drugs. This review describes the rationale for progressive therapeutic interventions and discusses the latest findings in the field of HBV therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efthymios P Tsounis
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras 26504, Greece
| | - Evanthia Tourkochristou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras 26504, Greece
| | - Athanasia Mouzaki
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras 26504, Greece
| | - Christos Triantos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, University of Patras, Patras 26504, Greece
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25
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Golsaz-Shirazi F, Shokri F. Cross talk between hepatitis B virus and innate immunity of hepatocytes. Rev Med Virol 2021; 32:e2256. [PMID: 34021666 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Innate immunity plays a major role in controlling viral infections. Recent exploration of sodium taurocholate co-transporting polypeptide receptor as specific hepatitis B virus (HBV) receptor in human hepatocytes has provided appropriate cell culture tools to study the innate immunity of hepatocytes and its cross talk with HBV. In this review, we give a brief update on interaction between HBV and innate immunity using the currently available in vitro cellular models that support the complete life cycle of HBV. We will discuss how HBV can act as a 'stealth' virus to counteract the innate immune responses mediated by the pathogen recognition receptors of hepatocytes and escape the first line of surveillance of the host immune system. We give an overview of the cellular components of innate immunity that present in these in vitro models and discuss how activating these innate immunity components may contribute to the eradication of HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Forough Golsaz-Shirazi
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fazel Shokri
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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26
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Xu D, Tian Y, Xia Q, Ke B. The cGAS-STING Pathway: Novel Perspectives in Liver Diseases. Front Immunol 2021; 12:682736. [PMID: 33995425 PMCID: PMC8117096 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.682736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver diseases represent a major global health burden accounting for approximately 2 million deaths per year worldwide. The liver functions as a primary immune organ that is largely enriched with various innate immune cells, including macrophages, dendritic cells, neutrophils, NK cells, and NKT cells. Activation of these cells orchestrates the innate immune response and initiates liver inflammation in response to the danger signal from pathogens or injured cells and tissues. The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway is a crucial signaling cascade of the innate immune system activated by cytosol DNA. Recognizing DNA as an immune-stimulatory molecule is an evolutionarily preserved mechanism in initiating rapid innate immune responses against microbial pathogens. The cGAS is a cytosolic DNA sensor eliciting robust immunity via the production of cyclic GMP-AMPs that bind and activate STING. Although the cGAS-STING pathway has been previously considered to have essential roles in innate immunity and host defense, recent advances have extended the role of the cGAS-STING pathway to liver diseases. Emerging evidence indicates that overactivation of cGAS-STING may contribute to the development of liver disorders, implying that the cGAS-STING pathway is a promising therapeutic target. Here, we review and discuss the role of the cGAS-STING DNA-sensing signaling pathway in a variety of liver diseases, including viral hepatitis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alcoholic liver disease (ALD), primary hepatocellular cancer (HCC), and hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), with highlights on currently available therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongwei Xu
- The Dumont-UCLA Transplant Center, Division of Liver and Pancreas Transplantation, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Liver Surgery, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yizhu Tian
- The Dumont-UCLA Transplant Center, Division of Liver and Pancreas Transplantation, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Qiang Xia
- Department of Liver Surgery, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bibo Ke
- The Dumont-UCLA Transplant Center, Division of Liver and Pancreas Transplantation, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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SC75741 antagonizes vesicular stomatitis virus, duck Tembusu virus, and duck plague virus infection in duck cells through promoting innate immune responses. Poult Sci 2021; 100:101085. [PMID: 33799115 PMCID: PMC8044693 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2021.101085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Duck Tembusu virus (DTMUV) and duck plague virus (DPV) are typical DNA and RNA viruses of waterfowl, causing drastic economic losses to the duck farm industry in terms of high mortality and decreased egg production. These 2 viruses reappear from time to time because the available vaccines fail to provide complete immunity and no clinical antiviral drugs are available for them. In the present study, we evaluated the antiviral activity of SC75741 for DTMUV, DPV, and the model virus, vesicular stomatitis virus infection in duck cells. SC75741, a nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB)-specific inhibitor in mammal cells, revealed the highest antiviral activity among the inhibitors specific to c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase, extracellular signal-regulated kinase, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38), and NF-κB signaling. The antiviral activity of SC75741 was dose-dependent and showed effects in different duck cell types. Time-addition and duration assay demonstrated that SC75741 inhibited virus infection in the middle of and after virus infection at least for 72 h in duck embro fibroblast cells. The DPV viral adsorption and genomic copy number were reduced, indicating that SC75741 blocks the phase of the virus life cycle at viral entry and genomic replication. In addition, SC75741 enhanced the expression of interferon only when stimulator of interferon genes (STING) was overexpressed or pre-activated by the virus infection, suggesting that SC75741 acts as a STING agonist. In conclusion, SC75741 is a candidate antiviral agent for DTMUV and DPV.
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Hu Z, Yang Y, Fang L, Zhou J, Zhang H. Insight into the dichotomous regulation of STING activation in immunotherapy. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2021; 43:126-137. [PMID: 33618600 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2021.1890118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon gene (STING) signaling pathway (cGAS-STING) is a hub linking innate immunity and adaptive immunity against pathogen infection by inducing the production of type I interferon (IFN-I). It also plays pivotal roles in modulating tumorigenesis by ensuring the antigen presentation, T cell priming, activation, and tumor regression. Given its antitumor immune properties, cGAS-STING has attracted intense focus and several STING agonists have entered into clinical trials. However, some problems still exist when activating STING for use in oncological indications. It is remarkable that multiple downstream cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6 may lead to inflammatory disease and even tumor metastasis in practical trials. Besides, there is a synergistic effect when STING agonists are combined with other immunotherapies. In this review, we discussed the advanced understanding between STING and anti-tumor immunity, as well as a variety of promising clinical treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoxue Hu
- Center of Drug Discovery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yifei Yang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lincheng Fang
- Center of Drug Discovery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jinpei Zhou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huibin Zhang
- Center of Drug Discovery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Disease, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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29
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Roca Suarez AA, Testoni B, Baumert TF, Lupberger J. Nucleic Acid-Induced Signaling in Chronic Viral Liver Disease. Front Immunol 2021; 11:624034. [PMID: 33613561 PMCID: PMC7892431 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.624034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A hallmark for the development and progression of chronic liver diseases is the persistent dysregulation of signaling pathways related to inflammatory responses, which eventually promotes the development of hepatic fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The two major etiological agents associated with these complications in immunocompetent patients are hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV), accounting for almost 1.4 million liver disease-associated deaths worldwide. Although both differ significantly from the point of their genomes and viral life cycles, they exert not only individual but also common strategies to divert innate antiviral defenses. Multiple virus-modulated pathways implicated in stress and inflammation illustrate how chronic viral hepatitis persistently tweaks host signaling processes with important consequences for liver pathogenesis. The following review aims to summarize the molecular events implicated in the sensing of viral nucleic acids, the mechanisms employed by HBV and HCV to counter these measures and how the dysregulation of these cellular pathways drives the development of chronic liver disease and the progression toward HCC.
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MESH Headings
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/immunology
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/mortality
- Carcinoma, Hepatocellular/pathology
- DNA, Viral/immunology
- Hepacivirus/immunology
- Hepatitis B virus/immunology
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/immunology
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/mortality
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/pathology
- Hepatitis C, Chronic/immunology
- Hepatitis C, Chronic/mortality
- Hepatitis C, Chronic/pathology
- Humans
- Liver Neoplasms/immunology
- Liver Neoplasms/mortality
- Liver Neoplasms/pathology
- RNA, Viral/immunology
- Signal Transduction/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Armando Andres Roca Suarez
- INSERM, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), Lyon, France
| | - Barbara Testoni
- INSERM U1052, CNRS UMR-5286, Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), Lyon, France
- University of Lyon, Université Claude-Bernard (UCBL), Lyon, France
| | - Thomas F. Baumert
- INSERM, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire, Pôle Hépato-digestif, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, Strasbourg, France
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France
| | - Joachim Lupberger
- INSERM, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France
- Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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30
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Khan IU, Brooks G, Guo NN, Chen J, Guo F. Fever-range hyperthermia promotes cGAS-STING pathway and synergizes DMXAA-induced antiviral immunity. Int J Hyperthermia 2021; 38:30-37. [PMID: 33444507 DOI: 10.1080/02656736.2020.1868582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Fever-range hyperthermia or fever-range temperature (hereafter FRT) improves survival and shortens disease duration in microbial infections. However, the mechanisms of these beneficial effects still remain elusive. We hypothesized that FRT might enhance cell responsiveness to infections by promoting cGAS-STING signaling to cause enhanced production of IFN-β. Objective: To investigate the effect fever-range hyperthermia on cGAS-STING pathway. Methods: RAW 264.7 and cGAS-/- RAW 264.7 cells, stimulated with 5μg/ml herring testis DNA (htDNA), were heated to 39.5°C and analyzed for the expression of cGAS, STING, IFN-β, and the synthesis of cGAMP and IRF3 phosphorylation. In vivo, wild type C57BL/6J mice were subjected to whole body hyperthermia (WBH) at 39.5°C. The mice were then challenged with influenza virus and analyzed for antiviral response in term of IFN-β expression, body weight and survival. Results: We found that 39.5°C FRT upregulated the expression of cGAS and STING, and induced the synthesis of cGAMP and production of IFN-β in htDNA-transfected RAW 264.7 cells more potently as compared to 37°C. Moreover, FRT+DMXAA-treated cells were better protected from vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV)-induced cytotoxicity in vitro in contrast to the nonprotected control (no FRT and DMXAA) or DMXAA treatment alone. In vivo, FRT at 39.5°C, co-administered with DMXAA, significantly induced the expression of IFN-β, showed reduced weight loss mice and exhibited 25% more survival over the course of 14 days as compared to DMXAA treated mice 37°C. Conclusion: We conclude that fever-range hyperthermia promotes cGAS-STING pathway to cause increased expression of IFN-β and mediate its antiviral effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inam Ullah Khan
- Key Laboratory of System Biomedicine of the Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Gabriel Brooks
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Nina Ni Guo
- Key Laboratory of System Biomedicine of the Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Junsong Chen
- Key Laboratory of System Biomedicine of the Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Fang Guo
- Key Laboratory of System Biomedicine of the Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, PR China
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Abstract
STING (stimulator of interferon genes) also known as transmembrane protein 173 (TMEM173) is a cytoplasmic DNA sensor which can be activated by the upstream cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs). This activation produces cytokines such as interferons and pro-inflammatory factors via the downstream IRF3 and NF-κB pathways, triggering an innate immune response and adaptive immunity to maintain homeostasis. STING is mainly expressed and activated in non-parenchymal cells, thus exerting a corresponding effect to maintain the homeostasis of the liver. In viral hepatitis, interferons and pro-inflammatory factors produced after STING activation initiate the immune response to inhibit virus replication and assembly. In the case of metabolic diseases of the liver, the activation of STING in kupffer cells and hepatic stellate cells leads to inflammation, the proliferation of connective tissue, and metabolic disorders in the hepatocytes, promoting the occurrence and development of the disease. In hepatocellular carcinoma, STING has two contradictory roles. When STING is activated in dendritic cells and macrophages, a large number of cytokines can be produced to initiate innate immune effects directly and to exert adaptive immunity through the recruitment and activation of T cells; however, aberrant activation of the STING pathway leads to a weakening of immune function and promotes oncogenesis and metastasis. Here, we summarize the interactions between STING and liver disease that have currently been identified and how to achieve therapeutic goals by modulating the activity of the STING pathway.
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Li Y, Li S, Duan X, Yang C, Xu M, Chen L. Macrophage Phenotypes and Hepatitis B Virus Infection. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2020; 8:424-431. [PMID: 33447526 PMCID: PMC7782119 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2020.00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and its related liver diseases account for 780,000 deaths every year. Outcomes of HBV infection depend on the interaction between the virus and host immune system. It is becoming increasingly apparent that Kupffer cells (KCs), the largest population of resident and monocyte-derived macrophages in the liver, contribute to HBV infection in various aspects. These cells play an important role not only in the anti-HBV immunity including virus recognition, cytokine production to directly inhibit viral replication and recruitment and activation of other immune cells involved in virus clearance but also in HBV outcome and progression, such as persistent infection and development of end-stage liver diseases. Since liver macrophages play multiple roles in HBV infection, they are directly targeted by HBV to benefit its life cycle. In the present review, we briefly outline the current advances of research of macrophages, especially the studies of their phenotypes, in chronic HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Li
- Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shilin Li
- Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoqiong Duan
- Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chunhui Yang
- Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Min Xu
- Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Limin Chen
- Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Toronto General Research Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1L6, Canada
- Correspondence to: Limin Chen, Institute of Blood Transfusion, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, 26 Huacai Street, Chengdu, Sichuan 610052, China. Tel: +86-28-61648530, E-mail: or
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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: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [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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Rodriguez-Garcia E, Zabaleta N, Gil-Farina I, Gonzalez-Aparicio M, Echeverz M, Bähre H, Solano C, Lasa I, Gonzalez-Aseguinolaza G, Hommel M. AdrA as a Potential Immunomodulatory Candidate for STING-Mediated Antiviral Therapy That Required Both Type I IFN and TNF-α Production. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 206:376-385. [PMID: 33298616 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2000953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Several dinucleotide cyclases, including cyclic GMP-AMP synthase, and their involvement in STING-mediated immunity have been extensively studied. In this study, we tested five bacterial diguanylate cyclases from the Gram-negative bacterium Salmonella Enteritidis, identifying AdrA as the most potent inducer of a STING-mediated IFN response. AdrA wild-type (wt) or its inactive version AdrA mutant (mut) were delivered by an adenovirus (Ad) vector. Dendritic cells obtained from wt mice and infected in vitro with Ad vector containing AdrA wt, but not mut, had increased activation markers and produced large amounts of several immunostimulatory cytokines. For dendritic cells derived from STING-deficient mice, no activation was detected. The potential antiviral activity of AdrA was addressed in hepatitis B virus (HBV)-transgenic and adenovirus-associated virus (AAV)-HBV mouse models. Viremia in serum of Ad AdrA wt-treated mice was reduced significantly compared with that in Ad AdrA mut-injected mice. The viral load in the liver at sacrifice was in line with this finding. To further elucidate the molecular mechanism(s) by which AdrA confers its antiviral function, the response in mice deficient in STING or its downstream effector molecules was analyzed. wt and IFN-αR (IFNAR)-/- animals were additionally treated with anti-TNF-α (Enbrel). Interestingly, albeit less pronounced than in wt mice, in IFNAR-/- and Enbrel-treated wt mice, a reduction of serum viremia was achieved-an observation that was lost in anti-TNF-α-treated IFNAR-/- animals. No effect of AdrA wt was seen in STING-deficient animals. Thus, although STING is indispensable for the antiviral activity of AdrA, type I IFN and TNF-α are both required and act synergistically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefania Rodriguez-Garcia
- Terapia Génica y Regulación de la Expresión Génica, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Nerea Zabaleta
- Terapia Génica y Regulación de la Expresión Génica, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Irene Gil-Farina
- Terapia Génica y Regulación de la Expresión Génica, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Manuela Gonzalez-Aparicio
- Terapia Génica y Regulación de la Expresión Génica, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maite Echeverz
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain.,Laboratorio Patogénesis Microbiana, Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra-Universidad Pública de Navarra, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; and
| | - Heike Bähre
- Research Core Unit Metabolomics, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Cristina Solano
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain.,Laboratorio Patogénesis Microbiana, Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra-Universidad Pública de Navarra, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; and
| | - Iñigo Lasa
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain.,Laboratorio Patogénesis Microbiana, Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra-Universidad Pública de Navarra, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; and
| | - Gloria Gonzalez-Aseguinolaza
- Terapia Génica y Regulación de la Expresión Génica, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; .,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain.,Laboratorio Patogénesis Microbiana, Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra-Universidad Pública de Navarra, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; and
| | - Mirja Hommel
- Terapia Génica y Regulación de la Expresión Génica, Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada, Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; .,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain.,Laboratorio Patogénesis Microbiana, Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra-Universidad Pública de Navarra, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; and
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35
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Alexopoulou A, Vasilieva L, Karayiannis P. New Approaches to the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis B. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9103187. [PMID: 33019573 PMCID: PMC7601587 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9103187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The currently recommended treatment for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection achieves only viral suppression whilst on therapy, but rarely hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) loss. The ultimate therapeutic endpoint is the combination of HBsAg loss, inhibition of new hepatocyte infection, elimination of the covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) pool, and restoration of immune function in order to achieve virus control. This review concentrates on new antiviral drugs that target different stages of the HBV life cycle (direct acting antivirals) and others that enhance both innate and adaptive immunity against HBV (immunotherapy). Drugs that block HBV hepatocyte entry, compounds that silence or deplete the cccDNA pool, others that affect core assembly, agents that degrade RNase-H, interfering RNA molecules, and nucleic acid polymers are likely interventions in the viral life cycle. In the immunotherapy category, molecules that activate the innate immune response such as Toll-like-receptors, Retinoic acid Inducible Gene-1 (RIG-1) and stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists or checkpoint inhibitors, and modulation of the adaptive immunity by therapeutic vaccines, vector-based vaccines, or adoptive transfer of genetically-engineered T cells aim towards the restoration of T cell function. Future therapeutic trends would likely be a combination of one or more of the aforementioned drugs that target the viral life cycle and at least one immunomodulator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Alexopoulou
- Department of Medicine, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-2132-088-178; Fax: +30-2107-706-871
| | - Larisa Vasilieva
- Department of Medicine, Medical School, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Peter Karayiannis
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, Medical School, University of Nicosia, Engomi, CY-1700 Nicosia, Cyprus;
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Yamashiro LH, Wilson SC, Morrison HM, Karalis V, Chung JYJ, Chen KJ, Bateup HS, Szpara ML, Lee AY, Cox JS, Vance RE. Interferon-independent STING signaling promotes resistance to HSV-1 in vivo. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3382. [PMID: 32636381 PMCID: PMC7341812 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17156-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) pathway initiates potent immune responses upon recognition of DNA. To initiate signaling, serine 365 (S365) in the C-terminal tail (CTT) of STING is phosphorylated, leading to induction of type I interferons (IFNs). Additionally, evolutionary conserved responses such as autophagy also occur downstream of STING, but their relative importance during in vivo infections remains unclear. Here we report that mice harboring a serine 365-to-alanine (S365A) mutation in STING are unexpectedly resistant to Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)-1, despite lacking STING-induced type I IFN responses. By contrast, resistance to HSV-1 is abolished in mice lacking the STING CTT, suggesting that the STING CTT initiates protective responses against HSV-1, independently of type I IFNs. Interestingly, we find that STING-induced autophagy is a CTT- and TBK1-dependent but IRF3-independent process that is conserved in the STING S365A mice. Thus, interferon-independent functions of STING mediate STING-dependent antiviral responses in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lívia H Yamashiro
- Division of Immunology and Pathogenesis, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Stephen C Wilson
- Division of Immunology and Pathogenesis, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Bristol Myers Squibb, 200 Cambridge Park Dr, Cambridge, MA, 02140, USA
| | - Huntly M Morrison
- Division of Immunology and Pathogenesis, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Vasiliki Karalis
- Division of Neurobiology, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Jing-Yi J Chung
- Division of Immunology and Pathogenesis, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Katherine J Chen
- Division of Immunology and Pathogenesis, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Helen S Bateup
- Division of Neurobiology, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Moriah L Szpara
- Departments of Biology and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Center for Infectious Disease Dynamics, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, PA, 16801, USA
| | - Angus Y Lee
- Cancer Research Laboratory, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Jeffery S Cox
- Division of Immunology and Pathogenesis, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Henry Wheeler Center for Emerging and Neglected Diseases, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Russell E Vance
- Division of Immunology and Pathogenesis, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
- Cancer Research Laboratory, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
- Henry Wheeler Center for Emerging and Neglected Diseases, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
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Spyrou E, Smith CI, Ghany MG. Hepatitis B: Current Status of Therapy and Future Therapies. Gastroenterol Clin North Am 2020; 49:215-238. [PMID: 32389360 PMCID: PMC7444867 DOI: 10.1016/j.gtc.2020.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Despite the availability of a protective vaccine for over 3 decades, the number of persons with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains high. These persons are at risk for cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Current treatment is effective at inhibiting viral replication and reducing complications of chronic HBV infection, but is not curative. There is a need for novel, finite therapy that can cure chronic HBV infection. Several agents are in early-phase development and can be broadly viewed as agents that target the virus directly or indirectly or the host immune response. This article highlights key developments in antiviral/immunomodulatory therapy, the rationale for these approaches, and possible therapeutic regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Spyrou
- MedStar Georgetown Transplant Institute, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA,Nazih Zuhdi Transplant Institute, INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Coleman I. Smith
- MedStar Georgetown Transplant Institute, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Marc G. Ghany
- Liver Diseases Branch, National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Cornberg M, Lok ASF, Terrault NA, Zoulim F. Guidance for design and endpoints of clinical trials in chronic hepatitis B - Report from the 2019 EASL-AASLD HBV Treatment Endpoints Conference ‡. J Hepatol 2020; 72:539-557. [PMID: 31730789 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2019.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Representatives from academia, industry, regulatory agencies, and patient groups convened in March 2019 with the primary goal of developing agreement on chronic HBV treatment endpoints to guide clinical trials aiming to 'cure' HBV. Agreement among the conference participants was reached on some key points. 'Functional' but not sterilising cure is achievable and should be defined as sustained HBsAg loss in addition to undetectable HBV DNA 6 months post-treatment. The primary endpoint of phase III trials should be functional cure; HBsAg loss in ≥30% of patients was suggested as an acceptable rate of response in these trials. Sustained virologic suppression (undetectable serum HBV DNA) without HBsAg loss 6 months after discontinuation of treatment would be an intermediate goal. Demonstrated validity for the prediction of sustained HBsAg loss was considered the most appropriate criterion for the approval of new HBV assays to determine efficacy endpoints. Clinical trials aimed at HBV functional cure should initially focus on patients with HBeAg-positive or negative chronic hepatitis, who are treatment-naïve or virally suppressed on nucleos(t)ide analogues. A hepatitis flare associated with an increase in bilirubin or international normalised ratio should prompt temporary or permanent cessation of an investigational treatment. New treatments must be as safe as existing nucleos(t)ide analogues. The primary endpoint for phase III trials for HDV coinfection should be undetectable serum HDV RNA 6 months after stopping treatment. On treatment HDV RNA suppression associated with normalisation of alanine aminotransferase is considered an intermediate goal. In conclusion, regarding HBV 'functional cure', the primary goal is sustained HBsAg loss with undetectable HBV DNA after completion of treatment and the intermediate goal is sustained undetectable HBV DNA without HBsAg loss after stopping treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Cornberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany; Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), Hannover, Germany.
| | - Anna Suk-Fong Lok
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Norah A Terrault
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Keck Medicine at University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- Hepatology Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, INSERM U1052, University of Lyon, France
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Abstract
Currently, despite the use of a preventive vaccine for several decades as well as the use of effective and well-tolerated viral suppressive medications since 1998, approximately 250 million people remain infected with the virus that causes hepatitis B worldwide. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) are the leading causes of liver cancer and overall mortality globally, surpassing malaria and tuberculosis. Linkage to care is estimated to be very poor both in developing countries and in high-income countries, such as the United States, countries in Western Europe, and Japan. In the United States, by CDC estimates, only one-third of HBV-infected patients or less are aware of their infection. Some reasons for these low rates of surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment include the asymptomatic nature of chronic hepatitis B until the very late stages, a lack of curative therapy with a finite treatment duration, a complex natural history, and a lack of knowledge about the disease by both care providers and patients. In the last 5 years, more attention has been focused on the important topics of HBV screening, diagnosis of HBV infection, and appropriate linkage to care. There have also been rapid clinical developments toward a functional cure of HBV infection, with novel compounds currently being in various phases of progress. Despite this knowledge, many of the professional organizations provide guidelines focused only on specific questions related to the treatment of HBV infection. This focus leaves a gap for care providers on the other HBV-related issues, which include HBV's epidemiological profile, its natural history, how it interacts with other viral hepatitis diseases, treatments, and the areas that still need to be addressed in order to achieve HBV elimination by 2030. Thus, to fill these gaps and provide a more comprehensive and relevant document to regions worldwide, we have taken a global approach by using the findings of global experts on HBV as well as citing major guidelines and their various approaches to addressing HBV and its disease burden.
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40
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Meng Z, Chen Y, Lu M. Advances in Targeting the Innate and Adaptive Immune Systems to Cure Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection. Front Immunol 2020; 10:3127. [PMID: 32117201 PMCID: PMC7018702 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.03127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
“Functional cure” is being pursued as the ultimate endpoint of antiviral treatment in chronic hepatitis B (CHB), which is characterized by loss of HBsAg whether or not anti-HBs antibodies are present. “Functional cure” can be achieved in <10% of CHB patients with currently available therapeutic agents. The dysfunction of specific immune responses to hepatitis B virus (HBV) is considered the major cause of persistent HBV infection. Thus, modulating the host immune system to strengthen specific cellular immune reactions might help eliminate HBV. Strategies are needed to restore/enhance innate immunity and induce HBV-specific adaptive immune responses in a coordinated way. Immune and resident cells express pattern recognition receptors like TLRs and RIG I/MDA5, which play important roles in the induction of innate immunity through sensing of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and bridging to adaptive immunity for pathogen-specific immune control. TLR/RIG I agonists activate innate immune responses and suppress HBV replication in vitro and in vivo, and are being investigated in clinical trials. On the other hand, HBV-specific immune responses could be induced by therapeutic vaccines, including protein (HBsAg/preS and HBcAg), DNA, and viral vector-based vaccines. More than 50 clinical trials have been performed to assess therapeutic vaccines in CHB treatment, some of which display potential effects. Most recently, using genetic editing technology to generate CAR-T or TCR-T, HBV-specific T cells have been produced to efficiently clear HBV. This review summarizes the progress in basic and clinical research investigating immunomodulatory strategies for curing chronic HBV infection, and critically discusses the rather disappointing results of current clinical trials and future strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongji Meng
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Yuanyuan Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Mengji Lu
- Institute of Virology, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
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41
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Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is a widespread global infection and a leading cause of hepatocellular carcinoma and liver failure. Current approaches to treat CHB involve the suppression of viral replication with either interferon or nucleos(t)ide analog therapy, but neither of these approaches can reliably induce viral eradication, immunologic control or long-lived viral suppression in the absence of continued therapy. In this update, we explore the major obstacles of CHB cure and review new therapeutic strategies and drug candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lydia Tang
- Division of Clinical Care & Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
- Program in Oncology, University of Maryland Marlene & Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Shyam Kottilil
- Division of Clinical Care & Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
- Program in Oncology, University of Maryland Marlene & Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Eleanor Wilson
- Division of Clinical Care & Research, Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
- Program in Oncology, University of Maryland Marlene & Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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Ahn J, Barber GN. STING signaling and host defense against microbial infection. Exp Mol Med 2019; 51:1-10. [PMID: 31827069 PMCID: PMC6906460 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-019-0333-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The first line of host defense against infectious agents involves activation of innate immune signaling pathways that recognize specific pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). Key triggers of innate immune signaling are now known to include microbial-specific nucleic acid, which is rapidly detected in the cytosol of the cell. For example, RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs) have evolved to detect viral RNA species and to activate the production of host defense molecules and cytokines that stimulate adaptive immune responses. In addition, host defense countermeasures, including the production of type I interferons (IFNs), can also be triggered by microbial DNA from bacteria, viruses and perhaps parasites and are regulated by the cytosolic sensor, stimulator of interferon genes (STING). STING-dependent signaling is initiated by cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) generated by intracellular bacteria following infection. CDNs can also be synthesized by a cellular synthase, cGAS, following interaction with invasive cytosolic self-DNA or microbial DNA species. The importance of STING signaling in host defense is evident since numerous pathogens have developed strategies to prevent STING function. Here, we review the relevance of STING-controlled innate immune signaling in host defense against pathogen invasion, including microbial endeavors to subvert this critical process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeonghyun Ahn
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Glen N Barber
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
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43
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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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Cornberg M, Lok ASF, Terrault NA, Zoulim F. Guidance for design and endpoints of clinical trials in chronic hepatitis B - Report from the 2019 EASL-AASLD HBV Treatment Endpoints Conference. Hepatology 2019; 71:1070-1092. [PMID: 31713892 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Representatives from academia, industry, regulatory agencies, and patient groups convened in March 2019 with the primary goal of developing agreement on chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) treatment endpoints to guide clinical trials aiming to 'cure' HBV. Agreement among the conference participants was reached on some key points. 'Functional' but not sterilizing cure is achievable and should be defined as sustained HBsAg loss in addition to undetectable HBV DNA 6 months post-treatment. The primary endpoint of phase 3 trials should be functional cure; HBsAg loss in ≥30% of patients was suggested as an acceptable rate of response in these trials. Sustained virologic suppression (undetectable serum HBV DNA) without HBsAg loss, 6 months after discontinuation of treatment would be an intermediate goal. Demonstrated validity in predicting sustained HBsAg loss was considered the most appropriate criterion for the approval of new HBV assays to determine efficacy endpoints. Clinical trials aimed at HBV functional cure should initially focus on patients with HBeAg-positive and HBeAg-negative chronic hepatitis, treatment-naïve or virally suppressed on nucleos(t)ide analogues. A hepatitis flare associated with increase in bilirubin or INR should prompt temporary or permanent cessation of investigational treatment. New treatments must be as safe as existing nucleos(t)ide analogues. The primary endpoint for phase 3 trials for hepatitis D virus (HDV) co-infection should be undetectable serum HDV RNA 6 months after stopping treatment. On treatment HDV RNA suppression associated with normalization of ALT is considered an intermediate goal. CONCLUSION: For HBV 'functional cure', sustained HBsAg loss with undetectable HBV DNA after completion of treatment is the primary goal and sustained undetectable HBV DNA without HBsAg loss after stopping treatment an intermediate goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Cornberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
- Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CiiM), Hannover, Germany
| | - Anna Suk-Fong Lok
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Norah A Terrault
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Keck Medicine at University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- Hepatology Department, Hospices Civils de Lyon, INSERM U1052, University of Lyon, France
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Zhao Q, Manohar M, Wei Y, Pandol SJ, Habtezion A. STING signalling protects against chronic pancreatitis by modulating Th17 response. Gut 2019; 68:1827-1837. [PMID: 30705050 PMCID: PMC7069765 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2018-317098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is an inflammatory disease with progressive fibrosis leading to exocrine and endocrine dysfunction. Currently, there are no approved effective therapies for CP. Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signalling is a key innate immune sensor of DNA. In this study, we evaluated the role of STING signalling in CP. DESIGN We used an experimental model of CP to test the effect of STING signalling in STING wild-type and knockout mice as well as bone marrow chimaeras (BMCs). STING was activated using a pharmacological agent. Since we found changes in Th17 cells, we used neutralising and control antibodies to determine the role of IL-17A. The effect of STING signalling was further explored in IL-17A generation and we examined the effect of IL-17A on pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs). Human pancreas from patients with CP and without CP were also stained for IL-17A. RESULTS STING activation decreased CP-associated pancreatic inflammation and fibrosis, whereas absence of STING led to worsening of the disease. BMCs showed that leucocytes play an important role in STING signalling-mediated amelioration of experimental CP. STING deletion was associated with increased Th17 cell infiltration in the pancreas, whereas STING agonist limited this Th17 response. Importantly, anti-IL-17A antibody treatment mitigated the severity of CP in the absence of STING signalling. STING deficiency promoted Th17 polarisation and PSCs express functional IL-17 receptor by upregulating fibrosis genes. Compared with tumour margins, pancreas from patients with CP had significant increase in IL-17A+ cells. CONCLUSION Unlike acute pancreatitis, STING activation is protective in CP. STING signalling is important in regulating adaptive immune responses by diminishing generation of IL-17A during CP and presents a novel therapeutic target for CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinglan Zhao
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Murli Manohar
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Yi Wei
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Stephen J. Pandol
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and Department of Veterans Affairs, Los Angeles, California
| | - Aida Habtezion
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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Vanpouille-Box C, Hoffmann JA, Galluzzi L. Pharmacological modulation of nucleic acid sensors - therapeutic potential and persisting obstacles. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2019; 18:845-867. [PMID: 31554927 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-019-0043-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acid sensors, primarily TLR and RLR family members, as well as cGAS-STING signalling, play a critical role in the preservation of cellular and organismal homeostasis. Accordingly, deregulated nucleic acid sensing contributes to the origin of a diverse range of disorders, including infectious diseases, as well as cardiovascular, autoimmune and neoplastic conditions. Accumulating evidence indicates that normalizing aberrant nucleic acid sensing can mediate robust therapeutic effects. However, targeting nucleic acid sensors with pharmacological agents, such as STING agonists, presents multiple obstacles, including drug-, target-, disease- and host-related issues. Here, we discuss preclinical and clinical data supporting the potential of this therapeutic paradigm and highlight key limitations and possible strategies to overcome them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Vanpouille-Box
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.,Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jules A Hoffmann
- University of Strasbourg Institute for Advanced Studies, Strasbourg, France.,CNRS UPR 9022, Institute for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Strasbourg, France.,Sino-French Hoffmann Institute, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lorenzo Galluzzi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA. .,Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA. .,Department of Dermatology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA. .,Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France.
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47
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Fanning GC, Zoulim F, Hou J, Bertoletti A. Therapeutic strategies for hepatitis B virus infection: towards a cure. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2019; 18:827-844. [PMID: 31455905 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-019-0037-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 337] [Impact Index Per Article: 67.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a common cause of liver disease globally, with a disproportionately high burden in South-East Asia. Vaccines and nucleoside or nucleotide drugs are available and reduce both new infection rates and the development of liver disease in HBV-positive persons who adhere to long-term suppressive treatment. Although there is still considerable value in optimizing access to virus-suppressing regimens, the scientific and medical communities have embarked on a concerted journey to identify new antiviral drugs and immune interventions aimed at curing infection. The mechanisms and drug targets being explored are diverse; however, the field universally recognizes the importance of addressing the persistence of episomal covalently closed circular DNA, the existence of integrated HBV DNA in the host genome and the large antigen load, particularly of hepatitis B surface antigen. Another major challenge is to reinvigorate the exhausted immune response within the liver microenvironment. Ultimately, combinations of new drugs will be required to cure infection. Here we critically review the recent literature that describes the rationale for curative therapies and the resulting compounds that are being tested in clinical trials for hepatitis B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory C Fanning
- Janssen Pharmaceuticals, China Research & Development, Shanghai, China.
| | - Fabien Zoulim
- Cancer Research Centre of Lyon, INSERM U1052, Lyon University, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Jinlin Hou
- Department of Infectious Disease, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Antonio Bertoletti
- Emerging Infectious Diseases Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore Immunology Network, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, Singapore
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48
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Motwani M, Pesiridis S, Fitzgerald KA. DNA sensing by the cGAS-STING pathway in health and disease. Nat Rev Genet 2019; 20:657-674. [PMID: 31358977 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-019-0151-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 794] [Impact Index Per Article: 158.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The detection of pathogens through nucleic acid sensors is a defining principle of innate immunity. RNA-sensing and DNA-sensing receptors sample subcellular compartments for foreign nucleic acids and, upon recognition, trigger immune signalling pathways for host defence. Over the past decade, our understanding of how the recognition of nucleic acids is coupled to immune gene expression has advanced considerably, particularly for the DNA-sensing receptor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) and its downstream signalling effector stimulator of interferon genes (STING), as well as the molecular components and regulation of this pathway. Moreover, the ability of self-DNA to engage cGAS has emerged as an important mechanism fuelling the development of inflammation and implicating the cGAS-STING pathway in human inflammatory diseases and cancer. This detailed mechanistic and biological understanding is paving the way for the development and clinical application of pharmacological agonists and antagonists in the treatment of chronic inflammation and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Motwani
- Program in Innate Immunity, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Scott Pesiridis
- Innate Immunity Research Unit, GlaxoSmithKline, Collegeville, PA, USA
| | - Katherine A Fitzgerald
- Program in Innate Immunity, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.
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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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50
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Lin LC, Huang C, Yao B, Lin J, Agrawal A, Algaissi A, Peng B, Liu Y, Huang P, Juang R, Chang Y, Tseng C, Chen H, Hu CJ. Viromimetic STING Agonist-Loaded Hollow Polymeric Nanoparticles for Safe and Effective Vaccination against Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2019; 29:1807616. [PMID: 32313544 PMCID: PMC7161765 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.201807616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The continued threat of emerging, highly lethal infectious pathogens such as Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) calls for the development of novel vaccine technology that offers safe and effective prophylactic measures. Here, a novel nanoparticle vaccine is developed to deliver subunit viral antigens and STING agonists in a virus-like fashion. STING agonists are first encapsulated into capsid-like hollow polymeric nanoparticles, which show multiple favorable attributes, including a pH-responsive release profile, prominent local immune activation, and reduced systemic reactogenicity. Upon subsequent antigen conjugation, the nanoparticles carry morphological semblance to native virions and facilitate codelivery of antigens and STING agonists to draining lymph nodes and immune cells for immune potentiation. Nanoparticle vaccine effectiveness is supported by the elicitation of potent neutralization antibody and antigen-specific T cell responses in mice immunized with a MERS-CoV nanoparticle vaccine candidate. Using a MERS-CoV-permissive transgenic mouse model, it is shown that mice immunized with this nanoparticle-based MERS-CoV vaccine are protected against a lethal challenge of MERS-CoV without triggering undesirable eosinophilic immunopathology. Together, the biocompatible hollow nanoparticle described herein provides an excellent strategy for delivering both subunit vaccine candidates and novel adjuvants, enabling accelerated development of effective and safe vaccines against emerging viral pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chen‐Yu Huang
- Department of Veterinary MedicineNational Taiwan UniversityTaipei10617Taiwan
| | - Bing‐Yu Yao
- Institute of Biomedical SciencesAcademia SinicaTaipei11529Taiwan
| | - Jung‐Chen Lin
- Institute of Biomedical SciencesAcademia SinicaTaipei11529Taiwan
| | - Anurodh Agrawal
- Department of Microbiology and ImmunologyThe University of Texas Medical BranchGalvestonTX77555USA
| | - Abdullah Algaissi
- Department of Microbiology and ImmunologyThe University of Texas Medical BranchGalvestonTX77555USA
- Department of Medical Laboratories TechnologyJazan UniversityJazan45142Saudi Arabia
| | - Bi‐Hung Peng
- Department of Neurosciences, Cell Biology & AnatomyThe University of Texas Medical BranchGalvestonTX77555USA
| | - Yu‐Han Liu
- Institute of Biomedical SciencesAcademia SinicaTaipei11529Taiwan
| | - Ping‐Han Huang
- Department of Veterinary MedicineNational Taiwan UniversityTaipei10617Taiwan
| | - Rong‐Huay Juang
- Department of Biochemical Science and TechnologyNational Taiwan UniversityTaipei10617Taiwan
| | - Yuan‐Chih Chang
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic BiologyAcademia SinicaTaipei11529Taiwan
| | - Chien‐Te Tseng
- Department of Microbiology and ImmunologyThe University of Texas Medical BranchGalvestonTX77555USA
- Center for Biodefense and Emerging DiseaseThe University of Texas Medical BranchGalvestonTX77555USA
| | - Hui‐Wen Chen
- Department of Veterinary MedicineNational Taiwan UniversityTaipei10617Taiwan
| | - Che‐Ming Jack Hu
- Institute of Biomedical SciencesAcademia SinicaTaipei11529Taiwan
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