1
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Huang Y, Piao L, Liu X. Enhancing Tumor-Specific immunity with SL dacA: A attenuated Salmonella-mediated c-di-AMP delivery system targeting the STING pathway. Int J Pharm 2024; 666:124759. [PMID: 39332458 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 09/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/29/2024]
Abstract
The STING agonist stimulates an anti-tumor immune response by activating T cells, but its limited tumor-targeting specificity poses risks of cytokine storms or autoimmune reactions. Conversely, attenuated Salmonella typhimurium △ppGpp (S.t△ppGpp) exhibits superior tumor-targeting specificity and potent anti-tumor immunogenicity. However, the anti-tumor effects of Salmonella carrying STING agonists remain underexplored. In this study, we engineered a strain called SLdacA, utilizing S.t△ppGpp as a carrier, to produce c-di-AMP. This engineered strain effectively enhances dendritic cell maturation and M1-type macrophage polarization by inducing type I interferon production, thereby recruiting and activating effector T cells against tumor progression. This process is regulated by the STING/type I interferon pathway. Our findings indicate that utilizing S.t△ppGpp as a delivery vehicle for STING agonists holds promise as a strategy for synergistic bacterial-mediated immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjia Huang
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan Province Key Laboratory of One Health, Collaborative Innovation center of One Health, Hainan University, No. 58 Renmin Avenue, Haikou 570228, China
| | - Linghua Piao
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medicine and Life Science, Hainan Medical University, No. 3 Xueyuan Avenue, Haikou 57119, China.
| | - Xiande Liu
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Hainan Province Key Laboratory of One Health, Collaborative Innovation center of One Health, Hainan University, No. 58 Renmin Avenue, Haikou 570228, China.
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2
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Sheehy T, Kwiatkowski AJ, Arora K, Kimmel BR, Schulman JA, Gibson-Corley KN, Wilson JT. STING-Activating Polymer-Drug Conjugates for Cancer Immunotherapy. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2024; 10:1765-1781. [PMID: 39345818 PMCID: PMC11428287 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.4c00579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway links innate and adaptive antitumor immunity and therefore plays an important role in cancer immune surveillance. This has prompted widespread development of STING agonists for cancer immunotherapy, but pharmacological barriers continue to limit the clinical impact of STING agonists and motivate the development of drug delivery systems to improve their efficacy and/or safety. We developed SAPCon, a STING-activating polymer-drug conjugate platform based on strain-promoted azide-alkyne cycloaddition of a novel dimeric amidobenzimidazole (diABZI) STING prodrug to hydrophilic poly(dimethylacrylamide-co-azido-ethylmethacrylate) polymer chains through a cathepsin B-responsive linker to increase circulation time and enable passive tumor accumulation. We found that intravenously administered SAPCon accumulated at tumor sites, where it was endocytosed by tumor-associated myeloid cells, resulting in increased STING activation in the tumor tissue. Consequently, SAPCon promoted an immunogenic tumor microenvironment characterized by increased frequency of activated macrophages and dendritic cells and improved infiltration of CD8+ T cells, resulting in inhibition of tumor growth, prolonged survival, and enhanced response to anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade in orthotopic breast cancer models. Collectively, these studies position SAPCon as a modular and programmable platform for improving the efficacy of systemically administered STING agonists for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor
L. Sheehy
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Alexander J. Kwiatkowski
- Department
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Karan Arora
- Department
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Blaise R. Kimmel
- Department
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Jacob A. Schulman
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Katherine N. Gibson-Corley
- Department
of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - John T. Wilson
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Department
of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Vanderbilt
Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University
Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Vanderbilt
Institute of Chemical Biology, Vanderbilt
University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Vanderbilt
Institute for Infection, Immunology and Inflammation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Vanderbilt
Center for Immunobiology, Vanderbilt University
Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
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3
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Wang Z, Zhang W, Chen L, Lu X, Tu Y. Lymphopenia in sepsis: a narrative review. Crit Care 2024; 28:315. [PMID: 39304908 DOI: 10.1186/s13054-024-05099-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 09/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
This narrative review provides an overview of the evolving significance of lymphopenia in sepsis, emphasizing its critical function in this complex and heterogeneous disease. We describe the causal relationship of lymphopenia with clinical outcomes, sustained immunosuppression, and its correlation with sepsis prediction markers and therapeutic targets. The primary mechanisms of septic lymphopenia are highlighted. In addition, the paper summarizes various attempts to treat lymphopenia and highlights the practical significance of promoting lymphocyte proliferation as the next research direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhibin Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, School of Anesthesiology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Wenzhao Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, School of Anesthesiology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Linlin Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, School of Anesthesiology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Xin Lu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, School of Anesthesiology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Ye Tu
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, China.
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4
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Aybar-Torres AA, Saldarriaga LA, Pham AT, Emtiazjoo AM, Sharma AK, Bryant AJ, Jin L. The common Sting1 HAQ, AQ alleles rescue CD4 T cellpenia, restore T-regs, and prevent SAVI (N153S) inflammatory disease in mice. eLife 2024; 13:RP96790. [PMID: 39291958 PMCID: PMC11410371 DOI: 10.7554/elife.96790] [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] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The significance of STING1 gene in tissue inflammation and cancer immunotherapy has been increasingly recognized. Intriguingly, common human STING1 alleles R71H-G230A-R293Q (HAQ) and G230A-R293Q (AQ) are carried by ~60% of East Asians and ~40% of Africans, respectively. Here, we examine the modulatory effects of HAQ, AQ alleles on STING-associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy (SAVI), an autosomal dominant, fatal inflammatory disease caused by gain-of-function human STING1 mutations. CD4 T cellpenia is evident in SAVI patients and mouse models. Using Sting1 knock-in mice expressing common human STING1 alleles HAQ, AQ, and Q293, we found that HAQ, AQ, and Q293 splenocytes resist STING1-mediated cell death ex vivo, establishing a critical role of STING1 residue 293 in cell death. The HAQ/SAVI(N153S) and AQ/SAVI(N153S) mice did not have CD4 T cellpenia. The HAQ/SAVI(N153S), AQ/SAVI(N153S) mice have more (~10-fold, ~20-fold, respectively) T-regs than WT/SAVI(N153S) mice. Remarkably, while they have comparable TBK1, IRF3, and NFκB activation as the WT/SAVI, the AQ/SAVI mice have no tissue inflammation, regular body weight, and normal lifespan. We propose that STING1 activation promotes tissue inflammation by depleting T-regs cells in vivo. Billions of modern humans have the dominant HAQ, AQ alleles. STING1 research and STING1-targeting immunotherapy should consider STING1 heterogeneity in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra a Aybar-Torres
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of FloridaGainesvilleUnited States
| | - Lennon A Saldarriaga
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of FloridaGainesvilleUnited States
| | - Ann T Pham
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of FloridaGainesvilleUnited States
| | - Amir M Emtiazjoo
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of FloridaGainesvilleUnited States
| | - Ashish K Sharma
- Division of Vascular Surgery & Endovascular Therapy, Department of Surgery, University of FloridaGainesvilleUnited States
| | - Andrew j Bryant
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of FloridaGainesvilleUnited States
| | - Lei Jin
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of FloridaGainesvilleUnited States
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5
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Wang Z, Miao F, Gu L, Zhang R, Ma Y, Li Y, Zheng J, Lin Z, Gao Y, Huang L, Shen Y, Wu T, Luo F, Li W. Stimulator of Interferon Genes-Activated Biomimetic Dendritic Cell Nanovaccine as a Chemotherapeutic Booster to Enhance Systemic Fibrosarcoma Treatment. ACS NANO 2024; 18:24219-24235. [PMID: 39172516 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c05657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Fibrosarcoma, a malignant mesenchymal tumor, is characterized by aggressive invasiveness and a high recurrence rate, leading to poor prognosis. Anthracycline drugs, such as doxorubicin (DOX), represent the frontline chemotherapy for fibrosarcoma, but often exhibit suboptimal efficacy. Recently, exploiting the stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-mediated innate immunity has emerged as a hopeful strategy for cancer treatment. Integrating chemotherapy with immunomodulators in chemo-immunotherapy has shown potential for enhancing treatment outcomes. Herein, we introduce an advanced dendritic cell (DC) nanovaccine, cGAMP@PLGA@CRTM (GP@CRTM), combined with low-dose DOX to enhance fibrosarcoma chemo-immunotherapy. The nanovaccine consists of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles encapsulating the STING agonist 2,3-cGAMP (cGAMP@PLGA, GP) as its core, and a calreticulin (CRT) high-expressing fibrosarcoma cell membrane (CRTM) as the shell. Exposing CRT on the vaccine surface aids in recruiting DCs and stimulating uptake, facilitating efficient simultaneous delivery of STING agonists and tumor antigens to DCs. This dual delivery method effectively activates the STING pathway in DCs, triggering sustained immune stimulation. Simultaneously, low-dose DOX reduces chemotherapy-related side effects, directly kills a subset of tumor cells, and increases tumor immunogenicity, thus further amplifying immune therapeutic performance. Hence, these findings demonstrate the potential of DC nanovaccine GP@CRTM as a booster for chemotherapy. Synergistically combining low-dose DOX with the DC nanovaccine emerges as a powerful chemo-immunotherapy strategy, optimizing systemic fibrosarcoma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, Fujian, China
| | - Fenglin Miao
- Cancer Research Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, Fujian, China
| | - Lingwei Gu
- Cancer Research Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, Fujian, China
| | - Ruyi Zhang
- Cancer Research Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, Fujian, China
| | - Yuan Ma
- Cancer Research Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, Fujian, China
| | - Ying Li
- Heji Hospital Affiliated with Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi 046000, Shanxi, China
| | - Jialiang Zheng
- Cancer Research Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, Fujian, China
| | - Zhenhang Lin
- Cancer Research Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, Fujian, China
| | - Yilai Gao
- Cancer Research Center, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361000, Fujian, China
| | - Liyong Huang
- Fuzhou No. 1 Hospital Affiliated with Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350000, Fu Jian, China
| | - Ye Shen
- Shanghai Jiangxia Blood Technology Co., Ltd. Shanghai 200000, China
| | - Ting Wu
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, Fujian, China
| | - Fanghong Luo
- Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, Fujian, China
| | - Wengang Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xiang'an Hospital of Xiamen University, Cancer Research Center, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, Fujian, China
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6
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Zhao R, Zhang J, Ma J, Qu Y, Yang Z, Yin Z, Li F, Dong Z, Sun Q, Zhu S, Chen ZJ, Gao D. cGAS-activated endothelial cell-T cell cross-talk initiates tertiary lymphoid structure formation. Sci Immunol 2024; 9:eadk2612. [PMID: 39093956 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.adk2612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) pathway causes autoimmunity in humans and mice; however, the exact mechanism by which the cGAS-STING pathway initiates adaptive immunity and tissue pathology is still not fully understood. Here, we used a cGAS knockin (KI) mouse model that develops systemic autoimmunity. In the lungs of cGAS-KI mice, blood vessels were enclosed by organized lymphoid tissues that resemble tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs). Cell-intrinsic cGAS induction promoted up-regulation of CCR5 in CD8+ T cells and led to CCL5 production in vascular endothelial cells. Peripheral CD8+ T cells were recruited to the lungs and produced CXCL13 and interferon-γ. The latter triggered endothelial cell death, potentiated CCL5 production, and was essential for TLS establishment. Blocking CCL5 or CCR5, or depleting CD8+ T cells, impaired TLS formation. cGAS-mediated TLS formation also enhanced humoral and antitumor responses. These data demonstrate that cGAS signaling drives a specialized lymphoid structure that underlies autoimmune tissue pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruibo Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui Province 230007, China
- Institute of Immunology and the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui Province 230027, China
| | - Jinghe Zhang
- Institute of Immunology and the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui Province 230027, China
| | - Jialu Ma
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui Province 230007, China
- Institute of Immunology and the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui Province 230027, China
| | - Yali Qu
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui Province 230007, China
- Institute of Immunology and the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui Province 230027, China
| | - Zhenrong Yang
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui Province 230007, China
- Institute of Immunology and the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui Province 230027, China
| | - Zhinan Yin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519000, China
- Biomedical Translational Research Institute, Health Science Center (School of Medicine), Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510632, China
| | - Fengyin Li
- Institute of Immunology and the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui Province 230027, China
| | - Zhongjun Dong
- First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University and Institute for Clinical Immunology, Anhui Medical University, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Qinmiao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Shu Zhu
- Institute of Immunology and the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui Province 230027, China
| | - Zhijian J Chen
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Center for Inflammation Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Daxing Gao
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui Province 230007, China
- Institute of Immunology and the CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui Province 230027, China
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7
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Camfield S, Chakraborty S, Dwivedi SKD, Pramanik PK, Mukherjee P, Bhattacharya R. Secrets of DNA-PKcs beyond DNA repair. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:154. [PMID: 39043779 PMCID: PMC11266574 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-024-00655-1] [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: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The canonical role of the DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs) in repairing DNA double-strand breaks combined with its reported dysregulation in several malignancies has driven the development of DNA-PKcs inhibitors as therapeutics. However, until recently the relationship between DNA-PKcs and tumorigenesis has been primarily investigated with regard to its role in non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) repair. Emerging research has uncovered non-canonical DNA-PKcs functions involved with transcriptional regulation, telomere maintenance, metabolic regulation, and immune signaling all of which may also impinge on tumorigenesis. This review mainly discusses these non-canonical roles of DNA-PKcs in cellular biology and their potential contribution to tumorigenesis, as well as evaluating the implications of targeting DNA-PKcs for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney Camfield
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Sayan Chakraborty
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Shailendra Kumar Dhar Dwivedi
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Pijush Kanti Pramanik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Priyabrata Mukherjee
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Resham Bhattacharya
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
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8
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Lin W, Szabo C, Liu T, Tao H, Wu X, Wu J. STING trafficking activates MAPK-CREB signaling to trigger regulatory T cell differentiation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2320709121. [PMID: 38985760 PMCID: PMC11260101 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2320709121] [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: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The Type-I interferon (IFN-I) response is the major outcome of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) activation in innate cells. STING is more abundantly expressed in adaptive T cells; nevertheless, its intrinsic function in T cells remains unclear. Intriguingly, we previously demonstrated that STING activation in T cells activates widespread IFN-independent activities, which stands in contrast to the well-known STING-mediated IFN response. Here, we have identified that STING activation induces regulatory T cells (Tregs) differentiation independently of IRF3 and IFN. Specifically, the translocation of STING from the endoplasmic reticulum to the Golgi activates mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activity, which subsequently triggers transcription factor cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) activation. The activation of the STING-MAPK-CREB signaling pathway induces the expression of many cytokine genes, including interleukin-2 (IL-2) and transforming growth factor-beta 2 (TGF-β2), to promote the Treg differentiation. Genetic knockdown of MAPK p38 or pharmacological inhibition of MAPK p38 or CREB markedly inhibits STING-mediated Treg differentiation. Administration of the STING agonist also promotes Treg differentiation in mice. In the Trex1-/- autoimmune disease mouse model, we demonstrate that intrinsic STING activation in CD4+ T cells can drive Treg differentiation, potentially counterbalancing the autoimmunity associated with Trex1 deficiency. Thus, STING-MAPK-CREB represents an IFN-independent signaling axis of STING that may have profound effects on T cell effector function and adaptive immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Lin
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH44195
| | - Claudia Szabo
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH44195
| | - Tao Liu
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH44195
| | - Huangheng Tao
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH44195
| | - Xianfang Wu
- Infection Biology Program, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH44195
| | - Jianjun Wu
- Center for Immunotherapy and Precision Immuno-Oncology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH44195
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9
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Malli Cetinbas N, Monnell T, Soomer-James J, Shaw P, Lancaster K, Catcott KC, Dolan M, Mosher R, Routhier C, Chin CN, Toader D, Duvall J, Bukhalid R, Lowinger TB, Damelin M. Tumor cell-directed STING agonist antibody-drug conjugates induce type III interferons and anti-tumor innate immune responses. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5842. [PMID: 38992037 PMCID: PMC11239908 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49932-4] [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: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Activating interferon responses with STING agonists (STINGa) is a current cancer immunotherapy strategy, and therapeutic modalities that enable tumor-targeted delivery via systemic administration could be beneficial. Here we demonstrate that tumor cell-directed STING agonist antibody-drug-conjugates (STINGa ADCs) activate STING in tumor cells and myeloid cells and induce anti-tumor innate immune responses in in vitro, in vivo (in female mice), and ex vivo tumor models. We show that the tumor cell-directed STINGa ADCs are internalized into myeloid cells by Fcγ-receptor-I in a tumor antigen-dependent manner. Systemic administration of STINGa ADCs in mice leads to STING activation in tumors, with increased anti-tumor activity and reduced serum cytokine elevations compared to a free STING agonist. Furthermore, STINGa ADCs induce type III interferons, which contribute to the anti-tumor activity by upregulating type I interferon and other key chemokines/cytokines. These findings reveal an important role for type III interferons in the anti-tumor activity elicited by STING agonism and provide rationale for the clinical development of tumor cell-directed STINGa ADCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Pamela Shaw
- Mersana Therapeutics Inc. Cambridge MA, Cambridge, USA
| | | | | | - Melissa Dolan
- Mersana Therapeutics Inc. Cambridge MA, Cambridge, USA
| | | | | | - Chen-Ni Chin
- Mersana Therapeutics Inc. Cambridge MA, Cambridge, USA
| | - Dorin Toader
- Mersana Therapeutics Inc. Cambridge MA, Cambridge, USA
| | - Jeremy Duvall
- Mersana Therapeutics Inc. Cambridge MA, Cambridge, USA
| | | | | | - Marc Damelin
- Mersana Therapeutics Inc. Cambridge MA, Cambridge, USA.
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10
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Teng HW, Wang TY, Lin CC, Tong ZJ, Cheng HW, Wang HT. Interferon Gamma Induces Higher Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Leading to Tumor-Killing Activity in Microsatellite Stable Colorectal Cancer. Mol Cancer Ther 2024; 23:1043-1056. [PMID: 38346939 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Many patients with colorectal cancer do not respond to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy, highlighting the urgent need to understand tumor resistance mechanisms. Recently, the link between the IFNγ signaling pathway integrity and ICB resistance in the colorectal cancer tumor microenvironment has been revealed. The immunosuppressive microenvironment poses a significant challenge to antitumor immunity in colorectal cancer development. Tumor-associated neutrophils found in tumor tissues exhibit an immunosuppressive phenotype and are associated with colorectal cancer patient prognosis. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NET), DNA meshes containing cytotoxic enzymes released into the extracellular space, may be promising therapeutic targets in cancer. This study showed increased NETs in tumor tissues and peripheral neutrophils of high levels of microsatellite instability (MSI-H) patients with colorectal cancer compared with microsatellite stable (MSS) patients with colorectal cancer. IFNγ response genes were enriched in MSI-H patients with colorectal cancer compared with patients with MSS colorectal cancer. Co-culturing neutrophils with MSI-H colorectal cancer cell lines induced more NET formation and higher cellular apoptosis than MSS colorectal cancer cell lines. IFNγ treatment induced more NET formation and apoptosis in MSS colorectal cancer cell lines. Using subcutaneous or orthotopic CT-26 (MSS) tumor-bearing mice models, IFNγ reduced tumor size and enhanced PD-1 antibody-induced tumor-killing activity, accompanied by upregulated NETs and cellular apoptosis. These findings suggest that IFNγ could be a therapeutic strategy for MSS colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Wei Teng
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tean-Ya Wang
- Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Chi Lin
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Zhen-Jie Tong
- Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Wei Cheng
- Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-Tsui Wang
- Institute of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Food Safety and Health Risk Assessment, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Doctor degree program in Toxicology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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11
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Lanng KRB, Lauridsen EL, Jakobsen MR. The balance of STING signaling orchestrates immunity in cancer. Nat Immunol 2024; 25:1144-1157. [PMID: 38918609 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-024-01872-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Over the past decade, it has become clear that the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway is critical for a variety of immune responses. This endoplasmic reticulum-anchored adaptor protein has regulatory functions in host immunity across a spectrum of conditions, including infectious diseases, autoimmunity, neurobiology and cancer. In this Review, we outline the central importance of STING in immunological processes driven by expression of type I and III interferons, as well as inflammatory cytokines, and we look at therapeutic options for targeting STING. We also examine evidence that challenges the prevailing notion that STING activation is predominantly beneficial in combating cancer. Further exploration is imperative to discern whether STING activation in the tumor microenvironment confers true benefits or has detrimental effects. Research in this field is at a crossroads, as a clearer understanding of the nuanced functions of STING activation in cancer is required for the development of next-generation therapies.
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12
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Aybar-Torres A, Saldarriaga LA, Pham AT, Emtiazjoo AM, Sharma AK, Bryant AJ, Jin L. The common TMEM173 HAQ, AQ alleles rescue CD4 T cellpenia, restore T-regs, and prevent SAVI (N153S) inflammatory disease in mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.10.05.561109. [PMID: 37886547 PMCID: PMC10602033 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.05.561109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The significance of STING (encoded by the TMEM173 gene) in tissue inflammation and cancer immunotherapy has been increasingly recognized. Intriguingly, common human TMEM173 alleles R71H-G230A-R293Q (HAQ) and G230A-R293Q (AQ) are carried by ~60% of East Asians and ~40% of Africans, respectively. Here, we examine the modulatory effects of HAQ, AQ alleles on STING-associated vasculopathy with onset in infancy (SAVI), an autosomal dominant, fatal inflammatory disease caused by gain-of-function human STING mutations. CD4 T cellpenia is evident in SAVI patients and mouse models. Using STING knock-in mice expressing common human TMEM173 alleles HAQ, AQ, and Q293, we found that HAQ, AQ, and Q293 splenocytes resist STING-mediated cell death ex vivo, establishing a critical role of STING residue 293 in cell death. The HAQ/SAVI(N153S) and AQ/SAVI(N153S) mice did not have CD4 T cellpenia. The HAQ/SAVI(N153S), AQ/SAVI(N153S) mice have more (~10-fold, ~20-fold, respectively) T-regs than WT/SAVI(N153S) mice. Remarkably, while they have comparable TBK1, IRF3, and NFκB activation as the WT/SAVI, the AQ/SAVI mice have no tissue inflammation, regular body weight, and normal lifespan. We propose that STING activation promotes tissue inflammation by depleting T-regs cells in vivo. Billions of modern humans have the dominant HAQ, AQ alleles. STING research and STING-targeting immunotherapy should consider TMEM173 heterogeneity in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Aybar-Torres
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, U.S.A
| | - Lennon A Saldarriaga
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, U.S.A
| | - Ann T. Pham
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, U.S.A
| | - Amir M. Emtiazjoo
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, U.S.A
| | - Ashish K Sharma
- Division of Vascular Surgery & Endovascular Therapy, Department of Surgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, U.S.A
| | - Andrew J. Bryant
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, U.S.A
| | - Lei Jin
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, U.S.A
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13
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Wang J, Meng F, Yeo Y. Delivery of STING agonists for cancer immunotherapy. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2024; 87:103105. [PMID: 38461748 PMCID: PMC11162310 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2024.103105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Agonists of the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS)-Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) pathway, a critical mediator of innate immune response to foreign invaders with DNA, have gained significant interest in cancer immunotherapy. STING agonists are envisioned as a way of complementing the antitumor activity of the patient's immune system and immune checkpoint blockade therapy. However, their clinical development has been challenging due to the poor pharmacokinetic and physicochemical properties. This review discusses drug delivery efforts to circumvent the challenges, their accomplishment, and unmet needs based on the last five years of literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianping Wang
- Department of Industrial and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Fanfei Meng
- Department of Industrial and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Department of Biomedical and Nutritional Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, 3 Solomont Way, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
| | - Yoon Yeo
- Department of Industrial and Molecular Pharmaceutics, Purdue University, 575 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue University Institute for Cancer Research, 201 South University Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, 206 S Martin Jischke Drive, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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14
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Li L. Stimulating STING for cancer therapy: Taking the extracellular route. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:851-861. [PMID: 38723635 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Ten years ago, the second messenger cGAMP was discovered as the activator of the anti-cancer STING pathway. The characterization of cGAMP's paracrine action and dominant extracellular hydrolase ENPP1 cemented cGAMP as an intercellular immunotransmitter that coordinates the innate and adaptive immune systems to fight cancer. In this Perspective, I look back at a decade of discovery of extracellular cGAMP biology and drug development aiming to supply or preserve extracellular cGAMP for cancer treatment. Reviewing our understanding of the cell type-specific regulatory mechanisms of STING agonists, including their transporters and degradation enzymes, I explain on a molecular and cellular level the successes and challenges of direct STING agonists for cancer therapy. Based on what we know now, I propose new ways to stimulate the STING pathway in a manner that is not only cancer specific, but also cell type specific to fully harness the anti-cancer effect of cGAMP while avoiding collateral damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyin Li
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA, 94304 USA; Department of Biochemistry and Sarafan ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305 USA.
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15
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Uslu U, Sun L, Castelli S, Finck AV, Assenmacher CA, Young RM, Chen ZJ, June CH. The STING agonist IMSA101 enhances chimeric antigen receptor T cell function by inducing IL-18 secretion. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3933. [PMID: 38730243 PMCID: PMC11087554 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47692-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
As a strategy to improve the therapeutic success of chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CART) directed against solid tumors, we here test the combinatorial use of CART and IMSA101, a newly developed stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonist. In two syngeneic tumor models, improved overall survival is observed when mice are treated with intratumorally administered IMSA101 in addition to intravenous CART infusion. Transcriptomic analyses of CART isolated from tumors show elevated T cell activation, as well as upregulated cytokine pathway signatures, in particular IL-18, in the combination treatment group. Also, higher levels of IL-18 in serum and tumor are detected with IMSA101 treatment. Consistent with this, the use of IL-18 receptor negative CART impair anti-tumor responses in mice receiving combination treatment. In summary, we find that IMSA101 enhances CART function which is facilitated through STING agonist-induced IL-18 secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugur Uslu
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy at University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Lijun Sun
- ImmuneSensor Therapeutics, Dallas, TX, 75235, USA
| | - Sofia Castelli
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy at University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Amanda V Finck
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy at University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Charles-Antoine Assenmacher
- Comparative Pathology Core, Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Regina M Young
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy at University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Zhijian J Chen
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
- Center for Inflammation Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, 4000 Jones Bridge Road, Chevy Chase, MD20815, USA.
| | - Carl H June
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy at University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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16
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Chen H, Zhu Y, Zhang C, Hu L, Yang K. Engineered bacteria in tumor immunotherapy. Cancer Lett 2024; 589:216817. [PMID: 38492769 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216817] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
As the limitations of cancer immunotherapy become increasingly apparent, there is considerable anticipation regarding the utilization of biological tools to enhance treatment efficacy, particularly bacteria and their derivatives. Leveraging advances in genetic and synthetic biology technologies, engineered bacteria now play important roles far beyond those of conventional immunoregulatory agents, and they could function as tumor-targeting vehicles and in situ pharmaceutical factories. In recent years, these engineered bacteria play a role in almost every aspect of immunotherapy. It is nothing short of impressive to keep seeing different strain of bacteria modified in diverse ways for unique immunological enhancement. In this review, we have scrutinized the intricate interplay between the immune system and these engineered bacteria. These interactions generate strategies that can directly or indirectly optimize immunotherapy and even modulate the effects of combination therapies. Collectively, these engineered bacteria present a promising novel therapeutic strategy that promises to change the current landscape of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Yinrui Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Chonghai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Lin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Kai Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China.
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17
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Ma XY, Chen MM, Meng LH. Second messenger 2'3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (2'3'-cGAMP): the cell autonomous and non-autonomous roles in cancer progression. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:890-899. [PMID: 38177693 PMCID: PMC11053103 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01210-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Cytosolic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) is frequently accumulated in cancer cells due to chromosomal instability or exogenous stimulation. Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) acts as a cytosolic DNA sensor, which is activated upon binding to dsDNA to synthesize the crucial second messenger 2'3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (2'3'-cGAMP) that in turn triggers stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling. The canonical role of cGAS-cGAMP-STING pathway is essential for innate immunity and viral defense. Recent emerging evidence indicates that 2'3'-cGAMP plays an important role in cancer progression via cell autonomous and non-autonomous mechanisms. Beyond its role as an intracellular messenger to activate STING signaling in tumor cells, 2'3'-cGAMP also serves as an immunotransmitter produced by cancer cells to modulate the functions of non-tumor cells especially immune cells in the tumor microenvironment by activating STING signaling. In this review, we summarize the synthesis, transmission, and degradation of 2'3'-cGAMP as well as the dual functions of 2'3'-cGAMP in a STING-dependent manner. Additionally, we discuss the potential therapeutic strategies that harness the cGAMP-mediated antitumor response for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Yu Ma
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Man-Man Chen
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Ling-Hua Meng
- Division of Anti-tumor Pharmacology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Haike Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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18
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Sampaio LR, Dias RDB, Goes JVC, de Melo RPM, de Paula Borges D, de Lima Melo MM, de Oliveira RTG, Ribeiro-Júnior HL, Magalhães SMM, Pinheiro RF. Role of the STING pathway in myeloid neoplasms: a prospero-registered systematic review of principal hurdles of STING on the road to the clinical practice. Med Oncol 2024; 41:128. [PMID: 38656461 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02376-8] [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: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Myeloid neoplasms are a group of bone marrow diseases distinguished by disruptions in the molecular pathways that regulate the balance between hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) self-renewal and the generation of specialized cells. Cytokines and chemokines, two important components of the inflammatory process, also influence hematological differentiation. In this scenario, immunological dysregulation plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of bone marrow neoplasms. The STING pathway recognizes DNA fragments in the cell cytoplasm and triggers an immune response by type I interferons. The role of STING in cancer has not yet been established; however, both actions, as an oncogene or tumor suppressor, have been documented in other types of cancer. Therefore, we performed a systematic review (registered in PROSPERO database #CRD42023407512) to discuss the role of STING pathway in the advancement of pathogenesis and/or prognosis for different myeloid neoplasms. In brief, scientific evidence supports investigations that primarily use cell lines from myeloid neoplasms, such as leukemia. More high-quality research and clinical trials are needed to understand the role of the STING pathway in the pathology of hematological malignancies. Finally, the STING pathway suggests being a promising therapeutic molecular target, particularly when combined with current drug therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Rodrigues Sampaio
- Cancer Cytogenomic Laboratory, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Medical Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Dyllan Barbosa Dias
- Cancer Cytogenomic Laboratory, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Medical Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - João Vitor Caetano Goes
- Cancer Cytogenomic Laboratory, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program of Pathology, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Renata Pinheiro Martins de Melo
- Cancer Cytogenomic Laboratory, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Daniela de Paula Borges
- Cancer Cytogenomic Laboratory, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Medical Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Mayara Magna de Lima Melo
- Cancer Cytogenomic Laboratory, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Medical Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Roberta Taiane Germano de Oliveira
- Cancer Cytogenomic Laboratory, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Medical Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Howard Lopes Ribeiro-Júnior
- Cancer Cytogenomic Laboratory, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Medical Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program of Pathology, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Silvia Maria Meira Magalhães
- Cancer Cytogenomic Laboratory, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program in Medical Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
- Post-Graduate Program of Pathology, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Ronald Feitosa Pinheiro
- Cancer Cytogenomic Laboratory, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil.
- Post-Graduate Program in Medical Science, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil.
- Drug Research and Development Center (NPDM), Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil.
- Post-Graduate Program of Pathology, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil.
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19
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Tabar MMM, Fathi M, Kazemi F, Bazregari G, Ghasemian A. STING pathway as a cancer immunotherapy: Progress and challenges in activating anti-tumor immunity. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:487. [PMID: 38578532 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09418-4] [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: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
The stimulator of the interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway plays a crucial role in innate immunity by detecting cytoplasmic DNA and initiating antiviral host defense mechanisms. The STING cascade is triggered when the enzyme cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) binds cytosolic DNA and synthesizes the secondary messenger cGAMP. cGAMP activates the endoplasmic reticulum adaptor STING, leading to the activation of kinases TBK1 and IRF3 that induce interferon production. Secreted interferons establish an antiviral state in infected and adjacent cells. Beyond infections, aberrant DNA in cancer cells can also activate the STING pathway. Preclinical studies have shown that pharmacological STING agonists like cyclic dinucleotides elicit antitumor immunity when administered intratumorally by provoking innate and adaptive immunity. Combining STING agonists with immune checkpoint inhibitors may improve outcomes by overcoming tumor immunosuppression. First-generation STING agonists encountered challenges like poor pharmacokinetics, limited tumor specificity, and systemic toxicity. The development of the next-generation STING-targeted drugs to realize the full potential of engaging this pathway for cancer treatment can be a solution to overcome the current challenges, but further studies are required to determine optimal applications and combination regimens for the clinic. Notably, the controlled activation of STING is needed to preclude adverse effects. This review explores the mechanisms and effects of STING activation, its role in cancer immunotherapy, and current challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahnaz Fathi
- Department of Hematology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Kazemi
- Faculty of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Ghazal Bazregari
- Department of Hematology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Abdolmajid Ghasemian
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran.
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20
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Li G, Zhao X, Zheng Z, Zhang H, Wu Y, Shen Y, Chen Q. cGAS-STING pathway mediates activation of dendritic cell sensing of immunogenic tumors. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:149. [PMID: 38512518 PMCID: PMC10957617 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05191-6] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Type I interferons (IFN-I) play pivotal roles in tumor therapy for three decades, underscoring the critical importance of maintaining the integrity of the IFN-1 signaling pathway in radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. However, the specific mechanism by which IFN-I contributes to these therapies, particularly in terms of activating dendritic cells (DCs), remains unclear. Based on recent studies, aberrant DNA in the cytoplasm activates the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)- stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway, which in turn produces IFN-I, which is essential for antiviral and anticancer immunity. Notably, STING can also enhance anticancer immunity by promoting autophagy, inflammation, and glycolysis in an IFN-I-independent manner. These research advancements contribute to our comprehension of the distinctions between IFN-I drugs and STING agonists in the context of oncology therapy and shed light on the challenges involved in developing STING agonist drugs. Thus, we aimed to summarize the novel mechanisms underlying cGAS-STING-IFN-I signal activation in DC-mediated antigen presentation and its role in the cancer immune cycle in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guohao Li
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiangqian Zhao
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zuda Zheng
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Hucheng Zhang
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yundi Wu
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yangkun Shen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China.
| | - Qi Chen
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China.
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21
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Chauhan M, Osbron CA, Koehler HS, Goodman AG. STING dependent BAX-IRF3 signaling results in apoptosis during late-stage Coxiella burnetii infection. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:195. [PMID: 38459007 PMCID: PMC10924102 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06573-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
STING (STimulator of Interferon Genes) is a cytosolic sensor for cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) and initiates an innate immune response upon binding to CDNs. Coxiella burnetii is a Gram-negative obligate intracellular bacterium and the causative agent of the zoonotic disease Q fever. The ability of C. burnetii to inhibit host cell death is a critical factor in disease development. Previous studies have shown that C. burnetii inhibits host cell apoptosis at early stages of infection. However, during the late-stages of infection, there is host cell lysis resulting in the release of bacteria to infect bystander cells. Thus, we investigated the role of STING during late-stages of C. burnetii infection and examined STING's impact on host cell death. We show that the loss of STING results in higher bacterial loads and abrogates IFNβ and IL6 induction at 12 days post-infection. The absence of STING during C. burnetii infection significantly reduces apoptosis through decreased caspase-8 and -3 activation. During infection, STING activates IRF3 which interacts with BAX. BAX then translocates to the mitochondria, which is followed by mitochondrial membrane depolarization. This results in increased cytosolic mtDNA in a STING-dependent manner. The presence of increased cytosolic mtDNA results in greater cytosolic 2'-3' cGAMP, creating a positive feedback loop and leading to further increases in STING activation and its downstream signaling. Taken together, we show that STING signaling is critical for BAX-IRF3-mediated mitochondria-induced apoptosis during late-stage C. burnetii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manish Chauhan
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Chelsea A Osbron
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Heather S Koehler
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Alan G Goodman
- School of Molecular Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA.
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA.
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22
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Wang S, Wang H, Li C, Liu B, He S, Tu C. Tertiary lymphoid structures in cancer: immune mechanisms and clinical implications. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e489. [PMID: 38469550 PMCID: PMC10925885 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a major cause of death globally, and traditional treatments often have limited efficacy and adverse effects. Immunotherapy has shown promise in various malignancies but is less effective in tumors with low immunogenicity or immunosuppressive microenvironment, especially sarcomas. Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs) have been associated with a favorable response to immunotherapy and improved survival in cancer patients. However, the immunological mechanisms and clinical significance of TLS in malignant tumors are not fully understood. In this review, we elucidate the composition, neogenesis, and immune characteristics of TLS in tumors, as well as the inflammatory response in cancer development. An in-depth discussion of the unique immune characteristics of TLSs in lung cancer, breast cancer, melanoma, and soft tissue sarcomas will be presented. Additionally, the therapeutic implications of TLS, including its role as a marker of therapeutic response and prognosis, and strategies to promote TLS formation and maturation will be explored. Overall, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of TLS in the tumor immune microenvironment and suggest potential interventions for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Wang
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized MedicineThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Xiangya School of MedicineCentral South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized MedicineThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Chenbei Li
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized MedicineThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Binfeng Liu
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized MedicineThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Shasha He
- Department of OncologyThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
| | - Chao Tu
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Tumor Models and Individualized MedicineThe Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South UniversityChangshaHunanChina
- Shenzhen Research Institute of Central South UniversityGuangdongChina
- Changsha Medical UniversityChangshaChina
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23
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An J, Zhang CP, Qiu HY, Zhang HX, Chen QB, Zhang YM, Lei XL, Zhang CX, Yin H, Zhang Y. Enhancement of the viability of T cells electroporated with DNA via osmotic dampening of the DNA-sensing cGAS-STING pathway. Nat Biomed Eng 2024; 8:149-164. [PMID: 37500747 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-023-01073-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Viral delivery of DNA for the targeted reprogramming of human T cells can lead to random genomic integration, and electroporation is inefficient and can be toxic. Here we show that electroporation-induced toxicity in primary human T cells is mediated by the cytosolic pathway cGAS-STING (cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP) synthase-stimulator of interferon genes). We also show that an isotonic buffer, identified by screening electroporation conditions, that reduces cGAS-STING surveillance allowed for the production of chimaeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells with up to 20-fold higher CAR T cell numbers than standard electroporation and with higher antitumour activity in vivo than lentivirally generated CAR T cells. The osmotic pressure of the electroporation buffer dampened cGAS-DNA interactions, affecting the production of the STING activator 2'3'-cGAMP. The buffer also led to superior efficiencies in the transfection of therapeutically relevant primary T cells and human haematopoietic stem cells. Our findings may facilitate the optimization of electroporation-mediated DNA delivery for the production of genome-engineered T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing An
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Chuan-Ping Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Hou-Yuan Qiu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong-Xia Zhang
- Department of Urology, Department of Pathology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiu-Bing Chen
- Department of Urology, Department of Pathology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu-Ming Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin-Lin Lei
- Department of Urology, Department of Pathology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Cai-Xiang Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hao Yin
- Department of Urology, Department of Pathology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- TaiKang Centre for Life and Medical Sciences, TaiKang Medical School, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- RNA Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
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24
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Saulters EL, Kennedy PT, Carter RJ, Alsufyani A, Jones TM, Woolley JF, Dahal LN. Differential Regulation of the STING Pathway in Human Papillomavirus-Positive and -Negative Head and Neck Cancers. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:118-133. [PMID: 38147007 PMCID: PMC10793589 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Squamous cell carcinomas, which arise from the cells that line the mucosal surfaces of the head and neck, represent the most common type of head and neck cancers (HNSCC). Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been strongly associated with the development of oropharyngeal cancers, which are cancers that occur in the back of the throat, including the tonsils and base of the tongue. HNSCCs with and without HPV infection have distinct pathology, with HPV-positive patients having higher levels of immune infiltration, activation in the tumor microenvironment and better response to radiation and chemotherapy. It is, however, unclear whether HPV infection in HNSCCs has the potential to activate innate-immune sensing pathways and if these cancers possess intrinsic immunogenicity associated with HPV infection. Here we investigate the innate immune stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway and immune responses to STING activation in HNSCCs and uncover fundamental differences in the regulation of this pathway in cell lines versus primary human clinical specimens. We show that while STING is differentially expressed in HPV-positive and -negative HNSCC cell lines, they exhibit a gross functional defect in signaling through this pathway. However, STING activation in immune cell populations generated immune signatures predicted to elicit useful tumoricidal mechanisms. In contrast, IHC analysis of human tissue microarrays revealed enhanced STING expression in HPV-related tumors and high intratumoral expression of STING correlated with increased survival. SIGNIFICANCE STING is an important innate immune sensor of cytosolic DNA, inducing essential antiviral and antitumoral responses. This research shows that STING expression is enhanced in HPV-positive HNSCC patient tissue, with high intratumoral STING expression correlating with increased survival. In addition, STING activation in immune cell populations augmented antitumoral effects against HNSCCs, suggesting patients may benefit from the use of STING agonists in combination with traditional therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L. Saulters
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Paul T. Kennedy
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel J. Carter
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Abdullah Alsufyani
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Terence M. Jones
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - John F. Woolley
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Lekh N. Dahal
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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25
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Low JT, Brown MC, Reitman ZJ, Bernstock JD, Markert JM, Friedman GK, Waitkus MS, Bowie ML, Ashley DM. Understanding and therapeutically exploiting cGAS/STING signaling in glioblastoma. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e163452. [PMID: 38226619 PMCID: PMC10786687 DOI: 10.1172/jci163452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Since the discovery that cGAS/STING recognizes endogenous DNA released from dying cancer cells and induces type I interferon and antitumor T cell responses, efforts to understand and therapeutically target the STING pathway in cancer have ensued. Relative to other cancer types, the glioma immune microenvironment harbors few infiltrating T cells, but abundant tumor-associated myeloid cells, possibly explaining disappointing responses to immune checkpoint blockade therapies in cohorts of patients with glioblastoma. Notably, unlike most extracranial tumors, STING expression is absent in the malignant compartment of gliomas, likely due to methylation of the STING promoter. Nonetheless, several preclinical studies suggest that inducing cGAS/STING signaling in the glioma immune microenvironment could be therapeutically beneficial, and cGAS/STING signaling has been shown to mediate inflammatory and antitumor effects of other modalities either in use or being developed for glioblastoma therapy, including radiation, tumor-treating fields, and oncolytic virotherapy. In this Review, we discuss cGAS/STING signaling in gliomas, its implications for glioma immunobiology, compartment-specific roles for STING signaling in influencing immune surveillance, and efforts to target STING signaling - either directly or indirectly - for antiglioma therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zachary J. Reitman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Joshua D. Bernstock
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James M. Markert
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Gregory K. Friedman
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Division of Pediatrics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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26
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Wang R, Hussain A, Guo Q, Ma M. cGAS-STING at the crossroads in cancer therapy. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 193:104194. [PMID: 37931770 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA is highly immunogenic, both exogenous and endogenous DNA can activate the pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) and danger-associated molecular pattern (DAMP), respectively, and hence activate the evolutionarily conserved cGAS-STING pathway for inflammatory responses. The cGAS-STING signaling pathway plays a very important role in the pathogenesis and progression of neoplastic diseases. For cancer therapy, there are some discrepancies on whether cGAS-STING should be inhibited or activated. Deregulated cGAS-STING signaling pathway might be the origin and pathogenesis of tumor, understanding and modulating cGAS-STING signaling holds great promise for cancer therapy. In this review article, we discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying cGAS-STING deregulation, highlighting the tumor inhibiting and promoting roles and challenges with cGAS-STING agonists in the context of cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wang
- Department of Hematology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 215004 Suzhou, China; Department of Oncology, Suqian Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 223800 Suqian, China.
| | - Aashiq Hussain
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, 119077 CSI, Singapore
| | - Quanquan Guo
- Department of Hematology, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 215004 Suzhou, China; Department of Oncology, Suqian Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 223800 Suqian, China
| | - Meimei Ma
- Department of Pathology, Suqian Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, 223800 Suqian, China
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27
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Cossu C, Di Lorenzo A, Fiorilla I, Todesco AM, Audrito V, Conti L. The Role of the Toll-like Receptor 2 and the cGAS-STING Pathways in Breast Cancer: Friends or Foes? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:456. [PMID: 38203626 PMCID: PMC10778705 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer stands as a primary malignancy among women, ranking second in global cancer-related deaths. Despite treatment advancements, many patients progress to metastatic stages, posing a significant therapeutic challenge. Current therapies primarily target cancer cells, overlooking their intricate interactions with the tumor microenvironment (TME) that fuel progression and treatment resistance. Dysregulated innate immunity in breast cancer triggers chronic inflammation, fostering cancer development and therapy resistance. Innate immune pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) have emerged as crucial regulators of the immune response as well as of several immune-mediated or cancer cell-intrinsic mechanisms that either inhibit or promote tumor progression. In particular, several studies showed that the Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathways play a central role in breast cancer progression. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the role of TLR2 and STING in breast cancer, and we explore the potential to target these PRRs for drug development. This information will significantly impact the scientific discussion on the use of PRR agonists or inhibitors in cancer therapy, opening up new and promising avenues for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Cossu
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences–Molecular Biotechnology Center “Guido Tarone”, University of Turin, Piazza Nizza 44, 10126 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (A.D.L.)
| | - Antonino Di Lorenzo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences–Molecular Biotechnology Center “Guido Tarone”, University of Turin, Piazza Nizza 44, 10126 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (A.D.L.)
| | - Irene Fiorilla
- Department of Science and Technological Innovation (DISIT), University of Eastern Piedmont, 15121 Alessandria, Italy; (I.F.); (A.M.T.); (V.A.)
| | - Alberto Maria Todesco
- Department of Science and Technological Innovation (DISIT), University of Eastern Piedmont, 15121 Alessandria, Italy; (I.F.); (A.M.T.); (V.A.)
| | - Valentina Audrito
- Department of Science and Technological Innovation (DISIT), University of Eastern Piedmont, 15121 Alessandria, Italy; (I.F.); (A.M.T.); (V.A.)
| | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences–Molecular Biotechnology Center “Guido Tarone”, University of Turin, Piazza Nizza 44, 10126 Turin, Italy; (C.C.); (A.D.L.)
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28
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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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García-Giménez J, Córdoba-David G, Rayego-Mateos S, Cannata-Ortiz P, Carrasco S, Ruiz-Ortega M, Fernandez-Fernandez B, Ortiz A, Ramos AM. STING1 deficiency ameliorates immune-mediated crescentic glomerulonephritis in mice. J Pathol 2023; 261:309-322. [PMID: 37650295 DOI: 10.1002/path.6177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Rapidly progressive/crescentic glomerulonephritis (RPGN/CGN) involves the formation of glomerular crescents by maladaptive differentiation of parietal epithelial cells that leads to rapid loss of renal function. The molecular mechanisms of crescent formation are poorly understood. Therefore, new insights into molecular mechanisms could identify alternative therapeutic targets for RPGN/CGN. Analysis of kidney biopsies from patients with RPGN revealed increased interstitial, glomerular, and tubular expression of STING1, an accessory protein of the c-GAS-dependent DNA-sensing pathway, which was also observed in murine nephrotoxic nephritis induced by an anti-GBM antibody. STING1 was expressed by key cell types involved in RPGN and crescent formation such as glomerular parietal epithelial cells, and tubular cells as well as by inflammation accessory cells. In functional in vivo studies, Sting1-/- mice with nephrotoxic nephritis had lower kidney cytokine expression, milder kidney infiltration by innate and adaptive immune cells, and decreased disease severity. Pharmacological STING1 inhibition mirrored these findings. Direct STING1 agonism in parietal and tubular cells activated the NF-κB-dependent cytokine response and the interferon-induced genes (ISGs) program. These responses were also triggered in a STING1-dependent manner by the pro-inflammatory cytokine TWEAK. These results identify STING1 activation as a pathological mechanism in RPGN/CGN and TWEAK as an activator of STING1. Pharmacological strategies targeting STING1, or upstream regulators may therefore be potential alternatives to treat RPGN. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge García-Giménez
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gina Córdoba-David
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sandra Rayego-Mateos
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Cannata-Ortiz
- Department of Pathology, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Susana Carrasco
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Ruiz-Ortega
- Cellular Biology in Renal Diseases Laboratory, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- RICORS2040, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Fernandez-Fernandez
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- RICORS2040, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alberto Ortiz
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- RICORS2040, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Adrián M Ramos
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, IIS-Fundación Jiménez Díaz-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- RICORS2040, Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
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30
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Richter F, Paget C, Apetoh L. STING-driven activation of T cells: relevance for the adoptive cell therapy of cancer. Cell Stress 2023; 7:95-104. [PMID: 37970489 PMCID: PMC10642958 DOI: 10.15698/cst2023.11.291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) can successfully treat hematopoietic cancers but lacks efficacy against solid tumors. This is due to insufficient T cell infiltration, high tumor heterogeneity, frequent antigen loss with subsequent tumor escape, and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Alternative methods to boost the anticancer efficacy of adoptively transferred cells are actively pursued. Among adjuvants that are utilized to stimulate anticancer immune responses, ligands of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway have received increasing attention. STING activation can trigger dendritic cell (DC) activation and endogenous immune responses, thereby preventing tumor escape. Activation of the STING pathway in the context of ACT was accordingly associated with improved T cell trafficking and persistence in the TME combined with the reduced presence of immunosuppressive cells. Recent findings also suggest cell-intrinsic effects of STING ligands on T cells. Activation of the STING signaling pathway was in this regard shown to enhance effector functions of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, suggesting that the STING signaling could be exploited to harness T cell anticancer functions. In this review, we will discuss how the STING signaling can be used to enhance the anticancer efficacy of ACT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Richter
- Centre d'Étude des Pathologies Respiratoires, U1100, INSERM, Tours, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Tours, Tours, France
| | - Christophe Paget
- Centre d'Étude des Pathologies Respiratoires, U1100, INSERM, Tours, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Tours, Tours, France
| | - Lionel Apetoh
- Brown Center for Immunotherapy, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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Schlicher L, Green LG, Romagnani A, Renner F. Small molecule inhibitors for cancer immunotherapy and associated biomarkers - the current status. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1297175. [PMID: 38022587 PMCID: PMC10644399 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1297175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Following the success of cancer immunotherapy using large molecules against immune checkpoint inhibitors, the concept of using small molecules to interfere with intracellular negative regulators of anti-tumor immune responses has emerged in recent years. The main targets for small molecule drugs currently include enzymes of negative feedback loops in signaling pathways of immune cells and proteins that promote immunosuppressive signals within the tumor microenvironment. In the adaptive immune system, negative regulators of T cell receptor signaling (MAP4K1, DGKα/ζ, CBL-B, PTPN2, PTPN22, SHP1), co-receptor signaling (CBL-B) and cytokine signaling (PTPN2) have been preclinically validated as promising targets and initial clinical trials with small molecule inhibitors are underway. To enhance innate anti-tumor immune responses, inhibitory immunomodulation of cGAS/STING has been in the focus, and inhibitors of ENPP1 and TREX1 have reached the clinic. In addition, immunosuppressive signals via adenosine can be counteracted by CD39 and CD73 inhibition, while suppression via intratumoral immunosuppressive prostaglandin E can be targeted by EP2/EP4 antagonists. Here, we present the status of the most promising small molecule drug candidates for cancer immunotherapy, all residing relatively early in development, and the potential of relevant biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Schlicher
- Cancer Cell Targeted Therapy, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luke G. Green
- Therapeutic Modalities, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Romagnani
- Cancer Cell Targeted Therapy, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Florian Renner
- Cancer Cell Targeted Therapy, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG, Basel, Switzerland
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Wang Y, De Labastida Rivera F, Edwards CL, Frame TC, Engel JA, Bukali L, Na J, Ng SS, Corvino D, Montes de Oca M, Bunn PT, Soon MS, Andrew D, Loughland JR, Zhang J, Amante FH, Barber BE, McCarthy JS, Lopez JA, Boyle MJ, Engwerda CR. STING activation promotes autologous type I interferon-dependent development of type 1 regulatory T cells during malaria. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e169417. [PMID: 37781920 PMCID: PMC10541195 DOI: 10.1172/jci169417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of highly effective malaria vaccines and improvement of drug-treatment protocols to boost antiparasitic immunity are critical for malaria elimination. However, the rapid establishment of parasite-specific immune regulatory networks following exposure to malaria parasites hampers these efforts. Here, we identified stimulator of interferon genes (STING) as a critical mediator of type I interferon production by CD4+ T cells during blood-stage Plasmodium falciparum infection. The activation of STING in CD4+ T cells by cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP) stimulated IFNB gene transcription, which promoted development of IL-10- and IFN-γ-coproducing CD4+ T (type I regulatory [Tr1]) cells. The critical role for type I IFN signaling for Tr1 cell development was confirmed in vivo using a preclinical malaria model. CD4+ T cell sensitivity to STING phosphorylation was increased in healthy volunteers following P. falciparum infection, particularly in Tr1 cells. These findings identified STING expressed by CD4+ T cells as an important mediator of type I IFN production and Tr1 cell development and activation during malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Wang
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Griffith University, School of Environment and Science, Nathan, Australia
| | | | - Chelsea L. Edwards
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- University of Queensland, School of Medicine, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Teija C.M. Frame
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- University of Queensland, School of Medicine, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Luzia Bukali
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- University of Queensland, School of Medicine, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jinrui Na
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- University of Queensland, School of Medicine, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Susanna S. Ng
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Institute of Experimental Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dillon Corvino
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Institute of Experimental Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Marcela Montes de Oca
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick T. Bunn
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Megan S.F. Soon
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Dean Andrew
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Jia Zhang
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Fiona H. Amante
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - James S. McCarthy
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Services, Doherty Institute, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - J. Alejandro Lopez
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Griffith University, School of Environment and Science, Nathan, Australia
| | - Michelle J. Boyle
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Life Sciences Division, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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Wheeler OPG, Unterholzner L. DNA sensing in cancer: Pro-tumour and anti-tumour functions of cGAS-STING signalling. Essays Biochem 2023; 67:905-918. [PMID: 37534795 PMCID: PMC10539950 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20220241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
The DNA sensor cGAS (cyclic GMP-AMP synthase) and its adaptor protein STING (Stimulator of Interferon Genes) detect the presence of cytosolic DNA as a sign of infection or damage. In cancer cells, this pathway can be activated through persistent DNA damage and chromosomal instability, which results in the formation of micronuclei and the exposure of DNA fragments to the cytosol. DNA damage from radio- or chemotherapy can further activate DNA sensing responses, which may occur in the cancer cells themselves or in stromal and immune cells in the tumour microenvironment (TME). cGAS-STING signalling results in the production of type I interferons, which have been linked to immune cell infiltration in 'hot' tumours that are susceptible to immunosurveillance and immunotherapy approaches. However, recent research has highlighted the complex nature of STING signalling, with tumours having developed mechanisms to evade and hijack this signalling pathway for their own benefit. In this mini-review we will explore how cGAS-STING signalling in different cells in the TME can promote both anti-tumour and pro-tumour responses. This includes the role of type I interferons and the second messenger cGAMP in the TME, and the influence of STING signalling on local immune cell populations. We examine how alternative signalling cascades downstream of STING can promote chronic interferon signalling, the activation of the transcription factor nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and the production of inflammatory cytokines, which can have pro-tumour functions. An in-depth understanding of DNA sensing in different cell contexts will be required to harness the anti-tumour functions of STING signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Otto P G Wheeler
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, U.K
| | - Leonie Unterholzner
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, U.K
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Zou Y, Zhang M, Zhou J. Recent trends in STING modulators: Structures, mechanisms, and therapeutic potential. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103694. [PMID: 37393985 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2023.103694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase stimulator (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon gene (STING) signaling pathway has an integral role in the host immune response through DNA sensing followed by inducing a robust innate immune defense program. STING has become a promising therapeutic target associated with multiple diseases, including various inflammatory diseases, cancer, and infectious diseases, among others. Thus, modulators of STING are regarded as emerging therapeutic agents. Recent progress has been made in STING research, including recently identified STING-mediated regulatory pathways, the development of a new STING modulator, and the new association of STING with disease. In this review, we focus on recent trends in the development of STING modulators, including structures, mechanisms, and clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zou
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua 321004, China; Drug Development and Innovation Center, College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua 321004, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua 321004, China; Drug Development and Innovation Center, College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua 321004, China
| | - Jinming Zhou
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Advanced Catalysis Materials, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua 321004, China; Drug Development and Innovation Center, College of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Zhejiang Normal University, 688 Yingbin Road, Jinhua 321004, China.
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35
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Li D, Quan Z, Ni J, Li H, Qing H. The many faces of the zinc finger protein 335 in brain development and immune system. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115257. [PMID: 37541176 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Zinc finger protein 335 (ZNF335) plays a crucial role in the methylation and, consequently, regulates the expression of a specific set of genes. Variants of the ZNF335 gene have been identified as risk factors for microcephaly in a variety of populations worldwide. Meanwhile, ZNF335 has also been identified as an essential regulator of T-cell development. However, an in-depth understanding of the role of ZNF335 in brain development and T cell maturation is still lacking. In this review, we summarize current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying the involvement of ZNF335 in neuronal and T cell development across a wide range of pre-clinical, post-mortem, ex vivo, in vivo, and clinical studies. We also review the current limitations regarding the study of the pathophysiological functions of ZNF335. Finally, we hypothesize a potential role for ZNF335 in brain disorders and discuss the rationale of targeting ZNF335 as a therapeutic strategy for preventing brain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danyang Li
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Zhenzhen Quan
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Junjun Ni
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Hui Li
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Hong Qing
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Biotherapy, Department of Biology, School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
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36
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Kumar V, Bauer C, Stewart JH. Cancer cell-specific cGAS/STING Signaling pathway in the era of advancing cancer cell biology. Eur J Cell Biol 2023; 102:151338. [PMID: 37423035 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2023.151338] [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: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) are critical to recognizing endogenous and exogenous threats to mount a protective proinflammatory innate immune response. PRRs may be located on the outer cell membrane, cytosol, and nucleus. The cGAS/STING signaling pathway is a cytosolic PRR system. Notably, cGAS is also present in the nucleus. The cGAS-mediated recognition of cytosolic dsDNA and its cleavage into cGAMP activates STING. Furthermore, STING activation through its downstream signaling triggers different interferon-stimulating genes (ISGs), initiating the release of type 1 interferons (IFNs) and NF-κB-mediated release of proinflammatory cytokines and molecules. Activating cGAS/STING generates type 1 IFN, which may prevent cellular transformation and cancer development, growth, and metastasis. The current article delineates the impact of the cancer cell-specific cGAS/STING signaling pathway alteration in tumors and its impact on tumor growth and metastasis. This article further discusses different approaches to specifically target cGAS/STING signaling in cancer cells to inhibit tumor growth and metastasis in conjunction with existing anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Kumar
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Science Center (LSUHSC), 1700 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70012, USA.
| | - Caitlin Bauer
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Science Center (LSUHSC), 1700 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70012, USA
| | - John H Stewart
- Department of Interdisciplinary Oncology, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Science Center (LSUHSC), 1700 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70012, USA; Louisiana Children's Medical Center Cancer Center, Stanley S. Scott Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Science Center (LSUHSC), 1700 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70012, USA.
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37
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Hansen AS, Jensen LS, Gammelgaard KR, Ryttersgaard KG, Krapp C, Just J, Jønsson KL, Jensen PB, Boesen T, Johannsen M, Etzerodt A, Deleuran BW, Jakobsen MR. T-cell derived extracellular vesicles prime macrophages for improved STING based cancer immunotherapy. J Extracell Vesicles 2023; 12:e12350. [PMID: 37525396 PMCID: PMC10390661 DOI: 10.1002/jev2.12350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
A key phenomenon in cancer is the establishment of a highly immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment (TME). Despite advances in immunotherapy, where the purpose is to induce tumour recognition and hence hereof tumour eradication, the majority of patients applicable for such treatment still fail to respond. It has been suggested that high immunological activity in the tumour is essential for achieving effective response to immunotherapy, which therefore have led to exploration of strategies that triggers inflammatory pathways. Here activation of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signalling pathway has been considered an attractive target, as it is a potent trigger of pro-inflammatory cytokines and types I and III interferons. However, immunotherapy combined with targeted STING agonists has not yielded sustained clinical remission in humans. This suggests a need for exploring novel adjuvants to improve the innate immunological efficacy. Here, we demonstrate that extracellular vesicles (EVs), derived from activated CD4+ T cells (T-EVs), sensitizes macrophages to elevate STING activation, mediated by IFNγ carried on the T-EVs. Our work support that T-EVs can disrupt the immune suppressive environment in the tumour by reprogramming macrophages to a pro-inflammatory phenotype, and priming them for a robust immune response towards STING activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida S. Hansen
- Department of BiomedicineAarhus University, HealthAarhus MidtjyllandDenmark
| | - Lea S. Jensen
- Department of BiomedicineAarhus University, HealthAarhus MidtjyllandDenmark
| | | | | | - Christian Krapp
- Department of BiomedicineAarhus University, HealthAarhus MidtjyllandDenmark
| | - Jesper Just
- Department of Clinical MedicineCenter of Functionally Integrative NeuroscienceAarhus UniversityAarhus MidtjyllandDenmark
| | - Kasper L. Jønsson
- Department of BiomedicineAarhus University, HealthAarhus MidtjyllandDenmark
| | - Pia B. Jensen
- Interdiciplinary Nanoscience Center – iNANOAarhus UniversityAarhus MidtjyllandDenmark
| | - Thomas Boesen
- Interdiciplinary Nanoscience Center – iNANOAarhus UniversityAarhus MidtjyllandDenmark
| | - Mogens Johannsen
- Department of Forensic MedicineAarhus UniversityAarhus MidtjyllandDenmark
| | - Anders Etzerodt
- Department of BiomedicineAarhus University, HealthAarhus MidtjyllandDenmark
| | - Bent W. Deleuran
- Department of BiomedicineAarhus University, HealthAarhus MidtjyllandDenmark
| | - Martin R. Jakobsen
- Department of BiomedicineAarhus University, HealthAarhus MidtjyllandDenmark
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38
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Alshebremi M, Tomchuck SL, Myers JT, Kingsley DT, Eid S, Abiff M, Bonner M, Saab ST, Choi SH, Huang AYC. Functional tumor cell-intrinsic STING, not host STING, drives local and systemic antitumor immunity and therapy efficacy following cryoablation. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e006608. [PMID: 37553183 PMCID: PMC10414127 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-006608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite its potential utility in delivering direct tumor killing and in situ whole-cell tumor vaccination, tumor cryoablation produces highly variable and unpredictable clinical response, limiting its clinical utility. The mechanism(s) driving cryoablation-induced local antitumor immunity and the associated abscopal effect is not well understood. METHODS The aim of this study was to identify and explore a mechanism of action by which cryoablation enhances the therapeutic efficacy in metastatic tumor models. We used the subcutaneous mouse model of the rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) cell lines RMS 76-9STINGwt or RMS 76-9STING-/-, along with other murine tumor models, in C57BL/6 or STING-/- (TMEM173-/- ) mice to evaluate local tumor changes, lung metastasis, abscopal effect on distant tumors, and immune cell dynamics in the tumor microenvironment (TME). RESULTS The results show that cryoablation efficacy is dependent on both adaptive immunity and the STING signaling pathway. Contrary to current literature dictating an essential role of host-derived STING activation as a driver of antitumor immunity in vivo, we show that local tumor control, lung metastasis, and the abscopal effect on distant tumor are all critically dependent on a functioning tumor cell-intrinsic STING signaling pathway, which induces inflammatory chemokine and cytokine responses in the cryoablated TME. This reliance extends beyond cryoablation to include intratumoral STING agonist therapy. Additionally, surveys of gene expression databases and tissue microarrays of clinical tumor samples revealed a wide spectrum of expressions among STING-related signaling components. CONCLUSIONS Tumor cell-intrinsic STING pathway is a critical component underlying the effectiveness of cryoablation and suggests that expression of STING-related signaling components may serve as a potential therapy response biomarker. Our data also highlight an urgent need to further characterize tumor cell-intrinsic STING pathways and the associated downstream inflammatory response evoked by cryoablation and other STING-dependent therapy approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Alshebremi
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Suzanne L Tomchuck
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jay T Myers
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Daniel T Kingsley
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Saada Eid
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Muta Abiff
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Melissa Bonner
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Shahrazad T Saab
- Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Sung Hee Choi
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Alex Yee-Chen Huang
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Center for Pediatric Immunotherapy, Angie Fowler AYA Cancer Institute, UH Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Hao Y, Ji Z, Zhou H, Wu D, Gu Z, Wang D, ten Dijke P. Lipid-based nanoparticles as drug delivery systems for cancer immunotherapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e339. [PMID: 37560754 PMCID: PMC10407046 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have shown remarkable success in cancer treatment. However, in cancer patients without sufficient antitumor immunity, numerous data indicate that blocking the negative signals elicited by immune checkpoints is ineffective. Drugs that stimulate immune activation-related pathways are emerging as another route for improving immunotherapy. In addition, the development of nanotechnology presents a promising platform for tissue and cell type-specific delivery and improved uptake of immunomodulatory agents, ultimately leading to enhanced cancer immunotherapy and reduced side effects. In this review, we summarize and discuss the latest developments in nanoparticles (NPs) for cancer immuno-oncology therapy with a focus on lipid-based NPs (lipid-NPs), including the characteristics and advantages of various types. Using the agonists targeting stimulation of the interferon genes (STING) transmembrane protein as an exemplar, we review the potential of various lipid-NPs to augment STING agonist therapy. Furthermore, we present recent findings and underlying mechanisms on how STING pathway activation fosters antitumor immunity and regulates the tumor microenvironment and provide a summary of the distinct STING agonists in preclinical studies and clinical trials. Ultimately, we conduct a critical assessment of the obstacles and future directions in the utilization of lipid-NPs to enhance cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Hao
- Department of Laboratory AnimalsCollege of Animal SciencesJilin UniversityChangchunChina
- Department of Basic MedicineChangzhi Medical CollegeChangzhiChina
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology and Oncode InstituteLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Zhonghao Ji
- Department of Laboratory AnimalsCollege of Animal SciencesJilin UniversityChangchunChina
- Department of Basic MedicineChangzhi Medical CollegeChangzhiChina
| | - Hengzong Zhou
- Department of Laboratory AnimalsCollege of Animal SciencesJilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Dongrun Wu
- Departure of Philosophy, Faculty of HumanitiesLeiden UniversityLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Zili Gu
- Department of RadiologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Dongxu Wang
- Department of Laboratory AnimalsCollege of Animal SciencesJilin UniversityChangchunChina
| | - Peter ten Dijke
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology and Oncode InstituteLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
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40
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Luke JJ, Piha-Paul SA, Medina T, Verschraegen CF, Varterasian M, Brennan AM, Riese RJ, Sokolovska A, Strauss J, Hava DL, Janku F. Phase I Study of SYNB1891, an Engineered E. coli Nissle Strain Expressing STING Agonist, with and without Atezolizumab in Advanced Malignancies. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:2435-2444. [PMID: 37227176 PMCID: PMC11225568 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE SYNB1891 is a live, modified strain of the probiotic Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) engineered to produce cyclic dinucleotides under hypoxia, leading to STimulator of INterferon Genes (STING) activation in phagocytic antigen-presenting cells in tumors and activating complementary innate immune pathways. PATIENTS AND METHODS This first-in-human study (NCT04167137) enrolled participants with refractory advanced cancers to receive repeat intratumoral injections of SYNB1891 either alone or in combination with atezolizumab, with the primary objective of evaluating the safety and tolerability of both regimens. RESULTS Twenty-four participants received monotherapy across six cohorts, and 8 participants received combination therapy in two cohorts. Five cytokine release syndrome events occurred with monotherapy, including one that met the criteria for dose-limiting toxicity at the highest dose; no other SYNB1891-related serious adverse events occurred, and no SYNB1891-related infections were observed. SYNB1891 was not detected in the blood at 6 or 24 hours after the first intratumoral dose or in tumor tissue 7 days following the first dose. Treatment with SYNB1891 resulted in activation of the STING pathway and target engagement as assessed by upregulation of IFN-stimulated genes, chemokines/cytokines, and T-cell response genes in core biopsies obtained predose and 7 days following the third weekly dose. In addition, a dose-related increase in serum cytokines was observed, as well as stable disease in 4 participants refractory to prior PD-1/L1 antibodies. CONCLUSIONS Repeat intratumoral injection of SYNB1891 as monotherapy and in combination with atezolizumab was safe and well tolerated, and evidence of STING pathway target engagement was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason J. Luke
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Theresa Medina
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Filip Janku
- University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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41
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Floyd W, Pierpoint M, Su C, Patel R, Luo L, Deland K, Wisdom AJ, Zhu D, Ma Y, DeWitt SB, Williams NT, Lazarides AL, Somarelli JA, Corcoran DL, Eward WC, Cardona DM, Kirsch DG. Atrx deletion impairs CGAS/STING signaling and increases sarcoma response to radiation and oncolytic herpesvirus. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e149310. [PMID: 37200088 PMCID: PMC10313374 DOI: 10.1172/jci149310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
ATRX is one of the most frequently altered genes in solid tumors, and mutation is especially frequent in soft tissue sarcomas. However, the role of ATRX in tumor development and response to cancer therapies remains poorly understood. Here, we developed a primary mouse model of soft tissue sarcoma and showed that Atrx-deleted tumors were more sensitive to radiation therapy and to oncolytic herpesvirus. In the absence of Atrx, irradiated sarcomas had increased persistent DNA damage, telomere dysfunction, and mitotic catastrophe. Our work also showed that Atrx deletion resulted in downregulation of the CGAS/STING signaling pathway at multiple points in the pathway and was not driven by mutations or transcriptional downregulation of the CGAS/STING pathway components. We found that both human and mouse models of Atrx-deleted sarcoma had a reduced adaptive immune response, markedly impaired CGAS/STING signaling, and increased sensitivity to TVEC, an oncolytic herpesvirus that is currently FDA approved for the treatment of aggressive melanomas. Translation of these results to patients with ATRX-mutant cancers could enable genomically guided cancer therapy approaches to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warren Floyd
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, and
| | | | - Chang Su
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, and
| | - Rutulkumar Patel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lixia Luo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Katherine Deland
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Amy J. Wisdom
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Daniel Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, and
| | - Yan Ma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Nerissa T. Williams
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Jason A. Somarelli
- Department of Sarcoma, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - David L. Corcoran
- Center for Genomic and Computational Biology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Diana M. Cardona
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - David G. Kirsch
- Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Radiation Oncology and
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Taffoni C, Schüssler M, Vila IK, Laguette N. Harnessing the cooperation between DNA-PK and cGAS in cancer therapies: The cooperation between DNA-PK and cGAS shapes tumour immunogenicity. Bioessays 2023; 45:e2300045. [PMID: 37147791 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) pathway is central for the initiation of anti-tumoural immune responses. Enormous effort has been made to optimise the design and administration of STING agonists to stimulate tumour immunogenicity. However, in certain contexts the cGAS-STING axis fuels tumourigenesis. Here, we review recent findings on the regulation of cGAS expression and activity. We particularly focus our attention on the DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) complex, that recently emerged as an activator of inflammatory responses in tumour cells. We propose that stratification analyses on cGAS and DNA-PK expression/activation status should be carried out to predict treatment efficacy. We herein also provide insights into non-canonical functions borne by cGAS and cGAMP, highlighting how they may influence tumourigenesis. All these parameters should be taken into consideration concertedly to choose strategies aiming to effectively boost tumour immunogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Taffoni
- IGMM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
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Ding C, Du M, Xiong Z, Wang X, Li H, He E, Li H, Dang Y, Lu Q, Li S, Xiao R, Xu Z, Jing L, Deng L, Wang X, Geng M, Xie Z, Zhang A. Photochemically controlled activation of STING by CAIX-targeting photocaged agonists to suppress tumor cell growth. Chem Sci 2023; 14:5956-5964. [PMID: 37293644 PMCID: PMC10246697 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc01896b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Controllable activation of the innate immune adapter protein - stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway is a critical challenge for the clinical development of STING agonists due to the potential "on-target off-tumor" toxicity caused by systematic activation of STING. Herein, we designed and synthesized a photo-caged STING agonist 2 with a tumor cell-targeting carbonic anhydrase inhibitor warhead, which could be readily uncaged by blue light to release the active STING agonist leading to remarkable activation of STING signaling. Furthermore, compound 2 was found to preferentially target tumor cells, stimulate the STING signaling in zebrafish embryo upon photo-uncaging and to induce proliferation of macrophages and upregulation of the mRNA expression of STING as well as its downstream NF-kB and cytokines, thus leading to significant suppression of tumor cell growth in a photo-dependent manner with reduced systemic toxicity. This photo-caged agonist not only provides a powerful tool to precisely trigger STING signalling, but also represents a novel controllable STING activation strategy for safer cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyong Ding
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai 200240 China +86 21 50806035
- Zhangjiang Institute of Advanced Study, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai 200240 China
| | - Mengyan Du
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai 201203 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University Shanghai 200031 China
| | - Zhi Xiong
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai 200240 China +86 21 50806035
- School of Pharmacy, Nanchang University Jiangxi 330000 China
| | - Xue Wang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai 200240 China +86 21 50806035
| | - Hongji Li
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai 200240 China +86 21 50806035
| | - Ende He
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai 200240 China +86 21 50806035
| | - Han Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai 201203 China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University Shanghai 200031 China
| | - Yijing Dang
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University Shanghai 200241 China
| | - Qing Lu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai 200240 China +86 21 50806035
| | - Shicong Li
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai 200240 China +86 21 50806035
| | - Ruoxuan Xiao
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai 200240 China +86 21 50806035
| | - Zhiai Xu
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University Shanghai 200241 China
| | - Lili Jing
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai 200240 China +86 21 50806035
| | - Liufu Deng
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai 200240 China +86 21 50806035
| | - Xiyuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai 201203 China
| | - Meiyu Geng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai 201203 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| | - Zuoquan Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM), Chinese Academy of Sciences Shanghai 201203 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences Beijing 100049 China
| | - Ao Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Drug Target Identification and Delivery, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, National Key Laboratory of Innovative Immunotherapy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai 200240 China +86 21 50806035
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Yu T, Yang W, Yao S, Yu Y, Wakamiya M, Golovko G, Cong Y. STING Promotes Intestinal IgA Production by Regulating Acetate-producing Bacteria to Maintain Host-microbiota Mutualism. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2023; 29:946-959. [PMID: 36661414 PMCID: PMC10233729 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izac268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is crucial in maintaining host-microbiota mutualism and gut homeostasis. It has been shown that many species of gut bacteria produce cyclic dinucleotides, along with an abundance of microbiota-derived DNA present within the intestinal lumen, which triggers the tonic activation of the cytosolic cGAS-STING pathway. However, the role of STING in intestinal IgA remains poorly understood. We further investigated whether and how STING affects intestinal IgA response. METHODS Intestinal IgA was determined between wild-type (WT) mice and Sting-/- mice in steady conditions and upon enteric Citrobacter rodentium infection. STING agonists were used to stimulating B cells or dendritic cells in vitro. Gut microbiota composition was examined by 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing. Bacteria metabolomics functional analyses was performed by PICRUSt2. Fecal short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) was determined by Mass spectrometry and Cedex Bio Analyzer. Gut bacteria from WT mice and Sting-/- mice were transferred into germ-free mice and antibiotic-pretreated mice. RESULTS Intestinal IgA response was impaired in Sting-/- mice. However, STING agonists did not directly stimulate B cells or dendritic cells to induce IgA. Interestingly, Sting-/- mice displayed altered gut microbiota composition with decreased SCFA-producing bacteria and downregulated SCFA fermentation pathways. Transfer of fecal bacteria from Sting-/- mice induced less IgA than that from WT mice in germ-free mice and antibiotic-pretreated mice, which is mediated by GPR43. Acetate, the dominant SCFA, was decreased in Sting-/- mice, and supplementation of acetate restored intestinal IgA production in Sting-/- mice. CONCLUSIONS STING promotes intestinal IgA by regulating acetate-producing gut bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianming Yu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
- Sealy Center for Microbiome Research, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Wenjing Yang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
- Sealy Center for Microbiome Research, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Suxia Yao
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
- Sealy Center for Microbiome Research, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Yanbo Yu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Maki Wakamiya
- Germ-free Mouse Facility, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - George Golovko
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Yingzi Cong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
- Sealy Center for Microbiome Research, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
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Coderch C, Arranz-Herrero J, Nistal-Villan E, de Pascual-Teresa B, Rius-Rocabert S. The Many Ways to Deal with STING. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24109032. [PMID: 37240378 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24109032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is an adaptor protein involved in the activation of IFN-β and many other genes associated with the immune response activation in vertebrates. STING induction has gained attention from different angles such as the potential to trigger an early immune response against different signs of infection and cell damage, or to be used as an adjuvant in cancer immune treatments. Pharmacological control of aberrant STING activation can be used to mitigate the pathology of some autoimmune diseases. The STING structure has a well-defined ligand binding site that can harbor natural ligands such as specific purine cyclic di-nucleotides (CDN). In addition to a canonical stimulation by CDNs, other non-canonical stimuli have also been described, whose exact mechanism has not been well defined. Understanding the molecular insights underlying the activation of STING is important to realize the different angles that need to be considered when designing new STING-binding molecules as therapeutic drugs since STING acts as a versatile platform for immune modulators. This review analyzes the different determinants of STING regulation from the structural, molecular, and cell biology points of view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Coderch
- Departamento de Química y Bioquímica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, 28668 Boadilla del Monte, Spain
| | - Javier Arranz-Herrero
- Transplant Immunology Unit, National Center of Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Majadahonda, Spain
- Departamento CC, Farmacéuticas y de la Salud, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, 28668 Boadilla del Monte, Spain
- Institute of Applied Molecular Medicine (IMMA), Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, 28668 Boadilla del Monte, Spain
| | - Estanislao Nistal-Villan
- Departamento CC, Farmacéuticas y de la Salud, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, 28668 Boadilla del Monte, Spain
- Institute of Applied Molecular Medicine (IMMA), Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, 28668 Boadilla del Monte, Spain
| | - Beatriz de Pascual-Teresa
- Departamento de Química y Bioquímica, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, 28668 Boadilla del Monte, Spain
| | - Sergio Rius-Rocabert
- Departamento CC, Farmacéuticas y de la Salud, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, 28668 Boadilla del Monte, Spain
- Institute of Applied Molecular Medicine (IMMA), Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, 28668 Boadilla del Monte, Spain
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Marletta S, Caliò A, Bogina G, Rizzo M, Brunelli M, Pedron S, Marcolini L, Stefanizzi L, Gobbo S, Princiotta A, Porta C, Pecoraro A, Antonelli A, Martignoni G. STING is a prognostic factor related to tumor necrosis, sarcomatoid dedifferentiation, and distant metastasis in clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Virchows Arch 2023:10.1007/s00428-023-03549-y. [PMID: 37120444 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-023-03549-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
STING is a molecule involved in immune reactions against double-stranded DNA fragments, released in infective and neoplastic diseases, whose role in the interactions between immune and neoplastic cells in clear cell renal cell carcinoma has not been studied yet. We investigated the immunohistochemical expression of STING in a series of 146 clear-cell renal cell carcinomas and correlated it with the main pathological prognostic factors. Furthermore, tumoral inflammatory infiltrate was evaluated and studied for the subpopulations of lymphocytes. Expression of STING was observed in 36% (53/146) of the samples, more frequently in high-grade (G3-G4) tumors (48%,43/90) and recurrent/metastatic ones (75%, 24/32) than in low grade (G1-G2) and indolent neoplasms (16%, 9/55). STING staining correlated with parameters of aggressive behavior, including coagulative granular necrosis (p = 0.001), stage (p < 0.001), and development of metastases (p < 0.001). Among prognostic parameters, STING immune expression reached an independent statistical significance (p = 0.029) in multivariable analysis, along with the stage and the presence of coagulative granular necrosis. About tumor immune-environment, no significant statistical association has been demonstrated between tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and STING. Our results provide novel insights regarding the role of STING in aggressive clear cell renal cell carcinomas, suggesting its adoption as a prognostic marker and a potentially targetable molecule for specific immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Marletta
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Largo L. Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
- Department of Pathology, Pederzoli Hospital, Peschiera del Garda, Italy
| | - Anna Caliò
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Largo L. Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bogina
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar, Italy
| | - Mimma Rizzo
- Division of Medical Oncology, A.O.U. Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Matteo Brunelli
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Largo L. Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Serena Pedron
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Largo L. Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy
| | - Lisa Marcolini
- Department of Pathology, Pederzoli Hospital, Peschiera del Garda, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Gobbo
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Camillo Porta
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari "A. Moro,", Bari, Italy
| | - Angela Pecoraro
- Department of Urology, San Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, University of Turin, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
- Department of Urology, Pederzoli Hospital, Peschiera del Garda, Italy
| | | | - Guido Martignoni
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Largo L. Scuro 10, 37134, Verona, Italy.
- Department of Pathology, Pederzoli Hospital, Peschiera del Garda, Italy.
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Ji W, Zhang L, Ma C, Xu X, Li S, Xia H, Zhou W, Liu X. Newly synthesized AIFM1 determines the hypersensitivity of T lymphocytes to STING activation-induced cell apoptosis. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112327. [PMID: 37000625 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
STING is a well-known signaling adaptor essential for sensing cytosolic dsDNA to produce type I interferon. Although the detailed underlying mechanisms remain enigmatic, recent studies show that STING activation can lead to T lymphocyte apoptosis. Here, we report that AIFM1 facilitates STING activation-induced cell apoptosis in T lymphocytes. Mechanistically, AIFM1 is upregulated after STING activation in T cells but not in HEK293T-STING and THP-1 cells, rendering T cells more sensitive to apoptosis. In contrast to the canonical role of AIFM1 in the caspase-independent parthanatos, the function of AIFM1 is operated by the formation of an AIFM1/IRF3/BAX complex and mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization, which cause cytochrome c release and caspase activation. Furthermore, supplementation with newly synthesized AIFM1 can reconstitute STING activation-induced cell apoptosis in HEK293T-STING and THP-1 cells. Our study identifies AIFM1 as a key regulating factor determining the hypersensitivity of T lymphocytes to STING activation-induced cell apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wangsheng Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China; Joint National Laboratory for Antibody Drug Engineering, the First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University, Henan University, Kaifeng 475000, China
| | - Lianfei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Chengxin Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Xiaoyu Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Shuai Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Huan Xia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nankai University Second People's Hospital, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Weihong Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Xinqi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Science, Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
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Kruk L, Mamtimin M, Braun A, Anders HJ, Andrassy J, Gudermann T, Mammadova-Bach E. Inflammatory Networks in Renal Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082212. [PMID: 37190141 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082212] [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: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated inflammation has been established as a hallmark feature of almost all solid cancers. Tumor-extrinsic and intrinsic signaling pathways regulate the process of cancer-associated inflammation. Tumor-extrinsic inflammation is triggered by many factors, including infection, obesity, autoimmune disorders, and exposure to toxic and radioactive substances. Intrinsic inflammation can be induced by genomic mutation, genome instability and epigenetic remodeling in cancer cells that promote immunosuppressive traits, inducing the recruitment and activation of inflammatory immune cells. In RCC, many cancer cell-intrinsic alterations are assembled, upregulating inflammatory pathways, which enhance chemokine release and neoantigen expression. Furthermore, immune cells activate the endothelium and induce metabolic shifts, thereby amplifying both the paracrine and autocrine inflammatory loops to promote RCC tumor growth and progression. Together with tumor-extrinsic inflammatory factors, tumor-intrinsic signaling pathways trigger a Janus-faced tumor microenvironment, thereby simultaneously promoting or inhibiting tumor growth. For therapeutic success, it is important to understand the pathomechanisms of cancer-associated inflammation, which promote cancer progression. In this review, we describe the molecular mechanisms of cancer-associated inflammation that influence cancer and immune cell functions, thereby increasing tumor malignancy and anti-cancer resistance. We also discuss the potential of anti-inflammatory treatments, which may provide clinical benefits in RCCs and possible avenues for therapy and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linus Kruk
- Walther-Straub-Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ludwig-Maximilian-University, 80336 Munich, Germany
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine IV, Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilian-University, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Medina Mamtimin
- Walther-Straub-Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ludwig-Maximilian-University, 80336 Munich, Germany
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine IV, Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilian-University, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Attila Braun
- Walther-Straub-Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ludwig-Maximilian-University, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Hans-Joachim Anders
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine IV, Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilian-University, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Joachim Andrassy
- Division of General, Visceral, Vascular and Transplant Surgery, Hospital of LMU, 81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Gudermann
- Walther-Straub-Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ludwig-Maximilian-University, 80336 Munich, Germany
- German Center for Lung Research (DZL), 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Elmina Mammadova-Bach
- Walther-Straub-Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ludwig-Maximilian-University, 80336 Munich, Germany
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine IV, Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilian-University, 80336 Munich, Germany
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Taffoni C, Marines J, Chamma H, Guha S, Saccas M, Bouzid A, Valadao AC, Maghe C, Jardine J, Park MK, Polak K, De Martino M, Vanpouille‐Box C, Del Rio M, Gongora C, Gavard J, Bidère N, Song MS, Pineau D, Hugnot J, Kissa K, Fontenille L, Blanchet FP, Vila IK, Laguette N. DNA damage repair kinase DNA-PK and cGAS synergize to induce cancer-related inflammation in glioblastoma. EMBO J 2023; 42:e111961. [PMID: 36574362 PMCID: PMC10068334 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2022111961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytosolic DNA promotes inflammatory responses upon detection by the cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS). It has been suggested that cGAS downregulation is an immune escape strategy harnessed by tumor cells. Here, we used glioblastoma cells that show undetectable cGAS levels to address if alternative DNA detection pathways can promote pro-inflammatory signaling. We show that the DNA-PK DNA repair complex (i) drives cGAS-independent IRF3-mediated type I Interferon responses and (ii) that its catalytic activity is required for cGAS-dependent cGAMP production and optimal downstream signaling. We further show that the cooperation between DNA-PK and cGAS favors the expression of chemokines that promote macrophage recruitment in the tumor microenvironment in a glioblastoma model, a process that impairs early tumorigenesis but correlates with poor outcome in glioblastoma patients. Thus, our study supports that cGAS-dependent signaling is acquired during tumorigenesis and that cGAS and DNA-PK activities should be analyzed concertedly to predict the impact of strategies aiming to boost tumor immunogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Taffoni
- IGH, Université de Montpellier, CNRSMontpellierFrance
| | - Johanna Marines
- IGH, Université de Montpellier, CNRSMontpellierFrance
- Azelead©MontpellierFrance
| | - Hanane Chamma
- IGH, Université de Montpellier, CNRSMontpellierFrance
| | | | | | - Amel Bouzid
- IGH, Université de Montpellier, CNRSMontpellierFrance
| | | | - Clément Maghe
- Team SOAP, CRCI2NA, Nantes Université, Inserm, CNRS, Université d'AngersNantesFrance
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le CancerParisFrance
| | - Jane Jardine
- Team SOAP, CRCI2NA, Nantes Université, Inserm, CNRS, Université d'AngersNantesFrance
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le CancerParisFrance
| | - Mi Kyung Park
- Department of Molecular and Cellular OncologyThe University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterHoustonTXUSA
| | | | - Mara De Martino
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell MedicineNew YorkNYUSA
| | | | - Maguy Del Rio
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM, Université de Montpellier, ICMMontpellierFrance
| | - Celine Gongora
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM, Université de Montpellier, ICMMontpellierFrance
| | - Julie Gavard
- Team SOAP, CRCI2NA, Nantes Université, Inserm, CNRS, Université d'AngersNantesFrance
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le CancerParisFrance
- Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest (ICO)Saint‐HerblainFrance
| | - Nicolas Bidère
- Team SOAP, CRCI2NA, Nantes Université, Inserm, CNRS, Université d'AngersNantesFrance
- Equipe Labellisée Ligue Contre le CancerParisFrance
| | - Min Sup Song
- Department of Molecular and Cellular OncologyThe University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer CenterHoustonTXUSA
| | - Donovan Pineau
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (IGF), Université de Montpellier, CNRS, INSERMMontpellierFrance
| | - Jean‐Philippe Hugnot
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle (IGF), Université de Montpellier, CNRS, INSERMMontpellierFrance
| | - Karima Kissa
- Université de Montpellier, CNRS UMR 5235MontpellierFrance
| | | | - Fabien P Blanchet
- Institut de Recherche en Infectiologie de Montpellier, Université de Montpellier, CNRSMontpellierFrance
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Liu Y, Crowe WN, Wang L, Petty WJ, Habib AA, Zhao D. Aerosolized immunotherapeutic nanoparticle inhalation potentiates PD-L1 blockade for locally advanced lung cancer. NANO RESEARCH 2023; 16:5300-5310. [PMID: 37228440 PMCID: PMC10208391 DOI: 10.1007/s12274-022-5205-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Despite therapeutic advancements, the prognosis of locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (LANSCLC), which has invaded multiple lobes or the other lung and intrapulmonary lymph nodes, remains poor. The emergence of immunotherapy with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) is transforming cancer treatment. However, only a fraction of lung cancer patients benefit from ICB. Significant clinical evidence suggests that the proinflammatory tumor microenvironment (TME) and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression correlate positively with response to the PD-1/PD-L1 blockade. We report here a liposomal nanoparticle loaded with cyclic dinucleotide and aerosolized (AeroNP-CDN) for inhalation delivery to deep-seated lung tumors and target CDN to activate stimulators of interferon (IFN) genes in macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs). Using a mouse model that recapitulates the clinical LANSCLC, we show that AeroNP-CDN efficiently mitigates the immunosuppressive TME by reprogramming tumor-associated macrophage from the M2 to M1 phenotype, activating DCs for effective tumor antigen presentation and increasing tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells for adaptive anticancer immunity. Intriguingly, activation of interferons by AeroNP-CDN also led to increased PD-L1 expression in lung tumors, which, however, set a stage for response to anti-PD-L1 treatment. Indeed, anti-PD-L1 antibody-mediated blockade of IFNs-induced immune inhibitory PD-1/PD-L1 signaling further prolonged the survival of the LANSCLC-bearing mice. Importantly, AeroNP-CDN alone or combination immunotherapy was safe without local or systemic immunotoxicity. In conclusion, this study demonstrates a potential nano-immunotherapy strategy for LANSCLC, and mechanistic insights into the evolution of adaptive immune resistance provide a rational combination immunotherapy to overcome it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - William N Crowe
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Lulu Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - W Jeffrey Petty
- Department of Medicine, Section on Hematology and Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
| | - Amyn A Habib
- Department of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and VA North Texas Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Dawen Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
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