1
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Mao JH, Wang Y, Chen WM, Wang XM, Liu J, Shao YH, Tu ZC. Galacto-oligosaccharides modified whey protein isolate ameliorates cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 278:134642. [PMID: 39128745 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134642] [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: 05/26/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
The effect of whey protein isolate (WPI)- galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS)/fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) conjugates on RAW264.7 cells, and further the effect of WPI-GOS conjugates on CTX-induced immunosuppressed mice were investigated. Compared to WPI-FOS conjugates, WPI-GOS conjugates exhibited deeper glycation extent, more pronounced structural unfolding and helix-destabilizing, and obviously improved functional indicators of RAW264.7 macrophages. In addition, WPI-GOS conjugates also repaired immune organ and intestinal barrier and increased IL-1β and IFN-γ levels in immunosuppressed mice. The alteration of gut microbiota induced by WPI-GOS conjugates changed the serum metabolites, causing the activation of NFκB pathway, which strengthens the immune system. The activation of NFκB pathway maybe associated with the mTOR signal pathway and ABC transporters. However, the precise mechanisms by which NFκB pathway interacts with mTOR signal pathway and ABC transporters to modulate the immune response need for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Hua Mao
- National R&D Center for Freshwater Fish Processing, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330022, China
| | - Yang Wang
- National R&D Center for Freshwater Fish Processing, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330022, China
| | - Wen-Mei Chen
- National R&D Center for Freshwater Fish Processing, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330022, China
| | - Xu-Mei Wang
- National R&D Center for Freshwater Fish Processing, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330022, China
| | - Jun Liu
- National R&D Center for Freshwater Fish Processing, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330022, China
| | - Yan-Hong Shao
- National R&D Center for Freshwater Fish Processing, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330022, China.
| | - Zong-Cai Tu
- National R&D Center for Freshwater Fish Processing, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330022, China; State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330047, China.
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2
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Li Y, Zhao D, Chen D, Sun Q. Targeting protein condensation in cGAS-STING signaling pathway. Bioessays 2024; 46:e2400091. [PMID: 38962845 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202400091] [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: 04/13/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
The cGAS-STING signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in sensing cytosolic DNA and initiating innate immune responses against various threats, with disruptions in this pathway being associated with numerous immune-related disorders. Therefore, precise regulation of the cGAS-STING signaling is crucial to ensure appropriate immune responses. Recent research, including ours, underscores the importance of protein condensation in driving the activation and maintenance of innate immune signaling within the cGAS-STING pathway. Consequently, targeting condensation processes in this pathway presents a promising approach for modulating the cGAS-STING signaling and potentially managing associated disorders. In this review, we provide an overview of recent studies elucidating the role and regulatory mechanism of protein condensation in the cGAS-STING signaling pathway while emphasizing its pathological implications. Additionally, we explore the potential of understanding and manipulating condensation dynamics to develop novel strategies for mitigating cGAS-STING-related disorders in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajie Li
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Dongbo Zhao
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Dahua Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Research, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
- Southwest United Graduate School, Kunming, China
| | - Qinmiao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, Beijing, China
- School of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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3
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Wang L, Cao L, Li Z, Shao Z, Chen X, Huang Z, He X, Zheng J, Liu L, Jia XM, Xiao H. ATP-elicited Cation Fluxes Promote Volume-regulated Anion Channel LRRC8/VRAC Transport cGAMP for Antitumor Immunity. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 213:347-361. [PMID: 38847616 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of IFN genes (STING) pathway is instrumental to antitumor immunity, yet the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms are complex and still unfolding. A new paradigm suggests that cancer cells' cGAS-synthesized cGAMP can be transferred to tumor-infiltrating immune cells, eliciting STING-dependent IFN-β response for antitumor immunity. Nevertheless, how the tumor microenvironment may shape this process remains unclear. In this study, we found that extracellular ATP, an immune regulatory molecule widely present in the tumor microenvironment, can potentiate cGAMP transfer, thereby boosting the STING signaling and IFN-β response in murine macrophages and fibroblasts. Notably, genetic ablation or chemical inhibition of murine volume-regulation anion channel LRRC8/volume-regulated anion channel (VRAC), a recently identified cGAMP transporter, abolished ATP-potentiated cGAMP transfer and STING-dependent IFN-β response, revealing a crucial role of LRRC8/VRAC in the cross-talk of extracellular ATP and cGAMP. Mechanistically, ATP activation of the P2X family receptors triggered Ca2+ influx and K+ efflux, promoting reactive oxygen species production. Moreover, ATP-evoked K+ efflux alleviated the phosphorylation of VRAC's obligate subunit LRRC8A/SWELL1 on S174. Mutagenesis studies indicated that the phosphorylation of S174 on LRRC8A could act as a checkpoint for VRAC in the steady state and a rheostat of ATP responsiveness. In an MC38-transplanted tumor model, systemically blocking CD39 and ENPP1, hydroxylases of extracellular ATP and cGAMP, respectively, elevated antitumor NK, NKT, and CD8+ T cell responses and restrained tumor growth in mice. Altogether, this study establishes a crucial role of ATP in facilitating LRRC8/VRAC transport cGAMP in the tumor microenvironment and provides new insight into harnessing cGAMP transfer for antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- Clinical Medicine Scientific and Technical Innovation Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Limin Cao
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhihong Li
- State Key Laboratory of New Drug and Pharmaceutical process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhugui Shao
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province and Department of Immunology, School of Biomedical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xia Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Zhicheng Huang
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoxiao He
- Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junke Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Liu
- State Key Laboratory of New Drug and Pharmaceutical process, Shanghai Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, China State Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin-Ming Jia
- Clinical Medicine Scientific and Technical Innovation Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Shanghai Institute of Immunity and Infection, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
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4
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Ming S, Zhang S, Xing J, Yang G, Zeng L, Wang J, Chu B. Alphaherpesvirus manipulates retinoic acid metabolism for optimal replication. iScience 2024; 27:110144. [PMID: 38989466 PMCID: PMC11233922 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110144] [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: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Retinoic acid (RA), derived from retinol (ROL), is integral to cell growth, differentiation, and organogenesis. It is known that RA can inhibit herpes simplex virus (HSV) replication, but the interactions between alphaherpesviruses and RA metabolism are unclear. Our present study revealed that alphaherpesvirus (HSV-1 and Pseudorabies virus, PRV) infections suppressed RA synthesis from ROL by activating P53, which increased retinol reductase 3 (DHRS3) expression-an enzyme that converts retinaldehyde back to ROL. This process depended on the virus-triggered DNA damage response, the degradation of class I histone deacetylases, and the subsequent hyperacetylation of histones H3 and H4. Counteracting DHRS3 or P53 enabled higher RA synthesis and reduced viral growth. RA enhanced antiviral defenses by promoting ABCA1- and ABCG1-mediated lipid efflux. Treatment with the retinoic acid receptor (RAR) agonist palovarotene protected mice from HSV-1 infection, thus providing a potential therapeutic strategy against viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengli Ming
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
| | - Shijun Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
| | - Jiayou Xing
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
| | - Guoyu Yang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
| | - Lei Zeng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
| | - Jiang Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
| | - Beibei Chu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou 450046, Henan Province, China
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5
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Ramos A, Bizri N, Novak E, Mollen K, Khan S. The role of cGAS in epithelial dysregulation in inflammatory bowel disease and gastrointestinal malignancies. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1409683. [PMID: 39050748 PMCID: PMC11266671 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1409683] [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: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The gastrointestinal tract is lined by an epithelial monolayer responsible for selective permeability and absorption, as well as protection against harmful luminal contents. Recognition of foreign or aberrant DNA within these epithelial cells is, in part, regulated by pattern recognition receptors such as cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS). cGAS binds double-stranded DNA from exogenous and endogenous sources, resulting in the activation of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) and a type 1 interferon response. cGAS is also implicated in non-canonical pathways involving the suppression of DNA repair and the upregulation of autophagy via interactions with PARP1 and Beclin-1, respectively. The importance of cGAS activation in the development and progression of inflammatory bowel disease and gastrointestinal cancers has been and continues to be explored. This review delves into the intricacies of the complex role of cGAS in intestinal epithelial inflammation and gastrointestinal malignancies, as well as recent therapeutic advances targeting cGAS pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ramos
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Nazih Bizri
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Elizabeth Novak
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Kevin Mollen
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Sidrah Khan
- Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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6
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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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7
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Toufektchan E, Dananberg A, Striepen J, Hickling JH, Shim A, Chen Y, Nichols A, Duran Paez MA, Mohr L, Bakhoum SF, Maciejowski J. Intratumoral TREX1 Induction Promotes Immune Evasion by Limiting Type I IFN. Cancer Immunol Res 2024; 12:673-686. [PMID: 38408184 PMCID: PMC11148545 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-23-1093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Chromosomal instability is a hallmark of human cancer that is associated with aggressive disease characteristics. Chromosome mis-segregations help fuel natural selection, but they risk provoking a cGAS-STING immune response through the accumulation of cytosolic DNA. The mechanisms of how tumors benefit from chromosomal instability while mitigating associated risks, such as enhanced immune surveillance, are poorly understood. Here, we identify cGAS-STING-dependent upregulation of the nuclease TREX1 as an adaptive, negative feedback mechanism that promotes immune evasion through digestion of cytosolic DNA. TREX1 loss diminishes tumor growth, prolongs survival of host animals, increases tumor immune infiltration, and potentiates response to immune checkpoint blockade selectively in tumors capable of mounting a type I IFN response downstream of STING. Together, these data demonstrate that TREX1 induction shields chromosomally unstable tumors from immune surveillance by dampening type I IFN production and suggest that TREX1 inhibitors might be used to selectively target tumors that have retained the inherent ability to mount an IFN response downstream of STING. See related article by Lim et al., p. 663.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eléonore Toufektchan
- Molecular Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Alexandra Dananberg
- Molecular Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Josefine Striepen
- Molecular Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - James H. Hickling
- Molecular Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Abraham Shim
- Molecular Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Yanyang Chen
- Molecular Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Ashley Nichols
- Molecular Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Mercedes A. Duran Paez
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Lisa Mohr
- Molecular Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Samuel F. Bakhoum
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - John Maciejowski
- Molecular Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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8
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Zhou Z, Huang S, Fan F, Xu Y, Moore C, Li S, Han C. The multiple faces of cGAS-STING in antitumor immunity: prospects and challenges. MEDICAL REVIEW (2021) 2024; 4:173-191. [PMID: 38919400 PMCID: PMC11195429 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2023-0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
As a key sensor of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) detects cytosolic dsDNA and initiates the synthesis of 2'3' cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) that activates the stimulator of interferon genes (STING). This finally promotes the production of type I interferons (IFN-I) that is crucial for bridging innate and adaptive immunity. Recent evidence show that several antitumor therapies, including radiotherapy (RT), chemotherapy, targeted therapies and immunotherapies, activate the cGAS-STING pathway to provoke the antitumor immunity. In the last decade, the development of STING agonists has been a major focus in both basic research and the pharmaceutical industry. However, up to now, none of STING agonists have been approved for clinical use. Considering the broad expression of STING in whole body and the direct lethal effect of STING agonists on immune cells in the draining lymph node (dLN), research on the optimal way to activate STING in tumor microenvironment (TME) appears to be a promising direction. Moreover, besides enhancing IFN-I signaling, the cGAS-STING pathway also plays roles in senescence, autophagy, apoptosis, mitotic arrest, and DNA repair, contributing to tumor development and metastasis. In this review, we summarize the recent advances on cGAS-STING pathway's response to antitumor therapies and the strategies involving this pathway for tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheqi Zhou
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Sanling Huang
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Fangying Fan
- Department of Interventional Ultrasound, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Casey Moore
- Departments of Immunology, Pathology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Sirui Li
- Department of Genetics, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Chuanhui Han
- Peking University International Cancer Institute, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Health Science Center, Peking University, Beijing, China
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9
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Albright ER, Kalejta RF. cGAS-STING-TBK1 Signaling Promotes Valproic Acid-Responsive Human Cytomegalovirus Immediate-Early Transcription during Infection of Incompletely Differentiated Myeloid Cells. Viruses 2024; 16:877. [PMID: 38932169 PMCID: PMC11209474 DOI: 10.3390/v16060877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Repression of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) immediate-early (IE) gene expression is a key regulatory step in the establishment and maintenance of latent reservoirs. Viral IE transcription and protein accumulation can be elevated during latency by treatment with histone deacetylase inhibitors such as valproic acid (VPA), rendering infected cells visible to adaptive immune responses. However, the latency-associated viral protein UL138 inhibits the ability of VPA to enhance IE gene expression during infection of incompletely differentiated myeloid cells that support latency. UL138 also limits the accumulation of IFNβ transcripts by inhibiting the cGAS-STING-TBK1 DNA-sensing pathway. Here, we show that, in the absence of UL138, the cGAS-STING-TBK1 pathway promotes both IFNβ accumulation and VPA-responsive IE gene expression in incompletely differentiated myeloid cells. Inactivation of this pathway by either genetic or pharmacological inhibition phenocopied UL138 expression and reduced VPA-responsive IE transcript and protein accumulation. This work reveals a link between cytoplasmic pathogen sensing and epigenetic control of viral lytic phase transcription and suggests that manipulation of pattern recognition receptor signaling pathways could aid in the refinement of MIEP regulatory strategies to target latent viral reservoirs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R. Albright
- Institute for Molecular Virology and McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, University of Wisconsin—Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA;
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10
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Mardjuki R, Wang S, Carozza J, Zirak B, Subramanyam V, Abhiraman G, Lyu X, Goodarzi H, Li L. Identification of the extracellular membrane protein ENPP3 as a major cGAMP hydrolase and innate immune checkpoint. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114209. [PMID: 38749434 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
2'3'-Cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP)-AMP (cGAMP) is a second messenger synthesized upon detection of cytosolic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and passed between cells to facilitate downstream immune signaling. Ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase phosphodiesterase I (ENPP1), an extracellular enzyme, was the only metazoan hydrolase known to regulate cGAMP levels to dampen anti-cancer immunity. Here, we uncover ENPP3 as the second and likely the only other metazoan cGAMP hydrolase under homeostatic conditions. ENPP3 has a tissue expression pattern distinct from ENPP1's and accounts for all cGAMP hydrolysis activity in ENPP1-deficient mice. Importantly, we also show that, as with ENPP1, selectively abolishing ENPP3's cGAMP hydrolysis activity results in diminished cancer growth and metastasis of certain tumor types in a stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-dependent manner. Both ENPP1 and ENPP3 are extracellular enzymes, suggesting the dominant role that extracellular cGAMP must play as a mediator of cell-cell innate immune communication. Our work demonstrates that ENPP1 and ENPP3 non-redundantly dampen extracellular cGAMP-STING signaling, pointing to ENPP3 as a target for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Mardjuki
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA; Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Songnan Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA
| | | | - Bahar Zirak
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA; Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Biophysics & Biochemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Baker Computational Health Science Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Vishvak Subramanyam
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA; Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Biophysics & Biochemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Baker Computational Health Science Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Gita Abhiraman
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Xuchao Lyu
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Hani Goodarzi
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA; Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Biophysics & Biochemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; Baker Computational Health Science Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Lingyin Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA.
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11
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Blest HTW, Redmond A, Avissar J, Barker J, Bridgeman A, Fowler G, Chauveau L, Hertzog J, Vendrell I, Fischer R, Iversen MB, Jing L, Koelle DM, Paludan SR, Kessler BM, Crump CM, Rehwinkel J. HSV-1 employs UL56 to antagonize expression and function of cGAMP channels. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114122. [PMID: 38652659 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA sensing is important for antiviral immunity. The DNA sensor cGAS synthesizes 2'3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP), a second messenger that activates STING, which induces innate immunity. cGAMP not only activates STING in the cell where it is produced but cGAMP also transfers to other cells. Transporters, channels, and pores (including SLC19A1, SLC46A2, P2X7, ABCC1, and volume-regulated anion channels (VRACs)) release cGAMP into the extracellular space and/or import cGAMP. We report that infection with multiple human viruses depletes some of these cGAMP conduits. This includes herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) that targets SLC46A2, P2X7, and the VRAC subunits LRRC8A and LRRC8C for degradation. The HSV-1 protein UL56 is necessary and sufficient for these effects that are mediated at least partially by proteasomal turnover. UL56 thereby inhibits cGAMP uptake via VRAC, SLC46A2, and P2X7. Taken together, HSV-1 antagonizes intercellular cGAMP transfer. We propose that this limits innate immunity by reducing cell-to-cell communication via the immunotransmitter cGAMP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry T W Blest
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK
| | - Alexander Redmond
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK
| | - Jed Avissar
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK
| | - Jake Barker
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, CB2 1QP Cambridge, UK
| | - Anne Bridgeman
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK
| | - Gerissa Fowler
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK
| | - Lise Chauveau
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK
| | - Jonny Hertzog
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK
| | - Iolanda Vendrell
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Oxford Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Roman Fischer
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Oxford Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Marie B Iversen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Lichen Jing
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - David M Koelle
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Benaroya Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Søren R Paludan
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Benedikt M Kessler
- Target Discovery Institute, Centre for Medicines Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Oxford Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Colin M Crump
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, CB2 1QP Cambridge, UK
| | - Jan Rehwinkel
- Medical Research Council Translational Immune Discovery Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, OX3 9DS Oxford, UK.
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12
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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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13
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Li L, Liu F, Feng C, Chen Z, Zhang N, Mao J. Role of mitochondrial dysfunction in kidney disease: Insights from the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. Chin Med J (Engl) 2024; 137:1044-1053. [PMID: 38445370 PMCID: PMC11062705 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000003022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Over the past decade, mitochondrial dysfunction has been investigated as a key contributor to acute and chronic kidney disease. However, the precise molecular mechanisms linking mitochondrial damage to kidney disease remain elusive. The recent insights into the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (GMP-AMP) synthetase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon gene (STING) signaling pathway have revealed its involvement in many renal diseases. One of these findings is that mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) induces inflammatory responses via the cGAS-STING pathway. Herein, we provide an overview of the mechanisms underlying mtDNA release following mitochondrial damage, focusing specifically on the association between mtDNA release-activated cGAS-STING signaling and the development of kidney diseases. Furthermore, we summarize the latest findings of cGAS-STING signaling pathway in cell, with a particular emphasis on its downstream signaling related to kidney diseases. This review intends to enhance our understanding of the intricate relationship among the cGAS-STING pathway, kidney diseases, and mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Li
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310052, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310052, China
| | - Chunyue Feng
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310052, China
| | - Zhenjie Chen
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310052, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310052, China
| | - Jianhua Mao
- Department of Nephrology, Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310052, China
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14
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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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15
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Zannikou M, Fish EN, Platanias LC. Signaling by Type I Interferons in Immune Cells: Disease Consequences. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1600. [PMID: 38672681 PMCID: PMC11049350 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16081600] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This review addresses interferon (IFN) signaling in immune cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME) and examines how this affects cancer progression. The data reveal that IFNs exert dual roles in cancers, dependent on the TME, exhibiting both anti-tumor activity and promoting cancer progression. We discuss the abnormal IFN signaling induced by cancerous cells that alters immune responses to permit their survival and proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markella Zannikou
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 East Superior Ave., Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Eleanor N. Fish
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, 67 College Street, Toronto, ON M5G 2M1, Canada;
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Leonidas C. Platanias
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Hematology-Oncology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 East Superior Ave., Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Medicine, Jesse Brown Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 820 S. Damen Ave., Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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16
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Colangelo NW, Gerber NK, Vatner RE, Cooper BT. Harnessing the cGAS-STING pathway to potentiate radiation therapy: current approaches and future directions. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1383000. [PMID: 38659582 PMCID: PMC11039815 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1383000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
In this review, we cover the current understanding of how radiation therapy, which uses ionizing radiation to kill cancer cells, mediates an anti-tumor immune response through the cGAS-STING pathway, and how STING agonists might potentiate this. We examine how cGAS-STING signaling mediates the release of inflammatory cytokines in response to nuclear and mitochondrial DNA entering the cytoplasm. The significance of this in the context of cancer is explored, such as in response to cell-damaging therapies and genomic instability. The contribution of the immune and non-immune cells in the tumor microenvironment is considered. This review also discusses the burgeoning understanding of STING signaling that is independent of inflammatory cytokine release and the various mechanisms by which cancer cells can evade STING signaling. We review the available data on how ionizing radiation stimulates cGAS-STING signaling as well as how STING agonists may potentiate the anti-tumor immune response induced by ionizing radiation. There is also discussion of how novel radiation modalities may affect cGAS-STING signaling. We conclude with a discussion of ongoing and planned clinical trials combining radiation therapy with STING agonists, and provide insights to consider when planning future clinical trials combining these treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas W. Colangelo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Naamit K. Gerber
- Department of Radiation Oncology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ralph E. Vatner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Benjamin T. Cooper
- Department of Radiation Oncology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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17
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Dvorkin S, Cambier S, Volkman HE, Stetson DB. New frontiers in the cGAS-STING intracellular DNA-sensing pathway. Immunity 2024; 57:718-730. [PMID: 38599167 PMCID: PMC11013568 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2024.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
The cGAS-STING intracellular DNA-sensing pathway has emerged as a key element of innate antiviral immunity and a promising therapeutic target. The existence of an innate immune sensor that can be activated by any double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) of any origin raises fundamental questions about how cGAS is regulated and how it responds to "foreign" DNA while maintaining tolerance to ubiquitous self-DNA. In this review, we summarize recent evidence implicating important roles for cGAS in the detection of foreign and self-DNA. We describe two recent and surprising insights into cGAS-STING biology: that cGAS is tightly tethered to the nucleosome and that the cGAMP product of cGAS is an immunotransmitter acting at a distance to control innate immunity. We consider how these advances influence our understanding of the emerging roles of cGAS in the DNA damage response (DDR), senescence, aging, and cancer biology. Finally, we describe emerging approaches to harness cGAS-STING biology for therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Dvorkin
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Stephanie Cambier
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Hannah E Volkman
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Daniel B Stetson
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98109, USA.
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18
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Wenzl SJ, de Oliveira Mann CC. How enzyme-centered approaches are advancing research on cyclic oligo-nucleotides. FEBS Lett 2024; 598:839-863. [PMID: 38453162 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Cyclic nucleotides are the most diversified category of second messengers and are found in all organisms modulating diverse pathways. While cAMP and cGMP have been studied over 50 years, cyclic di-nucleotide signaling in eukaryotes emerged only recently with the anti-viral molecule 2´3´cGAMP. Recent breakthrough discoveries have revealed not only the astonishing chemical diversity of cyclic nucleotides but also surprisingly deep-rooted evolutionary origins of cyclic oligo-nucleotide signaling pathways and structural conservation of the proteins involved in their synthesis and signaling. Here we discuss how enzyme-centered approaches have paved the way for the identification of several cyclic nucleotide signals, focusing on the advantages and challenges associated with deciphering the activation mechanisms of such enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon J Wenzl
- Department of Bioscience, TUM School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany
| | - Carina C de Oliveira Mann
- Department of Bioscience, TUM School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany
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19
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Shinde O, Li P. The molecular mechanism of dsDNA sensing through the cGAS-STING pathway. Adv Immunol 2024; 162:1-21. [PMID: 38866436 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ai.2024.02.003] [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: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Double stranded DNA (dsDNA) in the cytoplasm triggers the cGAS-STING innate immune pathway to defend against pathogenic infections, tissue damage and malignant cells. Extensive structural and functional studies over the last couple of years have enabled the molecular understanding of dsDNA induced activation of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. This review highlights recent advances in the structural characterization of key molecules in the cGAS-STING signaling axis by focusing on the mechanism of cGAS activation by dsDNA, the regulation of cGAS activity, the mechanism of STING activation by cGAMP, the molecular basis of TBK1 recruitment and activation by STING, the structural basis of IRF3 recruitment by STING, and the mechanism of IRF3 activation upon phosphorylation by TBK1. These comprehensive structural studies provide a detailed picture of the mechanism of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway, establishing a molecular framework for the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omkar Shinde
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Pingwei Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States.
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20
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Vu GT, Awad V, Norberto MF, Bowman TV, Trompouki E. Nucleic acid-induced inflammation on hematopoietic stem cells. Exp Hematol 2024; 131:104148. [PMID: 38151171 PMCID: PMC11061806 DOI: 10.1016/j.exphem.2023.104148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Hematopoiesis, the process of generating blood cells, starts during development with the primitive, pro-definitive, and definitive hematopoietic waves. The first two waves will generate erythrocytes and myeloid cells, although the definitive wave will give rise to hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) that are multipotent and can produce most of the blood cells in an adult. Although HSCs are highly proliferative during development, during adulthood they remain quiescent in the bone marrow. Inflammatory signaling in the form of interferons, interleukins, tumor necrosis factors, and others is well-established to influence both developmental and adult hematopoiesis. Here we discuss the role of specific inflammatory pathways that are induced by sensing nucleic acids. We discuss the role of RNA-sensing members of the Toll-like, Rig-I-like, nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like, and AIM2-like protein kinase receptors and the DNA-sensing receptors, DEAD-Box helicase 41 (DDX41) and cGAS. The main downstream pathways of these receptors are discussed, as well as their influence on developmental and adult hematopoiesis, including hematopoietic pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giang To Vu
- IRCAN Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, INSERM Unité 1081, CNRS UMR 7284, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France
| | - Valerie Awad
- Department of Developmental and Molecular Biology and Gottesman Institute of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Bronx, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, NY
| | - Maria Feliz Norberto
- Department of Developmental and Molecular Biology and Gottesman Institute of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Bronx, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, NY
| | - Teresa V Bowman
- Department of Developmental and Molecular Biology and Gottesman Institute of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Bronx, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, NY; Department of Oncology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY.
| | - Eirini Trompouki
- IRCAN Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging, INSERM Unité 1081, CNRS UMR 7284, Université Côte d'Azur, Nice, France.
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21
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Wang T, Rao D, Fu C, Luo Y, Lu J, Liang H, Xia L, Huang W. Pan-cancer analysis of ABCC1 as a potential prognostic and immunological biomarker. Transl Oncol 2024; 41:101882. [PMID: 38290247 PMCID: PMC10844751 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101882] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
ABCC1 belongs to the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) superfamily, which encompasses a total of 48 constituent members. ABCC1 has been shown to be associated with the growth, progression, and drug resistance of various types of cancer. However, the impact of ABCC1 on cancer immune infiltration and pan-cancer prognosis has been rarely studied. Our comprehensive pan-cancer analysis unveiled elevated ABCC1 expression across various cancers. ABCC1 overexpression consistently predicted unfavorable outcomes based on TCGA data. Moreover, ABCC1 expression exhibited intricate associations with diverse immune-related genes and demonstrated a close correlation with immune scores across multiple tumor types. Analysis of scRNA-seq data from the GEO database revealed that the expression of ABCC1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells is significant positively correlated with macrophage infiltration. Furthermore, various in vitro and in vivo experiments substantiated the role of ABCC1 in promoting the progression of HCC, along with increased macrophage recruitment. Based on the results, we propose ABCC1 as a potentially valuable prognostic indicator and a prospective target for immune-based cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiantian Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, China; Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Dean Rao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, China; Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Chenan Fu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, China; Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Yiming Luo
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, China; Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Junli Lu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, China; Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Huifang Liang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, China; Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China.
| | - Limin Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China.
| | - Wenjie Huang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, China; Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China; Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China.
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22
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Yang K, Tang Z, Xing C, Yan N. STING signaling in the brain: Molecular threats, signaling activities, and therapeutic challenges. Neuron 2024; 112:539-557. [PMID: 37944521 PMCID: PMC10922189 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is an innate immune signaling protein critical to infections, autoimmunity, and cancer. STING signaling is also emerging as an exciting and integral part of many neurological diseases. Here, we discuss recent advances in STING signaling in the brain. We summarize how molecular threats activate STING signaling in the diseased brain and how STING signaling activities in glial and neuronal cells cause neuropathology. We also review human studies of STING neurobiology and consider therapeutic challenges in targeting STING to treat neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Yang
- Department of Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Zhen Tang
- Department of Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Cong Xing
- Department of Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Nan Yan
- Department of Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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23
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Huang R, Ning Q, Zhao J, Zhao X, Zeng L, Yi Y, Tang S. Targeting ENPP1 for cancer immunotherapy: Killing two birds with one stone. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 220:116006. [PMID: 38142838 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.116006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy, particularly with immune checkpoint inhibitors, has revolutionized the paradigm of cancer treatment. Nevertheless, the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy remains limited in most clinical settings due to the lack of a preexisting antitumor T-cell response in tumors. Therefore, the clinical outcomes of cancer immunotherapy must be improved crucially. With increased awareness of the importance of the innate immune response in the recruitment of T cells, as well as the onset and maintenance of the T cell response, great interest has been shown in activating the cGAS-STING signaling pathway to awaken the innate immune response, thereby orchestrating both innate and adaptive immune responses to induce tumor clearance. However, tumor cells have evolved to overexpress ectonucleotide pyrophosphate phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1), which degrades the immunotransmitter 2',3'-cGAMP and promotes the production of immune-suppressing adenosine, resulting in inhibition of the anticancer immune response in the tumor microenvironment. Clinically, ENPP1 overexpression is closely associated with poor prognosis in patients with cancer. Conversely, depleting or inhibiting ENPP1 has been verified to elevate extracellular 2',3'-cGAMP levels and inhibit the generation of adenosine, thereby reinvigorating the anticancer immune response for tumor elimination. A variety of ENPP1 inhibitors have recently been developed and have demonstrated significant promise for cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we provide an overview of ENPP1, dissect its immunosuppressive mechanisms, and discuss the development of ENPP1 inhibitors with the potential to further improve the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruilei Huang
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Qian Ning
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China
| | - Jihui Zhao
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Xuhong Zhao
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Luting Zeng
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Yi Yi
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China
| | - Shengsong Tang
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory for Antibody-Based Drug and Intelligent Delivery System, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha 410128, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, and Institute of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China.
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24
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Mardjuki R, Wang S, Carozza JA, Abhiraman GC, Lyu X, Li L. Identification of extracellular membrane protein ENPP3 as a major cGAMP hydrolase, cementing cGAMP's role as an immunotransmitter. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.12.575449. [PMID: 38260585 PMCID: PMC10802559 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.12.575449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
cGAMP is a second messenger that is synthesized in the cytosol upon detection of cytosolic dsDNA and passed between cells to facilitate downstream immune signaling. ENPP1, an extracellular enzyme, was the only metazoan cGAMP hydrolase known to regulate cGAMP levels to dampen anti-cancer immunity. Here, we uncover ENPP3 as the second and only other metazoan cGAMP hydrolase under homeostatic conditions. ENPP3 has a tissue expression pattern distinct from that of ENPP1 and accounts for all remaining cGAMP hydrolysis activity in mice lacking ENPP1. Importantly, we also show that as with ENPP1, selectively abolishing ENPP3's cGAMP hydrolase activity results in diminished cancer growth and metastasis of certain tumor types. Both ENPP1 and ENPP3 are extracellular enzymes, suggesting the dominant role that extracellular cGAMP must play as a mediator of cell-cell innate immune communication. Our work clearly shows that ENPP1 and ENPP3 non-redundantly dampen extracellular cGAMP-STING signaling, pointing to ENPP3 as a new target for cancer immunotherapy.
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25
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Wang M, Xu P, Wu Q. Cell-to-cell communications of cGAS-STING pathway in tumor immune microenvironment. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2024; 53:15-24. [PMID: 38229499 PMCID: PMC10945497 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2023-0482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Targeting cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway is a promising strategy for tumor treatment. The pattern recognition receptor cGAS identifies dsDNA and catalyzes the formation of a second messenger 2'3'-cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP), activating the downstream interferons and pro-inflammatory cytokines through the adaptor protein STING. Notably, in tumor immune microenvironment, key components of cGAS-STING pathway are transferred among neighboring cells. The intercellular transmission under these contexts serves to sustain and amplify innate immune responses while facilitating the emergence of adaptive immunity. The membrane-based system, including extracellular vesicles transport, phagocytosis and membrane fusion transmit dsDNA, cGAMP and activated STING, enhances the immune surveillance and inflammatory responses. The membrane proteins, including a specific protein channel and intercellular gap junctions, transfer cGAMP and dsDNA, which are crucial to regulate immune responses. The ligand-receptor interactions for interferon transmission amplifies the anti-tumor response. This review elaborates on the regulatory mechanisms of cell-to-cell communications of cGAS-STING pathway in tumor immune microenvironment, explores how these mechanisms modulate immunological processes and discusses potential interventions and immunotherapeutic strategies targeting these signaling cascades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqiu Wang
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Pinglong Xu
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Key Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311200, China.
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Qirou Wu
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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26
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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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27
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Lu Y, You L, Li L, Kilgore JA, Liu S, Wang X, Dai Y, Wei Q, Shi H, Han L, Sun L, Chen ZJ, Zhang X, Williams NS, Chen C. Orthogonal Hydroxyl Functionalization of cGAMP Confers Metabolic Stability and Enables Antibody Conjugation. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2023; 9:2298-2305. [PMID: 38161369 PMCID: PMC10755847 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.3c01122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
cGAMP is a signaling molecule produced by the cGAS-DNA complex to establish antimicrobial and antitumor immunity through STING. Whereas STING activation holds potential as a new strategy to treat cancer, cGAMP is generally considered unsuitable for in vivo use because of the rapid cleavage of its phosphodiester linkages and the limited cellular uptake under physiological conditions. Consequently, phosphorothioation and fluorination are commonly used to improve the metabolic stability and permeability of cGAMP and its synthetic analogues. We now show that methylation of the 3'-hydroxyl group of cGAMP also confers metabolic stability and that acylation of the 2'-hydroxyl group can be achieved directly and selectively to enable receptor-mediated intracellular delivery. Unlike phosphorothioation and fluorination, these modifications do not create a new stereogenic center and do not require laborious building block synthesis. As such, orthogonal hydroxyl functionalization is a simple solution to issues associated with the in vivo use of cGAMP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Lu
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Lin You
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Liping Li
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Jessica A. Kilgore
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Shun Liu
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Yuanwei Dai
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Qi Wei
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Heping Shi
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Lei Han
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Lijun Sun
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Zhijian J. Chen
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Xuewu Zhang
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Noelle S. Williams
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
| | - Chuo Chen
- Department
of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology UT Southwestern Medical
Center 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, Texas 75390, United
States
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28
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Wang S, Böhnert V, Joseph AJ, Sudaryo V, Skariah G, Swinderman JT, Yu FB, Subramanyam V, Wolf DM, Lyu X, Gilbert LA, van’t Veer LJ, Goodarzi H, Li L. ENPP1 is an innate immune checkpoint of the anticancer cGAMP-STING pathway in breast cancer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2313693120. [PMID: 38117852 PMCID: PMC10756298 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2313693120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1) expression correlates with poor prognosis in many cancers, and we previously discovered that ENPP1 is the dominant hydrolase of extracellular cGAMP: a cancer-cell-produced immunotransmitter that activates the anticancer stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway. However, ENPP1 has other catalytic activities and the molecular and cellular mechanisms contributing to its tumorigenic effects remain unclear. Here, using single-cell RNA-seq, we show that ENPP1 in both cancer and normal tissues drives primary breast tumor growth and metastasis by dampening extracellular 2'3'-cyclic-GMP-AMP (cGAMP)-STING-mediated antitumoral immunity. ENPP1 loss-of-function in both cancer cells and normal tissues slowed primary tumor growth and abolished metastasis. Selectively abolishing the cGAMP hydrolysis activity of ENPP1 phenocopied ENPP1 knockout in a STING-dependent manner, demonstrating that restoration of paracrine cGAMP-STING signaling is the dominant anti-cancer mechanism of ENPP1 inhibition. Finally, ENPP1 expression in breast tumors deterministically predicated whether patients would remain free of distant metastasis after pembrolizumab (anti-PD-1) treatment followed by surgery. Altogether, ENPP1 blockade represents a strategy to exploit cancer-produced extracellular cGAMP for controlled local activation of STING and is therefore a promising therapeutic approach against breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songnan Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA94304
| | - Volker Böhnert
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
| | - Alby J. Joseph
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA94304
| | - Valentino Sudaryo
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA94304
| | - Gemini Skariah
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
| | - Jason T. Swinderman
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA94304
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
| | | | - Vishvak Subramanyam
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
- Department of Biophysics & Biochemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
- Baker Computational Health Science Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
| | - Denise M. Wolf
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA94115
| | - Xuchao Lyu
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA94305
| | - Luke A. Gilbert
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA94304
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
| | - Laura J. van’t Veer
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA94115
| | - Hani Goodarzi
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA94158
- Department of Biophysics & Biochemistry, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
- Baker Computational Health Science Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA94143
| | - Lingyin Li
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- ChEM-H Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA94305
- Arc Institute, Palo Alto, CA94304
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29
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Wen J, Mu W, Li H, Yan Y, Zhan X, Luo W, Wang Z, Kan W, Zhao J, Hui S, He P, Qin S, Xu Y, Zhang P, Xiao X, Xu G, Bai Z. Glabridin improves autoimmune disease in Trex1-deficient mice by reducing type I interferon production. Mol Med 2023; 29:167. [PMID: 38066431 PMCID: PMC10709943 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-023-00754-y] [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: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cGAS-STING signaling pathway is an essential section of the natural immune system. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have shown a strong link between abnormal activation of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway, a natural immune pathway mediated by the nucleic acid receptor cGAS, and the development and progression of autoimmune diseases. Therefore, it is important to identify an effective compound to specifically downregulate this pathway for disease. METHODS The effect of Glabridin (Glab) was investigated in BMDMs and Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) by establishing an in vitro model of cGAS-STING signaling pathway activation. An activation model stimulated by DMXAA was also established in mice to study the effect of Glab. On the other hand, we investigated the possible mechanism of action of Glab and the effect of Glab on Trex1-deficient mice. RESULTS In this research, we report that Glab, a major component of licorice, specifically inhibits the cGAS-STING signaling pathway by inhibiting the level of type I interferon and inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α). In addition, Glab has a therapeutic effect on innate immune diseases caused by abnormal cytoplasmic DNA in Trex1-deficient mice. Mechanistically, Glab can specifically inhibit the interaction of STING with IRF3. CONCLUSION Glab is a specific inhibitor of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway and may be used in the clinical therapy of cGAS-STING pathway-mediated autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jincai Wen
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- National Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Wenqing Mu
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Institutes for Translational Medicine, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, Jiangsu, China
- Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Yulu Yan
- Ningde Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhan
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- National Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Wei Luo
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Zhongxia Wang
- Nutrition Department of the Fifth Medical Center of the PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Wen Kan
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Jia Zhao
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Siwen Hui
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Ping He
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Shuanglin Qin
- School of Pharmacy, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingjie Xu
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
- Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Xiaohe Xiao
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
- Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
- National Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, Beijing, 100005, China.
| | - Guang Xu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
| | - Zhaofang Bai
- Department of Hepatology, The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
- Fifth Medical Center of Chinese, China Military Institute of Chinese Materia, PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100039, China.
- National Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, Beijing, 100005, China.
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30
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Lei I, Tang PC. Commentary: Draining the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase from immunity, advancing heart transplant surgery through a translational science approach. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2023; 166:e428-e429. [PMID: 36933788 PMCID: PMC10504408 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcvs.2023.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ienglam Lei
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Frankel Cardiovascular Center, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor, Mich.
| | - Paul C Tang
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Frankel Cardiovascular Center, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor, Mich
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31
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Kong LZ, Kim SM, Wang C, Lee SY, Oh SC, Lee S, Jo S, Kim TD. Understanding nucleic acid sensing and its therapeutic applications. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:2320-2331. [PMID: 37945923 PMCID: PMC10689850 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01118-6] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid sensing is involved in viral infections, immune response-related diseases, and therapeutics. Based on the composition of nucleic acids, nucleic acid sensors are defined as DNA or RNA sensors. Pathogen-associated nucleic acids are recognized by membrane-bound and intracellular receptors, known as pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which induce innate immune-mediated antiviral responses. PRR activation is tightly regulated to eliminate infections and prevent abnormal or excessive immune responses. Nucleic acid sensing is an essential mechanism in tumor immunotherapy and gene therapies that target cancer and infectious diseases through genetically engineered immune cells or therapeutic nucleic acids. Nucleic acid sensing supports immune cells in priming desirable immune responses during tumor treatment. Recent studies have shown that nucleic acid sensing affects the efficiency of gene therapy by inhibiting translation. Suppression of innate immunity induced by nucleic acid sensing through small-molecule inhibitors, virus-derived proteins, and chemical modifications offers a potential therapeutic strategy. Herein, we review the mechanisms and regulation of nucleic acid sensing, specifically covering recent advances. Furthermore, we summarize and discuss recent research progress regarding the different effects of nucleic acid sensing on therapeutic efficacy. This study provides insights for the application of nucleic acid sensing in therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Zu Kong
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Seok-Min Kim
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Chunli Wang
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo Yun Lee
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Chan Oh
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunyoung Lee
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| | - Seona Jo
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Korea
| | - Tae-Don Kim
- Immunotherapy Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Functional Genomics, KRIBB School of Bioscience, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Daejeon, 34113, Korea.
- Biomedical Mathematics Group, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Biopharmaceutical Convergence, School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Republic of Korea.
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Damasceno LEA, Cunha TM, Cunha FQ, Sparwasser T, Alves-Filho JC. A clinically-relevant STING agonist restrains human T H17 cell inflammatory profile. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 124:111007. [PMID: 37778170 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
The STING signaling pathway has gained attention over the last few years due to its ability to incite antimicrobial and antitumoral immunity. Conversely, in mouse models of autoimmunity such as colitis and multiple sclerosis, where TH17 cells are implicated in tissue inflammation, STING activation has been associated with the attenuation of immunogenic responses. In this line, STING was found to limit murine TH17 pro-inflammatory program in vitro. Here we demonstrate that 2'3'-c-di-AM(PS)2(Rp,Rp), a STING agonist that has been undergoing clinical trials for antitumor immunotherapy, activates the STING signalosome in differentiating human TH17 cells. Of particular interest, 2'3'-c-di-AM(PS)2(Rp,Rp) reduces IL-17A production and IL23R expression by human TH17 cells while it favors the generation of regulatory T (Treg) cells. These findings suggest that STING agonists may be promising approaches for treating human TH17-mediated chronic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Eduardo Alves Damasceno
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil; Center for Research in Inflammatory Diseases, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil; Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Thiago Mattar Cunha
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil; Center for Research in Inflammatory Diseases, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Fernando Queiroz Cunha
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil; Center for Research in Inflammatory Diseases, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Tim Sparwasser
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - José Carlos Alves-Filho
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil; Center for Research in Inflammatory Diseases, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP 14049-900, Brazil.
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Sasaki N, Homme M, Kitajima S. Targeting the loss of cGAS/STING signaling in cancer. Cancer Sci 2023; 114:3806-3815. [PMID: 37475576 PMCID: PMC10551601 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The cGAS/STING pathway provides a key host defense mechanism by detecting the accumulation of cytoplasmic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and mediating innate and adaptive immune signaling. In addition to detecting pathogen-derived dsDNA, cGAS senses intrinsic dsDNA, such as those associated with defective cell cycle progression and mitophagy that has leaked from the nucleus or mitochondria, and subsequently evokes host immunity to eliminate pathogenic cells. In cancer cells, dysregulation of DNA repair and cell cycle caused at the DNA replication checkpoint and spindle assembly checkpoint results in aberrant cytoplasmic dsDNA accumulation, stimulating anti-tumor immunity. Therefore, the suppression of cGAS/STING signaling is beneficial for survival and frequently observed in cancer cells as a way to evade detection by the immune system, and is likely to be related to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) resistance. Indeed, the mechanisms of ICB resistance overlap with those acquired in cancers during immunoediting to evade immune surveillance. This review highlights the current understanding of cGAS/STING suppression in cancer cells and discusses how to establish effective strategies to regenerate effective anti-tumor immunity through reactivation of the cGAS/STING pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobunari Sasaki
- Department of Cell BiologyCancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer ResearchTokyoJapan
| | - Mizuki Homme
- Department of Cell BiologyCancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer ResearchTokyoJapan
| | - Shunsuke Kitajima
- Department of Cell BiologyCancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer ResearchTokyoJapan
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Slavik KM, Kranzusch PJ. CBASS to cGAS-STING: The Origins and Mechanisms of Nucleotide Second Messenger Immune Signaling. Annu Rev Virol 2023; 10:423-453. [PMID: 37380187 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-virology-111821-115636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Host defense against viral pathogens is an essential function for all living organisms. In cell-intrinsic innate immunity, dedicated sensor proteins recognize molecular signatures of infection and communicate to downstream adaptor or effector proteins to activate immune defense. Remarkably, recent evidence demonstrates that much of the core machinery of innate immunity is shared across eukaryotic and prokaryotic domains of life. Here, we review a pioneering example of evolutionary conservation in innate immunity: the animal cGAS-STING (cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes) signaling pathway and its ancestor in bacteria, CBASS (cyclic nucleotide-based antiphage signaling system) antiphage defense. We discuss the unique mechanism by which animal cGLRs (cGAS-like receptors) and bacterial CD-NTases (cGAS/dinucleotide-cyclase in Vibrio (DncV)-like nucleotidyltransferases) in these pathways link pathogen detection with immune activation using nucleotide second messenger signals. Comparing the biochemical, structural, and mechanistic details of cGAS-STING, cGLR signaling, and CBASS, we highlight emerging questions in the field and examine evolutionary pressures that may have shaped the origins of nucleotide second messenger signaling in antiviral defense.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kailey M Slavik
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Philip J Kranzusch
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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35
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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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36
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Su J, Coleman P, Ntorla A, Anderson R, Shattock MJ, Burgoyne JR. Sensing Cytosolic DNA Lowers Blood Pressure by Direct cGAMP-Dependent PKGI Activation. Circulation 2023; 148:1023-1034. [PMID: 37548012 PMCID: PMC10516174 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.123.065547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The major cytosolic DNA sensor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) has emerged as a key mediator of inflammation that underlies cardiovascular disease. On interaction with double-stranded DNA, cGAS generates the second messenger 2',3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) that directly binds to and activates the stimulator of interferon genes, which in turn leads to enhanced expression of genes encoding interferons and proinflammatory cytokines. Here, we show that cGAMP generated by cGAS also directly activates PKGI (cGMP-dependent protein kinase 1), a mechanism that underlies crosstalk between inflammation and blood pressure regulation. METHODS The ability of cGAS and cGAMP to activate PKGI was assessed using molecular, cellular, and biochemical analyses, and in myography experiments, as well. The release of cGAMP from the endothelium was measured using an ELISA, and its uptake into the vascular smooth muscle was assessed using molecular and biochemical approaches, including the identification and targeting of specific cGAMP transporters. The blood pressure of wild-type and cGAS-/- mice was assessed using implanted telemetry probes. cGAS was activated by in vivo transfection with G3-YSD or mice were made septic by administration of lipopolysaccharide. RESULTS The detection of cytosolic DNA by cGAS within the vascular endothelium leads to formation of cGAMP that was found to be actively extruded by MRP1 (multidrug resistance protein 1). Once exported, this cGAMP is then imported into neighboring vascular smooth muscle cells through the volume-regulated anion channel, where it can directly activate PKGI. The activation of PKGI by cGAMP mediates vasorelaxation that is dependent on the activity of MRP1 and volume-regulated anion channel, but independent of the canonical nitric oxide pathway. This mechanism of PKGI activation mediates lowering of blood pressure and contributes to hypotension and tissue hypoperfusion during sepsis. CONCLUSIONS The activation of PKGI by cGAMP enables the coupling of blood pressure to cytosolic DNA sensing by cGAS, which plays a key role during sepsis by mediating hypotension and tissue hypoperfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Su
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences, King’s College London; The British Heart Foundation Centre of Excellence, The Rayne Institute, St Thomas’ Hospital, United Kingdom
| | - Pierre Coleman
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences, King’s College London; The British Heart Foundation Centre of Excellence, The Rayne Institute, St Thomas’ Hospital, United Kingdom
| | - Angeliki Ntorla
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences, King’s College London; The British Heart Foundation Centre of Excellence, The Rayne Institute, St Thomas’ Hospital, United Kingdom
| | - Rhys Anderson
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences, King’s College London; The British Heart Foundation Centre of Excellence, The Rayne Institute, St Thomas’ Hospital, United Kingdom
| | - Michael J. Shattock
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences, King’s College London; The British Heart Foundation Centre of Excellence, The Rayne Institute, St Thomas’ Hospital, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph R. Burgoyne
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & Sciences, King’s College London; The British Heart Foundation Centre of Excellence, The Rayne Institute, St Thomas’ Hospital, United Kingdom
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37
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Yang Y, Wang L, Peugnet-González I, Parada-Venegas D, Dijkstra G, Faber KN. cGAS-STING signaling pathway in intestinal homeostasis and diseases. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1239142. [PMID: 37781354 PMCID: PMC10538549 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1239142] [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: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The intestinal mucosa is constantly exposed to commensal microbes, opportunistic pathogens, toxins, luminal components and other environmental stimuli. The intestinal mucosa consists of multiple differentiated cellular and extracellular components that form a critical barrier, but is also equipped for efficient absorption of nutrients. Combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental factors are known as critical components involved in the pathogenesis of intestinal diseases. The innate immune system plays a critical role in the recognition and elimination of potential threats by detecting pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). This host defense is facilitated by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), in which the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) pathway has gained attention due to its role in sensing host and foreign double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) as well as cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) produced by bacteria. Upon binding with dsDNA, cGAS converts ATP and GTP to cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP), which binds to STING and activates TANK binding kinase 1 (TBK1) and interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3), inducing type I interferon (IFN) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)-mediated pro-inflammatory cytokines, which have diverse effects on innate and adaptive immune cells and intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). However, opposite perspectives exist regarding the role of the cGAS-STING pathway in different intestinal diseases. Activation of cGAS-STING signaling is associated with worse clinical outcomes in inflammation-associated diseases, while it also plays a critical role in protection against tumorigenesis and certain infections. Therefore, understanding the context-dependent mechanisms of the cGAS-STING pathway in the physiopathology of the intestinal mucosa is crucial for developing therapeutic strategies targeting the cGAS-STING pathway. This review aims to provide insight into recent findings of the protective and detrimental roles of the cGAS-STING pathway in intestinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Ivonne Peugnet-González
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Daniela Parada-Venegas
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Gerard Dijkstra
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Klaas Nico Faber
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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38
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Wang J, Li X, Wang F, Cheng M, Mao Y, Fang S, Wang L, Zhou C, Hou W, Chen Y. Placing steroid hormones within the human ABCC3 transporter reveals a compatible amphiphilic substrate-binding pocket. EMBO J 2023; 42:e113415. [PMID: 37485728 PMCID: PMC10476276 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2022113415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The human ABC transporter ABCC3 (also known as MRP3) transports a wide spectrum of substrates, including endogenous metabolites and exogenous drugs. Accordingly, it participates in multiple physiological processes and is involved in diverse human diseases such as intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, which is caused by the intracellular accumulation of bile acids and estrogens. Here, we report three cryogenic electron microscopy structures of ABCC3: in the apo-form and in complexed forms bound to either the conjugated sex hormones β-estradiol 17-(β-D-glucuronide) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. For both hormones, the steroid nuclei that superimpose against each other occupy the hydrophobic center of the transport cavity, whereas the two conjugation groups are separated and fixed by the hydrophilic patches in two transmembrane domains. Structural analysis combined with site-directed mutagenesis and ATPase activity assays revealed that ABCC3 possesses an amphiphilic substrate-binding pocket able to hold either conjugated hormone in an asymmetric pattern. These data build on consensus features of the substrate-binding pocket of MRPs and provide a structural platform for the rational design of inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, and Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui ProvinceUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Xu Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, and Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui ProvinceUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Fang‐Fang Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, and Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui ProvinceUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Meng‐Ting Cheng
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, and Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui ProvinceUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Yao‐Xu Mao
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, and Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui ProvinceUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Shu‐Cheng Fang
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, and Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui ProvinceUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Liang Wang
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui ProvinceUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Cong‐Zhao Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, and Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui ProvinceUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Wen‐Tao Hou
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, and Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui ProvinceUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
| | - Yuxing Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, and Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
- Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui ProvinceUniversity of Science and Technology of ChinaHefeiChina
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Tak U, Walth P, Whiteley AT. Bacterial cGAS-like enzymes produce 2',3'-cGAMP to activate an ion channel that restricts phage replication. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.24.550367. [PMID: 37546940 PMCID: PMC10402079 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.24.550367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian innate immune system uses cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) to synthesize the cyclic dinucleotide 2',3'-cGAMP during antiviral and antitumor immune responses. 2',3'-cGAMP is a nucleotide second messenger that initiates inflammatory signaling by binding to and activating the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) receptor. Bacteria also encode cGAS/DncV-like nucleotidyltransferases (CD-NTases) that produce nucleotide second messengers to initiate antiviral (antiphage) signaling. Bacterial CD-NTases produce a wide range of cyclic oligonucleotides but have not been documented to produce 2',3'-cGAMP. Here we discovered bacterial CD-NTases that produce 2',3'-cGAMP to restrict phage replication. Bacterial 2',3'-cGAMP binds to CD-NTase associated protein 14 (Cap14), a transmembrane protein of unknown function. Using electrophysiology, we show that Cap14 is a chloride-selective ion channel that is activated by 2',3'-cGAMP binding. Cap14 adopts a modular architecture, with an N-terminal transmembrane domain and a C-terminal nucleotide-binding SAVED domain. Domain-swapping experiments demonstrated the Cap14 transmembrane region could be substituted with a nuclease, thereby generating a biosensor that is selective for 2',3'-cGAMP. This study reveals that 2',3'-cGAMP signaling extends beyond metazoa to bacteria. Further, our findings suggest that transmembrane proteins of unknown function in bacterial immune pathways may broadly function as nucleotide-gated ion channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uday Tak
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Peace Walth
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Aaron T. Whiteley
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
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40
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Stagg J, Golden E, Wennerberg E, Demaria S. The interplay between the DNA damage response and ectonucleotidases modulates tumor response to therapy. Sci Immunol 2023; 8:eabq3015. [PMID: 37418547 PMCID: PMC10394739 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.abq3015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular nucleoside adenosine reduces tissue inflammation and is generated by irreversible dephosphorylation of adenosine monophosphate (AMP) mediated by the ectonucleotidase CD73. The pro-inflammatory nucleotides adenosine triphosphate, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, and cyclic guanosine -monophosphate-AMP (cGAMP), which are produced in the tumor microenvironment (TME) during therapy-induced immunogenic cell death and activation of innate immune signaling, can be converted into AMP by ectonucleotidases CD39, CD38, and CD203a/ENPP1. Thus, ectonucleotidases shape the TME by converting immune-activating signals into an immunosuppressive one. Ectonucleotidases also hinder the ability of therapies including radiation therapy, which enhance the release of pro-inflammatory nucleotides in the extracellular milieu, to induce immune-mediated tumor rejection. Here, we review the immunosuppressive effects of adenosine and the role of different ectonucleotidases in modulating antitumor immune responses. We discuss emerging opportunities to target adenosine generation and/or its ability to signal via adenosine receptors expressed by immune and cancer cells in the context of combination immunotherapy and radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Stagg
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de
l’Université de Montréal, 900 St-Denis street, Montreal,
Quebec, Canada, H2X 0A9
| | - Encouse Golden
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine,
New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Erik Wennerberg
- Division of Radiotherapy and Imaging, Institute of Cancer
Research, London SM2 5NG, UK
| | - Sandra Demaria
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Weill Cornell Medicine,
New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill
Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
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41
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Liu Y, Fei Y, Wang X, Yang B, Li M, Luo Z. Biomaterial-enabled therapeutic modulation of cGAS-STING signaling for enhancing antitumor immunity. Mol Ther 2023; 31:1938-1959. [PMID: 37002605 PMCID: PMC10362396 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
cGAS-STING signaling is a central component in the therapeutic action of most existing cancer therapies. The accumulated knowledge of tumor immunoregulatory network in recent years has spurred the development of cGAS-STING agonists for tumor treatment as an effective immunotherapeutic strategy. However, the clinical translation of these agonists is thus far unsatisfactory because of the low immunostimulatory efficacy and unrestricted side effects under clinically relevant conditions. Interestingly, the rational integration of biomaterial technology offers a promising approach to overcome these limitations for more effective and safer cGAS-STING-mediated tumor therapy. Herein, we first outline the cGAS-STING signaling axis and generally discuss its association with tumors. We then symmetrically summarize the recent progress in those biomaterial-based cGAS-STING agonism strategies to generate robust antitumor immunity, categorized by the chemical nature of those cGAS-STING stimulants and carrier substrates. Finally, a perspective is provided to discuss the existing challenges and potential opportunities in cGAS-STING modulation for tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingqi Liu
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China
| | - Yang Fei
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China
| | - Xuan Wang
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China
| | - Bingbing Yang
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China
| | - Menghuan Li
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China.
| | - Zhong Luo
- School of Life Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, P. R. China.
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42
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Chauvin SD, Stinson WA, Platt DJ, Poddar S, Miner JJ. Regulation of cGAS and STING signaling during inflammation and infection. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:104866. [PMID: 37247757 PMCID: PMC10316007 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is a sensor of cyclic dinucleotides including cyclic GMP-AMP, which is produced by cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) in response to cytosolic DNA. The cGAS-STING signaling pathway regulates both innate and adaptive immune responses, as well as fundamental cellular functions such as autophagy, senescence, and apoptosis. Mutations leading to constitutive activation of STING cause devastating human diseases. Thus, the cGAS-STING pathway is of great interest because of its role in diverse cellular processes and because of the potential therapeutic implications of targeting cGAS and STING. Here, we review molecular and cellular mechanisms of STING signaling, and we propose a framework for understanding the immunological and other cellular functions of STING in the context of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel D Chauvin
- Departments of Medicine and Microbiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - W Alexander Stinson
- Departments of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Derek J Platt
- Department Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Subhajit Poddar
- Departments of Medicine and Microbiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jonathan J Miner
- Departments of Medicine and Microbiology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Departments of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA; Department Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA; Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA.
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43
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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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44
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Kumar V, Bauer C, Stewart JH. Targeting cGAS/STING signaling-mediated myeloid immune cell dysfunction in TIME. J Biomed Sci 2023; 30:48. [PMID: 37380989 PMCID: PMC10304357 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-023-00942-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Myeloid immune cells (MICs) are potent innate immune cells serving as first responders to invading pathogens and internal changes to cellular homeostasis. Cancer is a stage of altered cellular homeostasis that can originate in response to different pathogens, chemical carcinogens, and internal genetic/epigenetic changes. MICs express several pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) on their membranes, cytosol, and organelles, recognizing systemic, tissue, and organ-specific altered homeostasis. cGAS/STING signaling is a cytosolic PRR system for identifying cytosolic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) in a sequence-independent but size-dependent manner. The longer the cytosolic dsDNA size, the stronger the cGAS/STING signaling activation with increased type 1 interferon (IFN) and NF-κB-dependent cytokines and chemokines' generation. The present article discusses tumor-supportive changes occurring in the tumor microenvironment (TME) or tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) MICs, specifically emphasizing cGAS/STING signaling-dependent alteration. The article further discusses utilizing MIC-specific cGAS/STING signaling modulation as critical tumor immunotherapy to alter TIME.
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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.
- Surgery, Section of Surgical Oncology, Louisiana State University New Orleans-Louisiana Children's Medical Center Cancer Center, Louisiana State University Health Science Center (LSUHSC), 1700 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, LA, 70012, USA.
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45
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Blest HTW, Chauveau L. cGAMP the travelling messenger. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1150705. [PMID: 37287967 PMCID: PMC10242147 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1150705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
2'3'-cGAMP is a key molecule in the cGAS-STING pathway. This cyclic dinucleotide is produced by the cytosolic DNA sensor cGAS in response to the presence of aberrant dsDNA in the cytoplasm which is associated with microbial invasion or cellular damage. 2'3'-cGAMP acts as a second messenger and activates STING, the central hub of DNA sensing, to induce type-I interferons and pro-inflammatory cytokines necessary for responses against infection, cancer or cellular stress. Classically, detection of pathogens or danger by pattern recognition receptors (PRR) was thought to signal and induce the production of interferon and pro-inflammatory cytokines in the cell where sensing occurred. These interferon and cytokines then signal in both an autocrine and paracrine manner to induce responses in neighboring cells. Deviating from this dogma, recent studies have identified multiple mechanisms by which 2'3'-cGAMP can travel to neighboring cells where it activates STING independent of DNA sensing by cGAS. This observation is of great importance, as the cGAS-STING pathway is involved in immune responses against microbial invaders and cancer while its dysregulation drives the pathology of a wide range of inflammatory diseases to which antagonists have been elusive. In this review, we describe the fast-paced discoveries of the mechanisms by which 2'3'-cGAMP can be transported. We further highlight the diseases where they are important and detail how this change in perspective can be applied to vaccine design, cancer immunotherapies and treatment of cGAS-STING associated disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry T. W. Blest
- Medical Research Council Human Immunology Unit, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lise Chauveau
- Institut de Recherche en Infectiologie de Montpellier (IRIM) - CNRS UMR 9004, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Xie W, Patel DJ. Structure-based mechanisms of 2'3'-cGAMP intercellular transport in the cGAS-STING immune pathway. Trends Immunol 2023; 44:450-467. [PMID: 37147228 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2023.04.006] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Upon activation by double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), the cytosolic dsDNA sensor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) synthesizes the diffusible cyclic dinucleotide 2'3'-cGAMP (cyclic GMP-AMP), which subsequently binds to the adaptor STING, triggering a cascade of events leading to an inflammatory response. Recent studies have highlighted the role of 2'3'-cGAMP as an 'immunotransmitter' between cells, a process facilitated by gap junctions as well as by specialized membrane-spanning importer and exporter channels. This review highlights recent advances from a structural perspective of intercellular trafficking of 2'3'-cGAMP, with particular emphasis on the binding of importer SLC19A1 to 2'3'-cGAMP, as well as the significance of associated folate nutrients and antifolate therapeutics. This provides a path forward for structure-guided understanding of the transport cycle in immunology, as well as for candidate targeting approaches towards therapeutic intervention in inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xie
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311027, China; Department of Infectious Diseases, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310009, China.
| | - Dinshaw J Patel
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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cGAS-STING signalling in cancer: striking a balance with chromosomal instability. Biochem Soc Trans 2023; 51:539-555. [PMID: 36876871 DOI: 10.1042/bst20220838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
Chromosomal instability (CIN) is a hallmark of cancer that drives tumour evolution. It is now recognised that CIN in cancer leads to the constitutive production of misplaced DNA in the form of micronuclei and chromatin bridges. These structures are detected by the nucleic acid sensor cGAS, leading to the production of the second messenger 2'3'-cGAMP and activation of the critical hub of innate immune signalling STING. Activation of this immune pathway should instigate the influx and activation of immune cells, resulting in the eradication of cancer cells. That this does not universally occur in the context of CIN remains an unanswered paradox in cancer. Instead, CIN-high cancers are notably adept at immune evasion and are highly metastatic with typically poor outcomes. In this review, we discuss the diverse facets of the cGAS-STING signalling pathway, including emerging roles in homeostatic processes and their intersection with genome stability regulation, its role as a driver of chronic pro-tumour inflammation, and crosstalk with the tumour microenvironment, which may collectively underlie its apparent maintenance in cancers. A better understanding of the mechanisms whereby this immune surveillance pathway is commandeered by chromosomally unstable cancers is critical to the identification of new vulnerabilities for therapeutic exploitation.
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48
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Patel DJ, Yu Y, Xie W. cGAMP-activated cGAS-STING signaling: its bacterial origins and evolutionary adaptation by metazoans. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2023; 30:245-260. [PMID: 36894694 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-023-00933-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
The metazoan cGAMP-activated cGAS-STING innate immunity pathway is triggered in response to genomic instability and DNA damage, thereby providing host defense against microbial pathogens. This pathway also impacts on autophagy, cellular senescence and antitumor immunity, while its overactivation triggers autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Metazoan cGAS generates cGAMP containing distinct combinations of 3'-5' and 2'-5' linkages, which target the adaptor protein STING and activate the innate immune response through a signaling cascade leading to upregulation of cytokine and interferon production. This Review highlights a structure-based mechanistic perspective of recent advances in cGAMP-activated cGAS-STING innate immune signaling by focusing on the cGAS sensor, cGAMP second messenger and STING adaptor components, thereby elucidating the specificity, activation, regulation and signal transduction features of the pathway. In addition, the Review addresses progress towards identification of inhibitors and activators targeting cGAS and STING, as well as strategies developed by pathogens to evade cGAS-STING immunity. Most importantly, it highlights cyclic nucleotide second messengers as ancient signaling molecules that elicit a potent innate immune response that originated in bacteria and evolved through evolutionary adaptation to metazoans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinshaw J Patel
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - You Yu
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Wei Xie
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Fan J, To KKW, Chen ZS, Fu L. ABC transporters affects tumor immune microenvironment to regulate cancer immunotherapy and multidrug resistance. Drug Resist Updat 2023; 66:100905. [PMID: 36463807 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2022.100905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Multidrug resistance (MDR) is the phenomenon in which cancer cells simultaneously develop resistance to a broad spectrum of structurally and mechanistically unrelated drugs. MDR severely hinders the effective treatment of cancer and is the major cause of chemotherapy failure. ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters are extensively expressed in various body tissues, and actively transport endogenous and exogenous substrates through biological membranes. Overexpression of ABC transporters is frequently observed in MDR cancer cells, which promotes efflux of chemotherapeutic drugs and reduces their intracellular accumulation. Increasing evidence suggests that ABC transporters regulate tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) by transporting various cytokines, thus controlling anti-tumor immunity and sensitivity to anticancer drugs. On the other hand, the expression of various ABC transporters is regulated by cytokines and other immune signaling molecules. Targeted inhibition of ABC transporter expression or function can enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors by promoting anticancer immune microenvironment. This review provides an update on the recent research progress in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China;Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute; Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China; Department of pharmacy, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Bio-characteristic Profiling for Evaluation of Rational Drug Use, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Kenneth Kin Wah To
- School of Pharmacy, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhe-Sheng Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, United States.
| | - Liwu Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China;Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangdong Esophageal Cancer Institute; Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou 510060, China.
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50
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The cGAS-STING pathway and cancer. NATURE CANCER 2022; 3:1452-1463. [PMID: 36510011 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-022-00468-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway has emerged as a critical innate immune pathway that, following engagement by DNA, promotes distinct immune effector responses that can impact virtually all aspects of tumorigenesis, from malignant cell transformation to metastasis. Here we address how natural tumor-associated processes and traditional cancer therapies are shaped by cGAS-STING signaling, and how this contributes to beneficial or detrimental outcomes of cancer. We consider current efforts to target the cGAS-STING axis in tumors and highlight new frontiers in cGAS-STING biology to inspire thinking about their connection to cancer.
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