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Nguyen NT, Le XT, Lee WT, Lim YT, Oh KT, Lee ES, Choi HG, Youn YS. STING-activating dendritic cell-targeted nanovaccines that evoke potent antigen cross-presentation for cancer immunotherapy. Bioact Mater 2024; 42:345-365. [PMID: 39290338 PMCID: PMC11406000 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2024.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Recently, nanovaccine-based immunotherapy has been robustly investigated due to its potential in governing the immune response and generating long-term protective immunity. However, the presentation of a tumor peptide-major histocompatibility complex to T lymphocytes is still a challenge that needs to be addressed for eliciting potent antitumor immunity. Type 1 conventional dendritic cell (cDC1) subset is of particular interest due to its pivotal contribution in the cross-presentation of exogenous antigens to CD8+ T cells. Here, the DC-derived nanovaccine (denoted as Si9GM) selectively targets cDC1s with marginal loss of premature antigen release for effective stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-mediated antigen cross-presentation. Bone marrow dendritic cell (BMDC)-derived membranes, conjugated to cDC1-specific antibody (αCLEC9A) and binding to tumor peptide (OVA257-264), are coated onto dendrimer-like polyethylenimine (PEI)-grafted silica nanoparticles. Distinct molecular weight-cargos (αCLEC9A-OVA257-264 conjugates and 2'3'-cGAMP STING agonists) are loaded in hierarchical center-radial pores that enables lysosome escape for potent antigen-cross presentation and activates interferon type I, respectively. Impressively, Si9GM vaccination leads to the upregulation of cytotoxic T cells, a reduction in tumor regulatory T cells (Tregs), M1/M2 macrophage polarization, and immune response that synergizes with αPD-1 immune checkpoint blockade. This nanovaccine fulfills a dual role for both direct T cell activation as an artificial antigen-presenting cell and DC subset maturation, indicating its utility in clinical therapy and precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Thi Nguyen
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Xuan Thien Le
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo Tak Lee
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Taik Lim
- Department of Nano Engineering and School of Chemical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung Taek Oh
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heukseok-ro, Dongjak-gu, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Seong Lee
- Department of Biotechnology and Department of Biomedical-Chemical Engineering, The Catholic University of Korea, 43 Jibong-ro, Bucheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Han-Gon Choi
- College of Pharmacy, Hanyang University, 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangnok-gu, Ansan, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu Seok Youn
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066 Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, 16419, Republic of Korea
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WANG ZHIGUO, LI KUNLIN, LU CONGHUA, FENG MINGXIA, LIN CAIYU, YIN GUOFANG, LUO DAN, LIU WENYI, JIN KAIYU, DOU YUANYAO, WU DI, ZHENG JIE, ZHANG KEJUN, LI LI, FAN XIANMING. Metformin promotes anti-tumor immunity in STK11 mutant NSCLC through AXIN1-dependent upregulation of multiple nucleotide metabolites. Oncol Res 2024; 32:1637-1648. [PMID: 39308524 PMCID: PMC11413838 DOI: 10.32604/or.2024.052664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Metformin has pleiotropic effects beyond glucose reduction, including tumor inhibition and immune regulation. It enhanced the anti-tumor effects of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors in serine/threonine kinase 11 (STK11) mutant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) through an axis inhibition protein 1 (AXIN1)-dependent manner. However, the alterations of tumor metabolism and metabolites upon metformin administration remain unclear. Methods We performed untargeted metabolomics using liquid chromatography (LC)-mass spectrometry (MS)/MS system and conducted cell experiments to verify the results of bioinformatics analysis. Results According to the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway database, most metabolites were annotated into metabolism, including nucleotide metabolism. Next, the differentially expressed metabolites in H460 (refers to H460 cells), H460_met (refers to metformin-treated H460 cells), and H460_KO_met (refers to metformin-treated Axin1 -/- H460 cells) were distributed into six clusters based on expression patterns. The clusters with a reversed expression pattern upon metformin treatment were selected for further analysis. We screened out metabolic pathways through KEGG pathway enrichment analysis and found that multiple nucleotide metabolites enriched in this pathway were upregulated. Furthermore, these metabolites enhanced the cytotoxicity of activated T cells on H460 cells in vitro and can activate the stimulator of the interferon genes (STING) pathway independently of AXIN1. Conclusion Relying on AXIN1, metformin upregulated multiple nucleotide metabolites which promoted STING signaling and the killing of activated T cells in STK11 mutant NSCLC, indicating a potential immunotherapeutic strategy for STK11 mutant NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- ZHIGUO WANG
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - KUNLIN LI
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - CONGHUA LU
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - MINGXIA FENG
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - CAIYU LIN
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - GUOFANG YIN
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - DAN LUO
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - WENYI LIU
- Department of Trauma Medical Center, Daping Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - KAIYU JIN
- Department of Respiratory Disease, People’s Hospital of Xuyong County, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - YUANYAO DOU
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - DI WU
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - JIE ZHENG
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - KEJUN ZHANG
- Department of Outpatients, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - LI LI
- Department of Respiratory Disease, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - XIANMING FAN
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
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Wu X, Stabile LP, Burns TF. The Emerging Role of Immune Checkpoint Blockade for the Treatment of Lung Cancer Brain Metastases. Clin Lung Cancer 2024; 25:483-501. [PMID: 38991863 DOI: 10.1016/j.cllc.2024.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Lung cancer has the highest incidence of brain metastases (BM) among solid organ cancers. Traditionally whole brain radiation therapy has been utilized for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) BM treatment, although stereotactic radiosurgery has emerged as the superior treatment modality for most patients. Highly penetrant central nervous system (CNS) tyrosine kinase inhibitors have also shown significant CNS activity in patients harboring select oncogenic drivers. There is emerging evidence that patients without oncogene-driven tumors derive benefit from the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). The CNS activity of ICIs have not been well studied given exclusion of patients with active BM from landmark trials, due to concerns of inadequate CNS penetration and activity. However, studies have challenged the idea of an immune-privileged CNS, given the presence of functional lymphatic drainage within the CNS and destruction of the blood brain barrier by BM. An emerging understanding of the interactions between tumor and CNS immune cells in the BM tumor microenvironment also support a role for immunotherapy in BM treatment. In addition, posthoc analyses of major trials have shown improved intracranial response and survival benefit of regimens with ICIs over chemotherapy (CT) alone for patients with BM. Two prospective phase 2 trials evaluating pembrolizumab monotherapy and atezolizumab plus CT in patients with untreated NSCLC BM also demonstrated significant intracranial responses. This review describes the interplay between CNS immune cells and tumor cells, discusses current evidence for ICI CNS activity from retrospective and prospective studies, and speculates on future directions of investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiancheng Wu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Laura P Stabile
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA; UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Timothy F Burns
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.
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Yu L, Liu P. cGAS/STING signalling pathway in senescence and oncogenesis. Semin Cancer Biol 2024; 106-107:87-102. [PMID: 39222763 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2024.08.007] [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: 08/09/2024] [Revised: 08/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The cGAS/STING signaling pathway is a crucial component of the innate immune system, playing significant roles in sensing cytosolic DNA, regulating cellular senescence, and contributing to oncogenesis. Recent advances have shed new lights into the molecular mechanisms governing pathway activation in multiple pathophysiological settings, the indispensable roles of cGAS/STING signaling in cellular senescence, and its context-dependent roles in cancer development and suppression. This review summarizes current knowledge related to the biology of cGAS/STING signaling pathway and its participations into senescence and oncogenesis. We further explore the clinical implications and therapeutic potential for cGAS/STING targeted therapies, and faced challenges in the field. With a focus on molecular mechanisms and emerging pharmacological targets, this review underscores the importance of future studies to harness the therapeutic potential of the cGAS/STING pathway in treating senescence-related disorders and cancer. Advanced understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of cGAS/STING signaling, along with the associated deregulations in diseases, combined with the development of new classes of cGAS/STING modulators, hold great promises for creating novel and effective therapeutic strategies. These advancements could address current treatment challenges and unlock the full potential of cGAS/STING in treating senescence-related disorders and oncogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Yu
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Pengda Liu
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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Gong N, Alameh MG, El-Mayta R, Xue L, Weissman D, Mitchell MJ. Enhancing in situ cancer vaccines using delivery technologies. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024; 23:607-625. [PMID: 38951662 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-024-00974-9] [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] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
In situ cancer vaccination refers to any approach that exploits tumour antigens available at a tumour site to induce tumour-specific adaptive immune responses. These approaches hold great promise for the treatment of many solid tumours, with numerous candidate drugs under preclinical or clinical evaluation and several products already approved. However, there are challenges in the development of effective in situ cancer vaccines. For example, inadequate release of tumour antigens from tumour cells limits antigen uptake by immune cells; insufficient antigen processing by antigen-presenting cells restricts the generation of antigen-specific T cell responses; and the suppressive immune microenvironment of the tumour leads to exhaustion and death of effector cells. Rationally designed delivery technologies such as lipid nanoparticles, hydrogels, scaffolds and polymeric nanoparticles are uniquely suited to overcome these challenges through the targeted delivery of therapeutics to tumour cells, immune cells or the extracellular matrix. Here, we discuss delivery technologies that have the potential to reduce various clinical barriers for in situ cancer vaccines. We also provide our perspective on this emerging field that lies at the interface of cancer vaccine biology and delivery technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningqiang Gong
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, Center for BioAnalytical Chemistry, Hefei National Research Center for Physical Science at the Microscale, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Mohamad-Gabriel Alameh
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Penn institute for RNA innovation, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Rakan El-Mayta
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lulu Xue
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Drew Weissman
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Penn institute for RNA innovation, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Michael J Mitchell
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Penn institute for RNA innovation, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Institute for Immunology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Cardiovascular Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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6
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Wang D, Deng X, Wang J, Che S, Ma X, Zhang S, Dong Q, Huang C, Chen J, Shi C, Zhang MR, Hu K, Luo L, Xiao Z. Environmentally responsive hydrogel promotes vascular normalization to enhance STING anti-tumor immunity. J Control Release 2024; 372:403-416. [PMID: 38914207 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.06.052] [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: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
The immunosuppressive microenvironment of malignant tumors severely hampers the effectiveness of anti-tumor therapy. Moreover, abnormal tumor vasculature interacts with immune cells, forming a vicious cycle that further interferes with anti-tumor immunity and promotes tumor progression. Our pre-basic found excellent anti-tumor effects of c-di-AMP and RRx-001, respectively, and we further explored whether they could be combined synergistically for anti-tumor immunotherapy. We chose to load these two drugs on PVA-TSPBA hydrogel scaffolds that expressly release drugs within the tumor microenvironment by in situ injection. Studies have shown that c-di-AMP activates the STING pathway, enhances immune cell infiltration, and reverses tumor immunosuppression. Meanwhile, RRx-001 releases nitric oxide, which increases oxidative stress injury in tumor cells and promotes apoptosis. Moreover, the combination of the two presented more powerful pro-vascular normalization and reversed tumor immunosuppression than the drug alone. This study demonstrates a new design option for anti-tumor combination therapy and the potential of tumor environmentally responsive hydrogel scaffolds in combination with anti-tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duo Wang
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiujiao Deng
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Department of Pharmacy, The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Chronic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Jinghao Wang
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Department of Pharmacy, The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Translational Research on Chronic Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Shuang Che
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaocong Ma
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Department of Radiology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (Shenhe People's Hospital), Heyuan 517000, China
| | - Siqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Qiu Dong
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Cuiqing Huang
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jifeng Chen
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Changzheng Shi
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
| | - Ming-Rong Zhang
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, Institute of Quantum Medical, Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba 2638555, Japan
| | - Kuan Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.
| | - Liangping Luo
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Department of Radiology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (Shenhe People's Hospital), Heyuan 517000, China.
| | - Zeyu Xiao
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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Godakhindi V, Tarannum M, Dam SK, Vivero-Escoto JL. Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as an Ideal Platform for Cancer Immunotherapy: Recent Advances and Future Directions. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2400323. [PMID: 38653190 PMCID: PMC11305940 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202400323] [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: 01/27/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy recently transforms the traditional approaches against various cancer malignancies. Immunotherapy includes systemic and local treatments to enhance immune responses against cancer and involves strategies such as immune checkpoints, cancer vaccines, immune modulatory agents, mimetic antigen-presenting cells, and adoptive cell therapy. Despite promising results, these approaches still suffer from several limitations including lack of precise delivery of immune-modulatory agents to the target cells and off-target toxicity, among others, that can be overcome using nanotechnology. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) are investigated to improve various aspects of cancer immunotherapy attributed to the advantageous structural features of this nanomaterial. MSNs can be engineered to alter their properties such as size, shape, porosity, surface functionality, and adjuvanticity. This review explores the immunological properties of MSNs and the use of MSNs as delivery vehicles for immune-adjuvants, vaccines, and mimetic antigen-presenting cells (APCs). The review also details the current strategies to remodel the tumor microenvironment to positively reciprocate toward the anti-tumor immune cells and the use of MSNs for immunotherapy in combination with other anti-tumor therapies including photodynamic/thermal therapies to enhance the therapeutic effect against cancer. Last, the present demands and future scenarios for the use of MSNs for cancer immunotherapy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varsha Godakhindi
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
- Nanoscale Science Program, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
| | - Mubin Tarannum
- Division of Medical Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Sudip Kumar Dam
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
- Nanoscale Science Program, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
| | - Juan L Vivero-Escoto
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
- Nanoscale Science Program, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
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8
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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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Mutlu M, Schmidt I, Morrison AI, Goretzki B, Freuler F, Begue D, Simic O, Pythoud N, Ahrne E, Kapps S, Roest S, Bonenfant D, Jeanpierre D, Tran TTT, Maher R, An S, Rietsch A, Nigsch F, Hofmann A, Reece-Hoyes J, Parker CN, Guerini D. Small molecule induced STING degradation facilitated by the HECT ligase HERC4. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4584. [PMID: 38811577 PMCID: PMC11137104 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48922-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is a central component of the cytosolic nucleic acids sensing pathway and as such master regulator of the type I interferon response. Due to its critical role in physiology and its' involvement in a variety of diseases, STING has been a focus for drug discovery. Targeted protein degradation (TPD) has emerged as a promising pharmacology for targeting previously considered undruggable proteins by hijacking the cellular ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) with small molecules. Here, we identify AK59 as a STING degrader leveraging HERC4, a HECT-domain E3 ligase. Additionally, our data reveals that AK59 is effective on the common pathological STING mutations, suggesting a potential clinical application of this mechanism. Thus, these findings introduce HERC4 to the fields of TPD and of compound-induced degradation of STING, suggesting potential therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merve Mutlu
- Novartis BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland.
| | | | - Andrew I Morrison
- Novartis BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
- Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Molecular Cell Biology & Immunology, Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, De Boelelaan, 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Damien Begue
- Novartis BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Simic
- Novartis BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Erik Ahrne
- Novartis BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sandra Kapps
- Novartis BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Susan Roest
- Novartis BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Debora Bonenfant
- Novartis BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
- Monte Rosa Therapeutics, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Rob Maher
- Novartis BioMedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Shaojian An
- Novartis BioMedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | - John Reece-Hoyes
- Novartis BioMedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Vector Biology, Cambridge, MA, USA
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Zhou Y, Li Q, Wu Y, Zhang W, Ding L, Ji C, Li P, Chen T, Feng L, Tang BZ, Huang X. Synergistic Brilliance: Engineered Bacteria and Nanomedicine Unite in Cancer Therapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2313953. [PMID: 38400833 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202313953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Engineered bacteria are widely used in cancer treatment because live facultative/obligate anaerobes can selectively proliferate at tumor sites and reach hypoxic regions, thereby causing nutritional competition, enhancing immune responses, and producing anticancer microbial agents in situ to suppress tumor growth. Despite the unique advantages of bacteria-based cancer biotherapy, the insufficient treatment efficiency limits its application in the complete ablation of malignant tumors. The combination of nanomedicine and engineered bacteria has attracted increasing attention owing to their striking synergistic effects in cancer treatment. Engineered bacteria that function as natural vehicles can effectively deliver nanomedicines to tumor sites. Moreover, bacteria provide an opportunity to enhance nanomedicines by modulating the TME and producing substrates to support nanomedicine-mediated anticancer reactions. Nanomedicine exhibits excellent optical, magnetic, acoustic, and catalytic properties, and plays an important role in promoting bacteria-mediated biotherapies. The synergistic anticancer effects of engineered bacteria and nanomedicines in cancer therapy are comprehensively summarized in this review. Attention is paid not only to the fabrication of nanobiohybrid composites, but also to the interpromotion mechanism between engineered bacteria and nanomedicine in cancer therapy. Additionally, recent advances in engineered bacteria-synergized multimodal cancer therapies are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaofeng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, School of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, P. R. China
| | - Qianying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, School of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, P. R. China
| | - Yuhao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, School of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, P. R. China
| | - Wan Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, P. R. China
| | - Lu Ding
- Department of Cardiology, Jiangxi Hypertension Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, P. R. China
| | - Chenlin Ji
- School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou, 310030, P. R. China
| | - Ping Li
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, School of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, P. R. China
| | - Tingtao Chen
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330036, P. R. China
| | - Lili Feng
- Key Laboratory of Superlight Materials and Surface Technology Ministry of Education, College of Material Sciences and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin, 150001, P. R. China
| | - Ben Zhong Tang
- School of Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen (CUHK-Shenzhen), Guangdong, 518172, P. R. China
| | - Xiaolin Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, School of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330047, P. R. China
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11
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Sheehy TL, Kwiatkowski AJ, Arora K, Kimmel BR, Schulman JA, Gibson-Corley K, Wilson JT. STING-Activating Polymer-Drug Conjugates for Cancer Immunotherapy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.23.585817. [PMID: 38585879 PMCID: PMC10996458 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.23.585817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway links innate and adaptive antitumor immunity and therefore plays an important role in cancer immune surveillance. This has prompted widespread development of STING agonists for cancer immunotherapy, but pharmacological barriers continue to limit the clinical impact of STING agonists and motivate the development of drug delivery systems to improve their efficacy and/or safety. To address this challenge, we developed SAPCon, a STING-activating polymer-drug conjugate platform based on strain-promoted azide-alkyne cycloaddition of dimeric-amidobenzimidazole (diABZI) STING agonists to hydrophilic polymer chains through an enzyme-responsive chemical linker. To synthesize a first-generation SAPCon, we designed a diABZI prodrug modified with a DBCO reactive handle a cathepsin B-cleavable spacer for intracellular drug release and conjugated this to pendant azide groups on a 100 kDa poly(dimethyla acrylamide-co-azide methacrylate) copolymer backbone to increase circulation time and enable passive tumor accumulation. We found that intravenously administered SAPCon accumulated at tumor sites where they it was endocytosed by tumor-associated myeloid cells, resulting in increased STING activation in tumor tissue compared to a free diABZI STING agonist. Consequently, SAPCon promoted an immunogenic tumor microenvironment, characterized by increased frequency of activated macrophages and dendritic cells and improved infiltration of CD8+ T cells, resulting in inhibition of tumor growth, prolonged survival, and increased response to anti-PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade in orthotopic models of breast cancer. Collectively, these studies position SAPCon as a modular and programmable platform for improving the efficacy of systemically administered STING agonists for cancer immunotherapy.
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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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13
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Zhou F, Huang L, Li S, Yang W, Chen F, Cai Z, Liu X, Xu W, Lehto V, Lächelt U, Huang R, Shi Y, Lammers T, Tao W, Xu ZP, Wagner E, Xu Z, Yu H. From structural design to delivery: mRNA therapeutics for cancer immunotherapy. EXPLORATION (BEIJING, CHINA) 2024; 4:20210146. [PMID: 38855617 PMCID: PMC11022630 DOI: 10.1002/exp.20210146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
mRNA therapeutics have emerged as powerful tools for cancer immunotherapy in accordance with their superiority in expressing all sequence-known proteins in vivo. In particular, with a small dosage of delivered mRNA, antigen-presenting cells (APCs) can synthesize mutant neo-antigens and multi-antigens and present epitopes to T lymphocytes to elicit antitumor effects. In addition, expressing receptors like chimeric antigen receptor (CAR), T-cell receptor (TCR), CD134, and immune-modulating factors including cytokines, interferons, and antibodies in specific cells can enhance immunological response against tumors. With the maturation of in vitro transcription (IVT) technology, large-scale and pure mRNA encoding specific proteins can be synthesized quickly. However, the clinical translation of mRNA-based anticancer strategies is restricted by delivering mRNA into target organs or cells and the inadequate endosomal escape efficiency of mRNA. Recently, there have been some advances in mRNA-based cancer immunotherapy, which can be roughly classified as modifications of the mRNA structure and the development of delivery systems, especially the lipid nanoparticle platforms. In this review, the latest strategies for overcoming the limitations of mRNA-based cancer immunotherapies and the recent advances in delivering mRNA into specific organs and cells are summarized. Challenges and opportunities for clinical applications of mRNA-based cancer immunotherapy are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Lujia Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Shiqin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Wenfang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
| | - Fangmin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Zhixiong Cai
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian ProvinceMengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Xiaolong Liu
- The United Innovation of Mengchao Hepatobiliary Technology Key Laboratory of Fujian ProvinceMengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical UniversityFuzhouChina
| | - Wujun Xu
- Department of Applied PhysicsUniversity of Eastern FinlandKuopioFinland
| | - Vesa‐Pekka Lehto
- Department of Applied PhysicsUniversity of Eastern FinlandKuopioFinland
| | - Ulrich Lächelt
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Rongqin Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Smart Drug DeliveryMinistry of Education, Fudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yang Shi
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular ImagingRWTH Aachen University ClinicAachenGermany
| | - Twan Lammers
- Department of Nanomedicine and Theranostics, Institute for Experimental Molecular ImagingRWTH Aachen University ClinicAachenGermany
| | - Wei Tao
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anaesthesiology, Brigham and Women's HospitalHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Zhi Ping Xu
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering and Institute of Systems and Physical BiologyShenzhen Bay LaboratoryShenzhenChina
| | - Ernst Wagner
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Center for NanoscienceLudwig‐Maximilians‐UniversitätMunichGermany
| | - Zhiai Xu
- School of Chemistry and Molecular EngineeringEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Haijun Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia MedicaChinese Academy of SciencesShanghaiChina
- University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijingChina
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14
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Hu A, Sun L, Lin H, Liao Y, Yang H, Mao Y. Harnessing innate immune pathways for therapeutic advancement in cancer. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:68. [PMID: 38523155 PMCID: PMC10961329 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01765-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The innate immune pathway is receiving increasing attention in cancer therapy. This pathway is ubiquitous across various cell types, not only in innate immune cells but also in adaptive immune cells, tumor cells, and stromal cells. Agonists targeting the innate immune pathway have shown profound changes in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and improved tumor prognosis in preclinical studies. However, to date, the clinical success of drugs targeting the innate immune pathway remains limited. Interestingly, recent studies have shown that activation of the innate immune pathway can paradoxically promote tumor progression. The uncertainty surrounding the therapeutic effectiveness of targeted drugs for the innate immune pathway is a critical issue that needs immediate investigation. In this review, we observe that the role of the innate immune pathway demonstrates heterogeneity, linked to the tumor development stage, pathway status, and specific cell types. We propose that within the TME, the innate immune pathway exhibits multidimensional diversity. This diversity is fundamentally rooted in cellular heterogeneity and is manifested as a variety of signaling networks. The pro-tumor effect of innate immune pathway activation essentially reflects the suppression of classical pathways and the activation of potential pro-tumor alternative pathways. Refining our understanding of the tumor's innate immune pathway network and employing appropriate targeting strategies can enhance our ability to harness the anti-tumor potential of the innate immune pathway and ultimately bridge the gap from preclinical to clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankang Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Institute for Translational Brain Research, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Hao Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Yuheng Liao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism (Ministry of Science and Technology), and Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine (Ministry of Education), and Molecular and Cell Biology Lab, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- Institute for Translational Brain Research, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
| | - Ying Mao
- Department of Neurosurgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- National Center for Neurological Disorders, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Brain Function Restoration and Neural Regeneration, Shanghai Clinical Medical Center of Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Institute of Fudan University, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, P.R. China.
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15
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Tsuchikama K, Anami Y, Ha SYY, Yamazaki CM. Exploring the next generation of antibody-drug conjugates. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2024; 21:203-223. [PMID: 38191923 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-023-00850-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are a promising cancer treatment modality that enables the selective delivery of highly cytotoxic payloads to tumours. However, realizing the full potential of this platform necessitates innovative molecular designs to tackle several clinical challenges such as drug resistance, tumour heterogeneity and treatment-related adverse effects. Several emerging ADC formats exist, including bispecific ADCs, conditionally active ADCs (also known as probody-drug conjugates), immune-stimulating ADCs, protein-degrader ADCs and dual-drug ADCs, and each offers unique capabilities for tackling these various challenges. For example, probody-drug conjugates can enhance tumour specificity, whereas bispecific ADCs and dual-drug ADCs can address resistance and heterogeneity with enhanced activity. The incorporation of immune-stimulating and protein-degrader ADCs, which have distinct mechanisms of action, into existing treatment strategies could enable multimodal cancer treatment. Despite the promising outlook, the importance of patient stratification and biomarker identification cannot be overstated for these emerging ADCs, as these factors are crucial to identify patients who are most likely to derive benefit. As we continue to deepen our understanding of tumour biology and refine ADC design, we will edge closer to developing truly effective and safe ADCs for patients with treatment-refractory cancers. In this Review, we highlight advances in each ADC component (the monoclonal antibody, payload, linker and conjugation chemistry) and provide more-detailed discussions on selected examples of emerging novel ADCs of each format, enabled by engineering of one or more of these components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoji Tsuchikama
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Yasuaki Anami
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Summer Y Y Ha
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chisato M Yamazaki
- Texas Therapeutics Institute, The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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16
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Ding L, Qian J, Yu X, Wu Q, Mao J, Liu X, Wang Y, Guo D, Su R, Xie H, Yin S, Zhou L, Zheng S. Blocking MARCO + tumor-associated macrophages improves anti-PD-L1 therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma by promoting the activation of STING-IFN type I pathway. Cancer Lett 2024; 582:216568. [PMID: 38065400 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The PD-L1/PD-1 axis is a classic immunotherapy target. However, anti-PD-L1/PD-1 therapy alone can not achieve satisfactory results in solid tumors, especially liver cancer. Among the several factors involved in tumor anti-PD-L1/PD-1 treatment resistance, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) have attracted attention because of their immunosuppressive ability. TAMs with a macrophage receptor with a collagenous structure (MARCO) are a macrophage subset group with strong immunosuppressive abilities. Clinical specimens and animal experiments revealed a negative correlation between MARCO + TAMs and patient prognosis with liver cancer. Transcriptional data and in vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that MARCO + TAM immunosuppressive ability was related to secretion. MARCO suppressed IFN-β secretion from TAMs, reducing antigen presentation molecule expression, infiltration, and CD8+T cell dysfunction, thus producing an immunosuppressive microenvironment in liver cancer. MARCO can promote dying tumor cell clearance by macrophages, reducing tumor-derived cGAMP and ATP accumulation in the tumor microenvironment and inhibiting sting-IFN-β pathway activation mediated by P2X7R in MARCO+TAMs. Animal experiments revealed that the MARCO and PD-L1 monoclonal antibody combination could significantly inhibit liver cancer growth. Conclusively, targeting MARCO+TAMs can significantly improve anti-PD-L1 resistance in liver cancer, making it a potential novel immune target for liver cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limin Ding
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Junjie Qian
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xizhi Yu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qinchuan Wu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jing Mao
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xi Liu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yubo Wang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Danjing Guo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Rong Su
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Haiyang Xie
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Shengyong Yin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
| | - ShuSen Zheng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
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17
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Liu J, Zhou J, Luan Y, Li X, Meng X, Liao W, Tang J, Wang Z. cGAS-STING, inflammasomes and pyroptosis: an overview of crosstalk mechanism of activation and regulation. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:22. [PMID: 38195584 PMCID: PMC10775518 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01466-w] [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: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intracellular DNA-sensing pathway cGAS-STING, inflammasomes and pyroptosis act as critical natural immune signaling axes for microbial infection, chronic inflammation, cancer progression and organ degeneration, but the mechanism and regulation of the crosstalk network remain unclear. Cellular stress disrupts mitochondrial homeostasis, facilitates the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition pore and the leakage of mitochondrial DNA to cell membrane, triggers inflammatory responses by activating cGAS-STING signaling, and subsequently induces inflammasomes activation and the onset of pyroptosis. Meanwhile, the inflammasome-associated protein caspase-1, Gasdermin D, the CARD domain of ASC and the potassium channel are involved in regulating cGAS-STING pathway. Importantly, this crosstalk network has a cascade amplification effect that exacerbates the immuno-inflammatory response, worsening the pathological process of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Given the importance of this crosstalk network of cGAS-STING, inflammasomes and pyroptosis in the regulation of innate immunity, it is emerging as a new avenue to explore the mechanisms of multiple disease pathogenesis. Therefore, efforts to define strategies to selectively modulate cGAS-STING, inflammasomes and pyroptosis in different disease settings have been or are ongoing. In this review, we will describe how this mechanistic understanding is driving possible therapeutics targeting this crosstalk network, focusing on the interacting or regulatory proteins, pathways, and a regulatory mitochondrial hub between cGAS-STING, inflammasomes, and pyroptosis. SHORT CONCLUSION This review aims to provide insight into the critical roles and regulatory mechanisms of the crosstalk network of cGAS-STING, inflammasomes and pyroptosis, and to highlight some promising directions for future research and intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Liu
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China
| | - Jing Zhou
- The Second Hospital of Ningbo, Ningbo, 315099, China
| | - Yuling Luan
- Putuo Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xiaoying Li
- Yueyang Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Xiangrui Meng
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China
| | - Wenhao Liao
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China
| | - Jianyuan Tang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China.
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China.
| | - Zheilei Wang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China.
- TCM Regulating Metabolic Diseases Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610075, China.
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18
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Reghu G, Vemula PK, Bhat SG, Narayanan S. Harnessing the innate immune system by revolutionizing macrophage-mediated cancer immunotherapy. J Biosci 2024; 49:63. [PMID: 38864238 PMCID: PMC11286319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy is a promising and safer alternative to conventional cancer therapies. It involves adaptive T-cell therapy, cancer vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) based therapies. However, most of these modalities encounter restrictions in solid tumours owing to a dense, highly hypoxic and immune-suppressive microenvironment as well as the heterogeneity of tumour antigens. The elevated intra-tumoural pressure and mutational rates within fastgrowing solid tumours present challenges in efficient drug targeting and delivery. The tumour microenvironment is a dynamic niche infiltrated by a variety of immune cells, most of which are macrophages. Since they form a part of the innate immune system, targeting macrophages has become a plausible immunotherapeutic approach. In this review, we discuss several versatile approaches (both at pre-clinical and clinical stages) such as the direct killing of tumour-associated macrophages, reprogramming pro-tumour macrophages to anti-tumour phenotypes, inhibition of macrophage recruitment into the tumour microenvironment, novel CAR macrophages, and genetically engineered macrophages that have been devised thus far. These strategies comprise a strong and adaptable macrophage-toolkit in the ongoing fight against cancer and by understanding their significance, we may unlock the full potential of these immune cells in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayatri Reghu
- Department of Biotechnology, Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi 682 022, India
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19
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Huang C, Shao N, Huang Y, Chen J, Wang D, Hu G, Zhang H, Luo L, Xiao Z. Overcoming challenges in the delivery of STING agonists for cancer immunotherapy: A comprehensive review of strategies and future perspectives. Mater Today Bio 2023; 23:100839. [PMID: 38024837 PMCID: PMC10630661 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
STING (Stimulator of Interferon Genes) agonists have emerged as promising agents in the field of cancer immunotherapy, owing to their excellent capacity to activate the innate immune response and combat tumor-induced immunosuppression. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of the strategies employed to develop effective formulations for STING agonists, with particular emphasis on versatile nano-delivery systems. The recent advancements in delivery systems based on lipids, natural/synthetic polymers, and proteins for STING agonists are summarized. The preparation methodologies of nanoprecipitation, self-assembly, and hydrogel, along with their advantages and disadvantages, are also discussed. Furthermore, the challenges and opportunities in developing next-generation STING agonist delivery systems are elaborated. This review aims to serve as a reference for researchers in designing novel and effective STING agonist delivery systems for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuiqing Huang
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
- Department of Ultrasound, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, 511400, China
| | - Ni Shao
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yanyu Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Jifeng Chen
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Duo Wang
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Genwen Hu
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
- Department of Radiology, Shenzhen People's Hospital, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen, 518020, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Interventional Vascular Surgery, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Dongguan, 523560, China
| | - Liangping Luo
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Zeyu Xiao
- The Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Molecular and Functional Imaging for Clinical Translation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
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20
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Xie W, Lama L, Yang X, Kuryavyi V, Bhattacharya S, Nudelman I, Yang G, Ouerfelli O, Glickman JF, Jones RA, Tuschl T, Patel DJ. Arabinose- and xylose-modified analogs of 2',3'-cGAMP act as STING agonists. Cell Chem Biol 2023; 30:1366-1376.e7. [PMID: 37536341 PMCID: PMC10808274 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists are promising candidates for vaccine adjuvants and antitumor immune stimulants. The most potent natural agonist of STING, 2',3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (2',3'-cGAMP), is subject to nuclease-mediated inherent metabolic instability, thereby placing limits on its clinical efficacy. Here, we report on a new class of chemically synthesized sugar-modified analogs of 2',3'-cGAMP containing arabinose and xylose sugar derivatives that bind mouse and human STING alleles with high affinity. The co-crystal structures demonstrate that such analogs act as 2',3'-cGAMP mimetics that induce the "closed" conformation of human STING. These analogs show significant resistance to hydrolysis mediated by ENPP1 and increased stability in human serum, while retaining similar potency as 2',3'-cGAMP at inducing IFN-β secretion from human THP1 cells. The arabinose- and xylose-modified 2',3'-cGAMP analogs open a new strategy for overcoming the inherent nuclease-mediated vulnerability of natural ribose cyclic nucleotides, with the additional benefit of high translational potential as cancer therapeutics and vaccine adjuvants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xie
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA; College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lodoe Lama
- Laboratory of RNA Molecular Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Xuejing Yang
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Vitaly Kuryavyi
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | - Ilona Nudelman
- High-Throughput and Spectroscopy Resource Center, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Guangli Yang
- Organic Synthesis Core Facility, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Ouathek Ouerfelli
- Organic Synthesis Core Facility, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - J Fraser Glickman
- High-Throughput and Spectroscopy Resource Center, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Roger A Jones
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA.
| | - Thomas Tuschl
- Laboratory of RNA Molecular Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| | - Dinshaw J Patel
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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21
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Zhou S, Cheng F, Zhang Y, Su T, Zhu G. Engineering and Delivery of cGAS-STING Immunomodulators for the Immunotherapy of Cancer and Autoimmune Diseases. Acc Chem Res 2023; 56:2933-2943. [PMID: 37802125 PMCID: PMC10882213 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.3c00394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator interferon gene (cGAS-STING) pathway is an emerging therapeutic target for the prophylaxis and therapy of a variety of diseases, ranging from cancer, infectious diseases, to autoimmune disorders. As a cytosolic double stranded DNA (dsDNA) sensor, cGAS can bind with relatively long dsDNA, resulting in conformational change and activation of cGAS. Activated cGAS catalyzes the conversion of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and guanosine triphosphate (GTP) into cGAMP, a cyclic dinucleotide (CDN). CDNs, including 2'3'-cGAMP, stimulate adapter protein STING on the endoplasmic membrane, triggering interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) phosphorylation and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation. This results in antitumor and antiviral type I interferon (IFN-I) responses. Moreover, cGAS-STING overactivation and the resulting IFN-I responses have been associated with a number of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. This makes cGAS-STING appealing immunomodulatory targets for the prophylaxis and therapy of various related diseases. However, drug development of CDNs and CDN derivatives is challenged by their limited biostability, difficult formulation, poor pharmacokinetics, and inefficient tissue accumulation and cytosolic delivery. Though recent synthetic small molecular CDN- or non-CDN-based STING agonists have been reported with promising preclinical therapeutic efficacy, their therapeutic efficacy and safety remain to be fully evaluated preclinically and clinically. Therefore, it is highly desirable and clinically significant to advance drug development for cGAS-STING activation by innovative approaches, such as drug delivery systems and drug development for pharmacological immunomodulation of cGAS. In this Account, we summarize our recent research in the engineering and delivery of immunostimulatory or immunoregulatory modulators for cGAS and STING for the immunotherapy of cancer and autoimmune diseases. To improve the delivery efficiency of CDNs, we developed ionizable and pH-responsive polymeric nanocarriers to load STING agonists, aiming to improve the cellular uptake and facilitate the endosomal escape to induce efficient STING activation. We also codelivered STING agonists with complementary immunostimulatants in nanoparticle-in-hydrogel composites to synergetically elicit potent innate and adaptive antitumor responses that eradicate local and distant large tumors. Further, taking advantage of the simplicity of manufacturing and the established nucleic acid delivery system, we developed oligonucleotide-based cGAS agonists as immunostimulant immunotherapeutics as well as adjuvants for peptide antigens for cancer immunotherapy. To suppress the overly strong proinflammatory responses associated with cGAS-STING overactivation in some of the autoimmune disorders, we devised nanomedicine-in-hydrogel (NiH) that codelivers a cGAS inhibitor and cell-free DNA (cfDNA)-scavenging cationic nanoparticles (cNPs) for systemic immunosuppression in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) therapy. Lastly, we discussed current drug development by targeting cGAS-STING for cancer, infectious diseases, and autoimmune diseases, as well as the potential opportunities for utilizing cGAS-STING pathway for versatile applications in disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shurong Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy; Biointerfaces Institute. University of Michigan. Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Furong Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 31002, China
| | - Ting Su
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298, United States
| | - Guizhi Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy; Biointerfaces Institute. University of Michigan. Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
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22
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Ma M, Dang Y, Chang B, Wang F, Xu J, Chen L, Su H, Li J, Ge B, Chen C, Liu H. TAK1 is an essential kinase for STING trafficking. Mol Cell 2023; 83:3885-3903.e5. [PMID: 37832545 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
The translocation of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the ER-Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC) enables its activation. However, the mechanism underlying the regulation of STING exit from the ER remains elusive. Here, we found that STING induces the activation of transforming growth factor beta-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) prior to STING trafficking in a TAK1 binding protein 1 (TAB1)-dependent manner. Intriguingly, activated TAK1 directly mediates STING phosphorylation on serine 355, which facilitates its interaction with STING ER exit protein (STEEP) and thereby promotes its oligomerization and translocation to the ERGIC for subsequent activation. Importantly, activation of TAK1 by monophosphoryl lipid A, a TLR4 agonist, boosts cGAMP-induced antitumor immunity dependent on STING phosphorylation in a mouse allograft tumor model. Taken together, TAK1 was identified as a checkpoint for STING activation by promoting its trafficking, providing a basis for combinatory tumor immunotherapy and intervention in STING-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingtong Ma
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tuberculosis, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine; Shanghai 200433, China; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Yifang Dang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China; Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine; Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Boran Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Fei Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tuberculosis, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine; Shanghai 200433, China; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Junfang Xu
- Clinical Translation Research Center, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine; Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Li Chen
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine; Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Hang Su
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine; Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Jinsong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
| | - Baoxue Ge
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tuberculosis, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine; Shanghai 200433, China; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China; Clinical Translation Research Center, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine; Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Chang Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine; Shanghai 200433, China.
| | - Haipeng Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tuberculosis, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine; Shanghai 200433, China; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China; Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine; Shanghai 200433, China.
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23
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Ma W, Sun R, Tang L, Li Z, Lin L, Mai Z, Chen G, Yu Z. Bioactivable STING Nanoagonists to Synergize NIR-II Mild Photothermal Therapy Primed Robust and Long-Term Anticancer Immunity. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2303149. [PMID: 37691545 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202303149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Pharmacological activation of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway has become a promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy. However, the insufficient tumorous accumulation, rapid clearance, and short duration of drug efficacy in the tumor microenvironment of small structural STING agonists greatly compromise the therapeutic efficacy. Herein, a tumorous extracellular matrix (ECM) is presented anchoring STING agonist-based photoimmunothernostic nanomedicine (SAPTN) that can be activated by mild-temperature photothermal therapy (mild PTT) induced neutrophilic inflammation. The SAPTN owns second window near-infrared (NIR-II) photonics properties fitting for NIR-II fluorescence and photoacoustic imaging-guided cancer therapy. The aggregates SAPTN targeting to the ECM provide slow and continuous release of potent STING agonists diABZIs. The mild PTT and long-lasting STING agonists released in the ECM synergistically prime systematic, robust, and long-term anticancer immunity. In a tumor model, this approach leads to complete tumor eradication in about 100% of mice with orthotopic breast tumors, and the mice regained tumor-free survival of at least 2 months. In addition, the immune-mediated abscopal effect shows inhibition of the distant solid tumor growth by intratumoral administration of SAPTN with laser irradiation. Overall, this approach represents a generalized photoactivable nanomedicine to prime anticancer immunity for improved cancer theranostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Ma
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Dongguan Institute of Clinical Cancer Research, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523018, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Rui Sun
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Dongguan Institute of Clinical Cancer Research, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523018, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Longguang Tang
- International Institutes of Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, 322000, China
| | - Zibo Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Dongguan Institute of Clinical Cancer Research, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523018, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Ling Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Dongguan Institute of Clinical Cancer Research, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523018, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Ziyi Mai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Dongguan Institute of Clinical Cancer Research, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523018, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Gui Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Dongguan Institute of Clinical Cancer Research, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523018, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zhiqiang Yu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Dongguan Institute of Clinical Cancer Research, Affiliated Dongguan Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523018, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
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24
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Tian Z, Hu Q, Sun Z, Wang N, He H, Tang Z, Chen W. A Booster for Radiofrequency Ablation: Advanced Adjuvant Therapy via In Situ Nanovaccine Synergized with Anti-programmed Death Ligand 1 Immunotherapy for Systemically Constraining Hepatocellular Carcinoma. ACS NANO 2023; 17:19441-19458. [PMID: 37733578 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c08064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is one of the most common minimally invasive techniques for treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which could destroy tumors through hyperthermia and generate massive tumor-associated antigens (TAAs). However, residual malignant tissues or small satellite lesions are hard to eliminate, generally resulting in metastases and recurrence. Herein, an advanced in situ nanovaccine formed by layered double hydroxides carrying cGAMP (STING agonist) (LDHs-cGAMP) and adsorbed TAAs was designed to potentiate the RFA-induced antitumor immune response. As-prepared LDHs-cGAMP could effectively enter cancerous or immune cells, inducing a stronger type I interferon (IFN-I) response. After further adsorption of TAAs, nanovaccine generated sustained immune stimulation and efficiently promoted activation of dendritic cells (DCs). Notably, infiltrations of cytotoxic lymphocytes (CTLs) and activated DCs in tumor and lymph nodes were significantly enhanced after nanovaccine treatment, which distinctly inhibited primary, distant, and metastasis of liver cancer. Furthermore, such a nanovaccine strategy greatly changed the tumor immune microenvironment and promoted the response efficiency of anti-programmed death ligand 1 (αPD-L1) immunotherapy, significantly arresting the poorly immunogenic hepa1-6 liver cancer progression. These findings demonstrate the potential of nanovaccine as a booster for RFA in liver cancer therapy and provide a promising in situ cancer vaccination strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Tian
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Qitao Hu
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Zhouyi Sun
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Ning Wang
- Institute of Immunology, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, China
| | - Huiling He
- Department of Ultrasonography, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
| | - Zhe Tang
- Department of General Surgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
- Department of Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, HangZhou, Zhejiang 310000, China
| | - Weiyu Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
- International Institutes of Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yiwu, Zhejiang 322000, China
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25
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Go EJ, Yang H, Park W, Lee SJ, Han JH, Kong SJ, Lee WS, Han DK, Chon HJ, Kim C. Systemic Delivery of a STING Agonist-Loaded Positively Charged Liposome Selectively Targets Tumor Immune Microenvironment and Suppresses Tumor Angiogenesis. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2300544. [PMID: 37381624 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202300544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Although stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists has shown great promise in preclinical studies, the clinical development of STING agonist therapy is challenged by its limited systemic delivery. Here, positively charged fusogenic liposomes loaded with a STING agonist (PoSTING) are designed for systemic delivery and to preferentially target the tumor microenvironment. When PoSTING is administered intravenously, it selectively targets not only tumor cells but also immune and tumor endothelial cells (ECs). In particular, delivery of STING agonists to tumor ECs normalizes abnormal tumor vasculatures, induces intratumoral STING activation, and elicits robust anti-tumor T cell immunity within the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, PoSTING can be used as a systemic delivery platform to overcome the limitations of using STING agonists in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Jin Go
- Medical Oncology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
- Laboratory of Translational Immuno-Oncology, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
| | - Hannah Yang
- Medical Oncology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
- Laboratory of Translational Immuno-Oncology, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
| | - Wooram Park
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoburo 2066, Suwon, Gyeonggi, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Joon Lee
- Medical Oncology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
- Laboratory of Translational Immuno-Oncology, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Hyeok Han
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoburo 2066, Suwon, Gyeonggi, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - So Jung Kong
- Medical Oncology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
- Laboratory of Translational Immuno-Oncology, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Suk Lee
- Medical Oncology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
- Laboratory of Translational Immuno-Oncology, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Keun Han
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA University, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Jae Chon
- Medical Oncology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
- Laboratory of Translational Immuno-Oncology, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan Kim
- Medical Oncology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
- Laboratory of Translational Immuno-Oncology, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, Gyeonggi, 13496, Republic of Korea
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26
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Chen K, Liao J, Patel DJ, Xie W. Advances in structure-guided mechanisms impacting on the cGAS-STING innate immune pathway. Adv Immunol 2023; 159:1-32. [PMID: 37996205 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ai.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The metazoan cGAS-STING innate immunity pathway is triggered in response to cytoplasmic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), thereby providing host defense against microbial pathogens. This pathway also impacts on autoimmune diseases, cellular senescence and anti-tumor immunity. The cGAS-STING pathway was also observed in the bacterial antiviral immune response, known as the cyclic oligonucleotide (CDN)-based anti-phage signaling system (CBASS). This review highlights a structure-based mechanistic perspective of recent advances in metazoan and bacterial 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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Jialing Liao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; School of Biomedical Engineering, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Dinshaw J Patel
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Wei Xie
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China.
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27
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Kim Y, Cho NY, Jin L, Jin HY, Kang GH. Prognostic significance of STING expression in solid tumor: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1244962. [PMID: 37711192 PMCID: PMC10497868 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1244962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is a key regulator in initiating innate immune response from sensing cytosolic DNA. Recent studies have revealed that the cGAS-STING signaling pathway has a crucial role in tumor development and progression across cancer types. Herein, we conducted a meta-analysis to explore the relationship between the immunoexpression of STING and the survival outcome of patients in various solid tumors. Studies relevant to the subject were searched from PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Results Eleven studies including 2,345 patients were eligible for the analysis. STING expression in tumor cells was related to improved disease-free survival/recurrence-free survival (DFS/RFS) (HR = 0.656, 95% CI = 0.455-0.946, p = 0.024) but not with overall survival (OS) (HR = 0.779, 95% CI = 0.534-1.136, p = 0.194). STING expression in stromal cells, however, did not show significant correlation with DFS/RFS and OS (HR = 0.979, 95% CI = 0.565-1.697, p-value = 0.940 and HR = 1.295, 95% CI = 0.845-1.985, p = 0.235, respectively). In a subgroup analysis, STING expression in tumor cells was associated with better DFS (HR = 0.622, 95% CI = 0.428-0.903, p = 0.012). In tumor cells, favorable DFS/RFS were also related to studies from univariate analysis and the gastrointestinal system (HR = 0.667, 95% CI = 0.482-0.923, p = 0.015 and HR = 0.566, 95% CI = 0.330-0.971, p = 0.039). Conclusions STING expression in tumor cells is associated with favorable outcome in solid tumors. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, registration number: CRD42023427027.
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Affiliation(s)
- Younghoon Kim
- Department of Hospital Pathology, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam-Yun Cho
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Lingyan Jin
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Yeong Jin
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyeong Hoon Kang
- Laboratory of Epigenetics, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Pathology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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28
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Lewicky JD, Martel AL, Gupta MR, Roy R, Rodriguez GM, Vanderhyden BC, Le HT. Conventional DNA-Damaging Cancer Therapies and Emerging cGAS-STING Activation: A Review and Perspectives Regarding Immunotherapeutic Potential. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4127. [PMID: 37627155 PMCID: PMC10453198 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Many traditional cancer treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy are known to induce cellular DNA damage as part of their cytotoxic activity. The cGAS-STING signaling axis, a key member of the DNA damage response that acts as a sensor of foreign or aberrant cytosolic DNA, is helping to rationalize the DNA-damaging activity of these treatments and their emerging immunostimulatory capacity. Moreover, cGAS-STING, which is attracting considerable attention for its ability to promote antitumor immune responses, may fundamentally be able to address many of the barriers limiting the success of cancer immunotherapy strategies, including the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Herein, we review the traditional cancer therapies that have been linked with cGAS-STING activation, highlighting their targets with respect to their role and function in the DNA damage response. As part of the review, an emerging "chemoimmunotherapy" concept whereby DNA-damaging agents are used for the indirect activation of STING is discussed as an alternative to the direct molecular agonism strategies that are in development, but have yet to achieve clinical approval. The potential of this approach to address some of the inherent and emerging limitations of cGAS-STING signaling in cancer immunotherapy is also discussed. Ultimately, it is becoming clear that in order to successfully employ the immunotherapeutic potential of the cGAS-STING axis, a balance between its contrasting antitumor and protumor/inflammatory activities will need to be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan D. Lewicky
- Health Sciences North Research Institute, 56 Walford Road, Sudbury, ON P3E 2H2, Canada; (J.D.L.); (A.L.M.)
| | - Alexandrine L. Martel
- Health Sciences North Research Institute, 56 Walford Road, Sudbury, ON P3E 2H2, Canada; (J.D.L.); (A.L.M.)
| | - Mukul Raj Gupta
- Glycosciences and Nanomaterial Laboratory, Université du Québec à Montréal, Succ. Centre-Ville, Montréal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada; (M.R.G.); (R.R.)
| | - René Roy
- Glycosciences and Nanomaterial Laboratory, Université du Québec à Montréal, Succ. Centre-Ville, Montréal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada; (M.R.G.); (R.R.)
| | - Galaxia M. Rodriguez
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 501 Smyth Rd., Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; (G.M.R.); (B.C.V.)
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Rd., Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Barbara C. Vanderhyden
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 501 Smyth Rd., Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada; (G.M.R.); (B.C.V.)
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Rd., Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Hoang-Thanh Le
- Health Sciences North Research Institute, 56 Walford Road, Sudbury, ON P3E 2H2, Canada; (J.D.L.); (A.L.M.)
- Medicinal Sciences Division, NOSM University, 935 Ramsey Lake Road, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada
- School of Natural Sciences, Laurentian University, 935 Ramsey Lake Road, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada
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Chen X, Meng F, Xu Y, Li T, Chen X, Wang H. Chemically programmed STING-activating nano-liposomal vesicles improve anticancer immunity. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4584. [PMID: 37524727 PMCID: PMC10390568 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40312-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The often immune-suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) may hinder immune evasion and response to checkpoint blockade therapies. Pharmacological activation of the STING pathway does create an immunologically hot TME, however, systemic delivery might lead to undesired off-target inflammatory responses. Here, we generate a small panel of esterase-activatable pro-drugs based on the structure of the non-nucleotide STING agonist MSA-2 that are subsequently stably incorporated into a liposomal vesicle for intravenous administration. The pharmacokinetic properties and immune stimulatory capacity of pro-drugs delivered via liposomes (SAProsomes) are enhanced compared to the free drug form. By performing efficacy screening among the SAProsomes incorporating different pro-drugs in syngeneic mouse tumor models, we find that superior therapeutic performance relies on improved delivery to the desired tumor and lymphoid compartments. The best candidate, SAProsome-3, highly stimulates secretion of inflammatory cytokines and creates a tumoricidal immune landscape. Notably, upon application to breast cancer or melanoma mouse models, SAProsome-3 elicits durable remission of established tumors and postsurgical tumor-free survival while decreasing metastatic burden without significant systemic toxicity. In summary, our work establishes the proof of principle for a better targeted and more efficient and safe STING agonist therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaona Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, P. R. China
| | - Fanchao Meng
- The First Affiliated Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, P. R. China
| | - Yiting Xu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, P. R. China
| | - Tongyu Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, P. R. China
| | - Xiaolong Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, P. R. China
| | - Hangxiang Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-Organ Transplantation, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, P. R. China.
- Jinan Microecological Biomedicine Shandong Laboratory, 250117, Jinan, Shandong Province, P. R. China.
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30
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Baker A, Lorch J, VanderWeele D, Zhang B. Smart Nanocarriers for the Targeted Delivery of Therapeutic Nucleic Acid for Cancer Immunotherapy. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1743. [PMID: 37376190 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15061743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A wide variety of therapeutic approaches and technologies for delivering therapeutic agents have been investigated for treating cancer. Recently, immunotherapy has achieved success in cancer treatment. Successful clinical results of immunotherapeutic approaches for cancer treatment were led by antibodies targeting immune checkpoints, and many have advanced through clinical trials and obtained FDA approval. A major opportunity remains for the development of nucleic acid technology for cancer immunotherapy in the form of cancer vaccines, adoptive T-cell therapies, and gene regulation. However, these therapeutic approaches face many challenges related to their delivery to target cells, including their in vivo decay, the limited uptake by target cells, the requirements for nuclear penetration (in some cases), and the damage caused to healthy cells. These barriers can be avoided and resolved by utilizing advanced smart nanocarriers (e.g., lipids, polymers, spherical nucleic acids, metallic nanoparticles) that enable the efficient and selective delivery of nucleic acids to the target cells and/or tissues. Here, we review studies that have developed nanoparticle-mediated cancer immunotherapy as a technology for cancer patients. Moreover, we also investigate the crosstalk between the function of nucleic acid therapeutics in cancer immunotherapy, and we discuss how nanoparticles can be functionalized and designed to target the delivery and thus improve the efficacy, toxicity, and stability of these therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abu Baker
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jochen Lorch
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - David VanderWeele
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Bin Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Division, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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31
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Brai A, Poggialini F, Pasqualini C, Trivisani CI, Vagaggini C, Dreassi E. Progress towards Adjuvant Development: Focus on Antiviral Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9225. [PMID: 37298177 PMCID: PMC10253057 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, vaccines have been extraordinary resources to prevent pathogen diffusion and cancer. Even if they can be formed by a single antigen, the addition of one or more adjuvants represents the key to enhance the response of the immune signal to the antigen, thus accelerating and increasing the duration and the potency of the protective effect. Their use is of particular importance for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or immunocompromised people. Despite their importance, only in the last forty years has the search for novel adjuvants increased, with the discovery of novel classes of immune potentiators and immunomodulators. Due to the complexity of the cascades involved in immune signal activation, their mechanism of action remains poorly understood, even if significant discovery has been recently made thanks to recombinant technology and metabolomics. This review focuses on the classes of adjuvants under research, recent mechanism of action studies, as well as nanodelivery systems and novel classes of adjuvants that can be chemically manipulated to create novel small molecule adjuvants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalaura Brai
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (A.B.); (F.P.); (C.P.); (C.V.)
| | - Federica Poggialini
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (A.B.); (F.P.); (C.P.); (C.V.)
| | - Claudia Pasqualini
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (A.B.); (F.P.); (C.P.); (C.V.)
| | - Claudia Immacolata Trivisani
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (A.B.); (F.P.); (C.P.); (C.V.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Chiara Vagaggini
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (A.B.); (F.P.); (C.P.); (C.V.)
| | - Elena Dreassi
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy; (A.B.); (F.P.); (C.P.); (C.V.)
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32
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Zhen W, Weichselbaum RR, Lin W. Nanoparticle-Mediated Radiotherapy Remodels the Tumor Microenvironment to Enhance Antitumor Efficacy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2206370. [PMID: 36524978 PMCID: PMC10213153 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202206370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Radiotherapy (RT) uses ionizing radiation to eradicate localized tumors and, in rare cases, control tumors outside of the irradiated fields via stimulating an antitumor immune response (abscopal effect). However, the therapeutic effect of RT is often limited by inherent physiological barriers of the tumor microenvironment (TME), such as hypoxia, abnormal vasculature, dense extracellular matrix (ECM), and an immunosuppressive TME. Thus, it is critical to develop new RT strategies that can remodel the TME to overcome radio-resistance and immune suppression. In the past decade, high-Z-element nanoparticles have been developed to increase radiotherapeutic indices of localized tumors by reducing X-ray doses and side effects to normal tissues and enhance abscopal effects by activating the TME to elicit systemic antitumor immunity. In this review, the principles of RT and radiosensitization, the mechanisms of radio-resistance and immune suppression, and the use of various nanoparticles to sensitize RT and remodel TMEs for enhanced antitumor efficacy are discussed. The challenges in clinical translation of multifunctional TME-remodeling nanoradiosensitizers are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyao Zhen
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Radiation and Cellular Oncology, and the Ludwig Center for Metastasis Research, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Ralph R Weichselbaum
- Department of Radiation and Cellular Oncology and the Ludwig Center for Metastasis Research, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Wenbin Lin
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Radiation and Cellular Oncology, and the Ludwig Center for Metastasis Research, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
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33
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Chen W, Li C, Jiang X. Advanced Biomaterials with Intrinsic Immunomodulation Effects for Cancer Immunotherapy. SMALL METHODS 2023; 7:e2201404. [PMID: 36811240 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202201404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, tumor immunotherapy has achieved significant success in tumor treatment based on immune checkpoint blockers and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy. However, about 70-80% of patients with solid tumors do not respond to immunotherapy due to immune evasion. Recent studies found that some biomaterials have intrinsic immunoregulatory effects, except serve as carriers for immunoregulatory drugs. Moreover, these biomaterials have additional advantages such as easy functionalization, modification, and customization. In this review, the recent advances of these immunoregulatory biomaterials in cancer immunotherapy and their interaction with cancer cells, immune cells, and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment are summarized. Finally, the opportunities and challenges of immunoregulatory biomaterials used in the clinic and the prospect of their future in cancer immunotherapy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weizhi Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of High Performance Polymer Materials and Technology and Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Nanotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Cheng Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of High Performance Polymer Materials and Technology and Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Nanotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Xiqun Jiang
- MOE Key Laboratory of High Performance Polymer Materials and Technology and Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Nanotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
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34
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Zhang J, Cui X, Huang Y, Xu X, Feng C, Li J. Anticancer Effect of STING Agonist-Encapsulated Liposomes on Breast Cancer. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28093740. [PMID: 37175150 PMCID: PMC10179927 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28093740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, posing a serious threat to human health. Recently, innate immunity has become a widely discussed topic in antitumor research. The STING pathway is an important component of innate immunity, and several STING agonists have been developed and applied in antitumor research. Dimeric amidobenzimidazole (diABZI) is one STING agonist and is a nucleotide analog with low serological stability and cell membrane permeability. In this study, we prepared diABZI-encapsulated liposomes (dLNPs) using the ammonium sulfate gradient method. The average particle size of the dLNPs was 99.76 ± 0.230 nm, and the encapsulation efficiency was 58.29 ± 0.53%. Additionally, in vivo and in vitro assays showed that the dLNPs had a sustained-release effect and that the circulation time in vivo was longer than 48 h. The expression of IFN-β and IFN-γ was elevated in mice treated with dLNPs. Moreover, we found that dLNPs can recruit CD8+ T cells to tumor tissue and exert antitumor effects. The dLNPs-treated group showed the most significant efficacy: the average tumor volume was 231.46 mm3, which decreased by 78.16% and 54.47% compared to the PBS group and diABZI group. Meanwhile, the hemolysis rate of the dLNPs was 2%, showing high biocompatibility. In conclusion, dLNPs can effectively suppress tumor growth and possess great potential in breast cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jibing Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Xiao Cui
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Yujiao Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 102488, China
| | - Xiangdong Xu
- Liaocheng Inspection and Testing Center, Liaocheng 252000, China
| | - Changshun Feng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
| | - Jun Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng 252059, China
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35
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He X, Sun Y, Lu J, Naz F, Ma S, Liu J. Cytoplasmic DNAs: Sources, sensing, and roles in the development of lung inflammatory diseases and cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1117760. [PMID: 37122745 PMCID: PMC10130589 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1117760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytoplasmic DNA is emerging as a pivotal contributor to the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases and cancer, such as COVID-19 and lung carcinoma. However, the complexity of various cytoplasmic DNA-related pathways and their crosstalk remains challenging to distinguish their specific roles in many distinct inflammatory diseases, especially for the underlying mechanisms. Here, we reviewed the latest findings on cytoplasmic DNA and its signaling pathways in inflammatory lung conditions and lung cancer progression. We found that sustained activation of cytoplasmic DNA sensing pathways contributes to the development of common lung diseases, which may result from external factors or mutations of key genes in the organism. We further discussed the interplays between cytoplasmic DNA and anti-inflammatory or anti-tumor effects for potential immunotherapy. In sum, this review aids in understanding the roles of cytoplasmic DNAs and exploring more therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xintong He
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute (ZJU-UoE Institute), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining, China
- College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Ye Sun
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute (ZJU-UoE Institute), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining, China
- College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jianzhang Lu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute (ZJU-UoE Institute), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining, China
- College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Faiza Naz
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute (ZJU-UoE Institute), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining, China
| | - Shenglin Ma
- Hangzhou Cancer Institution, Affiliated Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute (ZJU-UoE Institute), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining, China
- College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Biomedical and Heath Translational Research Center of Zhejiang Province, Haining, China
- Dr. Li Dak Sum & Yip Yio Chin Center for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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36
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Xu M, Chang Y, Zhu G, Zhu X, Song X, Li J. Transforming Cold Tumors into Hot Ones with a Metal-Organic Framework-Based Biomimetic Nanosystem for Enhanced Immunotherapy. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:17470-17484. [PMID: 36995264 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c21005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has revolutionized the landscape in clinical tumor therapy, although the response rates in "cold" tumors are relatively low owing to the complex tumor microenvironment (TME). Cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase/stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS/STING) pathway-inducing agents can reprogram the TME; however, their applications remain underutilized. Herein, we engineered a facile manganese-based metal-organic framework (Mn-MOF) encapsulating polyphyllin I (PPI) and coated it with red blood cell (RBC) membranes (RBC@Mn-MOF/PPI) that enhanced the cGAS/STING-mediated antitumor immunity. RBC@Mn-MOF/PPI was engineered by camouflaging it with a biomimetic RBC membrane for prolonged blood circulation and immune escape, which was also extended with TME-sensitive properties for triggering the release of PPI and Mn2+ to remodel the suppressive TME and augment antitumor immune responses. Furthermore, RBC@Mn-MOF/PPI helped transform cold tumors into "hot" ones by activating immune cells, as evidenced via dendritic cell maturation, cytotoxic T lymphocyte infiltration, and natural killer cell recruitment, thereby targeting primary and abscopal tumors and lung metastatic nodules. Therefore, our engineered nanosystem represents a novel strategy to transform immunologically "cold" tumors into "hot" ones by activating the cGAS/STING pathway, thereby addressing the major challenges associated with immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manman Xu
- Department of Oncology, Guang' Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Yincheng Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing Laboratory of Biomedical Materials, Changzhou Institute of Advanced Materials, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Guanghui Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Guang' Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Guang' Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Xiaotong Song
- Department of Oncology, Guang' Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Oncology, Guang' Anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100053, China
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Marei HE, Hasan A, Pozzoli G, Cenciarelli C. Cancer immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs): potential, mechanisms of resistance, and strategies for reinvigorating T cell responsiveness when resistance is acquired. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:64. [PMID: 37038154 PMCID: PMC10088229 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-02902-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is still the leading cause of death globally. The approval of the therapeutic use of monoclonal antibodies against immune checkpoint molecules, notably those that target the proteins PD-1 and PD-L1, has changed the landscape of cancer treatment. In particular, first-line PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor drugs are increasingly common for the treatment of metastatic cancer, significantly prolonging patient survival. Despite the benefits brought by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs)-based therapy, the majority of patients had their diseases worsen following a promising initial response. To increase the effectiveness of ICIs and advance our understanding of the mechanisms causing cancer resistance, it is crucial to find new, effective, and tolerable combination treatments. In this article, we addressed the potential of ICIs for the treatment of solid tumors and offer some insight into the molecular pathways behind therapeutic resistance to ICIs. We also discuss cutting-edge therapeutic methods for reactivating T-cell responsiveness after resistance has been established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hany E Marei
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35116, Egypt.
| | - Anwarul Hasan
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Giacomo Pozzoli
- Pharmacology Section, Department of Health Care Surveillance and Bioethics, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Chen NN, Zhang H, Zhu QS, Zeng T, Dai W, Zhou YL, Xin GF, Wu BD, Gong SJ, Jiang ZY, You QD, Xu XL. Development of Orally Bioavailable Amidobenzimidazole Analogues Targeting Stimulator of Interferon Gene (STING) Receptor. J Med Chem 2023; 66:5584-5610. [PMID: 37027512 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c02046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Stimulator of interferon gene (STING) is a critical adaptor protein that has a pivotal role in triggering inherent immune responses to infection. STING-linked interferon production has been involved in anti-inflammation, anti-infection, and antitumor immunity. Herein, a series of amidobenzimidazole analogues as STING agonists were profiled for potency and drug-like properties. By structure-based modification and optimization based on mono-aminobenzimidazole (ABZI), analogues with nanomolar STING agonistic activities were obtained. Among them, compounds D59 and D61 significantly increased the transcription of IFN-β and proinflammatory cytokine CXCL10, as well as dramatically induced the phosphorylation of STING downstream proteins in THP1 cells. Furthermore, compound D61 exhibited favorable pharmacokinetic properties and metabolic stabilities. In a CT-26 syngeneic mice-bearing tumor model, D61 effectively inhibited tumor growth with good tolerance when administered via intratumoral, intravenous, intraperitoneal, and oral routes. This research on orally bioavailable amidobenzimidazole analogues expands the diversity of chemical structures of agonists for STING-mediated immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan-Nan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Han Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qiang-Sheng Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ting Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Wei Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ye-Ling Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Guo-Feng Xin
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Bei-Duo Wu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Si-Jia Gong
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Zheng-Yu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Qi-Dong You
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiao-Li Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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Li T, Gao M, Wu Z, Yang J, Mo B, Yu S, Gong X, Liu J, Wang W, Luo S, Li R. Tantalum-Zirconium Co-Doped Metal-Organic Frameworks Sequentially Sensitize Radio-Radiodynamic-Immunotherapy for Metastatic Osteosarcoma. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2206779. [PMID: 36739599 PMCID: PMC10074130 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202206779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Due to radiation resistance and the immunosuppressive microenvironment of metastatic osteosarcoma, novel radiosensitizers that can sensitize radiotherapy (RT) and antitumor immunity synchronously urgently needed. Here, the authors developed a nanoscale metal-organic framework (MOF, named TZM) by co-doping high-atomic elements Ta and Zr as metal nodes and porphyrinic molecules (tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin (TCPP)) as a photosensitizing ligand. Given the 3D arrays of ultra-small heavy metals, porous TZM serves as an efficient attenuator absorbing X-ray energy and sensitizing hydroxyl radical generation for RT. Ta-Zr co-doping narrowed the highest occupied molecular orbital-lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO-LUMO) energy gap and exhibited close energy levels between the singlet and triplet photoexcited states, facilitating TZM transfer energy to the photosensitizer TCPP to sensitize singlet oxygen (1 O2 ) generation for radiodynamic therapy (RDT). The sensitized RT-RDT effects of TZM elicit a robust antitumor immune response by inducing immunogenic cell death, promoting dendritic cell maturation, and upregulating programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-L1) expression via the cGAS-STING pathway. Furthermore, a combination of TZM, X-ray, and anti-PD-L1 treatments amplify antitumor immunotherapy and efficiently arrest osteosarcoma growth and metastasis. These results indicate that TZM is a promising radiosensitizer for the synergistic RT and immunotherapy of metastatic osteosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Li
- Institute of Combined InjuryState Key Laboratory of TraumaBurns and Combined InjuryChongqing Engineering Research Center for NanomedicineCollege of Preventive MedicineThird Military Medical University (Army Medical University)Chongqing400038China
- Center for Joint SurgerySouthwest HospitalThird Military Medical University (Army Medical University)Chongqing400038China
| | - Mingquan Gao
- Institute of Combined InjuryState Key Laboratory of TraumaBurns and Combined InjuryChongqing Engineering Research Center for NanomedicineCollege of Preventive MedicineThird Military Medical University (Army Medical University)Chongqing400038China
- Department of Radiation OncologySichuan Cancer Hospital & InstituteSichuan Key Laboratory of Radiation OncologyChengduSichuan610041China
| | - Zifei Wu
- Institute of Combined InjuryState Key Laboratory of TraumaBurns and Combined InjuryChongqing Engineering Research Center for NanomedicineCollege of Preventive MedicineThird Military Medical University (Army Medical University)Chongqing400038China
- Department of Radiation OncologySichuan Cancer Hospital & InstituteSichuan Key Laboratory of Radiation OncologyChengduSichuan610041China
| | - Junjun Yang
- Center for Joint SurgerySouthwest HospitalThird Military Medical University (Army Medical University)Chongqing400038China
| | - Banghui Mo
- Department of OncologySouthwest HospitalThird Military Medical University (Army Medical University)Chongqing400038China
| | - Songtao Yu
- Department of OncologySouthwest HospitalThird Military Medical University (Army Medical University)Chongqing400038China
| | - Xiaoyuan Gong
- Center for Joint SurgerySouthwest HospitalThird Military Medical University (Army Medical University)Chongqing400038China
| | - Jing Liu
- Institute of Combined InjuryState Key Laboratory of TraumaBurns and Combined InjuryChongqing Engineering Research Center for NanomedicineCollege of Preventive MedicineThird Military Medical University (Army Medical University)Chongqing400038China
| | - Weidong Wang
- Department of Radiation OncologySichuan Cancer Hospital & InstituteSichuan Key Laboratory of Radiation OncologyChengduSichuan610041China
| | - Shenglin Luo
- Institute of Combined InjuryState Key Laboratory of TraumaBurns and Combined InjuryChongqing Engineering Research Center for NanomedicineCollege of Preventive MedicineThird Military Medical University (Army Medical University)Chongqing400038China
| | - Rong Li
- Institute of Combined InjuryState Key Laboratory of TraumaBurns and Combined InjuryChongqing Engineering Research Center for NanomedicineCollege of Preventive MedicineThird Military Medical University (Army Medical University)Chongqing400038China
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Vornholz L, Isay SE, Kurgyis Z, Strobl DC, Loll P, Mosa MH, Luecken MD, Sterr M, Lickert H, Winter C, Greten FR, Farin HF, Theis FJ, Ruland J. Synthetic enforcement of STING signaling in cancer cells appropriates the immune microenvironment for checkpoint inhibitor therapy. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadd8564. [PMID: 36921054 PMCID: PMC10017047 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.add8564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) enhance anticancer immunity by releasing repressive signals into tumor microenvironments (TMEs). To be effective, ICIs require preexisting immunologically "hot" niches for tumor antigen presentation and lymphocyte recruitment. How the mutational landscape of cancer cells shapes these immunological niches remains poorly defined. We found in human and murine colorectal cancer (CRC) models that the superior antitumor immune response of mismatch repair (MMR)-deficient CRC required tumor cell-intrinsic activation of cGAS-STING signaling triggered by genomic instability. Subsequently, we synthetically enforced STING signaling in CRC cells with intact MMR signaling using constitutively active STING variants. Even in MMR-proficient CRC, genetically encoded gain-of-function STING was sufficient to induce cancer cell-intrinsic interferon signaling, local activation of antigen-presenting cells, recruitment of effector lymphocytes, and sensitization of previously "cold" TMEs to ICI therapy in vivo. Thus, our results introduce a rational strategy for modulating cancer cell-intrinsic programs via engineered STING enforcement to sensitize resistant tumors to ICI responsiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larsen Vornholz
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- TranslaTUM, Center for Translational Cancer Research, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Sophie E. Isay
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- TranslaTUM, Center for Translational Cancer Research, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Zsuzsanna Kurgyis
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- TranslaTUM, Center for Translational Cancer Research, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Daniel C. Strobl
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- TranslaTUM, Center for Translational Cancer Research, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Computational Biology, Department of Computational Health, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Patricia Loll
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- TranslaTUM, Center for Translational Cancer Research, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Mohammed H. Mosa
- Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Georg-Speyer-Haus, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Malte D. Luecken
- Institute of Computational Biology, Department of Computational Health, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute of Lung Health and Immunity (LHI), Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Sterr
- Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Heiko Lickert
- Institute of Diabetes and Regeneration Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Christof Winter
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- TranslaTUM, Center for Translational Cancer Research, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Munich partner site, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Frankfurt/Mainz partner site, Germany
| | - Florian R. Greten
- Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Georg-Speyer-Haus, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Frankfurt/Mainz partner site, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Henner F. Farin
- Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Georg-Speyer-Haus, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
- Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Frankfurt/Mainz partner site, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Fabian J. Theis
- Institute of Computational Biology, Department of Computational Health, Helmholtz Center Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- Department of Mathematics, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- TUM School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jürgen Ruland
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- TranslaTUM, Center for Translational Cancer Research, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Munich partner site, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Frankfurt/Mainz partner site, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich partner site, Germany
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Onyedibe KI, Mohallem R, Wang M, Aryal UK, Sintim HO. Proteomic and phosphoproteomic analyses of Jurkat T-cell treated with 2'3' cGAMP reveals various signaling axes impacted by cyclic dinucleotides. J Proteomics 2023; 279:104869. [PMID: 36889538 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2023.104869] [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: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs), such as 2'3'-cGAMP, bind to STING to trigger the production of cytokines and interferons, mainly via activation of TBK1. STING activation by CDN also leads to the release and activation of Nuclear Factor Kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) via the phosphorylation of Inhibitor of NF-κB (IκB)-alpha (IκBα) by IκB Kinase (IKK). Beyond the canonical TBK1 or IKK phosphorylations, little is known about how CDNs broadly affect the phosphoproteome and/or other signaling axes. To fill this gap, we performed an unbiased proteome and phosphoproteome analysis of Jurkat T-cell treated with 2'3'-cGAMP or vehicle control to identify proteins and phosphorylation sites that are differentially modulated by 2'3'-cGAMP. We uncovered different classes of kinase signatures associated with cell response to 2'3'-cGAMP. 2'3'-cGAMP upregulated Arginase 2 (Arg2) and the antiviral innate immune response receptor RIG-I as well as proteins involved in ISGylation, E3 ISG15-protein ligase HERC5 and ubiquitin-like protein ISG15, while downregulating ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme UBE2C. Kinases that play a role in DNA double strand break repair, apoptosis, and cell cycle regulation were differentially phosphorylated. Overall, this work demonstrates that 2'3'-cGAMP has a much broader effects on global phosphorylation events than currently appreciated, beyond the canonical TBK1/IKK signaling. SIGNIFICANCE: The host cyclic dinucleotide, 2'3'-cGAMP is known to bind to Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) to trigger the production of cytokines and interferons in immune cells via STING-TBK1-IRF3 pathway. Beyond the canonical phosphorelay via the STING-TBK1-IRF3 pathway, little is known about how this second messenger broadly affects the global proteome. Using an unbiased phosphoproteomics, this study identifies several kinases and phosphosites that are modulated by cGAMP. The study expands our knowledge about how cGAMP modulates global proteome and also global phosphorylations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth I Onyedibe
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA; Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery and Purdue Institute of Inflammation, Immunology and Infectious Disease, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Rodrigo Mohallem
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue Proteomics Facility, Bindley Bioscience Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Modi Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Uma K Aryal
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA; Purdue Proteomics Facility, Bindley Bioscience Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Herman O Sintim
- Department of Chemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA; Purdue Institute for Drug Discovery and Purdue Institute of Inflammation, Immunology and Infectious Disease, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
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Huang A, Zhou W. Mn-based cGAS-STING activation for tumor therapy. Chin J Cancer Res 2023; 35:19-43. [PMID: 36910853 PMCID: PMC9992997 DOI: 10.21147/j.issn.1000-9604.2023.01.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has efficiently revolutionized the treatment of human neoplastic diseases. However, the overall responsive rate of current immunotherapy is still unsatisfactory, benefiting only a small proportion of patients. Therefore, significant attention has been paid to the modulation of tumor microenvironment (TME) for the enhancement of immunotherapy. Interestingly, recent studies have shown that cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon gene (cGAS-STING) was initially found as an innate immune sensor to recognize cytoplasmic DNA (such as bacterial, viral, micronuclei, and mitochondrial). It is a promising signaling pathway to activate antitumor immune responses via type I interferon production. Notably, Mn2+ was found to be a critical molecule to sensitize the activation of the cGAS-STING pathway for better immunotherapy. This activation led to the development of Mn2+-based strategies for tumor immunotherapy via the activation of the cGAS-STING pathway. In this critical review, we aimed to summarize the recent progress of this field, focusing on the following three aspects. First, we briefly introduced the signaling pathway of cGAS-STING activation, and its regulation effect on the antitumor immunity cycle has been discussed. Along with this, several agonists of the cGAS-STING pathway were introduced with their potential as immunotherapeutic drugs. Then, the basic biological functions of Mn2+ have been illustrated, focusing on its critical roles in the cGAS-STING pathway activation. Next, we systematically reviewed the Mn2+-based strategies for tumor immunotherapy, which can be classified by the methods based on Mn2+ alone or Mn2+ combined with other therapeutic modalities. We finally speculated the future perspectives of the field and provided rational suggestions to develop better Mn2+-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiping Huang
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China
| | - Wenhu Zhou
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, China.,Changsha Medical University, Academician Workstation, Changsha 410219, China
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Chen S, Peng A, Chen M, Zhan M. Nanomedicines targeting activation of STING to reshape tumor immune microenvironment and enhance immunotherapeutic efficacy. Front Oncol 2023; 12:1093240. [PMID: 36741735 PMCID: PMC9890065 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1093240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has greatly enhanced the effectiveness of cancer treatments, but the efficacy of many current immunotherapies is still limited by the tumor-suppressive immune microenvironment. Multiple studies have shown that activating the stimulation of IFN genes (STING) pathway and inducing innate immunity can significantly impact the tumor immune microenvironment and improve antitumor therapy. While natural or synthetic STING agonists have been identified or developed for preclinical and clinical use, small molecule agonists have limited utility due to degradation and lack of targeting. As such, the delivery and release of STING agonists into tumor tissue is a major challenge that must be addressed in order to further advance the use of STING agonists. To address this challenge, various nanomedicines have been developed. In this paper, we concisely review the antitumor immunotherapeutic mechanisms of STING agonists, highlighting the latest developments in STING agonists and the current progress of nanomedicines for activating STING. We classify the different nanomedicines according to the STING agonists they utilize in order to facilitate understanding of recent advances in this field. Finally, we also discuss the prospects and challenges of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Chen
- Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai People’s Hospital, Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People’s Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Anghui Peng
- Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai People’s Hospital, Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People’s Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Muhe Chen
- Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai People’s Hospital, Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People’s Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China,*Correspondence: Muhe Chen, ; Meixiao Zhan,
| | - Meixiao Zhan
- Zhuhai Interventional Medical Center, Zhuhai Precision Medical Center, Zhuhai People’s Hospital, Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhuhai People’s Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University, Jinan University, Zhuhai, China,*Correspondence: Muhe Chen, ; Meixiao Zhan,
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Zhu L, Gao H, Huang S, Cao T, Zhai X, Hu J, Wang T, Dong J, Liu Z, Chen J, Liu J, Zhang Z, Zhou Q. Combination of STING agonist and CXCR3 antagonist disrupts immune tolerance to overcome anti-PD-L1 resistance in lung adenocarcinoma under oxidative stress. Gene 2023; 851:146962. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.146962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Chu H, Jin Z, Cheng JN, Jia Q, Zhu B, Cai H. Chromothripsis is correlated with reduced cytotoxic immune infiltration and diminished responsiveness to checkpoint blockade immunotherapy. Theranostics 2023; 13:1443-1453. [PMID: 36923532 PMCID: PMC10008737 DOI: 10.7150/thno.81350] [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: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Chromothripsis caused massive, clustered genomic rearrangements is prevalent in cancer and is considered a new paradigm for tumorigenesis and progression. In this study, we investigated the association among chromothripsis, anti-tumor immune responses, and responsiveness to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). Methods: Quantification of immune cell infiltration and functional enrichment of immune-related signaling pathways were performed in the discovery set (n = 9403) and the validation set (n = 1140). we investigated the association between chromothripsis and anti-tumor immune responses. In the immunotherapy cohort, copy number alteration-based chromothripsis scores (CPSs) were introduced to assess the extent of chromothripsis to evaluate its association with responsiveness to ICB. Results: In the discovery set and the validation set, the ratios of CD8+ T cells to Tregs, TAMs, and MDSCs were significantly lower in tumors with chromothripsis (P = 1.5 × 10-13, P = 5.4 × 10-8, and P = 1.2 × 10-4, respectively, TCGA; P = 1.0 × 10-13, P = 3.6 × 10-15, and P = 3.3 × 10-3, respectively, PCAWG). The relevant pathways underlying the antitumor immune effect were significantly enriched in tumors without chromothripsis. Chromothripsis can be used as an independent predictor, and patients with low-CPSs experienced longer overall survival (OS) after immunotherapy [HR, 1.90; 95% confidence interval, 1.10-3.28; P = 0.019]. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the reduced cytotoxic immune infiltration in tumors with chromothripsis and enhanced immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment. Chromothripsis can thus be used as a potential indicator to help identify patients who will respond to ICB, which could complement established biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Chu
- Center of Growth, Metabolism, and Aging, Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Oncology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zheng Jin
- Research Institute, GloriousMed Clinical Laboratory (Shanghai) Co., Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Nan Cheng
- Department of Oncology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Immunotherapy, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingzhu Jia
- Department of Oncology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Immunotherapy, Chongqing, China
| | - Bo Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Immunotherapy, Chongqing, China
| | - Haoyang Cai
- Center of Growth, Metabolism, and Aging, Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Huang P, Jiang L, Pan H, Ding L, Zhou B, Zhao M, Zou J, Li B, Qi M, Deng H, Zhou Y, Chen X. An Integrated Polymeric mRNA Vaccine without Inflammation Side Effects for Cellular Immunity Mediated Cancer Therapy. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2207471. [PMID: 36326183 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202207471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Among the few available mRNA delivery vehicles, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are the most clinically advanced but they require cumbersome four components and suffer from inflammation-related side effects that should be minimized for safety. Yet, a certain level of proinflammatory responses and innate immune activation are required to evoke T-cell immunity for mRNA cancer vaccination. To address these issues and develop potent yet low-inflammatory mRNA cancer vaccine vectors, a series of alternating copolymers "PHTA" featured with ortho-hydroxy tertiary amine (HTA) repeating units for mRNA delivery is synthesized, which can play triple roles of condensing mRNA, enhancing the polymeric nanoparticle (PNP) stability, and prolonging circulation time. Unlike LNPs exhibiting high levels of inflammation, the PHTA-based PNPs show negligible inflammatory side effects in vivo. Importantly, the top candidate PHTA-C18 enables successful mRNA cancer vaccine delivery in vivo and leads to a robust CD8+ T cell mediated antitumor cellular immunity. Such PHTA-based integrated PNP provides a potential approach for establishing mRNA cancer vaccines with good inflammatory safety profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Huang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
| | - Lingsheng Jiang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Hui Pan
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Lingwen Ding
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, NUS Center for Nanomedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Department of Pathology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
| | - Bo Zhou
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
| | - Mengyao Zhao
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
| | - Jianhua Zou
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
| | - Benhao Li
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
| | - Meiwei Qi
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Hongzhang Deng
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
| | - Yongfeng Zhou
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, NUS Center for Nanomedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research Centre, Centre for Translational Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
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Wan Z, Huang H, West RE, Zhang M, Zhang B, Cai X, Zhang Z, Luo Z, Chen Y, Zhang Y, Xie W, Yang D, Nolin TD, Wang J, Li S, Sun J. Overcoming pancreatic cancer immune resistance by codelivery of CCR2 antagonist using a STING-activating gemcitabine-based nanocarrier. MATERIALS TODAY (KIDLINGTON, ENGLAND) 2023; 62:33-50. [PMID: 38239407 PMCID: PMC10795849 DOI: 10.1016/j.mattod.2022.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
STING agonist has recently gained much attention for cancer treatment, but the therapeutic potential of STING agonist is hampered by STING-associated tumor immune resistance. In this work, guided by both bioinformatics and computer modeling, we rationally designed a "one stone hits two birds" nanoparticle-based strategy to simultaneously activate STING innate immune response while eliminating STING-associated immune resistance for the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). We discovered that the ultra-small sized micellar system based on gemcitabine-conjugated polymer (PGEM), which showed superior capacity of penetration in pancreatic tumor spheroid model and orthotopic tumor model, could serve as a novel "STING agonist". The activation of STING signaling in dendritic cells (DCs) by PGEM increased both innate nature killer (NK) and adaptive anti-tumor T cell response. However, activation of STING signaling by PGEM in tumor cells also drove the induction of chemokines CCL2 and CCL7, resulting in immune resistance by recruiting tumor associated macrophage (TAM) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). Through the combination of computer modeling and experimental screening, we developed a dual delivery modality by incorporating a CCR2 (the receptor shared by both CCL2 and CCL7) antagonist PF-6309 (PF) into PGEM micellar system. Our studies demonstrated that PGEM/PF formulation significantly reduced pancreatic tumor burden and induced potent anti-tumor immunity through reversing the CCL2/CCL7-mediated immunosuppression. Moreover, PGEM/PF sensitized PDAC tumors to anti-PD-1 therapy, leading to complete suppression/eradication of the tumors. Our work has shed light to the multi-faceted role of STING activation and provided a novel immunotherapy regimen to maximize the benefit of STING activation for PDAC treatment. In addition, this work paved a new way for bioinformatics and computer modeling-guided rational design of nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoya Wan
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Haozhe Huang
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Raymond E West
- Department of Pharmacy and Therapeutics, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Min Zhang
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Bei Zhang
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Xinran Cai
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ziqian Zhang
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Zhangyi Luo
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yuang Chen
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yue Zhang
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Wen Xie
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Da Yang
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Thomas D Nolin
- Department of Pharmacy and Therapeutics, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Junmei Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Song Li
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jingjing Sun
- Center for Pharmacogenetics, Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists for treating acute myeloid leukemia (AML): current knowledge and future outlook. CLINICAL & TRANSLATIONAL ONCOLOGY : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE FEDERATION OF SPANISH ONCOLOGY SOCIETIES AND OF THE NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE OF MEXICO 2022; 25:1545-1553. [PMID: 36587109 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-022-03065-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematologic cancer in adults. Some patients exhibit restricted T cell infiltration and do not respond to routine treatments. This may be prevented by enhancing adaptive immunity by stimulating innate immune cells inside the tumor microenvironment (TME). To activate the adaptive immunological reaction against tumors, type I interferons (IFNs) can promote the presentation of tumor-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) cell recruitment. During the activation of innate immunity, cyclic di-nucleotides (CDNs) bind to and stimulate the stimulator of interferon genes (STING), a protein localized inside the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane, resulting in the expression of type I IFNs. The efficacy of STING agonists as effective stimulators of the anti-tumor response in AML is being investigated in numerous clinical studies. Therefore, the purpose of this investigation was to thoroughly review existing knowledge in this field and provide perspective into the clinical potential of STING agonists in AML.
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Song JX, Villagomes D, Zhao H, Zhu M. cGAS in nucleus: The link between immune response and DNA damage repair. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1076784. [PMID: 36591232 PMCID: PMC9797516 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1076784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
As the first barrier of host defense, innate immunity sets up the parclose to keep out external microbial or virus attacks. Depending on the type of pathogens, several cytoplasm pattern recognition receptors exist to sense the attacks from either foreign or host origins, triggering the immune response to battle with the infections. Among them, cGAS-STING is the major pathway that mainly responds to microbial DNA, DNA virus infections, or self-DNA, which mainly comes from genome instability by-product or released DNA from the mitochondria. cGAS was initially found functional in the cytoplasm, although intriguing evidence indicates that cGAS exists in the nucleus where it is involved in the DNA damage repair process. Because the close connection between DNA damage response and immune response and cGAS recognizes DNA in length-dependent but DNA sequence-independent manners, it is urgent to clear the function balance of cGAS in the nucleus versus cytoplasm and how it is shielded from recognizing the host origin DNA. Here, we outline the current conception of immune response and the regulation mechanism of cGAS in the nucleus. Furthermore, we will shed light on the potential mechanisms that are restricted to be taken away from self-DNA recognition, especially how post-translational modification regulates cGAS functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Xian Song
- Institute for Translation Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Deana Villagomes
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Hongchang Zhao
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Min Zhu
- Institute for Translation Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China,*Correspondence: Min Zhu,
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50
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Bhatnagar S, Revuri V, Shah M, Larson P, Shao Z, Yu D, Prabha S, Griffith TS, Ferguson D, Panyam J. Combination of STING and TLR 7/8 Agonists as Vaccine Adjuvants for Cancer Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246091. [PMID: 36551577 PMCID: PMC9777055 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunostimulatory adjuvants that potently activate antigen-presenting cells and (in turn) prime cytotoxic T cells are a key component of anticancer vaccines. In this study, we investigated a multi-adjuvant approach combining a TLR 7/8 agonist (522) and a STING agonist (DMXAA) to promote enhanced antigen cross-presentation, stimulate specific antitumor T-cell responses, and provide improved anticancer efficacy. In vitro experiments using bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) confirmed enhanced activation with the 522-DMXAA combination based on both co-stimulatory molecule expression and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion. The immunization of mice with vaccines comprising both 522 and DMXAA resulted in greater antitumor efficacy in B16F10 melanoma and MB49 bladder tumor models relative to mono-agonist vaccines. Flow cytometry-based analysis of immune cells from immunized mice revealed the significant activation of antigen-presenting cells, increased numbers of activated and Ag-specific CD8+ T cells in the spleen and lymph nodes, modest NK cell activation, and an overall reduction in CD206+ macrophages. These results were supported by an increase in the levels of IFN-γ and a reduction in IL-10 levels in the sera. Taken together, these findings demonstrate the potential of the TLR7/8 and STING agonist combination as vaccine adjuvants to activate both innate and adaptive immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubhmita Bhatnagar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Vishnu Revuri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Manan Shah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Peter Larson
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Zekun Shao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Daohai Yu
- Center for Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Lewis-Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
| | - Swayam Prabha
- Fels Cancer Institute for Personalized Medicine, Lewis-Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
- Fox Chase Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA
| | - Thomas S. Griffith
- Department of Urology, Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - David Ferguson
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Jayanth Panyam
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
- Fox Chase Comprehensive Cancer Institute, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19111, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-215-926-2006
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