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The cGAS-STING pathway and cancer

Natasha Samson1, Andrea Ablasser2,3

  • 1Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.

Nature Cancer
|December 12, 2022
PubMed

Insights

The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway is crucial in innate immunity and cancer. This review explores its dual role in tumorigenesis and therapeutic targeting.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway is a key innate immune sensor activated by DNA.
  • This pathway plays a significant role in anti-tumor immunity and can influence cancer development and progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the multifaceted roles of cGAS-STING signaling in cancer.
  • To discuss how tumor-associated processes and cancer therapies interact with cGAS-STING.
  • To highlight current and future therapeutic strategies targeting the cGAS-STING axis in oncology.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing research on cGAS-STING pathway in cancer.
  • Analysis of studies investigating the impact of cGAS-STING on tumorigenesis, metastasis, and therapy response.
  • Discussion of emerging concepts and therapeutic approaches.

Main Results:

  • cGAS-STING signaling can have both pro-tumor and anti-tumor effects depending on the context.
  • Tumor microenvironment and cancer treatments can modulate cGAS-STING activity.
  • Targeting the cGAS-STING pathway presents a promising therapeutic avenue.

Conclusions:

  • The cGAS-STING pathway is a critical regulator of cancer immunity with complex implications.
  • Understanding its dual role is essential for developing effective cancer immunotherapies.
  • Further research into cGAS-STING biology will unlock new therapeutic opportunities.

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