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The Development of STING Agonists and Emerging Results as a Cancer Immunotherapy

Jacobi B Hines1, Alec J Kacew2, Randy F Sweis3

  • 1Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago, 5841 S Maryland Ave, MC 2115, Chicago, IL, 60605, USA.

Current Oncology Reports
|January 27, 2023
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

New STING pathway agonists show promise in enhancing cancer immunotherapies by activating the immune response. Ongoing trials explore optimal combinations and delivery for improved tumor control.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Current immunotherapies require novel strategies to overcome treatment resistance.
  • The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway presents a promising target for immune system activation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the potential of STING agonists in enhancing existing cancer immunotherapies.
  • To summarize preclinical and early clinical findings on STING agonists.

Main Methods:

  • Review of preclinical data on STING agonists combined with current therapies.
  • Analysis of early-phase clinical trial results for STING agonists.
  • Examination of mechanistic and technical challenges associated with STING agonists.

Main Results:

  • Preclinical studies indicate STING agonists potentiate effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors and radiation therapy.
  • Early clinical trials show modest efficacy but highlight challenges.
  • STING agonists activate immune responses for improved tumor control.

Conclusions:

  • STING agonists represent a novel therapeutic class for cancer immunotherapy.
  • Further research is ongoing to optimize drug combinations and delivery mechanisms.
  • Clinical trials continue to evaluate the therapeutic use of STING agonists in patients.
Keywords:
Anti-tumor immunityImmune checkpoint inhibitorsImmunotherapyInnate immune activationSTING agonistTumor microenvironment

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