Regulation of cGAS-STING signalling in cancer: Approach for combination therapy

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Oncology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Innate immunity is vital for host defense and maintaining homeostasis.
• Immune system activation, particularly innate immunity, significantly influences cancer initiation and progression.
• The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway is a key innate immune sensor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the cGAS-STING signaling pathway and its interactions with other pathways in modulating tumorigenesis.
• To highlight emerging therapeutic strategies targeting the cGAS-STING pathway for cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on cGAS-STING signaling in infection, stress, and cancer.
• Analysis of the regulation of cGAS-STING in cellular senescence and DNA damage.
• Examination of therapeutic approaches targeting the cGAS-STING pathway.

Main Results:

• The cGAS-STING pathway, activated by cytoplasmic dsDNA, induces type-1 immune responses.
• Dysregulation of cGAS-STING signaling is implicated in tumor progression across various cancer types.
• The pathway's cross-talk with other signaling networks influences tumorigenesis.

Conclusions:

• The cGAS-STING pathway is a critical regulator of innate immunity and tumorigenesis.
• Targeting the cGAS-STING pathway holds promise for novel cancer therapeutics and combinatorial regimens.