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Updated: Sep 11, 2025

Stimulation of Cytoplasmic DNA Sensing Pathways In Vitro and In Vivo
Published on: September 18, 2014
NIR-Switched DNA Shutter Enables Reversible Intermittent cGAS-STING Activation for Enhanced Antitumor Immunity
Shiyi Bi1, Ruowen Yang1, Yulin Cong1
1State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China.
This study introduces an intermittent STING agonist for immunotherapy. This novel approach uses reversible activation to enhance immune response and tumor cell killing, overcoming resistance associated with continuous pathway stimulation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Biotechnology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists show promise for immunotherapy.
- Continuous STING pathway activation can lead to immune resistance and evasion, limiting therapeutic benefits.
- Transient rest periods may restore immune function and mitigate side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an intermittent STING agonist for reversible cGAS-STING pathway activation.
- To investigate the therapeutic potential of "stimulation-suspension" patterns in immunotherapy.
- To enhance immunotherapy efficiency and tumor cell killing through controlled immune response.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized a near-infrared (NIR) switchable reversible DNA shutter (NIR-DNA shutter) using upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) and DNA strands with Azobenzene (Azo).
- Utilized varying power 808 nm irradiation to control UCNPs upconversion emission, inducing *trans*-Azo isomerization (ON) or *cis*-Azo isomerization (OFF).
- Programmed the cGAS-STING pathway with repetitive "activation-rest" intervals by switching NIR irradiation powers.
Main Results:
- The NIR-DNA shutter reversibly controlled the cGAS-STING pathway by assembling/disassembling dsDNA chains on UCNPs.
- Intermittent STING activation demonstrated superior therapeutic efficacy compared to constant activation.
- The treatment remodeled the immune microenvironment and enhanced tumor cell killing.
Conclusions:
- Intermittent STING activation via the NIR-DNA shutter is an effective strategy to overcome resistance and improve immunotherapy outcomes.
- Reversible control of the cGAS-STING pathway offers enhanced therapeutic potential with reduced side effects.
- This approach provides a novel method for programming immune responses in cancer therapy.
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