A DNA‐Modularized STING Agonist with Macrophage‐Selectivity and Programmability for Enhanced Anti‐Tumor Immunotherapy

Abstract

Abstract The activation of cyclic GMP‐AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) and its adaptor, stimulator of interferon genes (STING), is known to reprogram the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment for promoting antitumor immunity. To enhance the efficiency of cGAS‐STING pathway activation, macrophage‐selective uptake, and programmable cytosolic release are crucial for the delivery of STING agonists. However, existing polymer‐ or lipid‐based delivery systems encounter difficulty in integrating multiple functions meanwhile maintaining precise control and simple procedures. Herein, inspired by cGAS being a natural DNA sensor, a modularized DNA nanodevice agonist (DNDA) is designed that enable macrophage‐selective uptake and programmable activation of the cGAS‐STING pathway through precise self‐assembly. The resulting DNA nanodevice acts as both a nanocarrier and agonist. Upon local administration, it demonstrates the ability of macrophage‐selective uptake, endosomal escape, and cytosolic release of the cGAS‐recognizing DNA segment, leading to robust activation of the cGAS‐STING pathway and enhanced antitumor efficacy. Moreover, DNDA elicits a synergistic therapeutic effect when combined with immune checkpoint blockade. The study broadens the application of DNA nanotechnology as an immune stimulator for cGAS‐STING activation.

Keywords

• aptamer
• cancer immunotherapy
• cGAS‐STING
• DNA nanotechnology
• drug delivery
• tumor‐associated macrophages