STING agonist-loaded lipid nanoparticle

STING agonist-loaded lipid nanoparticle (STING-LNP) is a preclinical cancer immunotherapy platform developed by researchers at Hokkaido University. The system encapsulates small molecule STING (Stimulator of Interferon Genes) agonists, such as the cyclic dinucleotides c-di-GMP or 2'3'-cGAMP, within ionizable lipid nanoparticles, specifically those composed of the YSK12-C4 lipid. This delivery modality is designed to overcome the inherent instability and poor membrane permeability of STING agonists, facilitating their transport into the cytosol of antigen-presenting cells and tumor cells. Upon delivery, the agonists activate the STING protein, an endoplasmic reticulum receptor, triggering the production of type I interferons and pro-inflammatory cytokines. This activation promotes the recruitment and activation of natural killer (NK) cells and CD8+ T cells, effectively converting immunologically "cold" tumors into "hot" tumors. Preclinical studies have demonstrated significant antitumor activity in models of melanoma and pancreatic cancer, including the ability to overcome resistance to anti-PD-1 checkpoint inhibition.

Other names

STING-LNP (Hokkaido University)YSK12-C4 STING-LNPYSK-12-C4 STING-LNPYSK 12-C4 STING-LNP