Solute carrier transporters: emerging central players in tumour immunotherapy

Abstract

Solute carrier transporters (SLCs) mediate nutrient and metabolite cellular homeostasis. Immune cells depend on SLCs to induce rapid and robust metabolic reprogramming, thereby controlling diverse immunological responses. Recent studies hint toward an important role of SLCs in immunity. Here, we review the emerging roles of SLCs in immunotherapy via modifying the metabolism and effector functions of immune cells. We focus on the roles of three major nutrient (glucose, amino acid, and lipid)-related transporters in immunity of representative cells [T cells, dendritic cells (DCs), natural killer (NK) cells, and macrophages) in innate and adaptive immunity. Other SLCs, such as ion transporters are also briefly discussed. Finally, we propose some potential strategies for targeting SLCs to augment tumour immunotherapy.

Keywords: immunocyte; metabolic reprogramming; nutrient and metabolite; solute carrier transporter; tumour immunotherapy.