Supramolecular Modulation of Tumor Microenvironment through Pillar[5]arene-Based Host-Guest Recognition to Synergize Cancer Immunotherapy

J Am Chem Soc. 2023 Aug 30;145(34):18789-18799. doi: 10.1021/jacs.3c03031. Epub 2023 Aug 3.

Abstract

Despite the tremendous breakthrough of immunotherapy, the low response rate and resistance of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) toward solid tumors occur frequently. A highly hypoxic tumor microenvironment (TME) provides tumor cells with high concentrations of HIF-1α and polyamines to evade immune cell destruction. Reprogramming of an immunogenic TME has exhibited a brilliant future to boost immunotherapeutic performances. Herein, a supramolecular nanomedicine (TAPP) is developed on the basis of host-guest molecular recognition and metal coordination, showing the capability to remodel the immunosuppressive TME. Tamoxifen (Tmx) and Fe3+ are encapsulated into TAPP to achieve the combination of chemotherapy and chemodynamic therapy (CDT). Tmx directly downregulates HIF-1α, and a pillar[5]arene-based macrocyclic host successfully eliminates polyamines in tumors. Enhanced immunogenic cell death is achieved by Tmx and Fe3+, and the therapeutic efficacy is further synergized by immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. This supramolecular reprogramming modality encourages cytotoxic T lymphocyte infiltration, achieving pre-eminent immune response and long-term tumor suppression.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calixarenes*
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Gastropoda*
  • Immunotherapy
  • Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Tumor Microenvironment

Substances

  • pillar(5)arene
  • Calixarenes