Zeaxanthin augments CD8⁺ effector T cell function and immunotherapy efficacy.

ABSTRACT: The detailed mechanisms underlying the regulatory significance of dietary components in modulating anti-tumor immunity remain largely unknown. Here, we apply a co-culture-based screening approach using a blood nutrient compound library and identify zeaxanthin (ZEA), a dietary carotenoid pigment found in many fruits and vegetables and known for its role in eye health, as an immunomodulator that enhances the cytotoxicity of CD8⁺ T cells against tumor cells. Oral supplementation with ZEA, but not its structural isomer lutein (LUT), enhances anti-tumor immunity in vivo. Integrated multi-omics mechanistic studies reveal that ZEA promotes T cell receptor (TCR) stimulation on the CD8⁺ T cell surface, leading to improved intracellular TCR signaling for effector T cell functio

SUBMITTER: Zhang FQ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12490228 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature