Blocking 6PGD restricts immunosuppression driven by the innate immune response in cancer
Ontology highlight
ABSTRACT: The pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) has always been relegated to the background of cellular metabolism, but our research identifies its unique and provocative influence on cell function, specifically in myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). We’ve uncovered that 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD), a rate limiting enzyme in this pathway, is not just a metabolic enzyme but a crucial determinant of MDSC behavior. While the IL-6/STAT3 axis propels 6PGD activity, it also empowers MDSCs to exert their immune-suppressive prowess. When we disrupt 6PGD – either through genetic knockout or pharmacological inhibition – an astonishing transformation occurs. The accumulation of 6-phosphogluconate (6PG) sets off a cascade involving JNK1-IRS-1 interaction and PI3K-AKT-pDRP1 signaling pathway, triggering mitochondrial fragmentation and dismantling oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). This change in metabolism doesn’t just disrupt MDSC function; it transforms it stimulatory, leading to a strong anti-tumor response and making anti-PD1 therapies much more effective. Our results suggest we need to completely rethink the role of the PPP in cell function, with 6PGD emerging as a key target that could change the future of cancer immunotherapy.
ORGANISM(S): Mus musculus
PROVIDER: GSE278674 | GEO | 2025/11/12
REPOSITORIES: GEO
ACCESS DATA