{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: FLI1 promotes IFN-γ-induced kynurenine production to impair anti-tumor immunity.
{Author}: Chen E;Wu J;Huang J;Zhu W;Sun H;Wang X;Lin D;Li X;Shi D;Liu Z;Huang J;Chen M;Xie F;Deng W;
{Journal}: Nat Commun
{Volume}: 15
{Issue}: 1
{Year}: 2024 May 30
{Factor}: 17.694
{DOI}: 10.1038/s41467-024-48397-9
{Abstract}: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC)-mediated immunosuppression within the tumor microenvironment (TME) frequently culminates in the failure of otherwise promising immunotherapies. In this study, we identify tumor-intrinsic FLI1 as a critical mediator in impairing T cell anti-tumor immunity. A mechanistic inquiry reveals that FLI1 orchestrates the expression of CBP and STAT1, facilitating chromatin accessibility and transcriptional activation of IDO1 in response to T cell-released IFN-γ. This regulatory cascade ultimately leads to augmented IDO1 expression, resulting in heightened synthesis of kynurenine (Kyn) in tumor cells. This, in turn, fosters CD8+ T cell exhaustion and regulatory T cell (Treg) differentiation. Intriguingly, we find that pharmacological inhibition of FLI1 effectively obstructs the CBP/STAT1-IDO1-Kyn axis, thereby invigorating both spontaneous and checkpoint therapy-induced immune responses, culminating in enhanced tumor eradication. In conclusion, our findings delineate FLI1-mediated Kyn metabolism as an immune evasion mechanism in NPC, furnishing valuable insights into potential therapeutic interventions.