Harnessing an integrated glyco-nanovaccine technology for enhanced cancer immunotherapy

Cancer immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors, has revolutionized cancer treatment, yet efficacy remains limited to a subset of patients. In this study, we investigate the potential of an integrated glyco-nanovaccine (iGN) comprising gold nanoparticles conjugated with a synthetic Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) ligand, sugar chains, and peptide antigens for cancer immunotherapy. In murine models, iGN effectively induces antigen-specific cytotoxic T cells, demonstrating prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy against tumor growth. Mechanistically, iGN stimulates antigen-presenting cells via the TLR7-MYD88 pathway, enhancing antigen presentation and priming of cytotoxic T cells. Combination therapy with iGN and anti-PD-1 antibodies further enhances therapeutic outcomes. These findings underscore the potential of iGN as a promising strategy for enhanced cancer immunotherapy, particularly when used in combination with immune checkpoint blockade, to bolster anti-tumor immune responses and improve therapeutic outcomes.