How does lurbinectedin stimulate immune response?

How does lurbinectedin stimulate immune response

Lurbinectedin binds directly to DNA and prevents transcription in cancer cells. This disruption produces DNA fragments that activate the innate immune system through cGAS-STING and RIG-I pathways. These pathways trigger production of type I interferons and other cytokines, which draw in immune cells and help turn a cold tumor into a hot tumor.

What happens after lurbinectedin triggers these pathways

The DNA damage activates both cGAS-STING in tumor cells and RIG-I in immune cells. The resulting interferon signature improves antigen presentation and T-cell infiltration. Patients show higher levels of CD8+ T-cells and lower levels of immunosuppressive cells such as MDSCs and M2 macrophages.

Can lurbinectedin be combined with checkpoint inhibitors

Lurbinectedin alone produces an immune-hot environment. When paired with atezolizumab or pembrolizumab, the combination strengthens T-cell activation and prolongs progression-free survival in small-cell lung cancer trials.