Targeting Acod1/itaconate in cancer therapy: Mechanisms and opportunities
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Globally, cancer claims nearly 10 million lives annually, where tumor heterogeneity, the immunosuppressive microenvironment, and therapeutic resistance constitute fundamental clinical challenges. In recent years, immunometabolic reprogramming has emerged as a cutting-edge research frontier, revealing novel mechanisms by which metabolites orchestrate immune responses. Itaconate-an immunometabolite primarily synthesized by macrophages-serves as a pivotal molecular hub bridging metabolic stress and anti-tumor immunity. This review systematically traces the evolution of itaconate from an industrial chemical to a key immunometabolite; comprehensively elucidates its dual roles (pro-tumorigenic vs. anti-tumorigenic) within the tumor microenvironment; synthesizes preclinical evidence of itaconate and its derivatives across diverse tumor systems; and consolidates emerging adjuvant therapeutic strategies targeting the Acod1/itaconate pathway. Collectively, this work aims to provide innovative immunometabolic perspectives for overcoming current barriers in cancer therapy.
Source: Pharmacological Research
Authors: Tianlin Deng, Xiuyan Li, Shuodong Wu, Jing Kong, Xiaodong Wu
Institutions: Sheng Jing Hospital, China Medical University
Language: English
Topic: Immune cells in cancer
Subfield: Immunology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $4,130
OpenAlex ID: W7128797678