T cell stemness and dysfunction in tumors are triggered by a common mechanism

Stemness against adversity T lymphocytes are powerful immune cells that can destroy tumors, but cancers have developed tricks to evade killing. Vodnala et al. found that potassium ions in the tumor microenvironment serve a dual role of influencing T cell effector function and stemness (see the Perspective by Baixauli Celda et al. ). Increased potassium impairs T cell metabolism and nutrient uptake, resulting in a starvation state known as autophagy. The increased potassium can also preserve T cells in a stem-like state where they retain the capacity to divide. These seemingly divergent processes are linked to the cellular distribution of acetyl–coenzyme A, which, when manipulated, can restore the ability of…

• AC
  American Cancer Society

  Award: 129832-RSG-16-214-01-TBE
• DR
  Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation
• PI
  Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy
• BA
  Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council

  Awards: BBS/E/B/000C0428, BBS/E/B/000C0427
• NC
  National Cancer Institute

  Award: P30 CA008748
• NC
  NIH Clinical Center