Ablation-induced activation of the cGAS–STING pathway: A promising strategy to enhance immune checkpoint therapy in non-small-cell lung cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related incidence and mortality in China, with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounting for 85% of cases. Although immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy has improved outcomes, its effectiveness is often limited by treatment resistance. The cGAS–STING pathway plays a critical role in anti-tumor immunity by promoting interferon production, T-cell infiltration, and tumor microenvironment remodeling.

Local ablation therapy destroys tumor tissue and releases tumor-derived DNA, activating the cGAS–STING pathway and enhancing systemic immune responses. Combining ablation with cGAS–STING activation may improve immunotherapy efficacy in NSCLC. This review and related case reports highlight the underlying immune mechanisms, therapeutic potential, current challenges, and future clinical applications of this promising treatment strategy.