The released IL-6 activates STAT3 in immune cells, which neutralizes STING responses due to STAT-3 mediated production of immunosuppressive cytokines (i.e., IL-10 and TGF-β) that inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce antigen presentation.53,105–108 Elevated expression of STAT3 signaling has been noted in many cancers and is correlated with poor prognosis.109 As such, the combination of STING agonists with STAT3 inhibition may potentially lead to a synergistic effect and further enhance anti-inflammatory responses within the TME.34,52–54,107. The gene discussed is STAT3; the disease is cancer.