For example, the combination of the STING agonist SB11285 with radiation in models of HNSCC resulted in significant decrease in tumor growth.55 The combination of ADU-S100 with radiation resulted in tumor volume reduction and an increase in TME CD8+ T cells infiltration in esophageal adenocarcinoma models.102 With respect to combinations involving immune checkpoint inhibitors a sharp increase in PD-L1 expression was observed in association with STING agonist treatment and thereby supporting the use of combined STING agonist and anti-PD-L1 therapy. The gene discussed is CD274; the disease is head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.