Mitochondrial respiratory complex III sustains IL-10 production in activated macrophages and promotes tumor-mediated immune evasion

Sci Adv. 2025 Jan 24;11(4):eadq7307. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adq7307. Epub 2025 Jan 22.

Abstract

The cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10) limits the immune response and promotes resolution of acute inflammation. Because of its immunosuppressive effects, IL-10 up-regulation is a common feature of tumor progression and metastasis. Recently, IL-10 regulation has been shown to depend on mitochondria and redox-sensitive signals. We have found that Suppressor of site IIIQo Electron Leak 1.2 (S3QEL 1.2), a specific inhibitor of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production from mitochondrial complex III, and myxothiazol, a complex III inhibitor, decrease IL-10 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated macrophages. IL-10 down-regulation is likely to be mediated by suppression of c-Fos, which is a subunit of activator protein 1 (AP1), a transcription factor required for IL-10 gene expression. S3QEL 1.2 impairs IL-10 production in vivo after LPS challenge and promotes the survival of mice bearing B16F10 melanoma by lowering tumor growth. Our data identify a link between complex III-dependent ROS generation and IL-10 production in macrophages, the targeting of which could have potential in boosting antitumor immunity.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Electron Transport Complex III* / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Interleukin-10* / metabolism
  • Lipopolysaccharides / pharmacology
  • Macrophage Activation*
  • Macrophages* / immunology
  • Macrophages* / metabolism
  • Melanoma, Experimental / immunology
  • Melanoma, Experimental / metabolism
  • Melanoma, Experimental / pathology
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Mitochondria* / metabolism
  • Reactive Oxygen Species* / metabolism
  • Tumor Escape

Substances

  • Interleukin-10
  • Reactive Oxygen Species
  • Electron Transport Complex III
  • Lipopolysaccharides
  • IL10 protein, mouse