We identified novel mechanisms whereby TIM-3 suppresses innate immunity as induced by nucleic acids. Interaction of TIM-3 with HMGB1 inhibits the recruitment of nucleic acids to the endosomal compartment of dendritic cells, impairing the transduction of innate immune signals. Thus, TIM-3 is an effective target for enhancing the immunogenicity of nucleic acids in the context of cancer therapy.

A new modular approach to the design and discovery of fluorophores and sensors built on a DNA backbone is described. Fluorescent designer nucleosides are synthesized into short oligomers; their close interactions results in highly efficient reporters with properties not seen in standard fluorophores. Applications in sensing of molecules, ions, and enzymes in water and in the vapor phase are des...