TCR-Independent Metabolic Reprogramming Precedes Lymphoma-Driven Changes in T-cell Fate

Chronic T-cell receptor (TCR) signaling in the tumor microenvironment is known to promote T-cell dysfunction. However, we reasoned that poorly immunogenic tumors may also compromise T cells by impairing their metabolism. To address this, we assessed temporal changes in T-cell metabolism, fate, and function in models of B-cell lymphoma driven by Myc, a promoter of energetics and repressor of immunogenicity. Increases in lymphoma burden most significantly impaired CD4(+) T-cell function and promoted regulatory T cell (Treg) and Th1-cell differentiation. Metabolomic analyses revealed early reprogramming of CD4(+) T-cell metabolism, reduced glucose uptake, and impaired mitochondrial function, which preceded changes in T-cell fate. In contrast, B-cell lymphoma metabolism remained robust during tumor progression. Finally, mitochondrial functions were impaired in CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells in lymphoma-transplanted OT-II and OT-I transgenic mice, respectively. These findings support a model, whereby early, TCR-independent, metabolic interactions with developing lymphomas limits T cell–mediated immune surveillance.