Yuan and colleagues demonstrate that inhaled biodegradable nanosilica activates an alveolar macrophage–NK axis, triggering an IL-12/15/18 triad that programs memory-like NK cells. This non-fibrotic, cell-free strategy suppresses melanoma growth, prevents postsurgical recurrence, and synergizes with anti-PD-1, establishing a robust framework for in vivo NK cell immunotherapy.

The efficacy of vaccines remains suboptimal in many settings, underscoring the need for new strategies. Baydemir and colleagues show that modulation of acetyl-CoA metabolism reshapes metabolic and epigenetic programs underlying Bacille Calmette-Guérin-induced trained immunity, enhancing cellular innate immune responses and identifying immunometabolic targeting as a promising approach to improve vaccine efficacy.