[HTML][HTML] Regulation and function of the cGAS–STING pathway of cytosolic DNA sensing

Q Chen, L Sun, ZJ Chen - Nature immunology, 2016 - nature.com
Q Chen, L Sun, ZJ Chen
Nature immunology, 2016nature.com
The recognition of microbial nucleic acids is a major mechanism by which the immune
system detects pathogens. Cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) is a cytosolic DNA
sensor that activates innate immune responses through production of the second
messenger cGAMP, which activates the adaptor STING. The cGAS–STING pathway not only
mediates protective immune defense against infection by a large variety of DNA-containing
pathogens but also detects tumor-derived DNA and generates intrinsic antitumor immunity …
Abstract
The recognition of microbial nucleic acids is a major mechanism by which the immune system detects pathogens. Cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) is a cytosolic DNA sensor that activates innate immune responses through production of the second messenger cGAMP, which activates the adaptor STING. The cGAS–STING pathway not only mediates protective immune defense against infection by a large variety of DNA-containing pathogens but also detects tumor-derived DNA and generates intrinsic antitumor immunity. However, aberrant activation of the cGAS pathway by self DNA can also lead to autoimmune and inflammatory disease. Thus, the cGAS pathway must be properly regulated. Here we review the recent advances in understanding of the cGAS–STING pathway, focusing on the regulatory mechanisms and roles of this pathway in heath and disease.
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