1
|
Tian X, Ai J, Tian X, Wei X. cGAS-STING pathway agonists are promising vaccine adjuvants. Med Res Rev 2024; 44:1768-1799. [PMID: 38323921 DOI: 10.1002/med.22016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Adjuvants are of critical value in vaccine development as they act on enhancing immunogenicity of antigen and inducing long-lasting immunity. However, there are only a few adjuvants that have been approved for clinical use, which highlights the need for exploring and developing new adjuvants to meet the growing demand for vaccination. Recently, emerging evidence demonstrates that the cGAS-STING pathway orchestrates innate and adaptive immunity by generating type I interferon responses. Many cGAS-STING pathway agonists have been developed and tested in preclinical research for the treatment of cancer or infectious diseases with promising results. As adjuvants, cGAS-STING agonists have demonstrated their potential to activate robust defense immunity in various diseases, including COVID-19 infection. This review summarized the current developments in the field of cGAS-STING agonists with a special focus on the latest applications of cGAS-STING agonists as adjuvants in vaccination. Potential challenges were also discussed in the hope of sparking future research interests to further the development of cGAS-STING as vaccine adjuvants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Tian
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Jiayuan Ai
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohe Tian
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Centre for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang JN, Dong MM, Cao W, Chen HG, Gu HY, Feng YL, Zhang EF, He JS, Liu SC, Xie AY, Cai Z. Disruption of DNA-PKcs-mediated cGAS retention on damaged chromatin potentiates DNA damage-inducing agent-induced anti-multiple myeloma activity. Br J Cancer 2024:10.1038/s41416-024-02742-3. [PMID: 38877108 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-024-02742-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Targeting DNA damage repair factors, such as DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs), may offer an opportunity for effective treatment of multiple myeloma (MM). In combination with DNA damage-inducing agents, this strategy has been shown to improve chemotherapies partially via activation of cGAS-STING pathway by an elevated level of cytosolic DNA. However, as cGAS is primarily sequestered by chromatin in the nucleus, it remains unclear how cGAS is released from chromatin and translocated into the cytoplasm upon DNA damage, leading to cGAS-STING activation. METHODS We examined the role of DNA-PKcs inhibition on cGAS-STING-mediated MM chemosensitivity by performing mass spectrometry and mechanism study. RESULTS Here, we found DNA-PKcs inhibition potentiated DNA damage-inducing agent doxorubicin-induced anti-MM effect by activating cGAS-STING signaling. The cGAS-STING activation in MM cells caused cell death partly via IRF3-NOXA-BAK axis and induced M1 polarization of macrophages. Moreover, this activation was not caused by defective classical non-homologous end joining (c-NHEJ). Instead, upon DNA damage induced by doxorubicin, inhibition of DNA-PKcs promoted cGAS release from cytoplasmic chromatin fragments and increased the amount of cytosolic cGAS and DNA, activating cGAS-STING. CONCLUSIONS Inhibition of DNA-PKcs could improve the efficacy of doxorubicin in treatment of MM by de-sequestrating cGAS in damaged chromatin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Na Zhang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine and Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Meng-Meng Dong
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine and Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wen Cao
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hao-Guang Chen
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hui-Yao Gu
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi-Li Feng
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine and Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Hangzhou Qiantang Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - En-Fan Zhang
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jing-Song He
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Si-Cheng Liu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine and Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Hangzhou Qiantang Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - An-Yong Xie
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine and Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Laparoscopic Technology of Zhejiang Province, Department of General Surgery, Sir Run-Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Hangzhou Qiantang Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Zhen Cai
- Bone Marrow Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Institute of Hematology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Takaki T, Millar R, Hiley CT, Boulton SJ. Micronuclei induced by radiation, replication stress, or chromosome segregation errors do not activate cGAS-STING. Mol Cell 2024; 84:2203-2213.e5. [PMID: 38749421 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2024.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
The cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP)-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway plays a pivotal role in innate immune responses to viral infection and inhibition of autoimmunity. Recent studies have suggested that micronuclei formed by genotoxic stress can activate innate immune signaling via the cGAS-STING pathway. Here, we investigated cGAS localization, activation, and downstream signaling from micronuclei induced by ionizing radiation, replication stress, and chromosome segregation errors. Although cGAS localized to ruptured micronuclei via binding to self-DNA, we failed to observe cGAS activation; cGAMP production; downstream phosphorylation of STING, TBK1, or IRF3; nuclear accumulation of IRF3; or expression of interferon-stimulated genes. Failure to activate the cGAS-STING pathway was observed across primary and immortalized cell lines, which retained the ability to activate the cGAS-STING pathway in response to dsDNA or modified vaccinia virus infection. We provide evidence that micronuclei formed by genotoxic insults contain histone-bound self-DNA, which we show is inhibitory to cGAS activation in cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tohru Takaki
- DSB Repair Metabolism Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Rhona Millar
- DSB Repair Metabolism Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; Cancer Research UK Radnet City of London Centre, UCL Cancer Institute, 72 Huntley Street, London WC1E 6DD, UK
| | - Crispin T Hiley
- Cancer Research UK Radnet City of London Centre, UCL Cancer Institute, 72 Huntley Street, London WC1E 6DD, UK
| | - Simon J Boulton
- DSB Repair Metabolism Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; Artios Pharma Ltd., Babraham Research Campus, Meditrina Building, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Técher H. T-Rex escaped from the cytosolic park: Re-thinking the impact of TREX1 exonuclease deficiencies on genomic stability. Bioessays 2024:e2400066. [PMID: 38837436 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202400066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
The Three Prime Repair Exonuclease 1 (TREX1) has been implicated in several pathologies characterized by chronic and inborn inflammation. Aberrant innate immunity caused by DNA sensing through the cGAS-STING pathway has been proposed to play a major role in the etiology of these interferonopathies. However, the molecular source of this DNA sensing and the possible involvement of TREX1 in genome (in)stability remains poorly understood. Recent findings reignite the debate about the cellular functions performed by TREX1 nuclease, notably in chromosome biology and stability. Here I put into perspective recent findings that suggest that TREX1 is at the crossroads of DNA damage response and inflammation in different pathological contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hervé Técher
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, INSERM, Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice - IRCAN, Nice, France
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bonhomme D, Poirier EZ. Early signaling pathways in virus-infected cells. Curr Opin Virol 2024; 66:101411. [PMID: 38718574 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2024.101411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Virus infection activates specific pattern recognition receptors and immune signal transduction, resulting in pro-inflammatory cytokine production and activation of innate immunity. We describe here the molecular organization of early signaling pathways downstream of viral recognition, including conformational changes, post-translational modifications, formation of oligomers, and generation of small-molecule second messengers. Such molecular organization allows tight regulation of immune signal transduction, characterized by swift but transient responses, nonlinearity, and signal amplification. Pathologies of early immune signaling caused by genomic mutations illustrate the fine regulation of the immune transduction cascade.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Delphine Bonhomme
- Institut Curie, Stem Cell Immunity Lab, PSL Research University, INSERM U932, Paris, France
| | - Enzo Z Poirier
- Institut Curie, Stem Cell Immunity Lab, PSL Research University, INSERM U932, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Li W, Li Y, Zhao J, Liao J, Wen W, Chen Y, Cui H. Release of damaged mitochondrial DNA: A novel factor in stimulating inflammatory response. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 258:155330. [PMID: 38733868 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is a circular double-stranded genome that exists independently of the nucleus. In recent years, research on mtDNA has significantly increased, leading to a gradual increase in understanding of its physiological and pathological characteristics. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and other factors can damage mtDNA. This damaged mtDNA can escape from the mitochondria to the cytoplasm or extracellular space, subsequently activating immune signaling pathways, such as NLR family pyrin domain protein 3 (NLRP3), and triggering inflammatory responses. Numerous studies have demonstrated the involvement of mtDNA damage and leakage in the pathological mechanisms underlying various diseases including infectious diseases, metabolic inflammation, and immune disorders. Consequently, comprehensive investigation of mtDNA can elucidate the pathological mechanisms underlying numerous diseases. The prevention of mtDNA damage and leakage has emerged as a novel approach to disease treatment, and mtDNA has emerged as a promising target for drug development. This article provides a comprehensive review of the mechanisms underlying mtDNA-induced inflammation, its association with various diseases, and the methods used for its detection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Li
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Yuting Li
- First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 300193, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- Department of TCM Endocrinology, Yunnan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yunnan 650021, China
| | - Jiabao Liao
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Yunnan 650500, China
| | - Weibo Wen
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Yunnan 650500, China.
| | - Yao Chen
- Department of TCM Encephalopathy, Yunnan Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yunnan 650021, China.
| | - Huantian Cui
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Yunnan 650500, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Gu X, Chen Y, Cao K, Tu M, Liu W, Ju J. Therapeutic landscape in systemic lupus erythematosus: mtDNA activation of the cGAS-STING pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 133:112114. [PMID: 38652968 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) serves as a pivotal immune stimulus in the immune response. During stress, mitochondria release mtDNA into the cytoplasm, where it is recognized by the cytoplasmic DNA receptor cGAS. This activation initiates the cGAS-STING-IRF3 pathway, culminating in an inflammatory response. The cGAS-STING pathway has emerged as a critical mediator of inflammatory responses in microbial infections, stress, autoimmune diseases, chronic illnesses, and tissue injuries. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by connective tissue involvement across various bodily systems. Its hallmark is the production of numerous autoantibodies, which prompt the immune system to target and damage the body's own tissues, resulting in organ and tissue damage. Increasing evidence implicates the cGAS-STING pathway as a significant contributor to SLE pathogenesis. This article aims to explore the role of the mtDNA-triggered cGAS-STING pathway and its mechanisms in SLE, with the goal of providing novel insights for clinical interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotian Gu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Yong Chen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Kunyu Cao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Miao Tu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Wan Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China.
| | - Jiyu Ju
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen RH. Keeping cGAS in check: SPSB3 promotes nuclear cGAS degradation for maintaining immune homeostasis. Mol Cell 2024; 84:1635-1636. [PMID: 38701740 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2024.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
In a recent publication in Nature, Xu et al.1 discovered a role of CRL5-SPSB3 ubiquitin ligase in promoting ubiquitination and degradation of nuclear cGAS, which prevents aberrant cGAS activation by genomic DNA and contributes to the maintenance of immune homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruey-Hwa Chen
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Huang Y, Jiang W, Zhou R. DAMP sensing and sterile inflammation: intracellular, intercellular and inter-organ pathways. Nat Rev Immunol 2024:10.1038/s41577-024-01027-3. [PMID: 38684933 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-024-01027-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) are endogenous molecules that are released from host cells as a result of cell death or damage. The release of DAMPs in tissues is associated with loss of tissue homeostasis. Sensing of DAMPs by innate immune receptors triggers inflammation, which can be beneficial in initiating the processes that restore tissue homeostasis but can also drive inflammatory diseases. In recent years, the sensing of intracellular DAMPs has received extensive attention in the field of sterile inflammation. However, emerging studies have shown that DAMPs that originate from neighbouring cells, and even from distal tissues or organs, also mediate sterile inflammatory responses. This multi-level sensing of DAMPs is crucial for intercellular, trans-tissue and trans-organ communication. Here, we summarize how DAMP-sensing receptors detect DAMPs from intracellular, intercellular or distal tissue and organ sources to mediate sterile inflammation. We also discuss the possibility of targeting DAMPs or their corresponding receptors to treat inflammatory diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Huang
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Institute of Health and Medicine, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| | - Rongbin Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, Institute of Health and Medicine, Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, Hefei, China.
- Key Laboratory of Immune Response and Immunotherapy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Dvorkin S, Cambier S, Volkman HE, Stetson DB. New frontiers in the cGAS-STING intracellular DNA-sensing pathway. Immunity 2024; 57:718-730. [PMID: 38599167 PMCID: PMC11013568 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2024.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
The cGAS-STING intracellular DNA-sensing pathway has emerged as a key element of innate antiviral immunity and a promising therapeutic target. The existence of an innate immune sensor that can be activated by any double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) of any origin raises fundamental questions about how cGAS is regulated and how it responds to "foreign" DNA while maintaining tolerance to ubiquitous self-DNA. In this review, we summarize recent evidence implicating important roles for cGAS in the detection of foreign and self-DNA. We describe two recent and surprising insights into cGAS-STING biology: that cGAS is tightly tethered to the nucleosome and that the cGAMP product of cGAS is an immunotransmitter acting at a distance to control innate immunity. We consider how these advances influence our understanding of the emerging roles of cGAS in the DNA damage response (DDR), senescence, aging, and cancer biology. Finally, we describe emerging approaches to harness cGAS-STING biology for therapeutic benefit.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steve Dvorkin
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Stephanie Cambier
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Hannah E Volkman
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Daniel B Stetson
- Departments of Immunology and Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98109, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Mărunţelu I, Constantinescu AE, Covache-Busuioc RA, Constantinescu I. The Golgi Apparatus: A Key Player in Innate Immunity. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4120. [PMID: 38612929 PMCID: PMC11012725 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The Golgi apparatus, long recognized for its roles in protein processing and vesicular trafficking, has recently been identified as a crucial contributor to innate immune signaling pathways. This review discusses our expanding understanding of the Golgi apparatus's involvement in initiating and activating these pathways. It highlights the significance of membrane connections between the Golgi and other organelles, such as the endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, endosomes, and autophagosomes. These connections are vital for the efficient transmission of innate immune signals and the activation of effector responses. Furthermore, the article delves into the Golgi apparatus's roles in key immune pathways, including the inflammasome-mediated activation of caspase-1, the cGAS-STING pathway, and TLR/RLR signaling. Overall, this review aims to provide insights into the multifunctional nature of the Golgi apparatus and its impact on innate immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ion Mărunţelu
- Immunology and Transplant Immunology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Centre of Immunogenetics and Virology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandra-Elena Constantinescu
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.-E.C.); (R.-A.C.-B.)
- “Emil Palade” Center of Excellence for Young Researchers (EP-CEYR), Romanian Academy of Scientists (AOSR), 050094 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Razvan-Adrian Covache-Busuioc
- Faculty of Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.-E.C.); (R.-A.C.-B.)
| | - Ileana Constantinescu
- Immunology and Transplant Immunology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Centre of Immunogenetics and Virology, Fundeni Clinical Institute, 022328 Bucharest, Romania
- “Emil Palade” Center of Excellence for Young Researchers (EP-CEYR), Romanian Academy of Scientists (AOSR), 050094 Bucharest, Romania
- Romanian Academy of Scientists (AOSR), 050094 Bucharest, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wenzl SJ, de Oliveira Mann CC. How enzyme-centered approaches are advancing research on cyclic oligo-nucleotides. FEBS Lett 2024; 598:839-863. [PMID: 38453162 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Cyclic nucleotides are the most diversified category of second messengers and are found in all organisms modulating diverse pathways. While cAMP and cGMP have been studied over 50 years, cyclic di-nucleotide signaling in eukaryotes emerged only recently with the anti-viral molecule 2´3´cGAMP. Recent breakthrough discoveries have revealed not only the astonishing chemical diversity of cyclic nucleotides but also surprisingly deep-rooted evolutionary origins of cyclic oligo-nucleotide signaling pathways and structural conservation of the proteins involved in their synthesis and signaling. Here we discuss how enzyme-centered approaches have paved the way for the identification of several cyclic nucleotide signals, focusing on the advantages and challenges associated with deciphering the activation mechanisms of such enzymes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon J Wenzl
- Department of Bioscience, TUM School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany
| | - Carina C de Oliveira Mann
- Department of Bioscience, TUM School of Natural Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Garching, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zaid A, Ariel A. Harnessing anti-inflammatory pathways and macrophage nano delivery to treat inflammatory and fibrotic disorders. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 207:115204. [PMID: 38342241 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Targeting specific organs and cell types using nanotechnology and sophisticated delivery methods has been at the forefront of applicative biomedical sciences lately. Macrophages are an appealing target for immunomodulation by nanodelivery as they are heavily involved in various aspects of many diseases and are highly plastic in their nature. Their continuum of functional "polarization" states has been a research focus for many years yielding a profound understanding of various aspects of these cells. The ability of monocyte-derived macrophages to metamorphose from pro-inflammatory to reparative and consequently to pro-resolving effectors has raised significant interest in its therapeutic potential. Here, we briefly survey macrophages' ontogeny and various polarization phenotypes, highlighting their function in the inflammation-resolution shift. We review their inducing mediators, signaling pathways, and biological programs with emphasis on the nucleic acid sensing-IFN-I axis. We also portray the polarization spectrum of macrophages and the characteristics of their transition between different subtypes. Finally, we highlighted different current drug delivery methods for targeting macrophages with emphasis on nanotargeting that might lead to breakthroughs in the treatment of wound healing, bone regeneration, autoimmune, and fibrotic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Zaid
- Department of Biology and Human Biology, University of Haifa, Haifa, 3498838 Israel
| | - Amiram Ariel
- Department of Biology and Human Biology, University of Haifa, Haifa, 3498838 Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Li Q, Wu P, Du Q, Hanif U, Hu H, Li K. cGAS-STING, an important signaling pathway in diseases and their therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e511. [PMID: 38525112 PMCID: PMC10960729 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Since cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway was discovered in 2013, great progress has been made to elucidate the origin, function, and regulating mechanism of cGAS-STING signaling pathway in the past decade. Meanwhile, the triggering and transduction mechanisms have been continuously illuminated. cGAS-STING plays a key role in human diseases, particularly DNA-triggered inflammatory diseases, making it a potentially effective therapeutic target for inflammation-related diseases. Here, we aim to summarize the ancient origin of the cGAS-STING defense mechanism, as well as the triggers, transduction, and regulating mechanisms of the cGAS-STING. We will also focus on the important roles of cGAS-STING signal under pathological conditions, such as infections, cancers, autoimmune diseases, neurological diseases, and visceral inflammations, and review the progress in drug development targeting cGAS-STING signaling pathway. The main directions and potential obstacles in the regulating mechanism research and therapeutic drug development of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway for inflammatory diseases and cancers will be discussed. These research advancements expand our understanding of cGAS-STING, provide a theoretical basis for further exploration of the roles of cGAS-STING in diseases, and open up new strategies for targeting cGAS-STING as a promising therapeutic intervention in multiple diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qijie Li
- Sichuan province Medical and Engineering Interdisciplinary Research Center of Nursing & Materials/Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceWest China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of NursingSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Ping Wu
- Department of Occupational DiseasesThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical College (China National Nuclear Corporation 416 Hospital)ChengduSichuanChina
| | - Qiujing Du
- Sichuan province Medical and Engineering Interdisciplinary Research Center of Nursing & Materials/Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceWest China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of NursingSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Ullah Hanif
- Sichuan province Medical and Engineering Interdisciplinary Research Center of Nursing & Materials/Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceWest China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of NursingSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Hongbo Hu
- Center for Immunology and HematologyState Key Laboratory of BiotherapyWest China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Ka Li
- Sichuan province Medical and Engineering Interdisciplinary Research Center of Nursing & Materials/Nursing Key Laboratory of Sichuan ProvinceWest China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of NursingSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sato Y, Hayashi MT. Micronucleus is not a potent inducer of the cGAS/STING pathway. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202302424. [PMID: 38307626 PMCID: PMC10837050 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Micronuclei (MN) have been associated with the innate immune response. The abrupt rupture of MN membranes results in the accumulation of cGAS, potentially activating STING and downstream interferon-responsive genes. However, direct evidence connecting MN and cGAS activation has been lacking. We have developed the FuVis2 reporter system, which enables the visualization of the cell nucleus carrying a single sister chromatid fusion and, consequently, MN. Using this FuVis2 reporter equipped with cGAS and STING reporters, we rigorously assessed the potency of cGAS activation by MN in individual living cells. Our findings reveal that cGAS localization to membrane-ruptured MN during interphase is infrequent, with cGAS primarily capturing MN during mitosis and remaining bound to cytosolic chromatin. We found that cGAS accumulation during mitosis neither activates STING in the subsequent interphase nor triggers the interferon response. Gamma-ray irradiation activates STING independently of MN formation and cGAS localization to MN. These results suggest that cGAS accumulation in cytosolic MN is not a robust indicator of its activation and that MN are not the primary trigger of the cGAS/STING pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Sato
- https://ror.org/02kpeqv85 Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- https://ror.org/02kpeqv85 IFOM-KU Joint Research Laboratory, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Makoto T Hayashi
- https://ror.org/02kpeqv85 IFOM-KU Joint Research Laboratory, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- IFOM ETS, the AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Leonen CJA, Funabiki H. cGAS meets its demise in the nucleus. Nat Immunol 2024; 25:592-593. [PMID: 38514888 DOI: 10.1038/s41590-024-01794-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Calvin Jon A Leonen
- Laboratory of Chromosome and Cell Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hironori Funabiki
- Laboratory of Chromosome and Cell Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kulkarni R, Maranholkar V, Nguyen N, Cirino PC, Willson RC, Varadarajan N. The efficient synthesis and purification of 2'3'- cGAMP from Escherichia coli. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1345617. [PMID: 38525075 PMCID: PMC10957790 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1345617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Agonists of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway are being explored as potential immunotherapeutics for the treatment of cancer and as vaccine adjuvants for infectious diseases. Although chemical synthesis of 2'3' - cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate-Adenosine Monophosphate (cGAMP) is commercially feasible, the process results in low yields and utilizes organic solvents. To pursue an efficient and environmentally friendly process for the production of cGAMP, we focused on the recombinant production of cGAMP via a whole-cell biocatalysis platform utilizing the murine cyclic Guanosine monophosphate-Adenosine monophosphate synthase (mcGAS). In E. coli BL21(DE3) cells, recombinant expression of mcGAS, a DNA-dependent enzyme, led to the secretion of cGAMP to the supernatants. By evaluating the: (1) media composition, (2) supplementation of divalent cations, (3) temperature of protein expression, and (4) amino acid substitutions pertaining to DNA binding; we showed that the maximum yield of cGAMP in the supernatants was improved by 30% from 146 mg/L to 186 ± 7 mg/mL under optimized conditions. To simplify the downstream processing, we developed and validated a single-step purification process for cGAMP using anion exchange chromatography. The method does not require protein affinity chromatography and it achieved a yield of 60 ± 2 mg/L cGAMP, with <20 EU/mL (<0.3 EU/μg) of endotoxin. Unlike chemical synthesis, our method provides a route for the recombinant production of cGAMP without the need for organic solvents and supports the goal of moving toward shorter, more sustainable, and more environmentally friendly processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rohan Kulkarni
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Vijay Maranholkar
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Nam Nguyen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Patrick C. Cirino
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Richard C. Willson
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Navin Varadarajan
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lu Y, Zhao M, Chen L, Wang Y, Liu T, Liu H. cGAS: action in the nucleus. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1380517. [PMID: 38515746 PMCID: PMC10954897 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1380517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
As a canonical cytoplasmic DNA sensor, cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) plays a key role in innate immunity. In recent years, a growing number of studies have shown that cGAS can also be located in the nucleus and plays new functions such as regulating DNA damage repair, nuclear membrane repair, chromosome fusion, DNA replication, angiogenesis and other non-canonical functions. Meanwhile, the mechanisms underlying the nucleo-cytoplasmic transport and the regulation of cGAS activation have been revealed in recent years. Based on the current understanding of the structure, subcellular localization and canonical functions of cGAS, this review focuses on summarizing the mechanisms underlying nucleo-cytoplasmic transport, activity regulation and non-canonical functions of cGAS in the nucleus. We aim to provide insights into exploring the new functions of cGAS in the nucleus and advance its clinical translation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yikai Lu
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengmeng Zhao
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Li Chen
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianhao Liu
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haipeng Liu
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Shinde O, Li P. The molecular mechanism of dsDNA sensing through the cGAS-STING pathway. Adv Immunol 2024; 162:1-21. [PMID: 38866436 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ai.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Double stranded DNA (dsDNA) in the cytoplasm triggers the cGAS-STING innate immune pathway to defend against pathogenic infections, tissue damage and malignant cells. Extensive structural and functional studies over the last couple of years have enabled the molecular understanding of dsDNA induced activation of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. This review highlights recent advances in the structural characterization of key molecules in the cGAS-STING signaling axis by focusing on the mechanism of cGAS activation by dsDNA, the regulation of cGAS activity, the mechanism of STING activation by cGAMP, the molecular basis of TBK1 recruitment and activation by STING, the structural basis of IRF3 recruitment by STING, and the mechanism of IRF3 activation upon phosphorylation by TBK1. These comprehensive structural studies provide a detailed picture of the mechanism of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway, establishing a molecular framework for the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting this pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omkar Shinde
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Pingwei Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Xu P, Liu Y, Liu C, Guey B, Li L, Melenec P, Ricci J, Ablasser A. The CRL5-SPSB3 ubiquitin ligase targets nuclear cGAS for degradation. Nature 2024; 627:873-879. [PMID: 38418882 PMCID: PMC10972748 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07112-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) senses aberrant DNA during infection, cancer and inflammatory disease, and initiates potent innate immune responses through the synthesis of 2'3'-cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP)1-7. The indiscriminate activity of cGAS towards DNA demands tight regulatory mechanisms that are necessary to maintain cell and tissue homeostasis under normal conditions. Inside the cell nucleus, anchoring to nucleosomes and competition with chromatin architectural proteins jointly prohibit cGAS activation by genomic DNA8-15. However, the fate of nuclear cGAS and its role in cell physiology remains unclear. Here we show that the ubiquitin proteasomal system (UPS) degrades nuclear cGAS in cycling cells. We identify SPSB3 as the cGAS-targeting substrate receptor that associates with the cullin-RING ubiquitin ligase 5 (CRL5) complex to ligate ubiquitin onto nuclear cGAS. A cryo-electron microscopy structure of nucleosome-bound cGAS in a complex with SPSB3 reveals a highly conserved Asn-Asn (NN) minimal degron motif at the C terminus of cGAS that directs SPSB3 recruitment, ubiquitylation and cGAS protein stability. Interference with SPSB3-regulated nuclear cGAS degradation primes cells for type I interferon signalling, conferring heightened protection against infection by DNA viruses. Our research defines protein degradation as a determinant of cGAS regulation in the nucleus and provides structural insights into an element of cGAS that is amenable to therapeutic exploitation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pengbiao Xu
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ying Liu
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Chong Liu
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Baptiste Guey
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lingyun Li
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pauline Melenec
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jonathan Ricci
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Ablasser
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Institute for Cancer Research (ISREC), Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Wang X, Liu J, Mao C, Mao Y. Phase separation-mediated biomolecular condensates and their relationship to tumor. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:143. [PMID: 38383403 PMCID: PMC10880379 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01518-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Phase separation is a cellular phenomenon where macromolecules aggregate or segregate, giving rise to biomolecular condensates resembling "droplets" and forming distinct, membrane-free compartments. This process is pervasive in biological cells, contributing to various essential cellular functions. However, when phase separation goes awry, leading to abnormal molecular aggregation, it can become a driving factor in the development of diseases, including tumor. Recent investigations have unveiled the intricate connection between dysregulated phase separation and tumor pathogenesis, highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic target. This article provides an overview of recent phase separation research, with a particular emphasis on its role in tumor, its therapeutic implications, and outlines avenues for further exploration in this intriguing field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China
| | - Jiameng Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China
| | - Chaoming Mao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
| | - Yufei Mao
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Goddard AM, Cho MG, Lerner LM, Gupta GP. Mechanisms of Immune Sensing of DNA Damage. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168424. [PMID: 38159716 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Genomic stability relies on a multifaceted and evolutionarily conserved DNA damage response (DDR). In multicellular organisms, an integral facet of the DDR involves the activation of the immune system to eliminate cells with persistent DNA damage. Recent research has shed light on a complex array of nucleic acid sensors crucial for innate immune activation in response to oncogenic stress-associated DNA damage, a process vital for suppressing tumor formation. Yet, these immune sensing pathways may also be co-opted to foster tolerance of chromosomal instability, thereby driving cancer progression. This review aims to provide an updated overview of how the innate immune system detects and responds to DNA damage. An improved understanding of the regulatory intricacies governing this immune response may uncover new avenues for cancer prevention and therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Goddard
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
| | - Min-Guk Cho
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Lynn M Lerner
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Genetics and Molecular Biology Curriculum, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Gaorav P Gupta
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Budrewicz J, Chavez SL. Insights into embryonic chromosomal instability: mechanisms of DNA elimination during mammalian preimplantation development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1344092. [PMID: 38374891 PMCID: PMC10875028 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1344092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Mammalian preimplantation embryos often contend with aneuploidy that arose either by the inheritance of meiotic errors from the gametes, or from mitotic mis-segregation events that occurred following fertilization. Regardless of the origin, mis-segregated chromosomes become encapsulated in micronuclei (MN) that are spatially isolated from the main nucleus. Much of our knowledge of MN formation comes from dividing somatic cells during tumorigenesis, but the error-prone cleavage-stage of early embryogenesis is fundamentally different. One unique aspect is that cellular fragmentation (CF), whereby small subcellular bodies pinch off embryonic blastomeres, is frequently observed. CF has been detected in both in vitro and in vivo-derived embryos and likely represents a response to chromosome mis-segregation since it only appears after MN formation. There are multiple fates for MN, including sequestration into CFs, but the molecular mechanism(s) by which this occurs remains unclear. Due to nuclear envelope rupture, the chromosomal material contained within MN and CFs becomes susceptible to double stranded-DNA breaks. Despite this damage, embryos may still progress to the blastocyst stage and exclude chromosome-containing CFs, as well as non-dividing aneuploid blastomeres, from participating in further development. Whether these are attempts to rectify MN formation or eliminate embryos with poor implantation potential is unknown and this review will discuss the potential implications of DNA removal by CF/blastomere exclusion. We will also extrapolate what is known about the intracellular pathways mediating MN formation and rupture in somatic cells to preimplantation embryogenesis and how nuclear budding and DNA release into the cytoplasm may impact overall development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Budrewicz
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
| | - Shawn L. Chavez
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Kumar V, Stewart JH. cGLRs Join Their Cousins of Pattern Recognition Receptor Family to Regulate Immune Homeostasis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1828. [PMID: 38339107 PMCID: PMC10855445 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) recognize danger signals such as PAMPs/MAMPs and DAMPs to initiate a protective immune response. TLRs, NLRs, CLRs, and RLRs are well-characterized PRRs of the host immune system. cGLRs have been recently identified as PRRs. In humans, the cGAS/STING signaling pathway is a part of cGLRs. cGAS recognizes cytosolic dsDNA as a PAMP or DAMP to initiate the STING-dependent immune response comprising type 1 IFN release, NF-κB activation, autophagy, and cellular senescence. The present article discusses the emergence of cGLRs as critical PRRs and how they regulate immune responses. We examined the role of cGAS/STING signaling, a well-studied cGLR system, in the activation of the immune system. The following sections discuss the role of cGAS/STING dysregulation in disease and how immune cross-talk with other PRRs maintains immune homeostasis. This understanding will lead to the design of better vaccines and immunotherapeutics for various diseases, including infections, autoimmunity, and cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Kumar
- Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Surgery, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA;
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
El-Mortada F, Landelouci K, Bertrand-Perron S, Aubé FA, Poirier A, Bidias A, Jourdi G, Welman M, Gantier MP, Hamilton JR, Kile B, Lordkipanidzé M, Pépin G. Megakaryocytes possess a STING pathway that is transferred to platelets to potentiate activation. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202302211. [PMID: 37993259 PMCID: PMC10665521 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Platelets display unexpected roles in immune and coagulation responses. Emerging evidence suggests that STING is implicated in hypercoagulation. STING is an adaptor protein downstream of the DNA sensor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) that is activated by cytosolic microbial and self-DNA during infections, and in the context of loss of cellular integrity, to instigate the production of type-I IFN and pro-inflammatory cytokines. To date, whether the cGAS-STING pathway is present in platelets and contributes to platelet functions is not defined. Using a combination of pharmacological and genetic approaches, we demonstrate here that megakaryocytes and platelets possess a functional cGAS-STING pathway. Our results suggest that in megakaryocytes, STING stimulation activates a type-I IFN response, and during thrombopoiesis, cGAS and STING are transferred to proplatelets. Finally, we show that both murine and human platelets contain cGAS and STING proteins, and the cGAS-STING pathway contributes to potentiation of platelet activation and aggregation. Taken together, these observations establish for the first time a novel role of the cGAS-STING DNA sensing axis in the megakaryocyte and platelet lineage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Firas El-Mortada
- https://ror.org/02xrw9r68 Groupe de Recherche en Signalisation Cellulaire, Département de Biologie Médicale, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Canada
| | - Karima Landelouci
- https://ror.org/02xrw9r68 Groupe de Recherche en Signalisation Cellulaire, Département de Biologie Médicale, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Canada
| | - Samuel Bertrand-Perron
- https://ror.org/02xrw9r68 Groupe de Recherche en Signalisation Cellulaire, Département de Biologie Médicale, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Canada
| | - Félix-Antoine Aubé
- https://ror.org/02xrw9r68 Groupe de Recherche en Signalisation Cellulaire, Département de Biologie Médicale, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Canada
| | - Amélie Poirier
- https://ror.org/02xrw9r68 Groupe de Recherche en Signalisation Cellulaire, Département de Biologie Médicale, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Canada
| | - Amel Bidias
- https://ror.org/02xrw9r68 Groupe de Recherche en Signalisation Cellulaire, Département de Biologie Médicale, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Canada
| | - Georges Jourdi
- Centre de Recherche, Institut de Cardiologie de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Mélanie Welman
- Centre de Recherche, Institut de Cardiologie de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Michael P Gantier
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Justin R Hamilton
- Australian Centre for Blood Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- CSL Innovation, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Benjamin Kile
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Marie Lordkipanidzé
- Centre de Recherche, Institut de Cardiologie de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Geneviève Pépin
- https://ror.org/02xrw9r68 Groupe de Recherche en Signalisation Cellulaire, Département de Biologie Médicale, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Brown Harding H, Kwaku GN, Reardon CM, Khan NS, Zamith-Miranda D, Zarnowski R, Tam JM, Bohaen CK, Richey L, Mosallanejad K, Crossen AJ, Reedy JL, Ward RA, Vargas-Blanco DA, Basham KJ, Bhattacharyya RP, Nett JE, Mansour MK, van de Veerdonk FL, Kumar V, Kagan JC, Andes DR, Nosanchuk JD, Vyas JM. Candida albicans extracellular vesicles trigger type I IFN signalling via cGAS and STING. Nat Microbiol 2024; 9:95-107. [PMID: 38168615 PMCID: PMC10959075 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-023-01546-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The host type I interferon (IFN) pathway is a major signature of inflammation induced by the human fungal pathogen, Candida albicans. However, the molecular mechanism for activating this pathway in the host defence against C. albicans remains unknown. Here we reveal that mice lacking cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of IFN genes (STING) pathway components had improved survival following an intravenous challenge by C. albicans. Biofilm-associated C. albicans DNA packaged in extracellular vesicles triggers the cGAS-STING pathway as determined by induction of interferon-stimulated genes, IFNβ production, and phosphorylation of IFN regulatory factor 3 and TANK-binding kinase 1. Extracellular vesicle-induced activation of type I IFNs was independent of the Dectin-1/Card9 pathway and did not require toll-like receptor 9. Single nucleotide polymorphisms in cGAS and STING potently altered inflammatory cytokine production in human monocytes challenged by C. albicans. These studies provide insights into the early innate immune response induced by a clinically significant fungal pathogen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Brown Harding
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Geneva N Kwaku
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christopher M Reardon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nida S Khan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel Zamith-Miranda
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Robert Zarnowski
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jenny M Tam
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Collins K Bohaen
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Lauren Richey
- Tufts Comparative Medicine Services, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenta Mosallanejad
- Division of Gastroenterology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Arianne J Crossen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer L Reedy
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rebecca A Ward
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Diego A Vargas-Blanco
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kyle J Basham
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Roby P Bhattacharyya
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jeniel E Nett
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Michael K Mansour
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Frank L van de Veerdonk
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Genetics, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
- Nitte University Centre for Science Education and Research, Medical Sciences Complex, Mangaluru, India
| | - Jonathan C Kagan
- Division of Gastroenterology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David R Andes
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Joshua D Nosanchuk
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Jatin M Vyas
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Zierhut C. Potential cGAS-STING pathway functions in DNA damage responses, DNA replication and DNA repair. DNA Repair (Amst) 2024; 133:103608. [PMID: 38056369 DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2023.103608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
The major innate immune responder to the DNA of pathogens is the cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) - stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway. Most prominently, the outcome of cGAS signalling is the activation of inflammatory transcription through interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB). In addition, the cGAS-STING pathway can lead to the direct modulation of cellular processes independently of transcription, such as activation of autophagy. Under unperturbed conditions, several mechanisms are in place to prevent the activation of cGAS by self-DNA, chiefly its sequestration on chromatin, which interferes with binding to stimulatory DNA. However, under conditions of genotoxic stress and chromosomal instability, this inhibition breaks down, resulting in the activation of cGAS, which drives sterile inflammation, as well as cell fate and immune responses in cancer. Recently, several studies have suggested that cGAS, STING, or downstream pathway components can also regulate the DNA damage response, DNA damage checkpoint signalling, DNA repair and DNA replication. Here, I review these proposed mechanisms, and discuss some unanswered questions relating to them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christian Zierhut
- The Institute of Cancer Research, Division of Cancer Biology, 237 Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Cho MG, Kumar RJ, Lin CC, Boyer JA, Shahir JA, Fagan-Solis K, Simpson DA, Fan C, Foster CE, Goddard AM, Lerner LM, Ellington SW, Wang Q, Wang Y, Ho AY, Liu P, Perou CM, Zhang Q, McGinty RK, Purvis JE, Gupta GP. MRE11 liberates cGAS from nucleosome sequestration during tumorigenesis. Nature 2024; 625:585-592. [PMID: 38200309 PMCID: PMC10794148 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06889-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Oncogene-induced replication stress generates endogenous DNA damage that activates cGAS-STING-mediated signalling and tumour suppression1-3. However, the precise mechanism of cGAS activation by endogenous DNA damage remains enigmatic, particularly given that high-affinity histone acidic patch (AP) binding constitutively inhibits cGAS by sterically hindering its activation by double-stranded DNA (dsDNA)4-10. Here we report that the DNA double-strand break sensor MRE11 suppresses mammary tumorigenesis through a pivotal role in regulating cGAS activation. We demonstrate that binding of the MRE11-RAD50-NBN complex to nucleosome fragments is necessary to displace cGAS from acidic-patch-mediated sequestration, which enables its mobilization and activation by dsDNA. MRE11 is therefore essential for cGAS activation in response to oncogenic stress, cytosolic dsDNA and ionizing radiation. Furthermore, MRE11-dependent cGAS activation promotes ZBP1-RIPK3-MLKL-mediated necroptosis, which is essential to suppress oncogenic proliferation and breast tumorigenesis. Notably, downregulation of ZBP1 in human triple-negative breast cancer is associated with increased genome instability, immune suppression and poor patient prognosis. These findings establish MRE11 as a crucial mediator that links DNA damage and cGAS activation, resulting in tumour suppression through ZBP1-dependent necroptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min-Guk Cho
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Rashmi J Kumar
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- UNC MD-PhD Program, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Chien-Chu Lin
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Joshua A Boyer
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jamshaid A Shahir
- Curriculum in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Katerina Fagan-Solis
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Dennis A Simpson
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Cheng Fan
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Christine E Foster
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Anna M Goddard
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Lynn M Lerner
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Simon W Ellington
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Qinhong Wang
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Ying Wang
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Alice Y Ho
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pengda Liu
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Charles M Perou
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Computational Medicine Program, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Qi Zhang
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Robert K McGinty
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Division of Chemical Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jeremy E Purvis
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Computational Medicine Program, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Gaorav P Gupta
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- UNC MD-PhD Program, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Brooks WH. Polyamine Dysregulation and Nucleolar Disruption in Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 98:837-857. [PMID: 38489184 DOI: 10.3233/jad-231184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
A hypothesis of Alzheimer's disease etiology is proposed describing how cellular stress induces excessive polyamine synthesis and recycling which can disrupt nucleoli. Polyamines are essential in nucleolar functions, such as RNA folding and ribonucleoprotein assembly. Changes in the nucleolar pool of anionic RNA and cationic polyamines acting as counterions can cause significant nucleolar dynamics. Polyamine synthesis reduces S-adenosylmethionine which, at low levels, triggers tau phosphorylation. Also, polyamine recycling reduces acetyl-CoA needed for acetylcholine, which is low in Alzheimer's disease. Extraordinary nucleolar expansion and/or contraction can disrupt epigenetic control in peri-nucleolar chromatin, such as chromosome 14 with the presenilin-1 gene; chromosome 21 with the amyloid precursor protein gene; chromosome 17 with the tau gene; chromosome 19 with the APOE4 gene; and the inactive X chromosome (Xi; aka "nucleolar satellite") with normally silent spermine synthase (polyamine synthesis) and spermidine/spermine-N1-acetyltransferase (polyamine recycling) alleles. Chromosomes 17, 19 and the Xi have high concentrations of Alu elements which can be transcribed by RNA polymerase III if positioned nucleosomes are displaced from the Alu elements. A sudden flood of Alu RNA transcripts can competitively bind nucleolin which is usually bound to Alu sequences in structural RNAs that stabilize the nucleolar heterochromatic shell. This Alu competition leads to loss of nucleolar integrity with leaking of nucleolar polyamines that cause aggregation of phosphorylated tau. The hypothesis was developed with key word searches (e.g., PubMed) using relevant terms (e.g., Alzheimer's, lupus, nucleolin) based on a systems biology approach and exploring autoimmune disease tautology, gaining synergistic insights from other diseases.
Collapse
|
30
|
Monticelli S, Cejka P. DNA sensing and repair systems unexpectedly team up against cancer. Nature 2024; 625:457-458. [PMID: 38200334 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-023-03994-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
|
31
|
Chen W, Lee GE, Jeung D, Byun J, Juan W, Cho YY. Cyclic GMP-AMP Synthase in Cancer Prevention. J Cancer Prev 2023; 28:143-196. [PMID: 38205362 PMCID: PMC10774482 DOI: 10.15430/jcp.2023.28.4.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP), synthesized by cGAMP synthase (cGAS), serves as a secondary messenger that modulates various cellular processes, including cell proliferation, cell death, immune response, and inflammation. cGAS is activated upon detecting cytoplasmic DNA, which may originate from damaged genomic and mitochondrial DNA or from viral and bacterial infections. The presence of DNA in the cytoplasm can trigger a substantial inflammatory reaction and cytokine production via the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. Consequently, specific inhibitors targeting this pathway hold significant potential as chemopreventive agents. In this review, we explore the potential effectiveness of modulating cGAS activity. We discuss the role of cGAMP, the mechanism of action for distinguishing between self and foreign DNA, and the possible functions of cGAS within the nucleus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weidong Chen
- BK21-Four, College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea
- RCD Control Material Research Institute, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Ga-Eun Lee
- BK21-Four, College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea
- RCD Control Material Research Institute, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Dohyun Jeung
- BK21-Four, College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea
- RCD Control Material Research Institute, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Jiin Byun
- BK21-Four, College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea
- RCD Control Material Research Institute, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Wu Juan
- BK21-Four, College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea
- RCD Control Material Research Institute, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Yong-Yeon Cho
- BK21-Four, College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea
- RCD Control Material Research Institute, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Zhou Z, Ou-yang C, Chen Q, Ren Z, Guo X, Lei M, Liu C, Yang X. Trafficking and effect of released DNA on cGAS-STING signaling pathway and cardiovascular disease. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1287130. [PMID: 38152400 PMCID: PMC10751357 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1287130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence from clinical research and animal studies indicates that inflammation is an important factor in the occurrence and development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Emerging evidence shows that nucleic acids serve as crucial pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) or non-infectious damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), are released and then recognized by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which activates immunological signaling pathways for host defense. Mechanistically, the released nucleic acids activate cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) and its downstream receptor stimulator of interferon genes (STING) to promote type I interferons (IFNs) production, which play an important regulatory function during the initiation of an innate immune response to various diseases, including CVD. This pathway represents an essential defense regulatory mechanism in an organism's innate immune system. In this review, we outline the overall profile of cGAS-STING signaling, summarize the latest findings on nucleic acid release and trafficking, and discuss their potential role in CVD. This review also sheds light on potential directions for future investigations on CVD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zimo Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
- State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Changhan Ou-yang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Qingjie Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Zhanhong Ren
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Xiying Guo
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Min Lei
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Chao Liu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| | - Xiaosong Yang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Diabetes and Angiopathy, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
- Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Mikhalkevich N, Russ E, Iordanskiy S. Cellular RNA and DNA sensing pathways are essential for the dose-dependent response of human monocytes to ionizing radiation. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1235936. [PMID: 38152396 PMCID: PMC10751912 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1235936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Circulating monocytes are important players of the inflammatory response to ionizing radiation (IR). These IR-resistant immune cells migrate to radiation-damaged tissues and differentiate into macrophages that phagocytize dying cells, but also facilitate inflammation. Besides the effect of damage-associated molecular patterns, released from irradiated tissues, the inflammatory activation of monocytes and macrophages is largely dependent on IR-induced DNA damage and aberrant transcriptional activity, which may facilitate expression of type I interferons (IFN-I) and numerous inflammation-related genes. We analyzed the accumulation of dsRNA, dsDNA fragments, and RNA:DNA hybrids in the context of induction of RNA-triggered MAVS-mediated and DNA-triggered STING-mediated signaling pathways, in primary human monocytes and a monocytic cell line, THP1, in response to various doses of gamma IR. We found that exposure to lower doses (<7.5 Gy) led to the accumulation of dsRNA, along with dsDNA and RNA:DNA hybrids and activated both MAVS and STING pathway-induced gene expression and signaling activity of IFN-I. Higher doses of IR resulted in the reduced dsRNA level, degradation of RNA-sensing mediators involved in MAVS signaling and coincided with an increased accumulation of dsDNA and RNA:DNA hybrids that correlated with elevated STING signaling and NF-κB-dependent gene expression. While both pathways activate IFN-I expression, using MAVS- and STING-knockout THP1 cells, we identified differences in the spectra of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) that are associated with each specific signaling pathway and outlined a large group of STING signaling-associated genes. Using the RNAi technique, we found that increasing the dose of IR activates STING signaling through the DNA sensor cGAS, along with suppression of the DDX41 helicase, which is known to reduce the accumulation of RNA:DNA hybrids and thereby limit cGAS/STING signaling activity. Together, these results indicate that depending on the applied dose, IR leads to the activation of either dsRNA-induced MAVS signaling, which predominantly leads to the expression of both pro- and anti-inflammatory markers, or dsDNA-induced STING signaling that contributes to pro-inflammatory activation of the cells. While RNA:DNA hybrids boost both MAVS- and STING-mediated signaling pathways, these structures being accumulated upon high IR doses promote type I interferon expression and appear to be potent enhancers of radiation dose-dependent pro-inflammatory activation of monocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natallia Mikhalkevich
- Department of Pharmacology & Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Eric Russ
- Department of Pharmacology & Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD, United States
- The American Genome Center (TAGC), Collaborative Health Initiative Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Graduate Program of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Sergey Iordanskiy
- Department of Pharmacology & Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of The Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Korneenko TV, Pestov NB, Nevzorov IA, Daks AA, Trachuk KN, Solopova ON, Barlev NA. At the Crossroads of the cGAS-cGAMP-STING Pathway and the DNA Damage Response: Implications for Cancer Progression and Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1675. [PMID: 38139802 PMCID: PMC10747911 DOI: 10.3390/ph16121675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The evolutionary conserved DNA-sensing cGAS-STING innate immunity pathway represents one of the most important cytosolic DNA-sensing systems that is activated in response to viral invasion and/or damage to the integrity of the nuclear envelope. The key outcome of this pathway is the production of interferon, which subsequently stimulates the transcription of hundreds of genes. In oncology, the situation is complex because this pathway may serve either anti- or pro-oncogenic roles, depending on context. The prevailing understanding is that when the innate immune response is activated by sensing cytosolic DNA, such as DNA released from ruptured micronuclei, it results in the production of interferon, which attracts cytotoxic cells to destroy tumors. However, in tumor cells that have adjusted to significant chromosomal instability, particularly in relapsed, treatment-resistant cancers, the cGAS-STING pathway often supports cancer progression, fostering the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Here, we review this intricate pathway in terms of its association with cancer progression, giving special attention to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and gliomas. As the development of new cGAS-STING-modulating small molecules and immunotherapies such as oncolytic viruses involves serious challenges, we highlight several recent fundamental discoveries, such as the proton-channeling function of STING. These discoveries may serve as guiding lights for potential pharmacological advancements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatyana V. Korneenko
- Group of Cross-Linking Enzymes, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Nikolay B. Pestov
- Group of Cross-Linking Enzymes, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow 117997, Russia
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Moscow 119121, Russia
- Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products, Moscow 108819, Russia
| | - Ivan A. Nevzorov
- Institute of Cytology, Tikhoretsky ave 4, St-Petersburg 194064, Russia
| | - Alexandra A. Daks
- Institute of Cytology, Tikhoretsky ave 4, St-Petersburg 194064, Russia
| | - Kirill N. Trachuk
- Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products, Moscow 108819, Russia
| | - Olga N. Solopova
- Research Institute of Experimental Diagnostics and Tumor Therapy, Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Moscow 115478, Russia
| | - Nickolai A. Barlev
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Moscow 119121, Russia
- Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products, Moscow 108819, Russia
- Institute of Cytology, Tikhoretsky ave 4, St-Petersburg 194064, Russia
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Zhao K, Huang J, Zhao Y, Wang S, Xu J, Yin K. Targeting STING in cancer: Challenges and emerging opportunities. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188983. [PMID: 37717857 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway is a key pathway through which the host regulates immune responses by recognizing cytoplasmic double-stranded DNA of abnormal origin, and it plays an important role in tumor growth as well as metastasis, with relevant molecular details constantly being explored and updated. The significant immunomodulatory effects make STING an attractive target for cancer immunotherapy, and STING agonists have been receiving great attention for their development and clinical translation. Despite exciting results in preclinical work, the application of STING agonists to cancer therapy remains challenging due to their poor pharmacokinetic and physicochemical properties, as well as toxic side effects they produce. Here, we summarize the dichotomous role of cGAS-STING in cancer and discuss the limitations of cancer immunotherapy based on STING activation as well as feasible strategies to overcome them to achieve tumor regression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China; Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Jiaojiao Huang
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yue Zhao
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Shengjun Wang
- Department of Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China; Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated People's Hospital, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China.
| | - Juan Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, China.
| | - Kai Yin
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Chen K, Liao J, Patel DJ, Xie W. Advances in structure-guided mechanisms impacting on the cGAS-STING innate immune pathway. Adv Immunol 2023; 159:1-32. [PMID: 37996205 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ai.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The metazoan cGAS-STING innate immunity pathway is triggered in response to cytoplasmic double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), thereby providing host defense against microbial pathogens. This pathway also impacts on autoimmune diseases, cellular senescence and anti-tumor immunity. The cGAS-STING pathway was also observed in the bacterial antiviral immune response, known as the cyclic oligonucleotide (CDN)-based anti-phage signaling system (CBASS). This review highlights a structure-based mechanistic perspective of recent advances in metazoan and bacterial cGAS-STING innate immune signaling by focusing on the cGAS sensor, cGAMP second messenger and STING adaptor components, thereby elucidating the specificity, activation, regulation and signal transduction features of the pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Jialing Liao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China; School of Biomedical Engineering, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Dinshaw J Patel
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States.
| | - Wei Xie
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P.R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Zhou J, Zhuang Z, Li J, Feng Z. Significance of the cGAS-STING Pathway in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13316. [PMID: 37686127 PMCID: PMC10487967 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway plays a significant role in health and disease. In this pathway, cGAS, one of the major cytosolic DNA sensors in mammalian cells, regulates innate immunity and the STING-dependent production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including type-I interferon. Moreover, the cGAS-STING pathway is integral to other cellular processes, such as cell death, cell senescence, and autophagy. Activation of the cGAS-STING pathway by "self" DNA is also attributed to various infectious diseases and autoimmune or inflammatory conditions. In addition, the cGAS-STING pathway activation functions as a link between innate and adaptive immunity, leading to the inhibition or facilitation of tumorigenesis; therefore, research targeting this pathway can provide novel clues for clinical applications to treat infectious, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases and even cancer. In this review, we focus on the cGAS-STING pathway and its corresponding cellular and molecular mechanisms in health and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinglin Zhou
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou 350117, China
| | - Zhan Zhuang
- Key Laboratory of College of First Clinical Medicine, College of First Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Taijiang Campus, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Jiamian Li
- Key Laboratory of College of First Clinical Medicine, College of First Clinical Medicine, Fujian Medical University, Taijiang Campus, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Zhihua Feng
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology, Biomedical Research Center of South China, College of Life Science, Fujian Normal University Qishan Campus, Fuzhou 350117, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Gulen MF, Samson N, Keller A, Schwabenland M, Liu C, Glück S, Thacker VV, Favre L, Mangeat B, Kroese LJ, Krimpenfort P, Prinz M, Ablasser A. cGAS-STING drives ageing-related inflammation and neurodegeneration. Nature 2023; 620:374-380. [PMID: 37532932 PMCID: PMC10412454 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06373-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 101.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Low-grade inflammation is a hallmark of old age and a central driver of ageing-associated impairment and disease1. Multiple factors can contribute to ageing-associated inflammation2; however, the molecular pathways that transduce aberrant inflammatory signalling and their impact in natural ageing remain unclear. Here we show that the cGAS-STING signalling pathway, which mediates immune sensing of DNA3, is a critical driver of chronic inflammation and functional decline during ageing. Blockade of STING suppresses the inflammatory phenotypes of senescent human cells and tissues, attenuates ageing-related inflammation in multiple peripheral organs and the brain in mice, and leads to an improvement in tissue function. Focusing on the ageing brain, we reveal that activation of STING triggers reactive microglial transcriptional states, neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. Cytosolic DNA released from perturbed mitochondria elicits cGAS activity in old microglia, defining a mechanism by which cGAS-STING signalling is engaged in the ageing brain. Single-nucleus RNA-sequencing analysis of microglia and hippocampi of a cGAS gain-of-function mouse model demonstrates that engagement of cGAS in microglia is sufficient to direct ageing-associated transcriptional microglial states leading to bystander cell inflammation, neurotoxicity and impaired memory capacity. Our findings establish the cGAS-STING pathway as a driver of ageing-related inflammation in peripheral organs and the brain, and reveal blockade of cGAS-STING signalling as a potential strategy to halt neurodegenerative processes during old age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammet F Gulen
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Natasha Samson
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Keller
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marius Schwabenland
- Institute of Neuropathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Chong Liu
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Selene Glück
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Vivek V Thacker
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lucie Favre
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bastien Mangeat
- Gene Expression Core Facility, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lona J Kroese
- Animal Modeling Facility, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul Krimpenfort
- Animal Modeling Facility, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marco Prinz
- Institute of Neuropathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Center for Basics in NeuroModulation (NeuroModulBasics), Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andrea Ablasser
- Global Health Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Institute for Cancer Research (ISREC), Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Ding H, Zhou Y, Yin Z, Tai S. Role of cGAS-STING signaling pathway in cardiometabolic diseases. ZHONG NAN DA XUE XUE BAO. YI XUE BAN = JOURNAL OF CENTRAL SOUTH UNIVERSITY. MEDICAL SCIENCES 2023; 48:1086-1097. [PMID: 37724412 PMCID: PMC10930035 DOI: 10.11817/j.issn.1672-7347.2023.230028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Cardiometabolic disease is a common clinical syndrome with exact causal relationship between the aberrant of glucose/lipid metabolism and cardiovascular disfunction, but its pathogenesis is unclear. Cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon gene (STING) signaling pathway regulates the activation of innate immunity by sensing intracellular double stranded DNA. Metabolic risk factors drive the activation of cGAS-STING pathway through mitochondrial DNA, nuclear DNA and endoplasmic reticulum stress. In addition, the activation of the cGAS-STING pathway triggers chronic sterile inflammation, excessive activation of autophagy, senescence and apoptosis in related cells of cardiovascular system. These changes induced by cGAS-STING pathway might be implicated in the onset and deterioration of cardiometabolic disease. Therefore, the targeting intervention of cGAS-STING signaling pathway may emerge as a novel treatment for cardiometabolic disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huiqing Ding
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011.
| | - Yuying Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Xiangtan Central Hospital, Xiangtan Hunan 411199
| | - Zhiyi Yin
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011, China
| | - Shi Tai
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410011.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Song C, Hu Z, Xu D, Bian H, Lv J, Zhu X, Zhang Q, Su L, Yin H, Lu T, Li Y. STING signaling in inflammaging: a new target against musculoskeletal diseases. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1227364. [PMID: 37492580 PMCID: PMC10363987 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1227364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Stimulator of Interferon Gene (STING) is a critical signaling linker protein that plays a crucial role in the intrinsic immune response, particularly in the cytoplasmic DNA-mediated immune response in both pathogens and hosts. It is also involved in various signaling processes in vivo. The musculoskeletal system provides humans with morphology, support, stability, and movement. However, its aging can result in various diseases and negatively impact people's lives. While many studies have reported that cellular aging is a leading cause of musculoskeletal disorders, it also offers insight into potential treatments. Under pathological conditions, senescent osteoblasts, chondrocytes, myeloid cells, and muscle fibers exhibit persistent senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), metabolic disturbances, and cell cycle arrest, which are closely linked to abnormal STING activation. The accumulation of cytoplasmic DNA due to chromatin escape from the nucleus following DNA damage or telomere shortening activates the cGAS-STING signaling pathway. Moreover, STING activation is also linked to mitochondrial dysfunction, epigenetic modifications, and impaired cytoplasmic DNA degradation. STING activation upregulates SASP and autophagy directly and indirectly promotes cell cycle arrest. Thus, STING may be involved in the onset and development of various age-related musculoskeletal disorders and represents a potential therapeutic target. In recent years, many STING modulators have been developed and used in the study of musculoskeletal disorders. Therefore, this paper summarizes the effects of STING signaling on the musculoskeletal system at the molecular level and current understanding of the mechanisms of endogenous active ligand production and accumulation. We also discuss the relationship between some age-related musculoskeletal disorders and STING, as well as the current status of STING modulator development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Song
- Jiangsu CM Clinical Innovation Center of Degenerative Bone & Joint Disease, Wuxi TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhuoyi Hu
- Jiangsu CM Clinical Innovation Center of Degenerative Bone & Joint Disease, Wuxi TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, China
| | - Dingjun Xu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Wenzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huihui Bian
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Juan Lv
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuanxuan Zhu
- Jiangsu CM Clinical Innovation Center of Degenerative Bone & Joint Disease, Wuxi TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Jiangsu CM Clinical Innovation Center of Degenerative Bone & Joint Disease, Wuxi TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, China
| | - Li Su
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Heng Yin
- Jiangsu CM Clinical Innovation Center of Degenerative Bone & Joint Disease, Wuxi TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, China
| | - Tong Lu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, China
| | - Yinghua Li
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Wardlaw CP, Petrini JH. ISG15: A link between innate immune signaling, DNA replication, and genome stability. Bioessays 2023; 45:e2300042. [PMID: 37147792 PMCID: PMC10473822 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Interferon stimulated gene 15 (ISG15) encodes a ubiquitin-like protein that is highly induced upon activation of interferon signaling and cytoplasmic DNA sensing pathways. As part of the innate immune system ISG15 acts to inhibit viral replication and particle release via the covalent conjugation to both viral and host proteins. Unlike ubiquitin, unconjugated ISG15 also functions as an intracellular and extra-cellular signaling molecule to modulate the immune response. Several recent studies have shown ISG15 to also function in a diverse array of cellular processes and pathways outside of the innate immune response. This review explores the role of ISG15 in maintaining genome stability, particularly during DNA replication, and how this relates to cancer biology. It puts forth the hypothesis that ISG15, along with DNA sensors, function within a DNA replication fork surveillance pathway to help maintain genome stability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - John H.J. Petrini
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Lei Y, VanPortfliet JJ, Chen YF, Bryant JD, Li Y, Fails D, Torres-Odio S, Ragan KB, Deng J, Mohan A, Wang B, Brahms ON, Yates SD, Spencer M, Tong CW, Bosenberg MW, West LC, Shadel GS, Shutt TE, Upton JW, Li P, West AP. Cooperative sensing of mitochondrial DNA by ZBP1 and cGAS promotes cardiotoxicity. Cell 2023:S0092-8674(23)00591-3. [PMID: 37352855 PMCID: PMC10330843 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.05.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is a potent agonist of the innate immune system; however, the exact immunostimulatory features of mtDNA and the kinetics of detection by cytosolic nucleic acid sensors remain poorly defined. Here, we show that mitochondrial genome instability promotes Z-form DNA accumulation. Z-DNA binding protein 1 (ZBP1) stabilizes Z-form mtDNA and nucleates a cytosolic complex containing cGAS, RIPK1, and RIPK3 to sustain STAT1 phosphorylation and type I interferon (IFN-I) signaling. Elevated Z-form mtDNA, ZBP1 expression, and IFN-I signaling are observed in cardiomyocytes after exposure to Doxorubicin, a first-line chemotherapeutic agent that induces frequent cardiotoxicity in cancer patients. Strikingly, mice lacking ZBP1 or IFN-I signaling are protected from Doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Our findings reveal ZBP1 as a cooperative partner for cGAS that sustains IFN-I responses to mitochondrial genome instability and highlight ZBP1 as a potential target in heart failure and other disorders where mtDNA stress contributes to interferon-related pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjiu Lei
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - Jordyn J VanPortfliet
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - Yi-Fan Chen
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - Joshua D Bryant
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | | | - Sylvia Torres-Odio
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - Katherine B Ragan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Jingti Deng
- Departments of Medical Genetics and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Armaan Mohan
- Departments of Medical Genetics and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Bing Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Olivia N Brahms
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Shawn D Yates
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | | | - Carl W Tong
- Department of Medical Physiology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - Marcus W Bosenberg
- Departments of Pathology, Dermatology, and Immunobiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Laura Ciaccia West
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - Gerald S Shadel
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Timothy E Shutt
- Departments of Medical Genetics and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Jason W Upton
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Pingwei Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - A Phillip West
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX 77807, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Fang L, Hao Y, Yu H, Gu X, Peng Q, Zhuo H, Li Y, Liu Z, Wang J, Chen Y, Zhang J, Tian H, Gao Y, Gao R, Teng H, Shan Z, Zhu J, Li Z, Liu Y, Zhang Y, Yu F, Lin Z, Hao Y, Ge X, Yuan J, Hu HG, Ma Y, Qin HL, Wang P. Methionine restriction promotes cGAS activation and chromatin untethering through demethylation to enhance antitumor immunity. Cancer Cell 2023; 41:1118-1133.e12. [PMID: 37267951 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2023.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) is the major sensor for cytosolic DNA and activates type I interferon signaling and plays an essential role in antitumor immunity. However, it remains unclear whether the cGAS-mediated antitumor activity is affected by nutrient status. Here, our study reports that methionine deprivation enhances cGAS activity by blocking its methylation, which is catalyzed by methyltransferase SUV39H1. We further show that methylation enhances the chromatin sequestration of cGAS in a UHRF1-dependent manner. Blocking cGAS methylation enhances cGAS-mediated antitumor immunity and suppresses colorectal tumorigenesis. Clinically, cGAS methylation in human cancers correlates with poor prognosis. Thus, our results indicate that nutrient stress promotes cGAS activation via reversible methylation, and suggest a potential therapeutic strategy for targeting cGAS methylation in cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lan Fang
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China.
| | - Yun Hao
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Haihong Yu
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Xuemei Gu
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Qiao Peng
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Huimin Zhuo
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Yaxu Li
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Zhiyuan Liu
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Yunfei Chen
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Jiawen Zhang
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Hongling Tian
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Yaohui Gao
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Renyuan Gao
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Hongqi Teng
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Zezhi Shan
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Jiali Zhu
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Zhiqiang Li
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Yu'e Liu
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Yiyi Zhang
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Fei Yu
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Zhang Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yujun Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xin Ge
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Jian Yuan
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Hong-Gang Hu
- Insititute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yanlei Ma
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Huan-Long Qin
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Tongji University Cancer Center, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai 200072, China.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Fritsch LE, Kelly C, Pickrell AM. The role of STING signaling in central nervous system infection and neuroinflammatory disease. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1597. [PMID: 36632700 PMCID: PMC10175194 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate (GMP-AMP) synthase-Stimulator of Interferon Genes (cGAS-STING) pathway is a critical innate immune mechanism for detecting the presence of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) and prompting a robust immune response. Canonical cGAS-STING activation occurs when cGAS, a predominantly cytosolic pattern recognition receptor, binds microbial DNA to promote STING activation. Upon STING activation, transcription factors enter the nucleus to cause the production of Type I interferons, inflammatory cytokines whose primary function is to prime the host for viral infection by producing a number of antiviral interferon-stimulated genes. While the pathway was originally described in viral infection, more recent studies have implicated cGAS-STING signaling in a number of different contexts, including autoimmune disease, cancer, injury, and neuroinflammatory disease. This review focuses on how our understanding of the cGAS-STING pathway has evolved over time with an emphasis on the role of STING-mediated neuroinflammation and infection in the nervous system. We discuss recent findings on how STING signaling contributes to the pathology of pain, traumatic brain injury, and stroke, as well as how mitochondrial DNA may promote STING activation in common neurodegenerative diseases. We conclude by commenting on the current knowledge gaps that should be filled before STING can be an effective therapeutic target in neuroinflammatory disease. This article is categorized under: Neurological Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology Infectious Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology Immune System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E. Fritsch
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Roanoke, Virginia, USA
| | - Colin Kelly
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Roanoke, Virginia, USA
| | - Alicia M. Pickrell
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Liu J, Ji S, Liu Z, Guo M, Yang G, Chen L. Deletion of Cyclic GMP-AMP Synthase Aggravates Concanavalin A-Induced Acute Hepatic Injury by Facilitating Leukocyte Chemotaxis. Inflammation 2023; 46:1118-1130. [PMID: 37095260 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-023-01798-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence demonstrates that cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), as a cytosolic DNA sensor, is essential for activating innate immunity and regulating inflammatory response against cellular damage. However, its role in immune-mediated hepatitis remains unclear. Here by challenging the cGAS knockout (KO) and their littermate wide-type (WT) mice with intravenous ConA injection to induce acute immune-mediated liver injury, we found that lack of cGAS drastically aggravated liver damage post ConA treatment for 24 h, reflected by increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels and amplified hepatic necrosis. The number of apoptotic hepatocytes was also significantly increased in the KO mice. RNA-sequencing analysis revealed that leukocyte chemotaxis and migration-related genes were remarkably upregulated in the KO livers. Consistently, immunofluorescence assays illustrated that the infiltrating F4/80-positive macrophages, Ly6G-positive neutrophils, and CD3-positive T cells were all significantly increased in the KO liver sections. The hepatic expression of the pro-inflammatory genes was elevated as well. Supporting the in vivo findings, the knockdown of cGAS in cultured macrophages showed promoted migration potential and enhanced pro-inflammatory gene expression. These results collectively demonstrated that deletion of cGAS could aggravate ConA-induced acute liver injury, at least at the 24-h time point, and its mechanism might be related to facilitating leukocyte chemotaxis and promoting liver inflammatory response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Liu
- Advanced Institute for Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Shuang Ji
- Advanced Institute for Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Zhaiyi Liu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Meina Guo
- Advanced Institute for Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Guangrui Yang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, 201318, China
| | - Lihong Chen
- Advanced Institute for Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, China.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Amurri L, Horvat B, Iampietro M. Interplay between RNA viruses and cGAS/STING axis in innate immunity. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1172739. [PMID: 37077526 PMCID: PMC10106766 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1172739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
While the function of cGAS/STING signalling axis in the innate immune response to DNA viruses is well deciphered, increasing evidence demonstrates its significant contribution in the control of RNA virus infections. After the first evidence of cGAS/STING antagonism by flaviviruses, STING activation has been detected following infection by various enveloped RNA viruses. It has been discovered that numerous viral families have implemented advanced strategies to antagonize STING pathway through their evolutionary path. This review summarizes the characterized cGAS/STING escape strategies to date, together with the proposed mechanisms of STING signalling activation perpetrated by RNA viruses and discusses possible therapeutic approaches. Further studies regarding the interaction between RNA viruses and cGAS/STING-mediated immunity could lead to major discoveries important for the understanding of immunopathogenesis and for the treatment of RNA viral infections.
Collapse
|
47
|
Qiu S, Zhong X, Meng X, Li S, Qian X, Lu H, Cai J, Zhang Y, Wang M, Ye Z, Zhang H, Gao P. Mitochondria-localized cGAS suppresses ferroptosis to promote cancer progression. Cell Res 2023; 33:299-311. [PMID: 36864172 PMCID: PMC10066369 DOI: 10.1038/s41422-023-00788-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
A well-established role of cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) is the recognition of cytosolic DNA, which is linked to the activation of host defense programs against pathogens via stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-dependent innate immune response. Recent advance has also revealed that cGAS may be involved in several noninfectious contexts by localizing to subcellular compartments other than the cytosol. However, the subcellular localization and function of cGAS in different biological conditions is unclear; in particular, its role in cancer progression remains poorly understood. Here we show that cGAS is localized to mitochondria and protects hepatocellular carcinoma cells from ferroptosis in vitro and in vivo. cGAS anchors to the outer mitochondrial membrane where it associates with dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1) to facilitate its oligomerization. In the absence of cGAS or DRP1 oligomerization, mitochondrial ROS accumulation and ferroptosis increase, inhibiting tumor growth. Collectively, this previously unrecognized role for cGAS in orchestrating mitochondrial function and cancer progression suggests that cGAS interactions in mitochondria can serve as potential targets for new cancer interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiqiao Qiu
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiuying Zhong
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Xiang Meng
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shiting Li
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoyu Qian
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hui Lu
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jin Cai
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Mingjie Wang
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zijian Ye
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Huafeng Zhang
- The Chinese Academy of Sciences Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Science and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.
| | - Ping Gao
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
- Medical Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Rex V, Zargari R, Stempel M, Halle S, Brinkmann MM. The innate and T-cell mediated immune response during acute and chronic gammaherpesvirus infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1146381. [PMID: 37065193 PMCID: PMC10102517 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1146381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Immediately after entry into host cells, viruses are sensed by the innate immune system, leading to the activation of innate antiviral effector mechanisms including the type I interferon (IFN) response and natural killer (NK) cells. This innate immune response helps to shape an effective adaptive T cell immune response mediated by cytotoxic T cells and CD4+ T helper cells and is also critical for the maintenance of protective T cells during chronic infection. The human gammaherpesvirus Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a highly prevalent lymphotropic oncovirus that establishes chronic lifelong infections in the vast majority of the adult population. Although acute EBV infection is controlled in an immunocompetent host, chronic EBV infection can lead to severe complications in immunosuppressed patients. Given that EBV is strictly host-specific, its murine homolog murid herpesvirus 4 or MHV68 is a widely used model to obtain in vivo insights into the interaction between gammaherpesviruses and their host. Despite the fact that EBV and MHV68 have developed strategies to evade the innate and adaptive immune response, innate antiviral effector mechanisms still play a vital role in not only controlling the acute infection but also shaping an efficient long-lasting adaptive immune response. Here, we summarize the current knowledge about the innate immune response mediated by the type I IFN system and NK cells, and the adaptive T cell-mediated response during EBV and MHV68 infection. Investigating the fine-tuned interplay between the innate immune and T cell response will provide valuable insights which may be exploited to design better therapeutic strategies to vanquish chronic herpesviral infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Viktoria Rex
- Institute of Genetics, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Razieh Zargari
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Markus Stempel
- Institute of Genetics, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
- Virology and Innate Immunity Research Group, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Stephan Halle
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
- *Correspondence: Stephan Halle, ; Melanie M. Brinkmann,
| | - Melanie M. Brinkmann
- Institute of Genetics, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
- Virology and Innate Immunity Research Group, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
- *Correspondence: Stephan Halle, ; Melanie M. Brinkmann,
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Suptela AJ, Marriott I. Cytosolic DNA sensors and glial responses to endogenous DNA. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1130172. [PMID: 36999037 PMCID: PMC10043442 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1130172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Genomic instability is a key driving force for the development and progression of many neurodegenerative diseases and central nervous system (CNS) cancers. The initiation of DNA damage responses is a critical step in maintaining genomic integrity and preventing such diseases. However, the absence of these responses or their inability to repair genomic or mitochondrial DNA damage resulting from insults, including ionizing radiation or oxidative stress, can lead to an accumulation of self-DNA in the cytoplasm. Resident CNS cells, such as astrocytes and microglia, are known to produce critical immune mediators following CNS infection due to the recognition of pathogen and damage-associated molecular patterns by specialized pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). Recently, multiple intracellular PRRs, including cyclic GMP-AMP synthase, interferon gamma-inducible 16, absent in melanoma 2, and Z-DNA binding protein, have been identified as cytosolic DNA sensors and to play critical roles in glial immune responses to infectious agents. Intriguingly, these nucleic acid sensors have recently been shown to recognize endogenous DNA and trigger immune responses in peripheral cell types. In the present review, we discuss the available evidence that cytosolic DNA sensors are expressed by resident CNS cells and can mediate their responses to the presence of self-DNA. Furthermore, we discuss the potential for glial DNA sensor-mediated responses to provide protection against tumorigenesis versus the initiation of potentially detrimental neuroinflammation that could initiate or foster the development of neurodegenerative disorders. Determining the mechanisms that underlie the detection of cytosolic DNA by glia and the relative role of each pathway in the context of specific CNS disorders and their stages may prove pivotal in our understanding of the pathogenesis of such conditions and might be leveraged to develop new treatment modalities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ian Marriott
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Patel DJ, Yu Y, Xie W. cGAMP-activated cGAS-STING signaling: its bacterial origins and evolutionary adaptation by metazoans. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2023; 30:245-260. [PMID: 36894694 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-023-00933-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
The metazoan cGAMP-activated cGAS-STING innate immunity pathway is triggered in response to genomic instability and DNA damage, thereby providing host defense against microbial pathogens. This pathway also impacts on autophagy, cellular senescence and antitumor immunity, while its overactivation triggers autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Metazoan cGAS generates cGAMP containing distinct combinations of 3'-5' and 2'-5' linkages, which target the adaptor protein STING and activate the innate immune response through a signaling cascade leading to upregulation of cytokine and interferon production. This Review highlights a structure-based mechanistic perspective of recent advances in cGAMP-activated cGAS-STING innate immune signaling by focusing on the cGAS sensor, cGAMP second messenger and STING adaptor components, thereby elucidating the specificity, activation, regulation and signal transduction features of the pathway. In addition, the Review addresses progress towards identification of inhibitors and activators targeting cGAS and STING, as well as strategies developed by pathogens to evade cGAS-STING immunity. Most importantly, it highlights cyclic nucleotide second messengers as ancient signaling molecules that elicit a potent innate immune response that originated in bacteria and evolved through evolutionary adaptation to metazoans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dinshaw J Patel
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - You Yu
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Wei Xie
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|