The lysosomal LAMTOR-Rag complex functions as a checkpoint for antiviral interferon production.

ABSTRACT: Lysosomes are emerging as important signaling hubs for antiviral defense, yet how they enable type I interferon (IFN-β) production is unclear. Here, we identify an evolutionarily repurposed lysosomal pathway, centered on the LAMTOR-Rag GTPase complex, that governs IFN-β production through dual transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation. Genetic ablation of LAMTOR or Rag GTPases in macrophages abolishes IFN-β responses despite intact pattern recognition receptor (PRR) signaling, uncovering a lysosome-specific checkpoint essential for antiviral immunity. Mechanistically, Rag GTPase activity controls IRF expression to prime IFN transcription, while upon PRR stimulation, the tumor suppressor FLCN recruits p38 MAPK to lysosomes, where Rag-dependent p38 phosphorylation stabilizes Ifnb1

SUBMITTER: Feng Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12910037 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature