Mitochondrial DNA in cell death and inflammation.

ABSTRACT: Cytosolic DNA is recognized by the innate immune system as a potential threat. During apoptotic cell death, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) release activates the DNA sensor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) to promote a pro-inflammatory type I interferon response. Inflammation following mtDNA release during apoptotic cell death can be exploited to engage anti-tumor immunity and represents a potential avenue for cancer therapy. Additionally, various studies have described leakage of mtDNA, independent of cell death, with different underlying cues such as pathogenic infections, changes in mtDNA packaging, mtDNA stress or reduced mitochondrial clearance. The interferon response in these scenarios can be beneficial but also potentially disadvantageous, as suggested by a variety of disease phenotypes. I

SUBMITTER: Heilig R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9988000 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature