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Keywords = type 1 interferon stimulated genes

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45 pages, 1931 KB  
Review
ZBP1 in Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration: Z-Nucleic-Acid Sensing, RHIM Signalling and Therapeutic Targeting
by Matei Șerban, Corneliu Toader and Răzvan-Adrian Covache-Busuioc
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(16), 7478; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27167478 - 21 Aug 2026
Viewed by 87
Abstract
In contrast to foreign nucleic acids, some of our own endogenously synthesized nucleic acids may become immunologically active without being considered “foreign”. For example, abnormalities in chromatin organization, transcription termination, ribonucleic acid (RNA) splicing, and RNA editing, together with damage to mitochondrial integrity, [...] Read more.
In contrast to foreign nucleic acids, some of our own endogenously synthesized nucleic acids may become immunologically active without being considered “foreign”. For example, abnormalities in chromatin organization, transcription termination, ribonucleic acid (RNA) splicing, and RNA editing, together with damage to mitochondrial integrity, may render normally functional deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and RNA persistently available and aberrantly structured ligands for innate immunity. Z-DNA-binding protein 1 (ZBP1), recently identified as an important component of this innate immune system, recognizes both left-handed DNA (Z-DNA) and left-handed RNA (Z-RNA) using its tandem Z-alpha (Zα) domains and couples recognition of these conformational states to receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 (RIPK1)-, receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 3 (RIPK3)-, and mixed-lineage kinase domain-like pseudokinase (MLKL)-dependent inflammatory and cell-death pathways. More recent studies have also shown that ZBP1 plays a role in recognizing damaged self-nucleic acids associated with tauopathies, Alzheimer’s disease (AD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and amyloid-associated neuroinflammation. The nucleic-acid forms associated with these conditions include transposable-element activation, extended repeat-containing transcripts, RNA–RNA duplexes or RNA:DNA hybrids, oxidized mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), and intercellularly transferred nucleic acids, all of which may exhibit substrate structures compatible with Z-form formation. Signaling by ZBP1 does not occur simply based upon nucleic-acid abundance; rather, signaling occurs after prolonged exposure to a nucleic acid when it persists in a structurally competent state, sufficient receptors are present to bind its exposed regions, the receptor proteoforms are competent to participate in signaling, receptor-interacting protein homotypic interaction motif (RHIM)-dependent assembly occurs, and the appropriate adaptor molecules are present. Furthermore, the identity of the cell type expressing ZBP1 determines whether the response produces RIPK3–MLKL-dependent neuronal injury, microglia-mediated inflammation, apoptosis, or mixed cell death. Finally, competition with adenosine deaminase acting on RNA 1 (ADAR1), melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5), double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase (PKR), the cyclic guanosine monophosphate–adenosine monophosphate synthase–stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS–STING) pathway, and other nucleic-acid-sensing proteins divides the available pool of endogenous nucleic acids among the outcomes of immune tolerance, type I interferon (IFN-I) signaling, translational inhibition, neuroinflammation, and necroptosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Neuroinflammation)
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27 pages, 35576 KB  
Article
Multiple Roles of G3BP1 in Regulating STING-Dependent Interferon and Cytokine Induction by Cytosolic dsDNA and HSV-1 Infection
by Trupti Devale, Praveen Manivannan and Krishnamurthy Malathi
Viruses 2026, 18(7), 719; https://doi.org/10.3390/v18070719 - 30 Jun 2026
Viewed by 927
Abstract
Virus infection requires coordinated activation of pathogen-sensing, innate immune, and cellular stress response pathways to mount an effective antiviral defense. Recognition of nucleic acid pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) initiates signaling cascades that drive the production of type I [...] Read more.
Virus infection requires coordinated activation of pathogen-sensing, innate immune, and cellular stress response pathways to mount an effective antiviral defense. Recognition of nucleic acid pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) initiates signaling cascades that drive the production of type I interferons (IFNs) and proinflammatory cytokines. These responses are often accompanied by the activation of integrated stress response pathways that help optimize host defense. Cytosolic double-stranded dsDNA, generated during viral infection or released from damaged mitochondria, is sensed by cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), which generates 2′3′-cGAMP to activate stimulator of interferon genes (STING). Activated STING translocates from the endoplasmic reticulum to the Golgi, where it drives TBK1-dependent IFN and cytokine production. Previous reports show that cGAS activity is enhanced by Ras-GAP SH3 domain binding protein 1 (G3BP1), a key nucleator of stress granules (SGs), independent of its role in SG assembly. Here, we identify a non-canonical role of G3BP1 as a regulator of DNA sensing responses at multiple levels, including STING intracellular trafficking, in addition to potentiating cGAS activity. Loss of G3BP1 impaired STING-dependent IFN and cytokine responses to HSV-1 infection and viral DNA. G3BP1-deficient cells showed reduced cGAMP-induced STING translocation to the Golgi, induction of type I IFN and proinflammatory cytokines, and activation of the ER stress kinase PERK and stress granule formation. Together, these findings demonstrate G3BP1-STING as a node linking DNA sensing, innate immunity, and stress signaling with broad implications for antiviral defense and diseases characterized by aberrant DNA sensing and stress responses, including neurodegeneration, fibrosis, and autoimmunity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Signaling Pathways in Viral Infection and Antiviral Immunity 2026)
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20 pages, 3471 KB  
Article
Distinct Innate and Adaptive Immune Modules Differentially Associate with HIV Reservoir Size and Decay During Early Antiretroviral Therapy
by Wei-Zhe Li, Hui-Huang Huang, Hui-Fang Wang, Xia Li, Ming-Ju Zhou, Yu-Xuan Yang, You-Yuan Wang, Meng-Meng Zhu, Ying Sun, Si-Yuan Chen, Xing Fan, Yan-Mei Jiao, Jin-Wen Song, Ruo-Nan Xu, Cheng Zhen, Ming Shi, Chao Zhang and Fu-Sheng Wang
Cells 2026, 15(13), 1161; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15131161 - 25 Jun 2026
Viewed by 419
Abstract
HIV reservoir size and decay represent distinct dimensions of viral persistence, yet whether they are governed by shared or separable immunological mechanisms during early antiretroviral therapy (ART) remains unclear. In this study, we employed multiparameter flow cytometry and bulk RNA sequencing to analyze [...] Read more.
HIV reservoir size and decay represent distinct dimensions of viral persistence, yet whether they are governed by shared or separable immunological mechanisms during early antiretroviral therapy (ART) remains unclear. In this study, we employed multiparameter flow cytometry and bulk RNA sequencing to analyze longitudinal immune profiles across 21 treatment-naïve people living with HIV before ART initiation and at 1 and 5 months thereafter. Our findings revealed an apparent dissociation between HIV-1 DNA levels and decay rates in peripheral blood, and the two indicators appear to be relatively independent dimensions of viral persistence. Specifically, lower HIV-1 DNA levels were associated with higher frequencies of cytotoxic and adaptive-like natural killer (NK) cell subsets, whereas faster HIV-1 DNA decay was linked to restored HIV-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses during treatment. Notably, transcriptomic analyses uncovered divergent gene expression signatures related to B cell-associated immunity and type I interferon pathways, with individuals with higher HIV-1 DNA levels exhibiting elevated expression of immunoglobulin and interferon-stimulated genes, while faster decay correlated with enrichment of antiviral and complement-related genes. Collectively, these findings provide a preliminary characterization of immune correlates of peripheral blood total HIV-1 DNA dynamics in the early phase following ART initiation. This work offers potential immune clues for exploring the viral reservoir and generates testable hypotheses for validation in future large cohorts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic The Pathogenesis and Treatment of Immune-Mediated Disease)
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31 pages, 4350 KB  
Review
Mechanisms and Applications of Manganese-Based Materials in Tumor Immunotherapy
by Xiaoqi Kong, Changyue Zhang, Haodong Hu, Ye Chen, Wenjuan Gao and Ruijiao Chen
Molecules 2026, 31(10), 1704; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31101704 - 18 May 2026
Viewed by 917
Abstract
Manganese-based nanomaterials have been novel multifunctional platforms in tumor immunotherapy because of their tunable multivalent states, biocompatibility, and multi-stimulus responsiveness. Current cancer treatments are insufficient and cause severe side effects; therefore, manganese-based nanomaterials are proposed in combination with immunotherapy to mitigate adverse effects. [...] Read more.
Manganese-based nanomaterials have been novel multifunctional platforms in tumor immunotherapy because of their tunable multivalent states, biocompatibility, and multi-stimulus responsiveness. Current cancer treatments are insufficient and cause severe side effects; therefore, manganese-based nanomaterials are proposed in combination with immunotherapy to mitigate adverse effects. This review outlines the antitumor effects mediated by four key mechanisms: (1) activation of the cGAS-STING immune signaling pathway, (2) direct activation of immune cells, (3) induction of immunogenic cell death (ICD), and (4) modulation of the tumor microenvironment. These approaches are broadly categorized into two types: monotherapy and multimodal combination therapy. Monotherapy encompasses three specific modalities: (1) direct use as a Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) agonist, (2) vector-mediated targeted drug delivery, and (3) mediation of chemodynamic therapy to generate reactive oxygen species, thereby inducing ICD. Multimodal combination therapy involves synergistic integration with traditional or emerging treatment modalities, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy, sonodynamic therapy, and low-level light therapy, as well as multimodal combination treatment methods. It significantly enhances the antitumor efficacy of traditional therapies through immunostimulation, thus achieving synergistic breakthroughs in treatment efficiency and survival rate. Collectively, the multifunctional integration of manganese-based materials is a novel strategy for developing “self-adjuvant” immunotherapeutic platforms and investigating the clinical translation potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medicinal Chemistry)
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20 pages, 1855 KB  
Article
Transcriptomic Profiling of Monozygotic Twins with Type 1 Gaucher Disease
by Aslı İnci, Sümeyye Aydoğdu Demirel, Filiz Başak Cengiz Ergin, Gürsel Biberoğlu, İlyas Okur, Fatih Süheyl Ezgü, Leyla Tümer, Rıdvan Murat Öktem and Serap Dökmeci
Life 2026, 16(5), 741; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16050741 - 29 Apr 2026
Viewed by 710
Abstract
Background: Gaucher disease (GD) arises from pathogenic variants in the GBA1 gene and is known for its wide range of clinical presentations—a variability that genotype alone cannot adequately account for. Objective: This study aimed to explore transcriptomic factors that might help [...] Read more.
Background: Gaucher disease (GD) arises from pathogenic variants in the GBA1 gene and is known for its wide range of clinical presentations—a variability that genotype alone cannot adequately account for. Objective: This study aimed to explore transcriptomic factors that might help explain why two genetically identical twins with type 1 GD developed noticeably different clinical outcomes. Methods: We isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells from both twins and two age-matched controls, then differentiated them into macrophages in vitro before conducting RNA sequencing. Gene expression differences were analyzed using established bioinformatics pipelines, and a subset of genes were subsequently assessed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) to confirm the sequencing findings. Results: Both twins shared a GD-associated transcriptional signature broadly reflecting immune activation and lysosomal stress. Interestingly, the twin who experienced systemic complications had a relative enrichment of interferon-responsive transcripts, while the less severely affected twin showed more pronounced suppression of small nucleolar RNA clusters. That said, neither difference held up after correcting for multiple comparisons, so these patterns are best viewed as exploratory trends rather than definitive findings. The qRT-PCR results lend partial support to this picture: stress- and immune-related genes (DDIT4, RPH3A, SAMSN1) trended toward higher expression in patients versus controls, and interferon-stimulated genes (ISG15, RSAD2, IFI44L) were more elevated in M2 than in M1. Conclusions: Taken together, these findings suggest that factors beyond genetics—whether epigenetic, environmental, or otherwise—may play a meaningful role in shaping how GD manifests differently even between individuals with identical DNA. Although the data are preliminary, they point to transcriptomic profiling, paired with targeted validation, as a useful starting point for building hypotheses about why this disease looks so different from one patient to the next, even when the underlying mutation is the same. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Physiology and Pathology)
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20 pages, 2724 KB  
Article
CHIKV-Infected Human Dermal Fibroblasts Mount an IFNβ Transcriptional Response Independent of TBK1/IKKε Signaling That Fails to Prevent Lethal Infection
by Meagan M. Taylor, Rosemary W. Roberts and Jonathan O. Rayner
Viruses 2026, 18(5), 503; https://doi.org/10.3390/v18050503 - 28 Apr 2026
Viewed by 748
Abstract
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an alphavirus that infects dermal fibroblasts as a primary target cell during natural mosquito-borne transmission. While primary human dermal fibroblasts (hDFs) have been implicated as a key source of type I interferon (IFN-I) during CHIKV infection, the dynamics of [...] Read more.
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an alphavirus that infects dermal fibroblasts as a primary target cell during natural mosquito-borne transmission. While primary human dermal fibroblasts (hDFs) have been implicated as a key source of type I interferon (IFN-I) during CHIKV infection, the dynamics of this response and its sufficiency for antiviral protection remain incompletely understood. Here, we systematically characterize in vitro CHIKV infection of primary hDFs, evaluating the effects of single-passage viral stock origin (mammalian- vs. mosquito-propagated), donor variability, and multiplicity of infection (MOI) on infection kinetics and innate immune induction. We demonstrate that hDFs support high-titered CHIKV replication at both MOI 1 and 0.01, resulting in universal cell death by 72 hpi despite robust IFNβ transcript induction—reaching up to ~2800-fold over mock—and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IFNα2, TNFα, IL-1β, and IL-8. Notably, IFNβ protein levels remained below 10 pg/mL under all infection conditions, revealing a disconnect between transcriptional and translational responses, suggesting CHIKV-mediated translational suppression. Pharmacological inhibition of TBK1/IKKε via amlexanox did not suppress IFNβ transcript induction at any tested concentration, suggesting that canonical PRR signaling through this node—including both RIG-I/MAVS and TLR3/TRIF pathways—is not the major driver of the observed transcriptional response. In contrast, co-inoculation with exogenous IFNβ as low as 20 pg/mL activated IFNAR signaling, robustly upregulated interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), and fully rescued hDFs from otherwise lethal infection. Together, these findings demonstrate that CHIKV-infected hDFs mount a transcriptionally robust but translationally insufficient innate immune response and that the transcriptional response appears to operate independently of TBK1/IKKε. These results have direct implications for understanding how the skin microenvironment may modulate early CHIKV pathogenesis and suggest that paracrine IFNβ signaling from neighboring cell types may be critical for fibroblast survival during natural infection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Alphavirus and Flavivirus Research, 3rd Edition)
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18 pages, 4693 KB  
Article
Mn2+-Mediated Antiviral Activity Through Both the cGAS-STING-IFN and ROS-Apoptosis Pathways in Porcine Alveolar Macrophage Cells
by Wanglong Zheng, Yajing Chang, Anjing Liu, Chenyang Zhang, Weilin Hao, Tianna Chen, Qing Lu, Zhiyu Wang, Wei Wang, Nanhua Chen and Jianzhong Zhu
Vet. Sci. 2026, 13(4), 396; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci13040396 - 17 Apr 2026
Viewed by 751
Abstract
Manganese ions (Mn2+) are an essential trace element within organisms spanning the entire tree of life. It has reported that Mn2+ exerts strong immunocompetence effects and exhibits antiviral effects against various human and animal viruses, including DNA and RNA viruses. [...] Read more.
Manganese ions (Mn2+) are an essential trace element within organisms spanning the entire tree of life. It has reported that Mn2+ exerts strong immunocompetence effects and exhibits antiviral effects against various human and animal viruses, including DNA and RNA viruses. Recently, Mn2+ has been found to be involved in the activation of the innate immune DNA-sensing cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway and subsequent antiviral function. However, the antiviral mechanism of Mn2+ remains unclear. In the current study, the results suggest that the cGAS-STING pathway is essential for Mn2+ to promote interferon (IFN) signaling, but it is not essential for triggering antiviral functions. After knocking out the STING or interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) gene, Mn2+ still retains its antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV). Furthermore, the results from transcriptomic analysis indicate that Mn2+ can induce a significant change in the apoptotic process in STING/ 3D4/21 cells. Mn2+ can induce cell apoptosis through the oxidative stress pathway, and inhibiting the apoptotic signal could suppress Mn2+-mediated antiviral activity in STING/ 3D4/21 cells. Additionally, dual knockout of IRF3 and caspase3, resulting in concurrent loss of IFN and apoptotic signals, eliminates the antiviral effects of Mn2+. In summary, the current study suggests that Mn2+ could exert antiviral effects not only through the cGAS-STING-IFN pathway but also via the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-apoptosis pathway. Full article
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14 pages, 4099 KB  
Article
Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12 Primes Epithelial Antiviral Defenses and Restricts Influenza A Virus Replication in Human Intestinal Organoid-Derived Monolayers
by Astghik Stepanyan, Melania Scarpa, Giulia Bernabè, Paola Brun, Anthony Pauletto, Veronica Zatta, Cristiano Salata, Claudia Del Vecchio, Marco Scarpa and Ignazio Castagliuolo
Microorganisms 2026, 14(4), 751; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14040751 - 27 Mar 2026
Viewed by 1086
Abstract
Viral infections with gastrointestinal involvement remain a significant global health burden with limited therapeutic options. While probiotics show antiviral potential, their impact on primary human intestinal epithelial defenses is poorly defined. This study utilized human intestinal organoid-derived monolayers (ODMs), generated from the non-inflamed [...] Read more.
Viral infections with gastrointestinal involvement remain a significant global health burden with limited therapeutic options. While probiotics show antiviral potential, their impact on primary human intestinal epithelial defenses is poorly defined. This study utilized human intestinal organoid-derived monolayers (ODMs), generated from the non-inflamed mucosa of patients with inflammatory bowel disease, to examine how Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis BB-12 (BB-12) and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) modulate mucosal antiviral pathways. Unlike conventional Caco-2 cells, ODMs preserved physiological cellular diversity and intact innate signaling. Expression of viral receptors and interferon (IFN)-stimulated genes (ISGs) was quantified by RT-qPCR, while the effector 2′-5′-oligoadenylate synthetase 1 (OAS1) was also assessed by immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. Both probiotic strains modulated IFN-associated pathways; however, BB-12 induced a markedly stronger antiviral transcriptional response than LGG. Notably, OAS1 exhibited cell type-specific regulation; while goblet cells showed high basal levels, both probiotics enhanced OAS1 expression selectively in ileal enterocytes. Despite this shared effect, only BB-12 pretreatment significantly restricted Influenza A (H1N1) replication in ileal ODMs, whereas LGG did not significantly affect viral replication. These findings establish human ODMs as a superior platform for probiotic immunology, suggesting that BB-12 more effectively shapes epithelial antiviral “set-points” and highlighting OAS1 as a sensitive component of a broader antiviral program. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Probiotics, Gut Microbiota, and Health)
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21 pages, 8258 KB  
Article
Chestnut Tannin Improves Growth Performance and Intestinal Health of Broilers Challenged with Necrotic Enteritis via the cGAS-STING-Ferroptosis Pathway
by Genrui Zhang, Fandi Tang, Yang Wang and Huawei Liu
Animals 2026, 16(4), 686; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani16040686 - 22 Feb 2026
Viewed by 1527
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the impacts of chestnut tannin (CT) on growth performance, immune response, and intestinal health of broilers challenged with necrotic enteritis (NE) through the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-ferroptosis pathway. A total of 240 one-day-old male [...] Read more.
This study aimed to investigate the impacts of chestnut tannin (CT) on growth performance, immune response, and intestinal health of broilers challenged with necrotic enteritis (NE) through the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING)-ferroptosis pathway. A total of 240 one-day-old male Cobb 500 broilers (44.54 ± 0.51 g) were randomly divided into four groups, including a Control group, NE group, 500 mg/kg CT group (L-CT), and 1000 mg/kg CT group (H-CT), with six replicates per group and ten broilers per replicate. Sporulated coccidia oocysts on day 14 and Clostridium perfringens solution from days 19 to 21 were given to all broilers except the Control group through oral administration to establish the NE infection model. The results demonstrated that dietary supplementation with CT improved (p < 0.05) growth performance, intestinal morphology, and intestinal mucosal barrier function of broilers challenged with NE. CT supplementation decreased (p < 0.05) interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, type I interferon, interferon-γ, and tumor necrosis factor-α concentrations and increased (p < 0.05) IL-10 concentration in the jejunal mucosa. Furthermore, CT supplementation decreased (p < 0.05) Fe2+ concentration, malondialdehyde concentration, mitochondrial DNA level, and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species level in the jejunal mucosa. Broilers under NE challenge had upregulated (p < 0.05) jejunal protein expression of cGAS, STING, phospho-TANK-binding kinase 1, phospho-interferon regulatory factor 7, phospho-nuclear factor kappa B, ferroptosis suppressor protein 1, prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2, acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4, WD repeat domain phosphoinositide-interacting protein 2, nuclear receptor co activator factor 4 and autophagy related protein 5 and downregulated (p < 0.05) glutathione peroxidase 4, ferritin heavy chain 1, ferritin light chain and ferroportin 1 compared with the Control group, while the supplementation of CT reversed these effects. In conclusion, CT improved intestinal inflammatory damage of broilers challenged with NE by inhibiting the cGAS-STING-ferroptosis pathway, which was more effective at a dose of 1000 mg/kg in this study. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Poultry)
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19 pages, 581 KB  
Review
Anifrolumab—A Potential New Systemic Sclerosis Treatment
by Mislav Radić, Petra Šimac Prižmić, Tina Bečić, Hana Đogaš, Dijana Perković, Josipa Radić and Damir Fabijanić
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(3), 1104; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15031104 - 30 Jan 2026
Viewed by 2084
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation, microvascular injury, and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Although there are therapies, there is a need for treatments targeting early pathogenic mechanisms. Type I interferons (IFN-I) are key [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation, microvascular injury, and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Although there are therapies, there is a need for treatments targeting early pathogenic mechanisms. Type I interferons (IFN-I) are key mediators linking immune dysregulation to vascular and fibrotic damage in SSc. This review summarizes the current evidence supporting IFN-I blockade with anifrolumab as a novel therapeutic strategy. Methods: A narrative review of preclinical, translational, and emerging clinical studies was conducted to evaluate the role of IFN-I signaling in SSc and the therapeutic potential of anifrolumab. Particular focus was placed on the IFN signature, upregulation of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), and the association with disease activity and organ involvement. Results: Anifrolumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody targeting the IFN-I receptor subunit 1 (IFNAR1), inhibits the signaling of all IFN-I isoforms, suppressing downstream JAK–STAT activation and ISG expression. Mechanistic data suggest that IFNAR blockade modulates vascular injury, immune activation, and fibrosis. Early findings and ongoing trials indicate potential benefits, particularly in patients with a high IFN signature or rapidly progressive cutaneous and cardiac disease. Conclusions: The current evidence supports IFN-I pathway inhibition as a promising approach in SSc. Ongoing trials will help to determine the clinical efficacy, safety, and optimal patient selection for anifrolumab in this rare but severe disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Diagnostic and Therapeutic Perspectives in Systemic Sclerosis)
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19 pages, 3833 KB  
Article
Cucurbitacin B Inhibits Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Inducing Ferroptosis and Activating the cGAS-STING Pathway
by Huizhong Zhang, Aqian Chang, Xiaohan Xu, Hulinyue Peng, Ke Zhang, Jingwen Yang, Wenjing Li, Xinzhu Wang, Wenqi Wang, Xingbin Yin, Changhai Qu, Xiaoxv Dong and Jian Ni
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(2), 138; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48020138 - 27 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1631
Abstract
The incidence of primary liver cancer is increasing annually, with extremely high mortality and suboptimal therapeutic outcomes. The inefficient presentation of tumor antigens and low infiltration of specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) result in insufficient immunogenicity, which limits the efficacy of immunotherapy. Despite [...] Read more.
The incidence of primary liver cancer is increasing annually, with extremely high mortality and suboptimal therapeutic outcomes. The inefficient presentation of tumor antigens and low infiltration of specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) result in insufficient immunogenicity, which limits the efficacy of immunotherapy. Despite the popularity of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), insufficient immune activation means only a small subset of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients exhibit clinical responses to ICIs, showing significant inter-individual variability. The activation of the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase(cGAS)- stimulator of interferon genes(STING) pathway initiates the expression of type I interferons (IFNs) and inflammatory cytokines, promoting the formation of a pro-inflammatory environment at the tumor site. This pathway enhances anti-tumor immune responses by facilitating antigen processing and presentation, T cell priming and activation, and remodeling of the immunosuppressive microenvironment. Our research found that cucurbitacin B (CuB), a natural component derived from traditional Chinese medicine, had significant anti-hepatocellular carcinoma properties and exerted anti-tumor effects through the cGAS-STING pathway. Specifically, CuB regulated ferroptosis by down-regulating the expression of Solute Carrier Family 7 Member 11 (SLC7A11) and Glutathione Peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and upregulating the expression of Transferrin Receptor Protein 1 (TFR1) and Long-chain Acyl-CoA Synthetase 4 (ACSL4). These actions involved lipid substrates, iron ion homeostasis, and antioxidant defense systems. The release of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) triggered by ferroptosis activated the cGAS-STING immune signaling pathway, leading to the up-regulation of cGAS, phosphorylated STING (p-STING), phosphorylated TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1), phosphorylated Interferon regulatory factor3 (IRF3), and Interferon-β (IFN-β). This cascade activation pattern provides new insights into the drug treatment of tumors. Full article
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28 pages, 14749 KB  
Article
Cytosolic Immunostimulatory DNA Ligands and DNA Damage Activate the Integrated Stress Response, Stress Granule Formation, and Cytokine Production
by Trupti Devale, Lekhana Katuri, Gauri Mishra, Aditya Acharya, Praveen Manivannan, Brian R. Hibbard and Krishnamurthy Malathi
Cells 2026, 15(2), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/cells15020139 - 13 Jan 2026
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1578
Abstract
The presence of aberrant double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) in the cytoplasm of cells is sensed by unique pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) to trigger innate immune response. The cyclic GMP–AMP synthase (cGAS)–stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway is activated by the presence of non-self [...] Read more.
The presence of aberrant double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) in the cytoplasm of cells is sensed by unique pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) to trigger innate immune response. The cyclic GMP–AMP synthase (cGAS)–stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway is activated by the presence of non-self or mislocalized self-dsDNA from nucleus or mitochondria released in response to DNA damage or cellular stress in the cytoplasm. Activation of cGAS leads to the synthesis of the second messenger cyclic GMP–AMP (cGAMP), which binds and activates STING, triggering downstream signaling cascades that result in the production of type I interferons (IFNs) and proinflammatory cytokines. Here, we show that diverse immunostimulatory dsDNA ligands and chemotherapy agents like Doxorubicin and Taxol trigger the integrated stress response (ISR) by activating endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress kinase, protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK), in addition to the canonical IFN pathways. PERK-mediated phosphorylation and inactivation of the alpha subunit of eukaryotic translation initiation factor-2 (eIF2α) result in the formation of stress granules (SGs). SG formation by dsDNA was significantly reduced in PERK knockout cells or by inhibiting PERK activity. Transcriptional induction of IFNβ and cytokines, ISR signaling, and SG formation by dsDNA was dampened in cells lacking PERK activity, STING, or key stress-granule nucleating protein, Ras-GAP SH3 domain-binding protein 1 (G3BP1), demonstrating an important role of the signal transduction pathway mediated by STING and SG assembly. Lastly, STING regulates reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in response to DNA damage, highlighting the crosstalk between DNA sensing and oxidative stress pathways. Together, our data identify STING–PERK–G3BP1 signaling axis that couples cytosolic DNA sensing to stress response pathways in maintaining cellular homeostasis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Signaling Pathway: From Bench to Bedside)
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12 pages, 1885 KB  
Article
Cytoskeletal Prestress Regulates RIG-I-Mediated Innate Immunity
by Arpan Roy, Sydney Sarver, Jarod Beights, Sean Brennan, Sazid Noor Rabi, Sakib Mohammad, Kyu Young Han, Sabrina Nilufar and Farhan Chowdhury
Biophysica 2025, 5(4), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/biophysica5040051 - 1 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1102
Abstract
Innate immunity is the body’s first line of defense for mounting robust antiviral signaling. However, the role of cytoskeletal prestress, a hallmark of cellular mechanotransduction, in regulating innate immune pathways such as retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) signaling remains poorly understood. Herein, we [...] Read more.
Innate immunity is the body’s first line of defense for mounting robust antiviral signaling. However, the role of cytoskeletal prestress, a hallmark of cellular mechanotransduction, in regulating innate immune pathways such as retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) signaling remains poorly understood. Herein, we show that cells on soft vs. rigid substrates elicit cytoskeletal prestress-dependent activation of RIG-I signaling, leading to differential type-I interferon (IFN) gene expression. Cells were cultured on soft (0.6 kPa) and stiff (8.5 kPa) substrates to modulate cellular traction and prestress, followed by transfection of Poly(I:C), a synthetic viral dsRNA mimic, to measure the RIG-I-mediated innate immune response. Cells on soft substrates show minimal activation of RIG-I signaling, resulting in low expression of IFN-β1 and other IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs), compared to cells on stiff substrates. We further demonstrate that activation of TANK Binding Kinase 1 (TBK1), a downstream effector of the RIG-I pathway, is inhibited in cells on soft substrates due to the cytoplasmic sequestration of the Yes-associated protein (YAP), a HIPPO pathway effector protein. In contrast, cells on stiffer substrates experienced decreased TBK1 inhibition due to the nuclear localization of YAP and exhibited elevated TBK1 activation and heightened IFN and ISG expressions. Together, we demonstrate that cytoskeletal prestress represents a key biophysical regulator of innate immune signaling. Full article
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31 pages, 2225 KB  
Review
Interferons in Autoimmunity: From Loss of Tolerance to Chronic Inflammation
by Grigore Mihaescu, Gratiela Gradisteanu Pircalabioru, Claudiu Natanael Roznovan, Lia-Mara Ditu, Mihaela Maria Comanici and Octavian Savu
Biomedicines 2025, 13(10), 2472; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13102472 - 11 Oct 2025
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3595
Abstract
Interferons (IFNs) are key cytokines at the intersection of innate and adaptive immunity. While their antiviral and antitumor roles are well recognized, emerging evidence implicates IFNs—particularly types I, II, and III—in the initiation and progression of autoimmune diseases (ADs). This review synthesizes current [...] Read more.
Interferons (IFNs) are key cytokines at the intersection of innate and adaptive immunity. While their antiviral and antitumor roles are well recognized, emerging evidence implicates IFNs—particularly types I, II, and III—in the initiation and progression of autoimmune diseases (ADs). This review synthesizes current data on IFN biology, their immunoregulatory and pathogenic mechanisms, and their contributions to distinct AD phenotypes. We conducted a comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature on IFNs and autoimmune diseases, focusing on publications indexed in PubMed and Scopus. Studies on molecular pathways, immune cell interactions, disease-specific IFN signatures, and clinical correlations were included. Data were extracted and thematically organized by IFN type, signaling pathway, and disease context, with emphasis on rheumatic and systemic autoimmune disorders. Across systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, systemic sclerosis, idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel diseases, IFNs were consistently associated with aberrant activation of pattern recognition receptors, sustained expression of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), and dysregulated T cell and B cell responses. Type I IFNs often preceded clinical onset, suggesting a triggering role, whereas type II and III IFNs modulated disease course and severity. Notably, IFNs exhibited dual immunostimulatory and immunosuppressive effects, contingent on tissue context, cytokine milieu, and disease stage. IFNs are central mediators in autoimmune pathogenesis, functioning as both initiators and amplifiers of chronic inflammation. Deciphering the context-dependent effects of IFN signaling may inform targeted therapeutic strategies and advance precision immunomodulation in autoimmune diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Cytokines in Health and Disease: 3rd Edition)
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15 pages, 2746 KB  
Article
Deficiency of IFNAR1 Increases the Production of Influenza Vaccine Viruses in MDCK Cells
by Qi Wang, Tuanjie Chen, Mengru Feng, Mei Zheng, Feixia Gao, Chenchen Qiu, Jian Luo and Xiuling Li
Viruses 2025, 17(8), 1097; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17081097 - 8 Aug 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1857
Abstract
Cell culture-based influenza vaccines exhibit comparable safety and immunogenicity to traditional egg-based vaccines. However, improving viral yield remains a key challenge in optimizing cell culture-based production systems. Madin–Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, the predominant cell line for influenza vaccine production, inherently activate interferon [...] Read more.
Cell culture-based influenza vaccines exhibit comparable safety and immunogenicity to traditional egg-based vaccines. However, improving viral yield remains a key challenge in optimizing cell culture-based production systems. Madin–Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, the predominant cell line for influenza vaccine production, inherently activate interferon (IFN)-mediated antiviral defenses that restrict viral replication. To overcome this limitation, we employed CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology to generate an IFN alpha/beta receptor subunit 1 (IFNAR1)-knockout (KO) adherent MDCK cell line. Viral titer analysis demonstrated significant enhancements in the yield of multiple vaccine strains (H1N1, H3N2, and type B) in IFNAR1-KO cells compared to wild-type (WT) cells. Transcriptomic profiling revealed marked downregulation of key interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs)—including OAS, MX2, and ISG15—within the IFNAR1-KO cells, indicating a persistent suppression of antiviral responses that established a more permissive microenvironment for influenza virus replication. Collectively, the engineered IFNAR1-KO cell line provides a valuable tool for influenza virus research and a promising strategy for optimizing large-scale MDCK cell cultures to enhance vaccine production efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Viral Immunology, Vaccines, and Antivirals)
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