Innate immunity: cytoplasmic DNA sensing by the AIM2 inflammasome

Curr Biol. 2009 Mar 24;19(6):R262-5. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2009.02.011.

Abstract

Cytoplasmic double-stranded DNA triggers cell death and secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1beta in macrophages. Recent reports now describe the mechanism underlying this observation. Upon sensing of DNA, the HIN-200 family member AIM2 triggers the assembly of the inflammasome, culminating in caspase-1 activation, IL-1beta maturation and pyroptotic cell death.

MeSH terms

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Biosensing Techniques
  • Carrier Proteins / genetics
  • DNA / genetics*
  • DNA-Binding Proteins / genetics
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Innate* / genetics
  • Inflammation / genetics
  • Inflammation / immunology
  • Interferons / genetics
  • Interleukin-1beta / immunology*
  • NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein
  • Nuclear Proteins / immunology
  • RNA-Binding Proteins

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Carrier Proteins
  • DNA-Binding Proteins
  • HIN-200 protein, human
  • Interleukin-1beta
  • NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein
  • NLRP3 protein, human
  • Nuclear Proteins
  • RNA-Binding Proteins
  • ZBP1 protein, human
  • DNA
  • Interferons