Molecular Mechanisms of cGAS-STING Axis and Mitochondrial Dysfunction-Related Diseases in Humans: A Comprehensive Review

Mitochondrial dysfunction, particularly the release of mitochondrial DNA, may trigger the cGAS-STING signaling pathway.

• Mitochondria are essential for the differentiation and activation of immune cells.
• The cGAS-STING pathway mediates the sensing of cytosolic DNA and is involved in various diseases.
• Activation of STING occurs in response to cytosolic DNA during infections and can inhibit translation in RNA virus-infected cells.
• Mitochondrial DNA release is linked to immune activation via the cGAS-STING signaling pathway.
• The cGAS-STING pathway interacts with mechanisms of autophagy, metabolic regulation, and cell death.
• Understanding the regulatory mechanisms of STING activation could inform therapeutic strategies for conditions like cancer and autoimmune diseases.

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