Cyclic GMP-AMP Synthase (环磷酸鸟苷-磷酸腺苷合成酶 )

Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) is a cytosolic DNA sensor that activates a type-I interferon response. cGAS binds to microbial DNA as well as self DNA that invades the cytoplasm, and catalyzes cGAMP synthesis. cGAMP then functions as a second messenger that binds to and activates the endoplasmic reticulum protein STING to trigger type-I IFNs production. STING recruits TBK1, which phosphorylates transcription factors, such as IRF3/7, and other substrates, such as IKKα, cRel, and p62.

cGAS is a critical regulator of inflammatory and autophagy responses in Huntington disease (HD). cGAS can induce signaling that is known to promote the up-regulation of inflammatory genes and play a critical role in age-related macular degeneration and cellular senescence. cGAS also plays a major role in the regulation of autophagy; this indicates that there is a close molecular and signaling link between inflammatory response and autophagy.