Sensing of viral and endogenous RNA by ZBP1/DAI induces necroptosis

Detection of Viral Infections by Innate Immunity

Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and inflammasomes are a key part of the anti-viral innate immune system as they detect conserved viral pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). A successful host response to viral infections critically depend on the initial activation of PRRs by viruses, mainly by viral DNA and RNA. The signalling pathways activated by PRRs leads to the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, to recruit immune cells, and type I and type III interferons which leads to the induction of interferon stimulated genes (ISG), powerful virus restriction factors that establish the "antiviral state". Inflammasomes contribute to anti-viral responses through the maturation of interleukin (IL)-1 and IL-18 and through triggering pyroptotic cell death. The activity of the innate immune system along with the adaptive immune response normally leads to successful virus elimination, although disproportionate innate responses contribute to viral pathology. In this review we will discuss recent insights into the influence of PRR activation and inflammasomes on viral infections and what this means for the mammalian host. We will also comment on how specific PRRs and inflammasomes may be relevant to how SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the current COVID-19 pandemic, interacts with host innate immunity.

Alerting the immune system to DNA damage: micronuclei as mediators

Healthy cells experience thousands of DNA lesions per day during normal cellular metabolism, and ionizing radiation and chemotherapeutic drugs rely on DNA damage to kill cancer cells. In response to such lesions, the DNA damage response (DDR) activates cell-cycle checkpoints, initiates DNA repair mechanisms, or promotes the clearance of irreparable cells. Work over the past decade has revealed broader influences of the DDR, involving inflammatory gene expression following unresolved DNA damage, and immune surveillance of damaged or mutated cells. Subcellular structures called micronuclei, containing broken fragments of DNA or whole chromosomes that have been isolated away from the rest of the genome, are now recognized as one mediator of DDR-associated immune recognition. Micronuclei can initiate pro-inflammatory signaling cascades, or massively degrade to invoke distinct forms of genomic instability. In this mini-review, we aim to provide an overview of the current evidence linking the DDR to activation of the immune response through micronuclei formation, identifying key areas of interest, open questions, and emerging implications.

Murine cytomegaloviruses m139 targets DDX3 to curtail interferon production and promote viral replication

Cytomegaloviruses (CMV) infect many different cell types and tissues in their respective hosts. Monocytes and macrophages play an important role in CMV dissemination from the site of infection to target organs. Moreover, macrophages are specialized in pathogen sensing and respond to infection by secreting cytokines and interferons. In murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV), a model for human cytomegalovirus, several genes required for efficient replication in macrophages have been identified, but their specific functions remain poorly understood. Here we show that MCMV m139, a gene of the conserved US22 gene family, encodes a protein that interacts with the DEAD box helicase DDX3, a protein involved in pathogen sensing and interferon (IFN) induction, and the E3 ubiquitin ligase UBR5. DDX3 and UBR5 also participate in the transcription, processing, and translation of a subset of cellular mRNAs. We show that m139 inhibits DDX3-mediated IFN-α and IFN-β induction and is necessary for efficient viral replication in bone-marrow derived macrophages. In vivo, m139 is crucial for viral dissemination to local lymph nodes and to the salivary glands. An m139-deficient MCMV also replicated to lower titers in SVEC4-10 endothelial cells. This replication defect was not accompanied by increased IFN-β transcription, but was rescued by knockout of either DDX3 or UBR5. Moreover, m139 co-localized with DDX3 and UBR5 in viral replication compartments in the cell nucleus. These results suggest that m139 inhibits DDX3-mediated IFN production in macrophages and antagonizes DDX3 and UBR5-dependent functions related to RNA metabolism in endothelial cells.

Human cytomegalovirus is an opportunistic pathogen that causes severe infections in immunocompromised individuals. The virus infects certain cell types, such as macrophages and endothelial cells, to ensure its dissemination within the body. Little is known about the viral factors that promote a productive infection of these cell types. The identification of critical viral factors and the molecular pathways they target can lead to the development of novel antiviral treatment strategies. Using the mouse cytomegalovirus as a model, we studied the viral m139 gene, which is important for virus replication in macrophages and endothelial cells and for dissemination in the mouse. This gene encodes a protein that interacts with the host proteins DDX3 and UBR5. Both proteins are involved in gene expression, and the RNA helicase DDX3 also participates in mounting an innate antiviral response. By interacting with DDX3 and UBR5, m139 ensures efficient viral replication in endothelial cells. Importantly, we identify m139 as a new viral DDX3 inhibitor, which curtails the production of interferon by macrophages.

Cytosolic DNA Sensors and CNS Responses to Viral Pathogens

Viral central nervous system (CNS) infections can lead to life threatening encephalitis and long-term neurological deficits in survivors. Resident CNS cell types, such as astrocytes and microglia, are known to produce key inflammatory and antiviral mediators following infection with neurotropic DNA viruses. However, the mechanisms by which glia mediate such responses remain poorly understood. Recently, a class of intracellular pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), collectively known as DNA sensors, have been identified in both leukocytic and non-leukocytic cell types. The ability of such DNA sensors to initiate immune mediator production and contribute to infection resolution in the periphery is increasingly recognized, but our understanding of their role in the CNS remains limited at best. In this review, we describe the evidence for the expression and functionality of DNA sensors in resident brain cells, with a focus on their role in neurotropic virus infections. The available data indicate that glia and neurons can constitutively express, and/or can be induced to express, various disparate DNA sensing molecules previously described in peripheral cell types. Furthermore, multiple lines of investigation suggest that these sensors are functional in resident CNS cells and are required for innate immune responses to viral infections. However, it is less clear whether DNA sensormediated glial responses are beneficial or detrimental, and the answer to this question appears to dependent on the context of the infection with regard to the identity of the pathogen, host cell type, and host species. Defining such parameters will be essential if we are to successfully target these molecules to limit damaging inflammation while allowing beneficial host responses to improve patient outcomes.

The regulation of the ZBP1-NLRP3 inflammasome and its implications in pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis (PANoptosis)

ZBP1 has been characterized as a critical innate immune sensor of not only viral RNA products but also endogenous nucleic acid ligands. ZBP1 sensing of the Z-RNA produced during influenza virus infection induces cell death in the form of pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis (PANoptosis). PANoptosis is a coordinated cell death pathway that is driven through a multiprotein complex called the PANoptosome and enables crosstalk and co-regulation among these processes. During influenza virus infection, a key step in PANoptosis and PANoptosome assembly is the formation of the ZBP1-NLRP3 inflammasome. When Z-RNA is sensed, ZBP1 recruits RIPK3 and caspase-8 to activate the ZBP1-NLRP3 inflammasome. Several other host factors have been found to be important for ZBP1-NLRP3 inflammasome assembly, including molecules involved in the type I interferon signaling pathway and caspase-6. Additionally, influenza viral proteins, such as M2, NS1, and PB1-F2, have also been shown to regulate the ZBP1-NLRP3 inflammasome. This review explains the functions of ZBP1 and the mechanistic details underlying the activation of the ZBP1-NLRP3 inflammasome and the formation of the PANoptosome. Improved understanding of the ZBP1-NLRP3 inflammasome will direct the development of therapeutic strategies to target infectious and inflammatory diseases.

Innate Immune Sensing of Influenza A Virus

Influenza virus infection triggers host innate immune response by stimulating various pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). Activation of these PRRs leads to the activation of a plethora of signaling pathways, resulting in the production of interferon (IFN) and proinflammatory cytokines, followed by the expression of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), the recruitment of innate immune cells, or the activation of programmed cell death. All these antiviral approaches collectively restrict viral replication inside the host. However, influenza virus also engages in multiple mechanisms to subvert the innate immune responses. In this review, we discuss the role of PRRs such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs), Retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I), NOD-, LRR-, pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3), and Z-DNA binding protein 1 (ZBP1) in sensing and restricting influenza viral infection. Further, we also discuss the mechanisms influenza virus utilizes, especially the role of viral non-structure proteins NS1, PB1-F2, and PA-X, to evade the host innate immune responses.

Distinct and Orchestrated Functions of RNA Sensors in Innate Immunity

Faithful maintenance of immune homeostasis relies on the capacity of the cellular immune surveillance machinery to recognize "nonself", such as the presence of pathogenic RNA. Several families of pattern-recognition receptors exist that detect immunostimulatory RNA and then induce cytokine-mediated antiviral and proinflammatory responses. Here, we review the distinct features of bona fide RNA sensors, Toll-like receptors and retinoic-acid inducible gene-I (RIG-I)-like receptors in particular, with a focus on their functional specificity imposed by cell-type-dependent expression, subcellular localization, and ligand preference. Furthermore, we highlight recent advances on the roles of nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptors and DEAD-box or DEAH-box RNA helicases in an orchestrated RNA-sensing network and also discuss the relevance of RNA sensor polymorphisms in human disease.

Immune Sensing Mechanisms that Discriminate Self from Altered Self and Foreign Nucleic Acids

All lifeforms have developed highly sophisticated systems equipped to detect altered self and non-self nucleic acids (NA). In vertebrates, NA-sensing receptors safeguard the integrity of the organism by detecting pathogens, dyshomeostasis and damage, and inducing appropriate responses to eliminate pathogens and reconstitute homeostasis. Effector mechanisms include i) immune signaling, ii) restriction of NA functions such as inhibition of mRNA translation, and iii) cell death pathways. An appropriate effector response is necessary for host defense, but dysregulated NA-sensing can lead to devastating autoimmune and autoinflammatory disease. Their inherent biochemical similarity renders the reliable distinction between self NA under homeostatic conditions and altered or exogenous NA particularly challenging. In this review, we provide an overview of recent progress in our understanding of the closely coordinated and regulated network of innate immune receptors, restriction factors, and nucleases to effectively respond to pathogens and maintain host integrity.

Varicella zoster virus encodes a viral decoy RHIM to inhibit cell death

Herpesviruses are known to encode a number of inhibitors of host cell death, including RIP Homotypic Interaction Motif (RHIM)-containing proteins. Varicella zoster virus (VZV) is a member of the alphaherpesvirus subfamily and is responsible for causing chickenpox and shingles. We have identified a novel viral RHIM in the VZV capsid triplex protein, open reading frame (ORF) 20, that acts as a host cell death inhibitor. Like the human cellular RHIMs in RIPK1 and RIPK3 that stabilise the necrosome in TNF-induced necroptosis, and the viral RHIM in M45 from murine cytomegalovirus that inhibits cell death, the ORF20 RHIM is capable of forming fibrillar functional amyloid complexes. Notably, the ORF20 RHIM forms hybrid amyloid complexes with human ZBP1, a cytoplasmic sensor of viral nucleic acid. Although VZV can inhibit TNF-induced necroptosis, the ORF20 RHIM does not appear to be responsible for this inhibition. In contrast, the ZBP1 pathway is identified as important for VZV infection. Mutation of the ORF20 RHIM renders the virus incapable of efficient spread in ZBP1-expressing HT-29 cells, an effect which can be reversed by the inhibition of caspases. Therefore we conclude that the VZV ORF20 RHIM is important for preventing ZBP1-driven apoptosis during VZV infection, and propose that it mediates this effect by sequestering ZBP1 into decoy amyloid assemblies.

RIP homotypic interaction motifs (RHIMs) are found in host proteins that can signal for programmed cell death and in viral proteins that can prevent it. Complexes stabilized by intermolecular interactions involving RHIMs have a fibrillar amyloid structure. We have identified a novel RHIM within the ORF20 protein expressed by Varicella zoster virus (VZV) that forms amyloid-based complexes with human cellular RHIMs. Whereas other herpesvirus RHIMs inhibit necroptosis, this new VZV RHIM targets the host RHIM-containing protein ZBP1 to inhibit apoptosis during infection. This is the first study to demonstrate the importance of the ZBP1 pathway in VZV infection and to identify the role of a viral RHIM in apoptosis inhibition. It broadens our understanding of host defense pathways and demonstrates how a decoy amyloid strategy is employed by pathogens to circumvent the host response.

Cell death in chronic inflammation: breaking the cycle to treat rheumatic disease

Cell death is a vital process that occurs in billions of cells in the human body every day. This process helps maintain tissue homeostasis, supports recovery from acute injury, deals with infection and regulates immunity. Cell death can also provoke inflammatory responses, and lytic forms of cell death can incite inflammation. Loss of cell membrane integrity leads to the uncontrolled release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), which are normally sequestered inside cells. Such DAMPs increase local inflammation and promote the production of cytokines and chemokines that modulate the innate immune response. Cell death can be both a consequence and a cause of inflammation, which can be difficult to distinguish in chronic diseases. Despite this caveat, excessive or poorly regulated cell death is increasingly recognized as a contributor to chronic inflammation in rheumatic disease and other inflammatory conditions. Drugs that inhibit cell death could, therefore, be used therapeutically for the treatment of these diseases, and programmes to develop such inhibitors are already underway. In this Review, we outline pathways for the major cell death programmes (apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis and NETosis) and their potential roles in chronic inflammation. We also discuss current and developing therapies that target the cell death machinery.

ZBP1: A STARGᐰTE to decode the biology of Z-nucleic acids in disease

ZBP1 triggers NLRP3 inflammasome activation/pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis; the specific ligand for ZBP1 activation remains ambiguous. Recent studies, including Devos et al. in this issue of JEM (https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.20191913), collectively suggest that ZBP1 sensing Z-nucleic acids is critical for cell death/inflammatory disease.

ALU non-B-DNA conformations, flipons, binary codes and evolution

ALUs contribute to genetic diversity by altering DNA's linear sequence through retrotransposition, recombination and repair. ALUs also have the potential to form alternative non-B-DNA conformations such as Z-DNA, triplexes and quadruplexes that alter the read-out of information from the genome. I suggest here these structures enable the rapid reprogramming of cellular pathways to offset DNA damage and regulate inflammation. The experimental data supporting this form of genetic encoding is presented. ALU sequence motifs that form non-B-DNA conformations under physiological conditions are called flipons. Flipons are binary switches. They are dissipative structures that trade energy for information. By efficiently targeting cellular machines to active genes, flipons expand the repertoire of RNAs compiled from a gene. Their action greatly increases the informational capacity of linearly encoded genomes. Flipons are programmable by epigenetic modification, synchronizing cellular events by altering both chromatin state and nucleosome phasing. Different classes of flipon exist. Z-flipons are based on Z-DNA and modify the transcripts compiled from a gene. T-flipons are based on triplexes and localize non-coding RNAs that direct the assembly of cellular machines. G-flipons are based on G-quadruplexes and sense DNA damage, then trigger the appropriate protective responses. Flipon conformation is dynamic, changing with context. When frozen in one state, flipons often cause disease. The propagation of flipons throughout the genome by ALU elements represents a novel evolutionary innovation that allows for rapid change. Each ALU insertion creates variability by extracting a different set of information from the neighbourhood in which it lands. By elaborating on already successful adaptations, the newly compiled transcripts work with the old to enhance survival. Systems that optimize flipon settings through learning can adapt faster than with other forms of evolution. They avoid the risk of relying on random and irreversible codon rewrites.

Cytomegaloviruses and Macrophages-Friends and Foes From Early on?

Starting at birth, newborn infants are exposed to numerous microorganisms. Adaptation of the innate immune system to them is a delicate process, with potentially advantageous and harmful implications for health development. Cytomegaloviruses (CMVs) are highly adapted to their specific mammalian hosts, with which they share millions of years of co-evolution. Throughout the history of mankind, human CMV has infected most infants in the first months of life without overt implications for health. Thus, CMV infections are intertwined with normal immune development. Nonetheless, CMV has retained substantial pathogenicity following infection in utero or in situations of immunosuppression, leading to pathology in virtually any organ and particularly the central nervous system (CNS). CMVs enter the host through mucosal interfaces of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tract, where macrophages (MACs) are the most abundant immune cell type. Tissue MACs and their potential progenitors, monocytes, are established target cells of CMVs. Recently, several discoveries have revolutionized our understanding on the pre- and postnatal development and site-specific adaptation of tissue MACs. In this review, we explore experimental evidences and concepts on how CMV infections may impact on MAC development and activation as part of host-virus co-adaptation.

Pangolins Lack IFIH1/MDA5, a Cytoplasmic RNA Sensor That Initiates Innate Immune Defense Upon Coronavirus Infection

Zoonotic infections are an imminent threat to human health. Pangolins were recently identified as carriers and intermediate hosts of coronaviruses. Previous research has shown that infection with coronaviruses activates an innate immune response upon sensing of viral RNA by interferon-induced with helicase C domain 1 (IFIH1), also known as MDA5. Here, we performed a comparative genomics study of RNA sensor genes in three species of pangolins. DDX58/RIG-I, a sensor of cytoplasmic viral RNA and toll-like receptors (TLR) 3, 7, and 8, which bind RNA in endosomes, are conserved in pangolins. By contrast, IFIH1 a sensor of intracellular double-stranded RNA, has been inactivated by mutations in pangolins. Likewise, Z-DNA-binding protein (ZBP1), which senses both Z-DNA and Z-RNA, has been lost during the evolution of pangolins. These results suggest that the innate immune response to viruses differs significantly between pangolins and other mammals, including humans. We put forward the hypothesis that loss of IFIH1 and ZBP1 provided an evolutionary advantage by reducing inflammation-induced damage to host tissues and thereby contributed to a switch from resistance to tolerance of viral infections in pangolins.

The Zα2 domain of ZBP1 is a molecular switch regulating influenza-induced PANoptosis and perinatal lethality during development

Z-DNA-binding protein 1 (ZBP1) is an innate immune sensor of nucleic acids that regulates host defense responses and development. ZBP1 activation triggers inflammation and pyroptosis, necroptosis, and apoptosis (PANoptosis) by activating receptor-interacting Ser/Thr kinase 3 (RIPK3), caspase-8, and the NLRP3 inflammasome. ZBP1 is unique among innate immune sensors because of its N-terminal Zα1 and Zα2 domains, which bind to nucleic acids in the Z-conformation. However, the specific role of these Zα domains in orchestrating ZBP1 activation and subsequent inflammation and cell death is not clear. Here we generated Zbp1 ^{ΔZα2/ΔZα2} mice that express ZBP1 lacking the Zα2 domain and demonstrate that this domain is critical for influenza A virus-induced PANoptosis and underlies perinatal lethality in mice in which the RIP homotypic interaction motif domain of RIPK1 has been mutated (Ripk1 ^mRHIM/mRHIM). Deletion of the Zα2 domain in ZBP1 abolished influenza A virus-induced PANoptosis and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Furthermore, deletion of the Zα2 domain of ZBP1 was sufficient to rescue Ripk1 ^mRHIM/mRHIM mice from perinatal lethality caused by ZBP1-driven cell death and inflammation. Our findings identify the essential role of the Zα2 domain of ZBP1 in several physiological functions and establish a link between Z-RNA sensing via the Zα2 domain and promotion of influenza-induced PANoptosis and perinatal lethality.

Z-nucleic-acid sensing triggers ZBP1-dependent necroptosis and inflammation

Z-DNA and Z-RNA are left-handed double helix nucleic acid structures with poorly understood biological function^1–3. Z-DNA binding protein 1 (ZBP1, also known as DAI or DLM-1) is a nucleic acid sensor containing two Zα domains that bind Z-DNA^4,5 and Z-RNA^6–8. ZBP1 mediates host-defence against certain viruses^6,7,9–14 by sensing viral nucleic acids^6,7,10. RIPK1 deficiency or mutation of its RIP homotypic interaction motif (RHIM) triggers ZBP1-dependent necroptosis and inflammation in mice^15,16, however, the mechanisms inducing ZBP1 activation in the absence of viral infection remain elusive. Here we show that Zα-dependent sensing of endogenous ligands induces ZBP1-mediated perinatal lethality in mice expressing RIPK1 with mutated RHIM (Ripk1^mR/mR) and skin inflammation in mice with epidermis-specific RIPK1 deficiency (RIPK1^E-KO), as well as colitis in mice with intestinal epithelial-specific FADD deficiency (FADD^IEC-KO). Consistently, functional Zα domains were required for ZBP1-induced necroptosis in fibroblasts that express RIPK1 with mutated RHIM or were treated with caspase inhibitors. Moreover, inhibition of nuclear export triggered Zα-dependent activation of RIPK3 in the nucleus resulting in cell death, suggesting that ZBP1 may recognise Z-form nucleic acids (Z-NA) in the nucleus. We found that ZBP1 constitutively bound cellular double stranded RNA (dsRNA) in a Zα-dependent manner. Furthermore, endogenous retroelement (ERE)-derived complementary reads were detected in epidermal RNA, suggesting that ERE-derived dsRNA may act as Zα domain ligand triggering ZBP1 activation. Collectively, our results provide evidence that sensing of endogenous Z-NA by ZBP1 triggers RIPK3-dependent necroptosis and inflammation, which could underlie the development of chronic inflammatory conditions particularly in patients with mutations in the RIPK1 and CASPASE-8 genes^17–20.

Necroptosis, ADAM proteases and intestinal (dys)function

Recently, an unexpected connection between necroptosis and members of the a disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM) protease family has been reported. Necroptosis represents an important cell death routine which helps to protect from viral, bacterial, fungal and parasitic infections, maintains adult T cell homeostasis and contributes to the elimination of potentially defective organisms before parturition. Equally important for organismal homeostasis, ADAM proteases control cellular processes such as development and differentiation, immune responses or tissue regeneration. Notably, necroptosis as well as ADAM proteases have been implicated in the control of inflammatory responses in the intestine. In this review, we therefore provide an overview of the physiology and pathophysiology of necroptosis, ADAM proteases and intestinal (dys)function, discuss the contribution of necroptosis and ADAMs to intestinal (dys)function, and review the current knowledge on the role of ADAMs in necroptotic signaling.

Multitasking Kinase RIPK1 Regulates Cell Death and Inflammation

Receptor-interacting serine threonine kinase 1 (RIPK1) is a widely expressed kinase that is essential for limiting inflammation in both mice and humans. Mice lacking RIPK1 die at birth from multiorgan inflammation and aberrant cell death, whereas humans lacking RIPK1 are immunodeficient and develop very early-onset inflammatory bowel disease. In contrast to complete loss of RIPK1, inhibiting the kinase activity of RIPK1 genetically or pharmacologically prevents cell death and inflammation in several mouse disease models. Indeed, small molecule inhibitors of RIPK1 are in phase I clinical trials for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and phase II clinical trials for psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ulcerative colitis. This review focuses on which signaling pathways use RIPK1, how activation of RIPK1 is regulated, and when activation of RIPK1 appears to be an important driver of inflammation.

Coxsackievirus A6 Induces Necroptosis for Viral Production

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a febrile exanthematous disease with typical or atypical symptoms. Typical HFMD is usually caused by enterovirus 71 (EV71) or coxsackievirus A16, while atypical HFMD is usually caused by coxsackievirus A6 (CA6). In recent years, worldwide outbreaks of CA6-associated HFMD have dramatically increased, although the pathogenic mechanism of CA6 is still unclear. EV71 has been established to induce caspase-dependent apoptosis, but in this study, we demonstrate that CA6 infection promotes a distinct pathway of cell death that involves loss of cell membrane integrity. Necrostatin-1, an inhibitor of necroptosis, blocks the cell death induced by CA6 infection, but Z-DEVD-FMK, an inhibitor of caspase-3, has no effect on CA6-induced cell death. Furthermore, CA6 infection up-regulates the expression of the necroptosis signaling molecule RIPK3. Importantly, necrostatin-1 inhibits CA6 viral production, as assessed by its ability to inhibit levels of VP1 protein and genomic RNA and infectious particles. CA6-induced necroptosis is not dependent on the generation of reactive oxygen species; however, viral 3D protein can directly bind RIPK3, which is suggestive of a direct mechanism of necroptosis induction. Therefore, these results indicate that CA6 induces a mechanism of RIPK3-dependent necroptosis for viral production that is distinct from the mechanism of apoptosis induced by typical HFMD viruses.

Nucleic Acid Sensors and Programmed Cell Death

Nucleic acids derived from microorganisms are powerful triggers for innate immune responses. Proteins called RNA and DNA sensors detect foreign nucleic acids and, in mammalian cells, include RIG-I, cGAS, and AIM2. On binding to nucleic acids, these proteins initiate signaling cascades that activate host defense responses. An important aspect of this defense program is the production of cytokines such as type I interferons and IL-1β. Studies conducted over recent years have revealed that nucleic acid sensors also activate programmed cell death pathways as an innate immune response to infection. Indeed, RNA and DNA sensors induce apoptosis, pyroptosis, and necroptosis. Cell death via these pathways prevents replication of pathogens by eliminating the infected cell and additionally contributes to the release of cytokines and inflammatory mediators. Interestingly, recent evidence suggests that programmed cell death triggered by nucleic acid sensors plays an important role in a number of noninfectious pathologies. In addition to nonself DNA and RNA from microorganisms, nucleic acid sensors also recognize endogenous nucleic acids, for example when cells are damaged by genotoxic agents and in certain autoinflammatory diseases. This review article summarizes current knowledge on the links between nucleic acid sensing and cell death and explores important open questions for future studies in this area.

Multiple cytosolic DNA sensors bind plasmid DNA after transfection

Mammalian cells express a variety of nucleic acid sensors as one of the first lines of defense against infection. Despite extensive progress in the study of sensor signaling pathways during the last decade, the detailed mechanisms remain unclear. In our previous studies, we reported increased type I interferon expression and the upregulation of several proposed cytosolic DNA sensors after transfection of several tumor cell types with plasmid DNA (pDNA). In the present study, we sought to reveal the early events in the cytosolic sensing of this nucleic acid in a myoblast cell line. We demonstrated that DNA-dependent activator of interferon regulatory factors/Z-DNA binding protein 1 (DAI/ZBP1) bound plasmid DNA in the cytosol within 15 minutes of transfection and at consistent levels for 4 h. Interferon activated gene 204 protein (p204) and DEAH box helicase 9 (DHX9) also bound pDNA, peaking 15 and 30 min respectively. Plasmid DNA was not detectably bound by DEAD box helicase 60 (DDX60) protein, despite a similar level of mRNA upregulation to DAI/ZBP1, or by cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), despite its presence in the cell cytosol. Taken together, these results indicate several DNA sensors may participate and cooperate in the complex process of cytosolic DNA sensing.

Content of Free Fetal DNA in Maternal Blood and Expression of DNA Recognition Receptors ZBP-1 in Placental Tissue in Preeclampsia and Preterm Labor

We evaluated the content of cell-free fetal DNA in maternal blood and expression of ZBP-1 receptors in the placental tissue of women with uncomplicated pregnancy, preeclampsia, and preterm labor. The study included 16 women with preeclampsia (early and late-onset preeclampsia, 8 cases each), 16 women with preterm labor, and 21 women with uncomplicated pregnancy. The concentration of cell-free fetal DNA was measured by PCR by detecting hypermethylated region of the RASSF1A gene. Immunohistochemistry was performed on paraffin-embedded sections of the placenta samples using primary polyclonal antibodies to ZBP-1. Significant increase in the level of cell-free fetal DNA was found in women with preeclampsia (both early and late-onset form) in comparison with uncomplicated pregnancy. The concentration of cell-free fetal DNA in preterm labor group did not differ from the control group; however, it was significantly lower than in early-onset preeclampsia, but not late preeclampsia. Immunohistochemical study showed higher expression of ZBP-1 in the villus syncytiotrophoblast in early-onset preeclampsia in comparison with that in preterm labor group (p=0.006). Fragments of damaged placental cells, predominantly trophoblast, enter maternal circulation and are the source of cell-free fetal DNA and a potential ligand for ZBP-1, which leads to further cell damage and the formation of a vicious circle. The increase in the content of cell-free fetal DNA in maternal blood and ZBP-1 expression in the syncytiotrophoblast in preeclampsia are interrelated processes reflecting impaired morphofunctional state of the placenta.

The potential role of necroptosis in inflammaging and aging

An age-associated increase in chronic, low-grade sterile inflammation termed "inflammaging" is a characteristic feature of mammalian aging that shows a strong association with occurrence of various age-associated diseases. However, the mechanism(s) responsible for inflammaging and its causal role in aging and age-related diseases are not well understood. Age-associated accumulation of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) is an important trigger in inflammation and has been proposed as a potential driver of inflammaging. DAMPs can initiate an inflammatory response by binding to the cell surface receptors on innate immune cells. Programmed necrosis, termed necroptosis, is one of the pathways that can release DAMPs, and cell death due to necroptosis is known to induce inflammation. Necroptosis-mediated inflammation plays an important role in a variety of age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and atherosclerosis. Recently, it was reported that markers of necroptosis increase with age in mice and that dietary restriction, which retards aging and increases lifespan, reduces necroptosis and inflammation. Genetic manipulations that increase lifespan (Ames Dwarf mice) and reduce lifespan (Sod1^-/- mice) are associated with reduced and increased necroptosis and inflammation, respectively. While necroptosis evolved to protect cells/tissues from invading pathogens, e.g., viruses, we propose that the age-related increase in oxidative stress, mTOR signaling, and cell senescence results in cells/tissues in old animals being more prone to undergo necroptosis thereby releasing DAMPs, which contribute to the chronic inflammation observed with age. Approach to decrease DAMPs release by reducing/blocking necroptosis is a potentially new approach to reduce inflammaging, retard aging, and improve healthspan.

Respiratory syncytial virus nonstructural proteins 1 and 2: Exceptional disrupters of innate immune responses

Human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most important cause of acute lower respiratory tract disease in infants worldwide. As a first line of defense against respiratory infections, innate immune responses, including the production of type I and III interferons (IFNs), play an important role. Upon infection with RSV, multiple pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) can recognize RSV-derived pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and mount innate immune responses. Retinoic-acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I) and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-containing protein 2 (NOD2) have been identified as important innate receptors to mount type I IFNs during RSV infection. However, type I IFN levels remain surprisingly low during RSV infection despite strong viral replication. The poor induction of type I IFNs can be attributed to the cooperative activity of 2 unique, nonstructural (NS) proteins of RSV, i.e., NS1 and NS2. These viral proteins have been shown to suppress both the production and signaling of type I and III IFNs by counteracting a plethora of key host innate signaling proteins. Moreover, increasing numbers of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) are being identified as targets of the NS proteins in recent years, highlighting an underexplored protein family in the identification of NS target proteins. To understand the diverse effector functions of NS1 and NS2, Goswami and colleagues proposed the hypothesis of the NS degradasome (NSD) complex, a multiprotein complex made up of, at least, NS1 and NS2. Furthermore, the crystal structure of NS1 was resolved recently and, remarkably, identified NS1 as a structural paralogue of the RSV matrix protein. Unfortunately, no structural data on NS2 have been published so far. In this review, we briefly describe the PRRs that mount innate immune responses upon RSV infection and provide an overview of the various effector functions of NS1 and NS2. Furthermore, we discuss the ubiquitination effector functions of NS1 and NS2, which are in line with the hypothesis that the NSD shares features with the canonical 26S proteasome.

The Molecular Links between Cell Death and Inflammasome

Programmed cell death pathways and inflammasome activation pathways can be genetically and functionally separated. Inflammasomes are specialized protein complexes that process pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-18 to bioactive forms for protection from a wide range of pathogens, as well as environmental and host-derived danger molecules. Programmed cell death has been extensively studied, and its role in the development, homeostasis, and control of infection and danger is widely appreciated. Apoptosis and the recently recognized necroptosis are the best-characterized forms of programmed death, and the interplay between them through death receptor signaling is also being studied. Moreover, growing evidence suggests that many of the signaling molecules known to regulate programmed cell death can also modulate inflammasome activation in a cell-intrinsic manner. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss the current knowledge concerning the role of the signaling molecules originally associated with programmed cell death in the activation of inflammasome and IL-1β processing.

Autophagy regulates inflammatory programmed cell death via turnover of RHIM-domain proteins

RIPK1, RIPK3, ZBP1 and TRIF, the four mammalian proteins harboring RIP homotypic interaction motif (RHIM) domains, are key components of inflammatory signaling and programmed cell death. RHIM-domain protein activation is mediated by their oligomerization; however, mechanisms that promote a return to homeostasis remain unknown. Here we show that autophagy is critical for the turnover of all RHIM-domain proteins. Macrophages lacking the autophagy gene Atg16l1accumulated highly insoluble forms of RIPK1, RIPK3, TRIF and ZBP1. Defective autophagy enhanced necroptosis by Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands. TNF-mediated necroptosis was mediated by RIPK1 kinase activity, whereas TLR3- or TLR4-mediated death was dependent on TRIF and RIPK3. Unexpectedly, combined deletion of Atg16l1 and Zbp1 accelerated LPS-mediated necroptosis and sepsis in mice. Thus, ZBP1 drives necroptosis in the absence of the RIPK1-RHIM, but suppresses this process when multiple RHIM-domain containing proteins accumulate. These findings identify autophagy as a central regulator of innate inflammation governed by RHIM-domain proteins.

Control of cell death-associated danger signals during cornification prevents autoinflammation of the skin

The function of the skin as a barrier to the environment is mainly achieved by the outermost layers of the epidermis. In the granular layer, epidermal keratinocytes undergo the last steps of their terminal differentiation program resulting in cornification. The coordinated conversion of living keratinocytes into corneocytes, the building blocks of the cornified layer, represents a unique form of programmed cell death. Recent studies have identified numerous genes that are specifically expressed in terminally differentiated keratinocytes and, surprisingly, this genetic program does not only include mediators of cornification but also suppressors of pyroptosis, another mode of programmed cell death. Pyroptosis is activated by inflammasomes, leads to the release of interleukin-1 (IL-1) family cytokines, and thereby activates inflammation. In addition, inhibitors of potentially pro-inflammatory proteases and enzymes removing danger-associated cytoplasmic DNA are expressed in differentiated keratinocytes. We propose the concept of cornification as an inherently hazardous process in which damaging side effects are actively suppressed by protective mechanisms. In support of this hypothesis, loss-of-function mutations in epidermal protease inhibitors and IL-1 family antagonists suffice to induce autoinflammation. Similarly, exogenous disturbances of either cornification or its accompanying control mechanisms may be starting points for skin inflammation. Further studies into the relationship between cornification, pyroptosis and other forms of cell death will help to define the initiation phase of inflammatory skin diseases and offer new targets for disease prevention and therapy.

Cell death-mediated cytokine release and its therapeutic implications

Targeting apoptosis to treat diseases has seen tremendous success over the past decades. More recently, alternative forms of regulated cell death, including pyroptosis and necroptosis, have been described. Understanding the molecular cascades regulating both pyroptosis and necroptosis will yield even more targets to treat diseases. These lytic forms of cell death are distinct from apoptosis due to their characteristic lysis and release of cellular components that promote disease or direct a beneficial immune response. In this review, we focus on how pyroptosis and necroptosis, which release potent immune cytokines such as IL-1 and IL-18, contribute to various diseases. We also consider the important role that the executioners of these cell death pathways, GSDMD and MLKL, play in the progression of inflammatory diseases. Crosstalk between the different cell death pathways likely plays a major role physiologically. New therapeutic strategies targeting these specific molecules hold enormous potential for managing inflammatory diseases.

ZBP1 mediates interferon-induced necroptosis

Interferons (IFNs) play an important role in immunomodulatory and antiviral functions. IFN-induced necroptosis has been reported in cells deficient in receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1), Fas-associated protein with death domain (FADD), or caspase-8, but the mechanism is largely unknown. Here, we report that the DNA-dependent activator of IFN regulatory factors (ZBP1, also known as DAI) is required for both type I (β) and type II (γ) IFN-induced necroptosis. We show that L929 fibroblast cells became susceptible to IFN-induced necroptosis when RIPK1, FADD, or Caspase-8 was genetically deleted, confirming the antinecroptotic role of these proteins in IFN signaling. We found that the pronecroptotic signal from IFN stimulation depends on new protein synthesis and identified ZBP1, an IFN-stimulated gene (ISG) product, as the de novo synthesized protein that triggers necroptosis in IFN-stimulated cells. The N-terminal domain (ND) of ZBP1 is important for ZBP1-ZBP1 homointeraction, and its RHIM domain in the C-terminal region interacts with RIPK3 to initiate RIPK3-dependent necroptosis. The antinecroptotic function of RIPK1, FADD, and caspase-8 in IFN-treated cells is most likely executed by caspase-8-mediated cleavage of RIPK3, since the inhibitory effect on necroptosis was eliminated when the caspase-8 cleavage site in RIPK3 was mutated. ZBP1-mediated necroptosis in IFN-treated cells is likely physiologically relevant, as ZBP1 KO mice were significantly protected against acute systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) induced by TNF + IFN-γ.

Tumour Necrosis Factor Alpha in Intestinal Homeostasis and Gut Related Diseases

The intestinal epithelium constitutes an indispensable single-layered barrier to protect the body from invading pathogens, antigens or toxins. At the same time, beneficial nutrients and water have to be absorbed by the epithelium. To prevent development of intestinal inflammation or tumour formation, intestinal homeostasis has to be tightly controlled and therefore a strict balance between cell death and proliferation has to be maintained. The proinflammatory cytokine tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) was shown to play a striking role for the regulation of this balance in the gut. Depending on the cellular conditions, on the one hand TNFα is able to mediate cell survival by activating NFκB signalling. On the other hand, TNFα might trigger cell death, in particular caspase-dependent apoptosis but also caspase-independent programmed necrosis. By regulating these cell death and survival mechanisms, TNFα exerts a variety of beneficial functions in the intestine. However, TNFα signalling is also supposed to play a critical role for the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), infectious diseases, intestinal wound healing and tumour formation. Here we review the literature about the physiological and pathophysiological role of TNFα signalling for the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis and the benefits and difficulties of anti-TNFα treatment during IBD.

The RNA binding activity of the first identified trypanosome protein with Z-DNA-binding domains

RNA-binding proteins play a particularly important role in regulating gene expression in trypanosomes. A map of the network of protein complexes in Trypanosoma brucei uncovered an essential protein (Tb927.10.7910) that is postulated to be an RNA-binding protein implicated in the regulation of the mitochondrial post-transcriptional gene regulatory network by its association with proteins that participate in a multi-protein RNA editing complex. However, the mechanism by which this protein interacts with its multiple target transcripts remained unknown. Using sensitive database searches and experimental data, we identify Z-DNA-binding domains in T. brucei in the N- and C-terminal regions of Tb927.10.7910. RNA-binding studies of the wild-type protein, now referred to as RBP7910 (RNA binding protein 7910), and site-directed mutagenesis of residues important for the Z-DNA binding domains show that it preferentially interacts with RNA molecules containing poly(U) and poly(AU)-rich sequences. The interaction of RBP7910 with these regions may be involved in regulation of RNA editing of mitochondrial transcripts.

Nucleic Acid Sensing in Mammals and Plants: Facts and Caveats

The accumulation of nucleic acids in aberrant compartments is a signal of danger: fragments of cytosolic or extracellular self-DNA indicate cellular dysfunctions or disruption, whereas cytosolic fragments of nonself-DNA or RNA indicate infections. Therefore, nucleic acids trigger immunity in mammals and plants. In mammals, endosomal Toll-like receptors (TLRs) sense single-stranded (ss) or double-stranded (ds) RNA or CpG-rich DNA, whereas various cytosolic receptors sense dsDNA. Although a self/nonself discrimination could favor targeted immune responses, no sequence-specific sensing of nucleic acids has been reported for mammals. Specific immune responses to extracellular self-DNA versus DNA from related species were recently reported for plants, but the underlying mechanism remains unknown. The subcellular localization of mammalian receptors can favor self/nonself discrimination based on the localization of DNA fragments. However, autoantibodies and diverse damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) shuttle DNA through membranes, and most of the mammalian receptors share downstream signaling elements such as stimulator of interferon genes (STING) and the master transcription regulators, nuclear factor (NF)-κB, and interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3). The resulting type I interferon (IFN) response stimulates innate immunity against multiple threats-from infection to physical injury or endogenous DNA damage-all of which lead to the accumulation of eDNA or cytoplasmatic dsDNA. Therefore, no or only low selective pressures might have favored a strict self/nonself discrimination in nucleic acid sensing. We conclude that the discrimination between self- and nonself-DNA is likely to be less strict-and less important-than assumed originally.

Viral M45 and necroptosis-associated proteins form heteromeric amyloid assemblies

The murine cytomegalovirus protein M45 protects infected mouse cells from necroptotic death and, when heterologously expressed, can protect human cells from necroptosis induced by tumour necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) activation. Here, we show that the N-terminal 90 residues of the M45 protein, which contain a RIP homotypic interaction motif (RHIM), are sufficient to confer protection against TNFR-induced necroptosis. This N-terminal region of M45 drives rapid self-assembly into homo-oligomeric amyloid fibrils and interacts with the RHIMs of the human kinases RIPK1 and RIPK3, and the Z-DNA binding protein 1 (ZBP1), to form heteromeric amyloid fibrils in vitro Mutation of the tetrad residues in the M45 RHIM attenuates homo- and hetero-amyloid assembly by M45, suggesting that the amyloidogenic nature of the M45 RHIM underlies its biological activity. The M45 RHIM preferentially interacts with RIPK3 and ZBP1 over RIPK1 and alters the properties of the host RHIM protein assemblies. Our results indicate that M45 mimics the interactions made by RIPK1 or ZBP1 with RIPK3, thereby forming heteromeric amyloid structures, which may explain its ability to inhibit necroptosis.

Chronic intestinal inflammation in mice expressing viral Flip in epithelial cells

Viruses are present in the intestinal microflora and are currently discussed as a potential causative mechanism for the development of inflammatory bowel disease. A number of viruses, such as Human Herpesvirus-8, express homologs to cellular FLIPs, which are major contributors for the regulation of epithelial cell death. In this study we analyzed the consequences of constitutive expression of HHV8-viral FLIP in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) in mice. Surprisingly, expression of vFlip disrupts tissue homeostasis and induces severe intestinal inflammation. Moreover vFlip^IEC-tg mice showed reduced Paneth cell numbers, associated with excessive necrotic cell death. On a molecular level vFlip expression altered classical and alternative NFκB activation. Blocking of alternative NFκB signaling by deletion of Ikka in vivo largely protected mice from inflammation and Paneth cell loss induced by vFLIP. Collectively, our data provide functional evidence that expression of a single viral protein in IECs can be sufficient to disrupt epithelial homeostasis and to initiate chronic intestinal inflammation.

Pathways of host cell exit by intracellular pathogens

Host cell exit is a critical step in the life-cycle of intracellular pathogens, intimately linked to barrier penetration, tissue dissemination, inflammation, and pathogen transmission. Like cell invasion and intracellular survival, host cell exit represents a well-regulated program that has evolved during host-pathogen co-evolution and that relies on the dynamic and intricate interplay between multiple host and microbial factors. Three distinct pathways of host cell exit have been identified that are employed by three different taxa of intracellular pathogens, bacteria, fungi and protozoa, namely (i) the initiation of programmed cell death, (ii) the active breaching of host cellderived membranes, and (iii) the induced membrane-dependent exit without host cell lysis. Strikingly, an increasing number of studies show that the majority of intracellular pathogens utilize more than one of these strategies, dependent on life-cycle stage, environmental factors and/or host cell type. This review summarizes the diverse exit strategies of intracellular-living bacterial, fungal and protozoan pathogens and discusses the convergently evolved commonalities as well as system-specific variations thereof. Key microbial molecules involved in host cell exit are highlighted and discussed as potential targets for future interventional approaches.

The Role of Nucleic Acid Sensing in Controlling Microbial and Autoimmune Disorders

Innate immunity, the first line of defense against invading pathogens, is an ancient form of host defense found in all animals, from sponges to humans. During infection, innate immune receptors recognize conserved molecular patterns, such as microbial surface molecules, metabolites produces during infection, or nucleic acids of the microbe's genome. When initiated, the innate immune response activates a host defense program that leads to the synthesis proteins capable of pathogen killing. In mammals, the induction of cytokines during the innate immune response leads to the recruitment of professional immune cells to the site of infection, leading to an adaptive immune response. While a fully functional innate immune response is crucial for a proper host response and curbing microbial infection, if the innate immune response is dysfunctional and is activated in the absence of infection, autoinflammation and autoimmune disorders can develop. Therefore, it follows that the innate immune response must be tightly controlled to avoid an autoimmune response from host-derived molecules, yet still unencumbered to respond to infection. In this review, we will focus on the innate immune response activated from cytosolic nucleic acids, derived from the microbe or host itself. We will depict how viruses and bacteria activate these nucleic acid sensing pathways and their mechanisms to inhibit the pathways. We will also describe the autoinflammatory and autoimmune disorders that develop when these pathways are hyperactive. Finally, we will discuss gaps in knowledge with regard to innate immune response failure and identify where further research is needed.

Cytosolic DNA Sensing in Organismal Tumor Control

Besides constituting a first layer of defense against microbial challenges, the detection of cytosolic DNA is fundamental for mammalian organisms to control malignant transformation and tumor progression. The accumulation of DNA in the cytoplasm can initiate the proliferative inactivation (via cellular senescence) or elimination (via regulated cell death) of neoplastic cell precursors. Moreover, cytosolic DNA sensing is intimately connected to the secretion of cytokines that support innate and adaptive antitumor immunity. Here, we discuss the molecular mechanisms whereby cytosolic DNA enables cell-intrinsic and -extrinsic oncosuppression, and their relevance for the development of novel therapeutic approaches that reinstate anticancer immunosurveillance.

Necroptosis in anti-viral inflammation

The primary function of the immune system is to protect the host from invading pathogens. In response, microbial pathogens have developed various strategies to evade detection and destruction by the immune system. This tug-of-war between the host and the pathogen is a powerful force that shapes organismal evolution. Regulated cell death (RCD) is a host response that limits the reservoir for intracellular pathogens such as viruses. Since pathogen-specific T cell and B cell responses typically take several days and is therefore slow-developing, RCD of infected cells during the first few days of the infection is critical for organismal survival. This innate immune response not only restricts viral replication, but also serves to promote anti-viral inflammation through cell death-associated release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). In recent years, necroptosis has been recognized as an important response against many viruses. The central adaptor for necroptosis, RIPK3, also exerts anti-viral effects through cell death-independent activities such as promoting cytokine gene expression. Here, we will discuss recent advances on how viruses counteract this host defense mechanism and the effect of necroptosis on the anti-viral inflammatory reaction.

Necroptosis facilitates anti-viral inflammation, which is countered by virally-encoded inhibitors.

Species-independent contribution of ZBP1/DAI/DLM-1-triggered necroptosis in host defense against HSV1

Necroptosis complements apoptosis as a host defense pathway to stop virus infection. Herpes simplex virus shows a propensity to trigger necroptosis of mouse cells and mice even though cell death is blocked in human cells through UL39-encoded ICP6. This ribonucleotide reductase large subunit (R1) nucleates RHIM-dependent oligomerization of RIP3 kinase (RIPK3, also known as RIP3) in mouse cells but inhibits activation in cells from the natural human host. By interrogating the comparative behavior of ICP6-deficient viruses in mouse and human cells, here we unveil virus-induced necroptosis mediated by Z-DNA-binding protein 1 (ZBP1, also known as DAI). ZBP1 acts as a pathogen sensor to detect nascent RNA transcripts rather than input viral DNA or viral DNA generated through replication. Consistent with the implicated role of virus-induced necroptosis in restricting infection, viral pathogenesis is restored in Zbp1^−/−, Ripk3^−/− and Mlkl^−/− mice. Thus, in addition to direct activation of RIPK3 via ICP6, HSV1 infection in mice and mouse cells triggers virus-induced necroptosis through ZBP1. Importantly, virus-induced necroptosis is also induced in human HT-29 cells by ICP6 mutant viruses; however, ZBP1 levels must be elevated for this pathway to be active. Thus, our studies reveal a common, species-independent role of this nucleic acid sensor to detect the presence of this virus. HSV1 ICP6 functions as a bona fide RHIM signaling inhibitor to block virus-induced necroptosis in its natural host. Altogether, ZBP1-dependent restriction of herpesvirus infection emerges as a potent antiviral armament of the innate immune system.

RHIM-based protein:protein interactions in microbial defence against programmed cell death by necroptosis

The Receptor-interacting protein kinase Homotypic Interaction Motif (RHIM) is an amino acid sequence that mediates multiple protein:protein interactions in the mammalian programmed cell death pathway known as necroptosis. At least one key RHIM-based complex has been shown to have a functional amyloid fibril structure, which provides a stable hetero-oligomeric platform for downstream signaling. RHIMs and related motifs are present in immunity-related proteins across nature, from viruses to fungi to metazoans. Necroptosis is a hallmark feature of cellular clearance of infection. For this reason, numerous pathogens, including viruses and bacteria, have developed varied methods to modulate necroptosis, focusing on inhibiting RHIM:RHIM interactions, and thus their downstream cell death effects. This review will discuss current understanding of RHIM:RHIM interactions in normal cellular activation of necroptosis, from a structural and cell biology perspective. It will compare the mechanisms by which pathogens subvert these interactions in order to maintain their replicative and infective cycles and consider the similarities between RHIMs and other functional amyloid-forming proteins associated with cell death and innate immunity. It will discuss the implications of the heteromeric nature and structure of RHIM-based amyloid complexes in the context of other functional amyloids.

Intracellular Nucleic Acid Sensing Triggers Necroptosis through Synergistic Type I IFN and TNF Signaling

The sensing of viral nucleic acids within the cytosol is essential for the induction of innate immune responses following infection. However, this sensing occurs within cells that have already been infected. The death of infected cells can be beneficial to the host by eliminating the virus's replicative niche and facilitating the release of inflammatory mediators. In this study, we show that sensing of intracellular DNA or RNA by cGAS-STING or RIG-I-MAVS, respectively, leads to activation of RIPK3 and necroptosis in bone marrow-derived macrophages. Notably, this requires signaling through both type I IFN and TNF receptors, revealing synergy between these pathways to induce cell death. Furthermore, we show that hyperactivation of STING in mice leads to a shock-like phenotype, the mortality of which requires activation of the necroptotic pathway and IFN and TNF cosignaling, demonstrating that necroptosis is one outcome of STING signaling in vivo.

Molecular mechanisms of cell death: recommendations of the Nomenclature Committee on Cell Death 2018

Over the past decade, the Nomenclature Committee on Cell Death (NCCD) has formulated guidelines for the definition and interpretation of cell death from morphological, biochemical, and functional perspectives. Since the field continues to expand and novel mechanisms that orchestrate multiple cell death pathways are unveiled, we propose an updated classification of cell death subroutines focusing on mechanistic and essential (as opposed to correlative and dispensable) aspects of the process. As we provide molecularly oriented definitions of terms including intrinsic apoptosis, extrinsic apoptosis, mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT)-driven necrosis, necroptosis, ferroptosis, pyroptosis, parthanatos, entotic cell death, NETotic cell death, lysosome-dependent cell death, autophagy-dependent cell death, immunogenic cell death, cellular senescence, and mitotic catastrophe, we discuss the utility of neologisms that refer to highly specialized instances of these processes. The mission of the NCCD is to provide a widely accepted nomenclature on cell death in support of the continued development of the field.

Electrotransfer of Different Control Plasmids Elicits Different Antitumor Effectiveness in B16.F10 Melanoma

Several studies have shown that different control plasmids may cause antitumor action in different murine tumor models after gene electrotransfer (GET). Due to the differences in GET protocols, plasmid vectors, and experimental models, the observed antitumor effects were incomparable. Therefore, the current study was conducted comparing antitumor effectiveness of three different control plasmids using the same GET parameters. We followed cytotoxicity in vitro and the antitumor effect in vivo after GET of control plasmids pControl, pENTR/U6 scr and pVAX1 in B16.F10 murine melanoma cells and tumors. Types of cell death and upregulation of selected cytosolic DNA sensors and cytokines were determined. GET of all three plasmids caused significant growth delay in melanoma tumors; nevertheless, the effect of pVAX1 was significantly greater than pControl. While DNA sensors in vivo were not upregulated significantly, cytokines IFN β and TNF α were upregulated after GET of pVAX1. In vitro, the mRNAs of some cytosolic DNA sensors were overexpressed after GET; however, with no significant difference among the three plasmids. In summary, although differences in antitumor effects were observed among control plasmids in vivo, no differences in cellular responses to plasmid GET were detected in tumor cells in vitro. Thus, the tumor microenvironment as well as some plasmid properties are most probably responsible for the antitumor effectiveness.

ZBP1: Innate Sensor Regulating Cell Death and Inflammation

Z-DNA-binding protein 1 (ZBP1), initially reported as an interferon (IFN)-inducible tumor-associated protein, harbors nucleic acid-binding domains for left-handed helix (Z-form) and receptor-interacting protein homotypic interaction motif (RHIM) domains for protein homotypic interactions. Recent studies have identified ZBP1 as an innate sensor of viral infections and a target of viral evasion strategies, regulating cell death, inflammasome activation, and proinflammatory responses. ZBP1 also functions during development and can trigger perinatal lethality when its RHIM-dependent interactions are not restricted. Here we review the history and emergence of ZBP1 as a pathogen sensor and a central regulator of cell death and inflammatory responses. We also discuss the gaps in our knowledge regarding the regulation and functions of ZBP1 and highlight potential avenues for future research.

Die Another Day: Inhibition of Cell Death Pathways by Cytomegalovirus

Multicellular organisms have evolved multiple genetically programmed cell death pathways that are essential for homeostasis. The finding that many viruses encode cell death inhibitors suggested that cellular suicide also functions as a first line of defence against invading pathogens. This theory was confirmed by studying viral mutants that lack certain cell death inhibitors. Cytomegaloviruses, a family of species-specific viruses, have proved particularly useful in this respect. Cytomegaloviruses are known to encode multiple death inhibitors that are required for efficient viral replication. Here, we outline the mechanisms used by the host cell to detect cytomegalovirus infection and discuss the methods employed by the cytomegalovirus family to prevent death of the host cell. In addition to enhancing our understanding of cytomegalovirus pathogenesis we detail how this research has provided significant insights into the cross-talk that exists between the various cell death pathways.