Innate Immune cGAS/STING Signaling is Both Necessary and Pathological – Fight Aging!

Chronic, unresolved inflammation is a common feature of aging, leading to disrupted tissue and organ function. This inflammation accelerates the onset of age-related conditions, triggered by various factors, including senescent cells and dysfunctional mitochondria. Unfortunately, the challenge lies in dampening this inflammation without hindering necessary immune responses to injuries, pathogens, or cancerous cells. Targeting the cGAS/STING pathway, which plays a crucial role in detecting DNA, is essential for long-term health and tissue maintenance. However, the lack of understanding of this pathway’s role in physiological aging has led to significant gaps in research. Recent studies have shown that STING-deficiency in aging leads to a shortened lifespan, increased inflammation, and tissue changes. These findings highlight the importance of STING signaling in sustaining tissue function and promoting longevity. Targeting these pathways without caution may have detrimental effects on health as we age.