Phase separation in cGAS-STING signaling

Biomolecular condensates formed by phase separation are widespread and play critical roles in many physiological and pathological processes.cGAS-STING signaling functions to detect aberrant DNA signals to initiate anti-infection defense and antitumor immunity.At the same time,cGAS-STING signaling must be carefully regulated to maintain immune homeostasis.Interestingly,exciting recent studies have reported that biomolecular phase separation exists and plays important roles in different steps of cGAS-STING signaling,including cGAS condensates,STING condensates,and IRF3 condensates.In addition,several intracellular and extracellular factors have been proposed to modulate the condensates in cGAS-STING signaling.These studies reveal novel activation and regulation mechanisms of cGAS-STING signaling and provide new opportunities for drug discovery.Here,we summarize recent advances in the phase separation of cGAS-STING signaling and the development of potential drugs targeting these innate immune condensates.