Intracellular nucleic acid sensing as a trigger of type I interferon-driven autoimmunity affecting the skin (B20)

• Subject Area: Dermatology ; Immunology
• Term: since 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 369799452

Cell-intrinsic sensing of self-nucleic acids is a relevant trigger factor for type I interferon (IFN)-driven cutaneous autoimmune diseases such as dermatomyositis and lupus. We will study the effect of impaired autophagy on the turnover of nucleic acid sensors in familial dermatomyositis and analyze the role of impaired mitochondrial integrity on the IFN signature in dermatomyositis. We will further assess the effect of targeting the cGAS/STING pathway with specific antagonists. These experiments will contribute to the development of novel therapies directed against nucleic acid sensors.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 237: Nucleic Acid Immunity
• Applicant Institution: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
• Project Head: Professorin Dr. Claudia Günther