The role of the adaptor molecule STING during Schistosoma mansoni infection

Author(s)

Sanches, Rodrigo C. O. ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Fed Minas Gerais, Inst Ciencias Biol, Dept Bioquim & Imunol, Belo Horizonte, MG - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: SCIENTIFIC REPORTS; v. 10, n. 1 MAY 13 2020.
• Web of Science Citations: 1

Abstract

Schistosomiasis is a human parasitic disease responsible for serious consequences for public health, as well as severe socioeconomic impacts in developing countries. Here, we provide evidence that the adaptor molecule STING plays an important role in Schistosoma mansoni infection. S. mansoni DNA is sensed by cGAS leading to STING activation in murine embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). Sting(-/-) and C57BL/6 (WT) mice were infected with schistosome cercariae in order to assess parasite burden and liver pathology. Sting(-/-) mice showed worm burden reduction but no change in the number of eggs or granuloma numbers and area when compared to WT animals. Immunologically, a significant increase in IFN-. production by the spleen cells was observed in Sting(-/-) animals. Surprisingly, Sting(-/-) mice presented an elevated percentage of neutrophils in lungs, bronchoalveolar lavage, and spleens. Moreover, Sting(-/-) neutrophils exhibited increased survival rate, but similar ability to kill schistosomula in vitro when stimulated with IFN-gamma when compared to WT cells. Finally, microbiota composition was altered in Sting(-/-) mice, revealing a more inflammatory profile when compared to WT animals. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that STING signaling pathway is important for S. mansoni DNA sensing and the lack of this adaptor molecule leads to enhanced resistance to infection. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 17/24832-6 - Development of vaccines based on recombinant BCG: Tuberculosis, Pertussis, Pneumococcus and Schistosoma
• Grantee: Luciana Cezar de Cerqueira Leite
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants