Cytosolic sensor STING in mucosal immunity: a master regulator of gut inflammation and carcinogenesis

The stimulator of interferon genes (STING) connects microbial cytosolic sensing with host cell effector functions. STING signaling plays a central role in cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) and DNA sensing to induce secretion of interferons and pro-inflammatory mediators. Although activated STING signaling favors antimicrobial progress and facilitates mucosal would healing, its role in mucosal immunity and gut homeostasis is paradoxical, ranging from positive and negative effects within the gut. In our review, we summarize recent advance of STING signaling in gut homeostasis and inflammation, especially focusing on its molecular basis in mucosal immune response. Deep understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of intestinal STING pathway could promote clinical manipulation of this fundamental signaling as a promising immunomodulatory therapy.