Role of the STING pathway in interacting with TNF signaling and glucose metabolism during malaria

Malaria, caused by parasites of the genus Plasmodium, remains a major global health concern, with millions of cases and deaths reported annually. The innate immune response involves PRRs that recognize malarial PAMPs and DAMPs, including those that promote activation of the cGAS-STING pathway. STING plays a crucial role in immune responses against Plasmodium, inducing type I interferons and pro-inflammatory responses. Furthermore, TNF signaling also interacts with STING and regulates its activity, affecting the immune response against Plasmodium. The activation of both STING and TNF in response to the parasite influences pathogenesis and immune defense during malaria. In a recent research project, developed in Brazil (FAPESP process number 2020/01043-9), it was demonstrated that TNF is involved in the induction of GLUT-1 expression in monocytic cells, which depends on the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS ) and the stabilization of HIF-1±. The complex interplay between TNF, STING and cellular metabolism during malaria requires further investigations to elucidate their roles in disease pathogenesis, which may reveal potential future therapeutic targets.

Project details

Basic Science

Sep 2023 — Jan 2024

Brazil