Sensing of double-stranded RNA in human cells: molecular mechanisms and cellular consequences - PubMed
5 hours ago
- #dsRNA
- #innate immunity
- #RNA sensing
- Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is a universal indicator of viral replication and dysregulated RNA metabolism.
- Detection of dsRNA triggers powerful innate immune responses in human cells.
- Cytosolic receptors like RIG-I, MDA5, PKR, and the OAS/RNase L pathway convert dsRNA binding into interferon induction, translational arrest, and RNA decay.
- Endosomal TLR3 and inflammasome sensor NLRP1 expand surveillance to internalized or structurally disruptive RNAs.
- ADAR1 marks endogenous dsRNA through A-to-I conversion to prevent inadvertent immune activation and maintain self vs non-self discrimination.
- Different sensors recognize distinct structural and chemical features of dsRNA, leading to specific responses.
- Epitranscriptomic marks and chemical modifications refine sensing by modulating helical stability and end structure.
- These pathways form an integrated network that distinguishes between viral and endogenous dsRNA and coordinates antiviral defense with immune tolerance.