How cells sense viral DNA with the cGAS-STING system
Official title: Molecular basis of viral DNA sensing through the cGAS-STING pathway
Funded at Texas A&m Agrilife Research · NIH-11262259 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project finds out how the cGAS‑STING system in cells detects viral DNA to help people with viral infections or autoimmune conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m Agrilife Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 20, 2019 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $373,814 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI145287-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-11262259 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People with chronic viral infections or autoimmune diseases linked to abnormal DNA sensing could ultimately benefit from therapies informed by this work.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without viral or immune-related conditions, or those needing immediate clinical treatments, are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this basic research right away.
What this research studies
Researchers are mapping how the cGAS protein binds viral DNA and how STING responds to the messenger molecule cGAMP. They use biochemical tests, structural imaging, and cell experiments to see how these proteins trigger immune signals and autophagy. The team also tests small molecules in the lab that can turn STING signaling up or down to observe effects on inflammation. Findings aim to point toward new ways to boost antiviral defenses or reduce harmful immune activity in autoimmune disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new drugs that boost antiviral immunity or calm harmful inflammation in autoimmune conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Related laboratory and structural studies have advanced understanding of cGAS‑STING and early drug-development efforts show promise, but translating these findings to routine therapies is still emerging.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m Agrilife Research
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Pingwei — Texas A&m Agrilife Research
- Study coordinator: Li, Pingwei
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.