Innate Immunity: Cytoplasmic DNA Sensing by the AIM2 Inflammasome

SummaryCytoplasmic double-stranded DNA triggers cell death and secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β in macrophages. Recent reports now describe the mechanism underlying this observation. Upon sensing of DNA, the HIN-200 family member AIM2 triggers the assembly of the inflammasome, culminating in caspase-1 activation, IL-1β maturation and pyroptotic cell death.