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Fig. 1 | Molecular Neurodegeneration

Fig. 1

From: The neuroimmune nexus: unraveling the role of the mtDNA-cGAS-STING signal pathway in Alzheimer’s disease

Fig. 1

Overview of the mechanisms of mtDNA release and its effect on the innate immune response. Under normal circumstances, mtDNA is encapsulated within mitochondria without disturbing the immune system. However, when exposed to various adverse factors such as ROS, cellular stress, and aging, mitochondria inevitably incur a certain degree of damage. At this point, mtDNA is released into the extramitochondrial space through mechanisms involving BAK/BAX, VDAC1, GSDMD, and others. Subsequently, the leaked mtDNA acts as DAMPs, recognized by diverse PRRs, primarily activating the body’s innate immune response through three different inflammatory pathways: TLR9, NLPR3, and cGAS-STING

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Molecular Neurodegeneration

ISSN: 1750-1326