Type I interferon production by nucleic acid-stimulated dendritic cells.

Dendritic cells (DC) detect nucleic acid adjuvants through the Toll-like receptor (TLR) or cytosolic sensors. Nucleic acid adjuvants activate DC to produce a variety of soluble factors including proinflammatory cytokines or type I interferons (IFNs). Type I IFN, especially IFN-alpha, induction is a characteristic function of nucleic acid adjuvants and critical for antiviral host defense. Notably, nucleic acids derived from the host as well as from the pathogens can function as immune adjuvants and contributes to the manifestations of autoimmune diseases through the type I IFN induction. Therefore, clarifying the molecular mechanisms for type I IFN induction by nucleic acids should contribute to the development of treatment not only for viral infection but also for autoimmune diseases.