Investigating and harnessing cell intrinsic innate immunity against SARS-CoV-2 – Insight from the Aicardi-Goutières Syndrome

Innate immune responses are emerging as key players in SARS-CoV-2 infection and disease severity. Understanding how the virus is detected within infected cells and how it may hide from these immune sensors will help the development of effective therapies. Because some of the genes involved in innate recognition of incoming viruses are altered in patients affected by the Aicardi-Goutières Syndrome (AGS), we propose here to exploit models of AGS to study the role of AGS-causing genes in protection from SARS-CoV-2. Our hypothesis is that some AGS gene mutations may lead to a better and more potent detection and inhibition of the virus, potentially contributing to better infection control and less severe disease. Ultimately, our studies will provide insight for the development of more effective antiviral strategies to fight and eradicate the COVID-19 pandemic.