ZYG11B potentiates the antiviral innate immune response by enhancing cGAS-DNA binding and condensation

As a key dsDNA recognition receptor, cyclic guanosine monophosphate (GMP)-AMP synthase (cGAS) plays a vital role in innate immune responses. Activated cGAS, by sensing DNA, catalyzes the synthesis of the secondary messenger cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP), which subsequently activates downstream signaling to induce production of interferons and inflammatory cytokines. Here, we report Zyg-11 family member B (ZYG11B) as a potent amplifier in cGAS-mediated immune responses. Knockdown of ZYG11B impairs production of cGAMP and subsequent transcription of interferon and inflammatory cytokines. Mechanistically, ZYG11B enhances cGAS-DNA binding affinity, potentiates cGAS-DNA condensation, and stabilizes the cGAS-DNA condensed complex. Moreover, herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) infection induces ZYG11B degradation in a cGAS-unrelated manner. Our findings not only reveal an important role of ZYG11B in the early stage of DNA-induced cGAS activation but also indicate a viral strategy to dampen the innate immune response.