The role and therapeutic potential of cGAS-STING signaling in acute pancreatitis: from the perspectives of inflammation and cell death

The cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling pathway can recognize pathogen-derived and host DNA. This factor triggers innate immune responses and thereby establishes a broad and effective surveillance mechanism for tissue damage and pathogen invasion. In acute pancreatitis (AP), the cGAS-STING signaling pathway exerts diverse regulatory functions during the process of pancreatic cell death. We systematically review the molecular mechanism of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway in acute pancreatitis. We summarize the latest research progress on the interaction of this pathway with various forms of programmed cell death. Through specific case analyses, we elaborate on the key role of the cGAS-STING signaling pathway in regulating apoptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, pyroptosis and inflammatory responses. Finally, this article also explores the potential research value of several natural plant-derived compounds. They achieve this by regulating this pathway and thereby interfering with the mechanism of cell death during the pathological process of acute pancreatitis.