The lignan compound matairesinol monoglucoside induces type I interferon production in HBV infection immunity by regulating STING signaling.

BACKGROUND

the urgent need for effective prevention and treatment strategies for hepatitis B virus (HBV) has driven extensive research into natural compounds. This study aims to explore the therapeutic potential of matairesinol monoglucoside (MMG) in the treatment of HBV infection.

METHODS

primary hepatocytes and Kupffer cells were isolated from wild-type (WT) or stimulator of interferon genes (STING) knockout mice and subsequently infected with AAV-HBV to establish an in vitro anti-HBV assay model. The anti-HBV effects of MMG were assessed by measuring HBV DNA, HBsAg, and HBeAg levels, as well as using qRT-PCR and ELISA to evaluate type I interferon markers (IFN-α and IFN-β), and a luciferase assay. In vivo anti-HBV effects were determined by pre-treating mice with MMG prior to AAV-HBV infection.

RESULTS

MMG treatment significantly reduced the expression of HBV DNA, HBsAg, and HBeAg in both primary hepatocytes and Kupffer cells. Additionally, MMG enhanced the production of type I interferons (IFN-α and IFN-β) in both cell types. The knockout of STING diminished the effects of MMG on type I interferon production. Mechanistically, MMG was shown to modulate the STING-TBK1-IRF3 signaling axis, leading to increased IFN production.

CONCLUSIONS

MMG shows promise as a potential therapeutic agent against HBV by targeting the STING signaling pathway.