A T6SS DNase effector induces nuclear DNA Damage to trigger apoptosis via activation of the cGAS-STING-TNF axis

In the relentless battle for survival, bacteria have evolved sophisticated weaponry like the Type VI secretion system (T6SS) to not only outcompete rivals but also manipulate host cell processes to their advantage. Apoptosis, a controlled form of programmed cell death without triggering inflammatory responses, is often exploited by pathogens. While many bacterial pathogens are known to induce apoptosis, the role of T6SS effectors in this process remains unexplored. In this study, we discovered that Yersinia pseudotuberculosis ( Yptb ) utilizes its T6SS to secrete a DNase effector, TkeA, which induces apoptosis in host cells. Mechanistically, the translocation of TkeA into host cells causes nuclear DNA damage, leading to the release of fragmented DNA into the cytoplasm. This, in turn, activates the DNA-sensing cyclic GMP–AMP synthase (cGAS)/stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway. The activation of the cGAS-STING pathway by TkeA subsequently triggers apoptosis in host cells via extrinsic pathways, with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling playing a critical role. Additionally, TkeA also mediates interbacterial competition, promoting the colonization of Yptb in mice’s gut. Our findings reveal that the T6SS-secreted DNase effector TkeA acts as a trans-kingdom effector, enhancing interbacterial competition and inducing apoptosis in host cells by activating the cGAS-STING-TNF axis. This discovery adds a new dimension to the mechanisms employed by bacterial pathogens to manipulate host cell death pathways by using their secretion systems.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

HIGHLIGHTS

•

Yptb T6SS secretes a trans-kingdom DNase effector TkeA

•

TkeA degrades bacterial DNA to mediate interbacterial competition

•

TkeA causes nuclear DNA damage in host cells to induce apoptosis

•

TkeA induces apoptosis via the cGAS-STING-TNF axis