RNA virus infection
In RNA virus infection, viral genetic material binds to the RNA sensor RIG-I, triggering a reaction cascade that culminates in the secretion of type I interferons.[7] OASL acts as a sensitiser of RIG-I, binding to the caspase activation and recruitment domain and enhancing interferon production.[8]
DNA virus infection
While OASL has an anti-viral role in RNA viral infection, it has also demonstrated a pro-viral role in DNA viral infection.[9] OASL can bind to the viral DNA sensor cGAS, inhibiting its catalytic activity and preventing the secretion of interferons.[10]
Intracellular bacterial infection
OASL is shown to be upregulated during a wide variety of vacuolar and cytosolic bacterial infections.[11] It possesses an ability to inhibit autophagic mechanisms and antimicrobial peptide secretion within the host cell through unclear mechanisms, preventing clearance of the pathogen and creating a favourable intracellular environment.[12]
