Heterozygous OAS1 gain-of-function variants cause an autoinflammatory immunodeficiency

Analysis of autoinflammatory and immunodeficiency disorders elucidates human immunity and fosters the development of targeted therapies. Oligoadenylate synthetase 1 is a type I interferon-induced, intracellular double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) sensor that generates 2'-5'-oligoadenylate to activate ribonuclease L (RNase L) as a means of antiviral defense. We identified four de novo heterozygous OAS1 gain-of-function variants in six patients with a polymorphic autoinflammatory immunodeficiency characterized by recurrent fever, dermatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, and hypogammaglobulinemia. To establish causality, we applied genetic, molecular dynamics simulation, biochemical, and cellular functional analyses in heterologous, autologous, and inducible pluripotent stem cell-derived macrophages and/or monocytes and B cells. We found that upon interferon-induced expression, OAS1 variant proteins displayed dsRNA-independent activity, which resulted in RNase L-mediated RNA cleavage, transcriptomic alteration, translational arrest, and dysfunction and apoptosis of monocytes, macrophages, and B cells. RNase L inhibition with curcumin modulated and allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation cured the disorder. Together, these data suggest that human OAS1 is a regulator of interferon-induced hyperinflammatory monocyte, macrophage, and B cell pathophysiology.

Automated summary

This study identified novel OAS1 gain-of-function variants causing a polymorphic autoinflammatory immunodeficiency characterized by a range of symptoms and independent activity towards RNA. By controlling RNase L expression, the disorder can be modulated, while allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation can cure this disease.