The A946T variant of the RNA sensor IFIH1 mediates an interferon program that limits viral infection but increases the risk for autoimmunity

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the gene encoding the cytosolic viral sensor IFIH1 are linked to a variety of autoimmune diseases. Rawlings and colleagues demonstrate that one such common polymorphism results in IFIH1 with more-potent activation and can act synergistically with other genetic backgrounds to manifest autoimmune disease.