# The missing link: TBK1 connects membrane damage sensing with autophagic response upon adenovirus entry

## TL;DR

This paper explains how TBK1 connects sensing of membrane damage to the autophagic response when adenoviruses enter cells.

## Contribution

TBK1 is shown to have a dual role in sensing membrane damage and driving the autophagic response.

## Key findings

- TBK1 is part of a complex that senses membrane damage during adenovirus entry.
- TBK1 drives the autophagic response following membrane damage.
- TBK1 links damage sensors to autophagy effectors in the cellular response.

## Abstract

Most cell entry by invading pathogens involves penetration of either the plasma membrane or the endo-lysosomal compartment to reach the cytosol. This process frequently inflicts membrane damage and provokes a cellular response. This Autophagic Punctum summarizes our recent study investigating how adenovirus endosome penetration is recognized and activates macroautophagy/autophagy. Our key finding is that TBK1 (TANK binding kinase 1) has a dual role in the cell response to membrane damage; it is part of an immediate-acting membrane-damage-sensing complex and is a crucial driver of the resulting autophagic response. Thus, TBK1 is a central factor linking sensors and effectors during the cell response to membrane damage.