The activation of the cGAS-STING pathway is currently believed to be as follows: DNA present in the cytosol (e.g. due to viral infection) is recognised by cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS), which produces cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) that can activate Stimulator of Interferon genes (STING). The gene discussed is CGAS; the disease is viral infectious disease.