Structural mechanism of RNA recognition by the RIG-l-like receptors

Cytoplasmic nonself RNA, such as that generated by invading viruses, is recognized by a family of sensory molecules termed RIG-l-like Receptors (RLRs). Here, we discuss the mechanism of the RLRs' sensing of nonself RNA. Our findings define three functional domains of RLRs and provide insights into how RLRs function as a molecular switch through interactions with virus-specific RNA ligands.