Mitochondrial anti-viral immunity

In the cytosol, the sensing of RNA viruses by the RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs) triggers a complex signaling cascade where the mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS) plays a crucial role in orchestrating the innate host response through the induction of antiviral and inflammatory responses. Hence, in addition to their known roles in the metabolic processes and the control of programmed cell death, mitochondria are now emerging as a fundamental hub for innate anti-viral immunity. This review summarizes the findings related to the MAVS adapter and mitochondria in the innate immune response to RNA viruses. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.