Orchestrating the interferon antiviral response through the mitochondrial antiviral signaling (MAVS) adapter

Sensing of RNA virus infection by the RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs) engages a complex signaling cascade that utilizes the mitochondrial antiviral signaling (MAVS) adapter protein to orchestrate the innate host response to pathogen, ultimately leading to the induction of antiviral and inflammatory responses mediated by type I interferon (IFN) and NF-κB pathways. MAVS is localized to the outer mitochondrial membrane, and has been associated with peroxisomes, the endoplasmic reticulum and autophagosomes, where it coordinates signaling events downstream of RLRs. MAVS not only plays a pivotal role in the induction of antiviral and inflammatory pathways but is also involved in the coordination of apoptotic and metabolic functions. This review summarizes recent findings related to the MAVS adapter and its essential role in the innate immune response to RNA viruses.

► Overview of RIG-I mediated signaling to the IFN antiviral response: specificity, complexity and diversity.
► Overview of the recent findings related to the MAVS adapter and its essential role in the innate immune response to RNA viruses.
► The MAVS interactome: a signaling platform that orchestrates interferon signaling.
► Posttranslational modifications of MAVS: highlighting the various studies identifying E3 ligases and protein kinases.
► Sub-cellular localization of MAVS: from the peroxisomes to the mitochondria.