Regulation of MAVS activation through post-translational modifications

RLRs (including RIG-I and MDA5) are the main receptors that recognize cytoplasmic viral RNA. Upon binding of viral RNA, RIG-I and MDA5 recruit mitochondria-localized MAVS to activate the downstream antiviral signaling. MAVS forms prion-like aggregates on the mitochondria after virus infection. The regulatory mechanisms for MAVS activation have been defined in various studies. Here, we summarize the recent advances about MAVS roles in antiviral immunity, discuss the regulation of MAVS activation, and suggest interesting areas for future research.