MAVS and systemic lupus erythematosus: The mitochondrial protein MAVS (mitochondrial antiviral signalling protein, also known as IPS-1, Cardif, or Visa) is essential for the activation of antiviral innate immunity, and abnormal MAVS activity is often associated with the development and progression of inflammation in steatohepatitis, systemic lupus erythematosus and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease15, 16, 17, 18.