A whole-genome screen for mediators of RIPK3-mediated necroptosis identified several regulators of antiviral and antimicrobial innate immunity [1], and numerous studies have since shown that RIPK3 and the related kinase RIPK1 control necrotic and inflammatory outcome after infection by certain bacteria and viruses, as well as after exposure of cells to select pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and cytokines [2–4]. Here, RIPK3 is linked to infection.