MAVS and infection: Following infection by an RNA virus, endosome membrane sensor TLR3 and cytoplasmic sensors, including RIG-I or MDA5 (8, 9), could recognize RNA and activate downstream signaling pathways by recruiting to the adaptor TRIF or MAVS (also known as VISA, IPS-1, and Cardif) (10, –, 13), respectively (8, 14).