Stressed mitochondria sound the alarm

Mitochondria are a central hub for antiviral immune defense. For example, the elimination of infected cells is, at least in part, driven by mitochondria-dependent (intrinsic) apoptosis. Mitochondria also act as a platform for the assembly of protein signaling complexes that drive the production of type I interferons (IFNs), potent antiviral cytokines which limit viral replication. In a recent issue of Nature, West et al.1 describe an additional role for mitochondria and their unique genome in mediating antiviral immunity.