ID: 252: Molecular mechanism for viral RNA detection: RIG-I-like receptors

Efficient host defense against viral infection depends on proper functions of pattern recognition receptors. One such family of receptors consists of RIG-I and MDA5, well-conserved cytoplasmic helicases that detect viral RNAs during infection and activate the type I interferon (IFN) signaling pathway. My laboratory has been investigating the molecular mechanisms by which these receptors recognize viral dsRNAs and elicit the IFN response against a broad range of viruses. In this talk, I will present our discoveries on the oligomerization of these receptors during viral RNA recognition and activation of the downstream adaptor molecule, MAVS. I will also describe our recent findings on the previously unappreciated effector-like functions of these receptors that are mediated by their abilities to remodel viral RNA: protein complexes.