A class of host cell proteins that restrict viral infection, previously shown to inhibit the entry of HIV-1 into healthy cells, have now been demonstrated to possess additional antiviral activity. Cellular studies conducted by scientists at Ohio State University led by Shan-Lu Liu, PhD, reveal the SERINC proteins SERINC3 and SERINC5 protect target cells from infection by HIV-1, vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), and Zika virus by complexing with MAVS and TRAF6 at the mitochondrial membrane that triggers downstream mechanisms that result in the expression of type I interferons and proinflammatory cytokines.