In order to understand the significance of the compromising of MAVS by ORF9b, it is important to understand the role that MAVS, Mitochondrial Antiviral Signaling protein, plays in immunity against viruses. The MAVS protein can be localized in two regions: peroxisomes (oxidative membrane-bound organelles) or the mitochondria. The localization of MAVS affects whether the response produced is interferon-independent (fast and occurs early) or interferon-dependent (stable and late response). 

The Role of Localization of MAVS in Antiviral Immunity

The primary role of the MAVS signalosome seems to be in inducing apoptosis of the cell after detection of viral nucleic acids (viral RNA) and apoptosis (followed by subsequent autophagy) is a crucial aspect in the antiviral response.

Ohio State University, Columbus

The 9b accessory protein has two main functions in protein degradation in the mitochondria of the host cell: 
- leads to elongation of the mitochondria by targeting the DRP1 protein
- targets MAVS signalosome (leads to apoptosis)

Relationship between ORF9b Acessory Protein and the Mitochondria of Host cells

Jacobs, J. L., & Coyne, C. B. (2013). Mechanisms of MAVS regulation at the mitochondrial membrane. Journal of molecular biology, 425(24), 5009-5019.

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