How does a virus, such as SARS-CoV-2, use the host cell's natural innate immunity processes, like mitophagy, for instance, to its' own advantage?

Question

Think about the immune response, triggers, and the consequences of mitophagy in terms of levels of certain chemicals/precursors.

Answer 1

Walt gave us a great answer! To add to his explanation, SARS-CoV-2 indeed uses the body's mitophagy to its advantage. Reducing mitochondria will reduce the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS create an inflammatory environment against the virus replication. Moreover, mitophagy minimizes the proliferation of interferon type-1 in the cell. Interferon type 1 activates the immune response against viruses. By using mitophagy, this virus creates an environment that is less inflammatory and has diminished immune system activation. Overall, it makes a favorable environment for viral replication.

Answer 2

In short, when mitophagy is triggered within a cell—often due to viral manipulation, inflammation, or other factors—the number of mitochondria is reduced, which leads to a decrease in MAVS (Mitochondrial Antiviral Signaling Protein) levels. Since MAVS is located on the mitochondria, its reduction hampers the cell's ability to mount an effective antiviral response. This leads to a decrease in the production of interferons (IFNs), which are crucial for detecting and defending against the virus. As a result, the virus is able to replicate more freely and potentially evade detection by the immune system