Required for innate immune defense against viruses. Acts downstream of DHX33, RIGI and IFIH1/MDA5, which detect intracellular dsRNA produced during viral replication, to coordinate pathways leading to the activation of NF-kappa-B, IRF3 and IRF7, and to the subsequent induction of antiviral cytokines such as IFNB and RANTES (CCL5). Peroxisomal and mitochondrial MAVS act sequentially to create an antiviral cellular state. Upon viral infection, peroxisomal MAVS induces the rapid interferon-independent expression of defense factors that provide short-term protection, whereas mitochondrial MAVS activates an interferon-dependent signaling pathway with delayed kinetics, which amplifies and stabilizes the antiviral response. May activate the same pathways following detection of extracellular dsRNA by TLR3. May protect cells from apoptosis. Present in T-cells, monocytes, epithelial cells and hepatocytes (at protein level). Ubiquitously expressed, with highest levels in heart, skeletal muscle, liver, placenta and peripheral blood leukocytes.