Distinct cellular and molecular responses to infection in three target cell types from horses, a species naturally susceptible to Ross River virus.

Summary: Scientists have long relied on mice to study Ross River virus (RRV), but mice don't experience the disease quite like humans or horses do. By studying horse cells—specifically from skin, joints, and blood—researchers discovered a powerful battleground. When infected, these horse cells fight back aggressively, shutting down the "doorways" (MXRA8 proteins) the virus uses to enter and launching a strong antiviral attack that stops the virus from multiplying. However, this defense comes at a cost: the cells' "batteries" (mitochondria) are damaged, reducing their energy. Interestingly, cells from horses previously exposed to the virus showed a smarter defense, fighting the virus efficiently with less harmful inflammation.