MKs possess intrinsic antiviral immunity through regulated induction of IFITM3. Viruses such as dengue virus that can infect MKs trigger the production of interferon molecules. The released interferons (IFNs) interact with its receptor (IFNAR) and alarm neighboring cells, such as other MKs and bystander cells from other lineages, thereby inducing a series of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), including IFITM3. This response participates in the establishment of a potent antiviral state that protects cells from incoming viral infections.