Viruses are minuscule infectious particles that cause tremendous health problems around the world. The cellular infection process occurs in every single one of us whenever we get sick. Therefore, understanding virus biology is critical for developing effective therapeutic approaches. I studied how the protective mechanisms of cells fighting infections alter the way these cells work, grow, and interact with other cell types. I discovered that when two cell populations grow together, the cells called fibroblasts protect intestinal epithelial cells from dying. This allows cells that line the intestine to grow and maintain their physiological functions. My results indicate novel molecular pathways that can be exploited to fight viral infections and lessen the suffering of people.