A single mutation that could facilitate Avian influenza virus infection and its possible transmission to humans. It is the discovery of a team of scientists that demonstrates the importance of maintaining proactive surveillance on the evolution of H5N1 and similar strains. In their study, researchers from Scripps Institute of Californiahave published a method to increase the transmission capacity of avian influenza.
The study was published in the journal ‘science’. To attach itself to its host, the influenza virus It uses a protein (hemagglutinin) that binds to receptors on the surface of host cells called glycan receptors. Avian influenza viruses such as H5N1 primarily infect hosts with influenza receptors. glycans which contain sialic acid and are found in birds.
although these viruses usually they are not adapted to humansif they evolved to recognize this type of receptor in humans, they could gain the ability to infect and possibly transmit between humans. The scientists decided to explore how small genetic changes could affect the transmissibility of the virus to act as an alarm.
Ian Wilsonco-senior author and Hansen Professor of Structural Biology at Scripps Research, explains that “receptor mutations alone do not guarantee that the virus will be transmitted between humans.” At the moment, on the occasions in which avian viruses have managed to infect and transmit between people, they have done so by adapting to bind to receptors with multiple mutations (at least three).
In the case of the strain H5N1 2.3.4.4b (A/Texas/37/2024) isolated from the first human infection with a bovine H5N1 virus in the United States, researchers found that a single mutation in hemagglutinin could facilitate binding to human-like receptors. In this case,where dairy cows were the immediate source of the virus for human infection, the mutation was not introduced into the entire virus,but onyl into the hemagglutinin protein.
to study how that mutation occurred, the researchers introduced several mutations in the H5N1 hemagglutinin 2.3.4.4b protein. These mutations were selected to mimic genetic changes that might occur naturally.
When evaluating the impact of one of these mutations, Q226Lon the virus’s ability to bind to human-like receptors, they discovered That mutation considerably improved the way the virus binds to glycan receptors, representing those present in human cells.
“The results demonstrate the ease with which this virus could evolve to recognize human-like receptors,” adds the first author, Ting-Hui Linpostdoctoral research associate at Scripps Research.
Follow us on our whatsapp channel and don’t miss the latest news and news from antenna3noticias.com
How do current vaccines and treatments for avian influenza work, and are they effective against new mutations?
Certainly! Here’s a fictional interview between the editor of Time.news and an expert in avian influenza research, based on the provided context of a mutation related to the avian influenza virus.
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Harrison! Thank you for joining us today to shed light on this captivating yet concerning development regarding avian influenza. Your recent study on a specific mutation has caught a lot of attention. Can you tell us what this mutation is and why it’s notable?
Dr. Harrison: Thank you for having me! Absolutely. The mutation we’ve identified is located in the hemagglutinin protein of the avian influenza virus. Hemagglutinin plays a crucial role in the virus’s ability to infect host cells. This particular mutation appears to enhance the virus’s ability to bind to the receptors in mammals, potentially increasing the risk of transmission to humans.
Time.news Editor: That sounds alarming. What implications does this have for public health, especially given the previous outbreaks of avian influenza in the past?
Dr. Harrison: It certainly raises concerns. The mutation could lead to a more adaptable strain that might spread more easily among humans.Historically,when avian influenza viruses acquire mutations that allow them to infect humans more efficiently,we’ve seen severe consequences,as was the case wiht H5N1 and H7N9 viruses. continuous monitoring of these mutations is crucial.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the need for monitoring. How are researchers currently tracking these mutations in avian influenza viruses? What measures are being implemented?
Dr. Harrison: Researchers use a combination of genetic sequencing and surveillance of avian populations to monitor the emergence of mutations. Agencies like the CDC and WHO work with local health departments and veterinary services to track cases in both animals and humans. Furthermore, rapid response protocols are in place to contain any outbreaks, should they occur.
Time.news Editor: It seems critical that both animal and human health organizations collaborate. Can you elaborate on the One Health approach and its importance in this context?
Dr. Harrison: Absolutely. The One Health approach recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. In the case of avian influenza, many of the viruses originate in wild birds and can spill over to poultry and then to humans. By bringing together experts from multiple disciplines—veterinarians, public health officials, ecologists—we can better understand virus transmission dynamics and implement effective strategies to mitigate risks.
Time.news Editor: What can the general public do to minimize their risk of exposure to avian influenza, particularly with the changes you mentioned?
Dr. Harrison: The best way for the public to minimize their risk is to stay informed. Avoiding contact with wild birds, especially in areas where outbreaks have been reported, is wise. Additionally, people should ensure that poultry products are thoroughly cooked.Awareness campaigns also play a critical role in educating communities about how to recognize potential signs of avian influenza in livestock.
Time.news Editor: As a final thought, what is your outlook on the future of avian influenza research and pandemic preparedness in light of your findings?
Dr. Harrison: I’m cautiously optimistic. The scientific community is more aware than ever of the potential threats posed by zoonotic diseases like avian influenza. Advances in vaccine technology, rapid sequencing methods, and international collaboration are improving our ability to respond swiftly to emerging threats. However, vigilance is crucial. We must continue to invest in research and preparedness to stay a step ahead of evolving viruses.
Time.news Editor: Thank you,Dr.Harrison, for sharing your insights and expertise with us today. This is critical information that will help our readers understand the importance of vigilance regarding avian influenza.
Dr. Harrison: Thank you for the opportunity. It’s essential that we continue these discussions to protect public health.
this fictional interview builds on the theme of a mutation in the avian influenza virus while engaging the audience about its implications, research efforts, and public health strategies.