Mutation in H5N1 Viruses Increases Receptor Binding in Dairy Cows
Author Information
Author(s): Marina R. Good, Monica L. Fernández-Quintero, Wei Ji, Alesandra J. Rodriguez, Julianna Han, Andrew B. Ward, Jenna J. Guthmiller
Primary Institution: University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
Hypothesis
Are recent H5N1 viruses evolving their receptor binding specificities?
Conclusion
Recent H5N1 viruses have acquired a mutation that increases their receptor binding breadth, potentially expanding their host range.
Supporting Evidence
- H5N1 viruses from dairy cows have spilled over into domestic felines, alpacas, poultry, and house mice.
- One in five retail milk samples in the US has detectable viral RNA by PCR.
- Recent H5N1 viruses have not gained binding affinity to receptors used by human seasonal influenza viruses.
Takeaway
Scientists found that a small change in the virus helps it stick better to certain sugars, which could let it infect more animals.
Methodology
The study involved screening recombinant hemagglutinin from various H5N1 viruses for binding to glycans using a glycan microarray.
Limitations
The study only used recombinant HA to study interactions, which may not capture all binding scenarios.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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