06.12.2024

Lin et al., Science 386, 1128–1134 (2024)

A recent study on bovine influenza H5N1 viruses highlights a critical mutation in the hemagglutinin (HA) protein that shifts the virus's receptor-binding preference from avian to human types. This mutation is particularly concerning given recent human infections in the U.S., raising alarms about the potential for increased interspecies transmission. Specific mutations in the HA protein significantly affect receptor-binding specificity:
Gln226Leu (Q226L): This mutation alters the receptor-binding preference from avian-type (Neu5Aca2-3Ga) to human-type (Neu5Aca2-6Ga) receptors, improving the virus's ability to bind to human cells.
Asn224Lys (N224K): When combined with Q226L, this mutation further enhances the virus's affinity for human-type receptors.These mutations suggest a potential shift in the virus's ability to infect humans, underscoring the heightened risk of transmission and the need for close monitoring.
But, life will find a way (if you stand still and let the monster evolve...).