By Colby T. Ford et al.
Source biorxiv
Researchers used computer simulations to comprehend how the H5N1 influenza virus is changing over time. The researchers looked at how 1,804 different versions of the virus’ key protein (hemagglutinin) interact with 11 antibodies that can neutralize the virus.
The results show a concerning trend – the virus is becoming less vulnerable to these antibodies as it evolves. This suggests the virus is finding ways to escape our medical defenses.
The researchers also traced the spread of H5N1 between birds and mammals across the world.
They found the virus is circulating widely and persistently in different animal populations.
Certain mutations in the virus’ hemagglutinin protein, like N158S and E190N, were found to significantly weaken antibody binding. Other mutations, like T160K, had the opposite effect.
These findings indicate H5N1 has the potential to cause a global pandemic soon. The researchers recommend closely monitoring the virus’s evolution to develop better vaccines and treatments that can keep up with the virus as it changes.
Soon, multiple pandemic with much higher mortality ?
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