Receptor-binding specificity is a major determinant of host range, pathogenesis, and interspecies transmission in influenza virus. Recognition of different conformations of sialic acid by the influenza virus hemagglutinin has driven influenza intra-and interspecies transmission for nearly 100 years since the first human pandemic was recorded in 1918. Key amino acid residues near or at the receptor-binding site of the hemagglutinin of different influenza A subtypes correlate with the ability of the virus to infect and replicate in the upper or lower respiratory tract of the host and transmit efficiently. A global concern exists for those highly pathogenic avian viruses that have emerged with the potential to cause a novel pandemic in humans. Studying the receptor-binding affinity to sialic acid receptors as a marker of pandemic risk could provide reliable measures to aid in timely pandemic planning and surveillance worldwide.
CITATION STYLE
Ayora-Talavera, G. (2018, April 10). Sialic acid receptors: Focus on their role in influenza infection. Journal of Receptor, Ligand and Channel Research. Dove Medical Press Ltd. https://doi.org/10.2147/JRLCR.S140624
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