Mutagenesis studies of the H5 influenza hemagglutinin stem loop region

Abstract

Background: The stem loop region of influenza hemagglutinin plays a critical role in viral entry. Results: Novel site-directed mutants of the H5 hemagglutinin stem loop region were generated and characterized. Conclusion: The sensitivity of the stem loop region to mutation underscores its importance to function and attractiveness as a site for therapeutic intervention. Significance: Antibodies and drug-like molecules targeting the stem loop region of hemagglutinin are promising antivirals. © 2014 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.