Avian-origin influenza A viruses tolerate elevated pyrexic temperatures in mammals | Science
Recent research has unveiled fascinating insights into how host body temperature influences the replicative profiles of influenza A viruses (IAVs). The study highlights a distinct difference between avian and human strains of IAVs, revealing that those adapted to the higher body temperatures typical of birds (40° to 42°C) exhibit reduced temperature sensitivity when cultured in vitro. In stark contrast, human isolates, which thrive at lower temperatures (33° to 37°C), demonstrate increased sensitivity to temperature variations. This discovery not only deepens our understanding of viral adaptation but also raises important questions about the transmission dynamics of IAVs between different species.
In the study, researchers examined avian-origin IAVs and their replicative capabilities at varying temperatures, finding that these viruses are more robust in warmer conditions, akin to those found in birds. This adaptation potentially confers a survival advantage in avian hosts, which can host the virus without succumbing to its pathogenic effects. On the other hand, human-adapted strains are less resilient to temperature fluctuations, suggesting a narrower ecological niche. Such findings underscore the importance of temperature as a critical factor in viral evolution and adaptation, particularly as climate change continues to alter the habitats and behaviors of both viruses and their hosts.
The implications of this research are significant, especially in the context of public health and pandemic preparedness. Understanding how IAVs adapt to different host temperatures can inform vaccine development and the strategies employed to combat potential outbreaks. For instance, the ability of avian viruses to thrive at higher temperatures may enhance their potential for zoonotic transmission, raising concerns about future influenza pandemics. This research not only contributes to the foundational knowledge of influenza virology but also prompts further investigation into the mechanisms of viral adaptation and the impact of environmental factors on viral behavior.
Host body temperature can define a virus’s replicative profile—influenza A viruses (IAVs) adapted to 40° to 42°C in birds are less temperature sensitive in vitro compared with human isolates adapted to 33° to 37°C. In this work, we show that avian-origin …
