Avian-origin influenza A viruses tolerate elevated pyrexic temperatures in mammals | Science
Recent research has shed light on how the host body temperature influences the replicative profiles of influenza A viruses (IAVs). The study highlights a significant distinction between IAVs adapted to avian hosts, which thrive at higher temperatures of 40° to 42°C, and those adapted to humans, which are more effective at lower temperatures of 33° to 37°C. This temperature sensitivity is crucial, as it influences how well the virus can replicate and spread within different hosts. The findings suggest that avian-origin IAVs exhibit a reduced sensitivity to temperature changes in vitro, meaning they can maintain their replicative capabilities even when faced with varying thermal conditions. In contrast, human-adapted strains may struggle to replicate efficiently outside their optimal temperature range.
The implications of this research are significant for understanding the transmission dynamics of IAVs between species. For instance, if an avian virus can replicate efficiently at the higher body temperatures typical of birds, it may pose a greater risk of crossing over to humans, especially in regions where humans and birds interact closely. The study underscores the importance of monitoring avian populations for potential IAV strains that could adapt to human hosts, particularly as climate change and environmental factors continue to alter the habitats of various species. By understanding the temperature adaptability of these viruses, public health officials and researchers can better prepare for potential influenza outbreaks and develop more effective vaccines and treatments that account for the temperature preferences of different viral strains.
Overall, this research not only enhances our comprehension of IAV biology but also emphasizes the need for ongoing surveillance of avian influenza viruses. As we face the ever-present threat of zoonotic diseases, understanding the nuances of how temperature influences viral replication could be pivotal in preventing future pandemics. The findings serve as a reminder of the intricate relationships between host physiology and viral behavior, which are critical in informing both scientific research and public health strategies.
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 …
