Avian-origin influenza A viruses tolerate elevated pyrexic temperatures in mammals | Science
In a recent study exploring the relationship between host body temperature and the replicative profiles of influenza A viruses (IAVs), researchers have uncovered significant differences between avian and human strains of the virus. The findings suggest that IAVs adapted to the higher body temperatures of birds, which range from 40° to 42°C, exhibit a reduced sensitivity to temperature changes in vitro. In contrast, human isolates of the virus, which have adapted to the cooler temperatures of 33° to 37°C typical of human respiratory tracts, show a greater sensitivity to temperature fluctuations. This research provides critical insights into how temperature adaptation influences viral replication and could have implications for understanding the transmission dynamics of IAVs across species.
The study highlights the importance of host physiology in shaping viral behavior and pathogenicity. For instance, avian-origin IAVs, which are often more virulent, demonstrate resilience at elevated temperatures, enabling them to thrive in the warmer environments of their natural hosts. In contrast, human-adapted strains may struggle to replicate effectively outside their optimal temperature range, which could limit their spread and impact. Understanding these temperature-dependent replicative profiles is not only essential for virology but also for public health, as it underscores the potential risks posed by zoonotic transmissions—where viruses jump from animals to humans—especially during periods of climate change that may alter host habitats and behaviors.
As global health experts continue to monitor IAVs for potential outbreaks, the insights from this research could inform strategies for vaccine development and antiviral therapies. By recognizing the temperature adaptability of different viral strains, scientists can better predict how these viruses might behave in various environments and populations. This study serves as a reminder of the intricate interplay between host biology and viral evolution, emphasizing the need for ongoing research in the field of infectious diseases to stay one step ahead of emerging health threats.
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 …
