Researchers from the United Kingdom have made an groundbreaking discovery regarding the prevention of avian flu in humans. A gene called BTN3A3 has been found to play a crucial role in inhibiting the replication of avian flu in people. This finding sheds light on why many individuals have never contracted the disease. The study, published in the journal Nature, marks a significant milestone in the field, as BTN3A3 has been previously identified but its antiviral effects against avian flu were unknown.
Co-author of the study, Rute Pinto, who is a scientist at the Roslin Institute at the University of Edinburgh, described this discovery as a “yes moment”. She explained that BTN3A3 was found to be effective against avian strains of the virus but not human strains. Avian flu, commonly known as bird flu, primarily spreads among wild birds and can also infect domestic poultry. The current H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b outbreak in North and South America has caused significant bird fatalities and even infected mammals such as skunks, minks, and sea lions.
To investigate the transmission of viruses from animals to humans, a team of scientists from the MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research conducted a four-year study. They analyzed over 800 human genes and compared their activity during infection with seasonal viruses and avian flu strains. While the existence of the BTN3A3 gene has been known, its role in protecting against avian flu was previously unrecognized. The researchers found that this gene acts as a powerful barrier against avian flu but doesn’t offer the same protection against human strains, such as seasonal influenza.
BTN3A3 is predominantly found in the spleen, lungs, and upper respiratory tract, which are crucial sites of viral infection. The gene’s antiviral properties evolved approximately 40 million years ago in mammals, including monkeys, gorillas, and humans. However, avian species do not possess this gene. While human cases of avian flu remain rare, experts warn that the virus has the potential to become a human threat if it mutates and adapts to overcome antiviral genes like BTN3A3. Therefore, studies like the one from the University of Glasgow are essential in understanding and combating this virus.
Shayan Sharif, a professor and associate dean at the Ontario Veterinary College, emphasizes the importance of monitoring avian and mammalian viruses for mutations that could make them resistant to human genes. By identifying these mutations, health and safety measures can be strengthened for those who handle these viruses, such as veterinarians and farmers. While BTN3A3 is just one gene with antiviral properties, Sharif explains that the human body possesses various defense mechanisms against influenza viruses.
In conclusion, this study’s findings highlight the significance of BTN3A3 in preventing avian flu replication in humans. The gene acts as a vital defense mechanism in the respiratory system, where the virus primarily infects. While more research is needed to fully understand and combat avian flu, studies like this contribute to our ever-expanding arsenal against such viruses. It is essential to remain vigilant as avian flu outbreaks may resurge, particularly during the fall or winter seasons.
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