Scientists have identified a human gene that acts as a powerful barrier against most avian flu viruses.
As The Guardian reports, the gene known as BTN3A3 has been found to prevent the transmission of these viruses from birds to humans.
This remarkable finding sheds light on the potential for preventing future avian flu pandemics and provides new insights into the genetic factors influencing virus transmission.
Human Gene Can Fight Off Avian Flu
The study, led by the MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, involved a six-year investigation into avian influenza viruses (IAVs).
Researchers discovered that the BTN3A3 gene, present in all humans, possesses strong antiviral properties against avian flu. This gene is primarily found in the lungs and upper respiratory tract, where flu viruses replicate.
Previously known to scientists, the gene's ability to block avian flu viruses represents a significant breakthrough.
By inhibiting the replication of viral RNA at the early stages of infection, BTN3A3 effectively prevents avian influenza viruses from spreading in mammals like humans.
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Interestingly, the scientists also found that all previous human influenza pandemics, including the devastating 1918 Spanish flu and the 2009 swine flu outbreaks, resulted from BTN3A3-resistant strains.
What the Discovery Means for Humans
The implications of this discovery are far-reaching. By understanding the genetic factors that enable avian flu viruses to cross the species barrier, scientists can better assess the risk of potential pandemics.
The study revealed that particular bird and swine flu viruses possess genetic mutations that allow them to evade the blocking effects of BTN3A3, enabling them to infect humans.
Researchers have also linked resistance to the BTN3A3 gene with key virus types by tracing the history of human influenza pandemics.
Predicting the Flu
This finding suggests that monitoring the presence of BTN3A3-resistant viruses in wild birds, poultry, and other susceptible animals could help identify potential human pandemic strains.
The ability to identify gene-resistant viruses quickly offers practical applications. By analyzing the genetic sequence of avian flu viruses, scientists can determine whether the virus is more or less likely to jump into humans.
This information can aid in implementing targeted control measures to prevent spillovers and improve public health responses.
The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a warning in February about the likelihood of Bird Flu spreading to people after H5N1 influenza recently began spreading to other mammals.
According to WHO, the risk of transmission to people remains minimal.
What's In the News
The discovery of the BTN3A3 gene's potent antiviral abilities against avian flu viruses marks a significant milestone in our understanding of virus transmission.
This groundbreaking study provides insights into the mechanisms that prevent avian flu viruses from spreading in humans and highlights the importance of genetic factors in assessing pandemic risks.
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