Receptor-binding specificity and antigenic properties of a genotype D1.1 A(H5N1) influenza virus isolated from a human

Emerging Microbes & Infections 2026 Open access

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Authors: Ahmed Kandeil, Pradeep Chopra, Sean D. Ray, Balasaheb K. Ghotekar, Charlene Ranadheera, Trushar Jeevan, Thomas Fabrizio, Adam Rubrum, Geert-Jan Boons, Stephen Mark Tompkins, Nathalie Bastien, Richard J. Webby
DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2026.2645856
Cited by: 2
References: 12

Abstract

Clade 2.3.4.4b A(H5N1) influenza viruses continue to expand their host range and pose increasing public health concerns. A case of severe human infection with genotype D1.1 A(H5N1) with HÀ substitutions was diagnosed in British Columbia. It is important to monitor receptor-binding specificity and antigenicity of emerging variants of circulating influenza A(H5N1) viruses. To evaluate potential human adaptation of this virus, we enriched HA-variant subpopulations and assessed sialic acid receptor usage via glycan microarray, solid-phase assays, and biolayer interferometry. All variants bound exclusively to avian-type sialic acid receptors. The antigenicity of the tested A(H5N1) variants was covered by candidate vaccine viruses.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Influenza Virus Research Studies interferon and immune responses Respiratory viral infections research

Publication details

Journal / source
Emerging Microbes & Infections
Publisher
Informa UK Limited
Volume
15
Issue
1
Pages
2645856–2645856
Publication date
13 March 2026
Language
EN