Scientists study mutations leading to flu pandemics

Scientists at the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla have been studying the genetic mutations that have allowed viruses to spark human pandemics. By comparing H5N1 to earlier bird flu varieties, the scientists have been able to compare mutations to see how the virus attaches itself to human cells. H5N1 relies on the protein hemagglutinin to transfer genetic information into cells, which are then rapidly copied as the infection develops. For now, the virus doesn't attach itself to the sugars that coat cells in airway tracts. By studying various mutations, the scientists hope to determine which mutations will accomplish that task, threatening a human pandemic.

- read the article from the San Diego Union-Tribune

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