Hemagglutinin (H7 subtype) (H7 HA) (H7 HA)

Hemagglutinin (H7 subtype) is a critical surface glycoprotein of the Influenza A virus, primarily responsible for mediating viral entry into host cells. It functions by binding to sialic acid receptors on the host cell surface and subsequently facilitating the fusion of the viral envelope with the endosomal membrane [1]. The H7 subtype is of significant clinical concern due to its association with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strains, such as H7N9, which have demonstrated the ability to cross the species barrier and cause severe respiratory disease in humans [2]. In the context of the adaptive immune system, H7 HA is the primary target for vaccine development, where its presentation as an antigen triggers the production of neutralizing antibodies and activates T-cell responses [3]. Therapeutic interventions include monovalent vaccines like Audenz, which are designed to elicit protective immunity against H7N9, and experimental monoclonal antibodies that target conserved regions of the HA protein to prevent infection [4]. Despite its importance as a target, H7 HA presents challenges such as low intrinsic immunogenicity and the potential for antigenic drift, necessitating the use of adjuvants and continuous monitoring of viral evolution [3]. Citations: [1] UniProt Consortium, P03466; [2] CDC, H7N9 (Avian Influenza); [3] FDA, Audenz Prescribing Information; [4] Nature Communications (2018), PMID: 29311557.

Other names

H7HA7Influenza A virus H7 hemagglutininH7N9 Hemagglutinin

Vaccines induce the production of neutralizing antibodies that bind to the hemagglutinin protein, preventing viral attachment to host cells or inhibiting the fusion of the viral envelope with the endosomal membrane [3]. Monoclonal antibodies act by binding to specific epitopes on the HA head or stalk, sterically hindering the interaction between the virus and host cell receptors [4].