Human B-cell receptor specific for influenza A hemagglutinin (HA-specific BCR)

Human B-cell receptors (BCRs) specific for influenza A hemagglutinin (HA) epitopes are membrane-bound immunoglobulins that serve as the primary sensors for detecting influenza viruses. These receptors recognize specific antigenic sites on the HA protein, which is the major surface glycoprotein responsible for viral attachment and entry into host cells [1.1.1, 1.1.4]. Upon binding to HA epitopes, the BCRs initiate intracellular signaling cascades that lead to B-cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation into memory B cells or plasma cells that secrete high-affinity antibodies [1.2.5]. Therapeutic strategies, particularly universal vaccine development, aim to target BCRs specific for conserved epitopes, such as those in the HA stem region, to elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) effective against multiple influenza strains [1.3.1, 1.5.2]. Conversely, monoclonal antibodies developed for passive immunotherapy are often derived from the variable regions of these specific BCRs to provide immediate protection by neutralizing the virus [1.4.1, 1.4.5]. Understanding the diversity and specificity of the HA-specific BCR repertoire is crucial for overcoming challenges like antigenic drift and improving the efficacy of seasonal and pandemic influenza interventions [1.3.3, 1.3.5].

Other names

Anti-HA BCRInfluenza A hemagglutinin-specific B-cell receptorHA-reactive B-cell receptorAnti-hemagglutinin B-cell receptor

Vaccines act as antigenic ligands that bind to these BCRs to stimulate B-cell activation and differentiation into antibody-secreting plasma cells; monoclonal antibodies are therapeutic versions of these receptors that neutralize the virus by binding to the same HA epitopes.