Work

Host cell entry and neutralisation sensitivity of H3N2 influenza A virus subclade K

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: In 2025, a mutated H3N2 lineage, subclade K, emerged, showing high activity in many regions. Mutations in the hemagglutinin (HA) may affect cell entry and antibody-mediated neutralisation. Using pseudovirus particles, we show that subclade K-HA drives augmented entry into certain cell lines and displays significant antibody evasion. Both phenotypes were linked to mutation A186D. Influenza vaccination significantly boosted H3N2 subclade K neutralisation, suggesting that current vaccines may provide considerable protection.

Source: npj Vaccines

DOI: 10.1038/s41541-026-01573-y

Authors: Nicole Moor, Nianzhen Chen, Georg M. N. Behrens, Lu Zhang, Anna-Sophie Moldenhauer, Michael Winkler, Christine Happle, Sandra Steffens, Metodi V. Stankov, Karsten Lürken, Stefan Pöhlmann, Markus Hoffmann

Institutions: German Primate Center, University of Göttingen, Universität Ulm, University Hospital Ulm, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, German Center for Infection Research, German Center for Lung Research

Language: English

Topic: Influenza Virus Research Studies

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,890

Funders: Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung, Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung, China Scholarship Council, Niedersächsisches Ministerium für Wissenschaft und Kultur, Leibniz-Gemeinschaft

Awards: G2113714566, G2226533489, G2891023040, G3496816614, G356541671, G418618391, G4588940588, G4945870057, G5186833673, G5339537880, G6309922372, G7256017794, G7473402480, Netzwerk Universitätsmedizin: Zweite Förderphase, G7776752690, G812608626, G8321132611, G8429302861

OpenAlex ID: W7208762466

FWCI: 4.235

Cites: 39

Cited by: 1

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