The research team’s discovery of a group of antibodies in several unrelated humans that target all types of influenza is a crucial breakthrough. These antibodies were also found in some animals, and their existence could mean unprecedented protection against a virus that infects millions and kills thousands of people each year.
Targeting All Influenza Types
The researchers focused on a specific protein on the surface of the influenza virus, called the hemagglutinin (HA) protein. This protein is responsible for the virus’s ability to attach to and infect human cells. The antibodies discovered by the team were able to bind to this HA protein, preventing the virus from infecting cells.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
What makes these antibodies so significant is their ability to target all major types of influenza, including H1N1, H3N2, and influenza B viruses. This broad-spectrum protection is a significant advancement over current flu vaccines, which typically target only a few specific strains and require annual updates to match the circulating viruses.