understanding the molecular features of novel emergent (h9nx and h7nx) avian influenza viruses posing zoonotic and pandemic threats

This project seeks to mitigate zoonotic and pandemic threats from emerging avian influenza viruses (AIVs), specifically H9Nx and H7Nx strains. The strains, which have undergone genetic alterations, pose a potential risk of transmission from infected birds to humans. The primary goal is to understand the risks from these AIV strains endemic in wild birds and poultry, including those in China. Recognising the rapid evolution and global transmission of these viruses via migratory birds, the project will identify molecular features of viruses with increased zoonotic potential. A thorough analysis of H9Nx and H7Nx strains from human infections will be compared to their progenitors, revealing putative molecular markers with increased zoonotic risk. Furthermore, molecular factors potentially enhancing their resistance to existing pre-pandemic candidate virus vaccines and available antivirals will also be identified. The objectives of the project include the study of dominant genotypes of H9Nx and H7Nx AIVs, the identification of key molecular determinants, evaluation of replication competence in mammalian and human-origin respiratory tissue cultures, and investigation of the potential for infection and transmission in animal models simulating human infection. It will also focus on determining if selected AIVs are resistant to approved antivirals, evaluating current pre-pandemic vaccines' effectiveness against selected AIVs, and identifying genetic markers enhancing adaptation in mammals. The research outcomes will offer an in-depth understanding of H9Nx and H7Nx AIVs' zoonotic risks and vaccine and antiviral resistance, improved control strategies, and heightened pandemic preparedness. The collaborative efforts from research teams in the UK and China will help create robust risk assessment models and enhanced surveillance strategies for more effective avian influenza control, thus improving responses to potential AIV-induced pandemics.