The PB2 E627K mutation contributes to the high polymerase activity and enhanced replication of H7N9 influenza virus

• DOI: 10.1099/vir.0.061721-0
• Publication Date: 2014-01-07T03:32:19Z
• Authors: Hong Zhang; Xuyong Li; Jing Guo; Li Li; Chong Chang; Yuanyuan Li; Chao Bian; Ke Xu; Hualan Chen; Bing Sun
• Keywords: H5N1 genetic structure

Human infection by H7N9 influenza virus was first identified in China March 2013. As of 12 August 2013, a total 135 documented cases with 44 fatalities had been reported. Genetic and laboratory analyses the novel viruses isolated from patients indicate that these possess several polymerase gene mutations previously associated human adaptation potential pandemic capabilities. However, function emergence pathogenicity is not well known. In this study, we demonstrate PB2 E627K mutation, which occurs over 70 % patient isolates, promotes replication enhancing activity enhances virulence mice. Our results show mutation has played an important role outbreak virus.