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

Sep 2026 · npj Vaccines · Vol 11 · 0 citations · 42 references
Medicine

TL;DR

Using pseudovirus particles, it is shown that subclade K-HA drives augmented entry into certain cell lines and displays significant antibody evasion, suggesting that current vaccines may provide considerable protection.

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.

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