Influenza Virus Lecture

Flashcards covering key concepts related to influenza viruses, including their classification, structure, lifecycle, and impact on human health.

Influenza

A group of related RNA viruses that infect avian and mammalian hosts, causing seasonal epidemics.

Orthomyxoviridae

The family of viruses to which influenza belongs, characterized by a segmented RNA genome.

HA glycoprotein

Hemagglutinin, a surface glycoprotein that binds to receptors on host cells, facilitating entry of the virus.

NA glycoprotein

Neuraminidase, an enzyme that allows the release of new virions from the host cell, targeted by antiviral drugs.

Zoonotic spillover

The process by which a virus is transmitted from animals to humans, playing a significant role in influenza virus biology.

Cytokine storm

An overreaction of the immune system that can occur in severe influenza infections, leading to significant morbidity.

Seasonality of Influenza

Influenza infections peak in the late fall and winter in both hemispheres, with varying intensity across regions.

Segmented genome

A characteristic of influenza viruses, where the genome is divided into several segments, allowing for genetic reassortment.

Viral lifecycle

The stages through which a virus passes from entry into a host cell, replication, and release of new virus particles.

Glycocalyx

A dense, gel-like meshwork around a cell that serves as a physical barrier, with sialic acid functioning as a receptor for influenza viruses.