Which viruses have antigenic drift?

Antigenic drift occurs in both influenza A and influenza B viruses. (Confusion can arise with two very similar terms, antigenic shift and genetic drift. Antigenic shift is a closely related process; it refers to more dramatic changes in the virus’s surface proteins.

What is the difference between antigenic drift and antigenic shift in influenza viruses?

Antigenic drift involves the accumulation of a series of minor genetic mutations. Antigenic shift involves “mixing” of genes from influenza viruses from different species.

What causes antigenic drift to occur in viral infections?

Antigenic drift: A subtle change in the surface glycoprotein (either hemagglutinin or neuraminidase) caused by a point mutation or deletion in the viral gene. This results in a new strain that requires yearly reformulation of the seasonal influenza vaccine.

How is antigenic drift beneficial for viruses?

Antigenic drift is the accidental alteration of genes encoding antigens. It typically occurs in viruses and enables the pathogen to evade the immune system, triggering an infection once more.

When does antigenic drift occur in a virus?

This makes it easier for the changed virus to spread throughout a partially immune population. Antigenic drift occurs in both influenza A and influenza B viruses. (Confusion can arise with two very similar terms, antigenic shift and genetic drift.

What does it mean to have antigenic shift?

Antigenic shift refers to the emergence of a novel influenza virus in humans, due to direct introduction of an avian strain or to a new strain produced by recombination and reassortment of two different influenza viruses.

Is there a potential for antigenic drift in Mab?

One of the limitations of passive immunotherapy with MAb is the potential for resistance because of antigenic drift. Active immunotherapy with vaccines could provide a polyclonal antitumor humoral response, and the potential for a cellular immune response as well.

How are hemagglutinin and neuraminidase involved in antigenic drift?

The hemagglutinin is responsible for binding and entry into host epithelial cells while the neuraminidase is involved in the process of new virions budding out of host cells. Sites recognized on the hemagglutinin and neuraminidase proteins by host immune systems are under constant selective pressure.