Antigenic Architecture of the H7N2 Influenza Virus Hemagglutinin Belonging to the North American Lineage.

The North American low pathogenic H7N2 avian influenza A viruses, which lack the 220-loop in the hemagglutinin (HA), possess dual receptor specificity for avian- and human-like receptors. The purpose of this work was to determine which amino acid substitutions in HA affect viral antigenic and phenotypic properties that may be important for virus evolution. By obtaining escape mutants under the immune pressure of treatment with monoclonal antibodies, antigenically important amino acids were determined to be at positions 125, 135, 157, 160, 198, 200, and 275 (H3 numbering).

Differentiation of T cells producing interleukin-17 (Th17) against the background of exogenous melatonin during pregnancy.

The population of T lymphocytes producing IL-17 (Th17) plays a dual role during pregnancy and its activity is tightly controlled during this period. One of the factors involved in this process may be the pineal hormone melatonin, which can effectively regulate this T cell population. Here we have shown that exogenous melatonin in pharmacological concentrations is able to enhance the differentiation of Th17 cells of pregnant women in vitro.

Evolutionary Dynamics of Avian Influenza Viruses Isolated from Wild Birds in Moscow.

Forty-five strains of AIVs were isolated from wild aquatic birds during their autumn migration through Moscow (Russia). The aim of this work is to study the dynamics of AIV genomes in their natural habitat. Viruses were isolated from fecal sample in embryonated chicken eggs; their complete genomes were sequenced, and a phylogenetic analysis was performed.

Monitoring of Avian Influenza Viruses and Paramyxoviruses in Ponds of Moscow and the Moscow Region.

The ponds of the Moscow region during the autumn migration of birds are a place with large concentrations of mallard ducks, which are the main hosts of avulaviruses (avian paramyxoviruses) and influenza A viruses (IAV). The purpose of this study was the determination of the biological diversity of IAV and avulaviruses isolated from mallards in Moscow's ponds. A phylogenetic analysis of IAV was performed based on complete genome sequencing, and virus genomic reassortment in nature was studied.

Molecular Characteristics, Receptor Specificity, and Pathogenicity of Avian Influenza Viruses Isolated from Wild Ducks in Russia.

Avian influenza viruses (AIV) of wild ducks are known to be able to sporadically infect domestic birds and spread along poultry. Regular surveillance of AIV in the wild is needed to prepare for potential outbreaks. During long-year monitoring, 46 strains of AIV were isolated from gulls and mallards in Moscow ponds and completely sequenced.