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We have previously obtained four transfectant influenza A viruses containing neuraminidase (NA) genes with mutated base pairs in the conserved double-stranded RNA region of the viral promoter by using a ribonucleoprotein transfection system. Two mutant viruses (D2 and D1/2) which share a C-G-->A-U mutation at positions 11 and 12 of the 3' and 5' ends, respectively, of the NA gene, showed an approximate 10-fold reduction of NA-specific mRNA and protein levels (Fodor et al., Journal of Virology 72, 6283-6290, 1998). These viruses have now allowed us to determine the effects of decreased NA levels on virus pathogenicity. Both D2 and D1/2 viruses were highly attenuated in mice, and their replication in mouse lungs was highly compromised as compared with wild-type influenza A/WSN/33 virus. The results highlight the importance of the level of NA activity in the biological cycle and virulence of influenza viruses. Importantly, mice immunized by a single intranasal administration of 10(3) infectious units of D2 or D1/2 viruses were protected against challenge with a lethal dose of wild-type influenza virus. Attenuation of influenza viruses by mutations resulting in the decreased expression of a viral protein represents a novel strategy which could be considered for the generation of live attenuated influenza virus vaccines.

Original publication

DOI

10.1099/0022-1317-81-3-737

Type

Journal article

Journal

J Gen Virol

Publication Date

03/2000

Volume

81

Pages

737 - 742

Keywords

Animals, Cell Line, DNA, Viral, Female, Immunization, Influenza A virus, Influenza Vaccines, Lung, Mice, Mice, Inbred BALB C, Mutation, Neuraminidase, Orthomyxoviridae Infections, Phenotype, Transfection, Vaccines, Attenuated, Virulence, Virus Replication