# Antibody responses in humans after infection with avian influenza viruses

> **NIH NIH R01** · ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI · 2020 · $200,000

## Abstract

Abstract
Humans are frequently exposed to seasonal influenza viruses like H1N1, H3N2 and influenza B viruses.
However, infections with avian influenza viruses like H5N1 or H7N9 are rare. So far it is unclear how the
human immune system reacts to exposure to these viruses, specifically in the context of pre-existing immunity
to seasonal influenza virus strains. Preliminary data has shown that in these rare cases antibodies to epitopes
that are conserved between human seasonal and avian influenza viruses are boosted. In this collaborative
effort between the Xu laboratory (Fudan University, Shanghai, China) and the Krammer laboratory (Icahn
School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA) we propose to investigate the human antibody response
after natural infection with avian influenza viruses. Antibody responses will be characterized at three levels.
Initially we will assess the reactivity and functionality of polyclonal serum responses of humans naturally
infected with H7N9 viruses. Then, on an epidemiologic level, we will assess the cross-reactivity of 'at risk'
cohorts (wet market vendors, bird handlers, farmers etc.) to get insights into the prevalence of exposure to
avian influenza viruses. Finally, we will zoom in to characterize the epitope usage of monoclonal antibodies
induced after infection with avian influenza viruses. The data obtained from this study will guide the design of
novel broadly protective and pandemic influenza virus vaccines and will significantly enhance our pandemic
preparedness.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9834826
- **Project number:** 5R01AI128821-04
- **Recipient organization:** ICAHN SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AT MOUNT SINAI
- **Principal Investigator:** Florian Krammer
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $200,000
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2017-01-10 → 2021-12-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9834826

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9834826, Antibody responses in humans after infection with avian influenza viruses (5R01AI128821-04). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-22 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9834826. Licensed CC0.

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