Development and application of reverse genetic technology for the influenza virus

Virus Genes. 2021 Apr;57(2):151-163. doi: 10.1007/s11262-020-01822-9. Epub 2021 Feb 2.

Abstract

Influenza virus is a common virus in people's daily lives, and it has certain infectivity in humans and animals. Influenza viruses have the characteristics of a high mutation rate and wide distribution. Reverse genetic technology is primarily used to modify viruses at the DNA level through targeted modification of the virus cDNA. Genetically modified influenza viruses have a unique advantage when researching the transmission and pathogenicity of influenza. With the continuous development of oncolytic viruses in recent years, studies have found that influenza viruses also have certain oncolytic activity. Influenza viruses can specifically recognize tumor cells; activate cytotoxic T cells, NK cells, dendritic cells, etc.; and stimulate the body to produce an immune response, thereby killing tumor cells. This article will review the development and application of influenza virus reverse genetic technology.

Keywords: Antitumor; Influenza virus; Reverse genetic technology; Vaccine.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Influenza, Human / virology
  • Orthomyxoviridae / genetics*
  • Orthomyxoviridae / physiology
  • Reverse Genetics*
  • Viral Proteins / physiology

Substances

  • Viral Proteins