Antigenic shift is the process by which at least two different strains of a virus, (or different viruses), especially influenza, combine to form a new subtype having a mixture of the surface antigens of the two original strains.

Pigs can be infected with human, avian and swine influenza viruses. Because pigs are susceptible to all three they can be a breeding ground for antigenic shift (as in the recent case of H1N1 Flu – Swine Flu) allowing viruses to mix and create a new virus.

Related: Swine Flu: a Quick Overview – One Sneeze, 150 Colds for Commuters – Washing Hands Works Better than Flu Shots (study results) – Learning How Viruses Evade the Immune System – Alligator Blood Provides Strong Resistance to Bacteria and Viruses

Image by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, USA NIH

2 Responses to “Antigen Shift in Influenza Viruses”

1. Zack J. Garza Says:
   May 8th, 2009 at 12:35 am

   Thanks for the valuable information on spreading swine flue. The post is really helpful for a common man to understand how the swine flue viruses attack the human body. If we understood the phenomenon, we can surely control such epidemic infections.

   Thanks!

2. Curious Cat Science and Engineering Blog » Science Explained: RNA Interference Says:
   November 13th, 2009 at 10:14 am

   [...] Antigen Shift in Influenza Viruses – Posts explaining scientific principles and concepts – DNA Passed to Descendants [...]

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