Surveillance and characterization of influenza viruses circulating in Israel

This proposal aims to create a more comprehensive protocol for routine and systematic monitoring of circulating influenza viruses among diverse species of migratory birds in Israel. Also, we will develop a protocol for biochemical, molecular, and structural characterization of the HA proteins from isolated IAVs. Our working hypothesis is that extensive and routine surveillance of the evolution of mutation in the HA proteins and understanding how it influences the receptor specificity and binding preferences of the HA proteins will enhance our understanding of the pandemic potential.