NA (neuraminidase) gene

The NA (neuraminidase) gene is part of the genetic makeup of influenza viruses, encoding for an enzyme called neuraminidase. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the virus's ability to spread within the host by helping new viral particles escape infected cells and infect others. Variations or mutations in the NA gene can affect how the virus behaves, including its ability to resist certain medications and how contagious it is. Understanding the NA gene is important for developing vaccines and antiviral drugs to control influenza outbreaks.