Evolution of increased positive charge on the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein may be adaptation to human transmission.
iScience
; 26(3): 106230, 2023 Mar 17.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-2239960
ABSTRACT
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) continues to evolve and infect individuals. The exterior surface of the SARS-CoV-2 virion is dominated by the spike protein, and the current work examined spike protein biochemical features that have changed during the 3 years in which SARS-CoV-2 has infected humans. Our analysis identified a striking change in spike protein charge, from -8.3 in the original Lineage A and B viruses to -1.26 in most of the current Omicron viruses. We conclude that in addition to immune selection pressure, the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 has also altered viral spike protein biochemical properties, which may influence virion survival and promote transmission. Future vaccine and therapeutic development should also exploit and target these biochemical properties.
Full text:
Available
Collection:
International databases
Database:
MEDLINE
Type of study:
Prognostic study
Topics:
Vaccines
/
Variants
Language:
English
Journal:
IScience
Year:
2023
Document Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
J.isci.2023.106230
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