ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: SARS-CoV-2 belongs to the coronavirus family, a large family of viruses infecting avian and mammalian hosts. Accumulated mutations over time in the genome of SARS-CoV-2 have given rise to different variants differing in type and sequence. Variants that did not affect transmissibility, infectivity, and severity have gone unnoticed, and mutations that made the virus unfit for survival were eventually deleted from the gene pool. An emerging variant in the host population needs to be monitored closely for its infection consequences. In addition, the variants of concern (VOC) need to be focused on developing effective disease-fighting regimes. As viral epidemics are better fought using effective vaccines, several vaccines have been developed and used since December 2020. The central point of the present study is the continuous variation in the genome of SARS-CoV-2, instigating the researchers to refine their modus operandi to fight against COVID-19. METHODS: Prominent medical and literature databases were searched using relevant keywords to gather study results, reports, and other data helpful in writing this narrative review. RESULTS: This article successfully collates information about the structure and life cycle of SARS-CoV-2, followed by types and nomenclature of mutations in SARS-CoV-2. Variants B.1.1.7 (Alpha), B.1.351 (Beta), P.1 (Gamma), B.1.617.2 (Delta), and B.1.1.529 (Omicron) are current VOCs due to their widespread transmission capability and probable immune evasion. Furthermore, this review article presents information about the major vaccines available and those under development. Based on the original and new strains of SARS-CoV-2, 19 vaccines have been granted emergency use or conditional marketing approvals, 141 are under clinical development, and 194 are in preclinical development stages worldwide. CONCLUSION: Continuous variation in the genome of SARS-CoV-2, presenting new VOCs frequently, has posed a compelling need to amend and evolve current and future vaccine development strategies to overpower the ever-evolving virus.
Subject(s)
COVID-19 , Viral Vaccines , Humans , Animals , SARS-CoV-2/genetics , COVID-19/prevention & control , Mutation , MammalsABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To screen the Polyherbal preparation for anti-diabetic activity in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The blood glucose lowering activity of the Polyherbal preparation-I (1:1:1 of Wheat germ oil, Coriandrum sativum and Aloe vera) was studied in normal rats after oral administration at doses of 1.0 and 2.0 ml/kg and Polyherbal preparation-I, II (Wheat germ oil, fresh juice of C. sativum and Aloe vera in the ratio of 2:2:1), and III (Wheat germ oil, fresh juice of C. sativum and Aloe vera in the ratio of 1:2:2) on alloxan-induced diabetic rats, after oral administration at doses of 1.0 and 2.0 ml/kg. Blood samples were collected from the tail vein method at 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 h in normal rats and in diabetic rats at 0, 1, 3, 7, 15, and 30 days. Blood plasma glucose was estimated by the GOD/POD (glucose oxidase and peroxidase) method. The data was compared statistically using the one-way ANOVA method followed by the Dunnett multiple component test. Statistical significance was set at P<0.05. RESULTS: The Polyherbal preparation-I produced significant (P<0.05) reduction in the blood glucose level of normal rats and Polyherbal preparation-I, II, and III produced significant (P<0.01) reduction in the blood glucose level of diabetic rats during 30 days study and compared with that of control and Glibenclamide. CONCLUSION: The Polyherbal preparation-I showed a significant glucose lowering effect in normal rats and Polyherbal preparation-I, II, and III in diabetic rats. This preparation is going to be promising anti-diabetic preparation for masses; however, it requires further extensive studies in human beings.
