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Grandi N, Cusano R, Piras G, Fiamma M, Monne MI, Fancello T, Milia J, Orrù S, Scognamiglio S, Serra C, Mameli G, Uzzau S, Orrù G, Palmas AD, Rubino S, Tramontano E. The impact of insularity on SARS-CoV-2 diffusion: Recapitulating three years of COVID-19 pandemic in the island of Sardinia. J Infect Public Health 2024; 17:102496. [PMID: 38991412 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2024.102496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Italy has been the first European Country dealing with SARS-CoV-2, whose diffusion on the territory has not been homogeneous. Among Italian regions, Sardinia represented one of the lowest incidence areas, likely due to its insular nature. Despite this, the impact of insularity on SARS-CoV-2 genetic diversity has not been comprehensively described. METHODS In the present study, we performed the high throughput sequencing of 888 SARS-CoV-2 genomes collected in Sardinia during the first 23 months of pandemics. In addition, 1439 high-coverage SARS-CoV-2 genomes circulating in Sardinia along three years (December 2019 - January 2023) were downloaded from GISAID, for a total of 2327 viral sequences that were characterized in terms of phylogeny and genomic diversity. RESULTS Overall, COVID-19 pandemic in Sardinia showed substantial differences with respect to the national panorama, with additional peaks of infections and uncommon lineages that reflects the national and regional policies of re-opening and the subsequent touristic arrivals. Sardinia has been interested by the circulation of at least 87 SARS-CoV-2 lineages, including some that were poorly represented at national and European level, likely linked to multiple importation events. The relative frequency of Sardinian SARS-CoV-2 lineages has been compared to other Mediterranean Islands, revealing a unique composition. CONCLUSIONS The genomic diversity of SARS-CoV-2 in Sardinia has been shaped by a complex interplay of insular geography, low population density, and touristic arrivals, leading on the one side to the importation of lineages remaining rare at the national level, and resulting on the other side in the delayed entry of otherwise common variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Grandi
- Lab. of Molecular Virology, Dept. of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Roberto Cusano
- CRS4 - Center for Advanced Studies, Research and Development in Sardinia, Science and Technology Park Polaris, Cagliari, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Jessica Milia
- CRS4 - Center for Advanced Studies, Research and Development in Sardinia, Science and Technology Park Polaris, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sandro Orrù
- Dept. of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sante Scognamiglio
- Lab. of Molecular Virology, Dept. of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | - Caterina Serra
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Italy; S.C. Microbiologia e Virologia, AOU Sassari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Mameli
- ASL Nuoro, Ospedale San Francesco, Italy; ASL Sassari Ospedale Civile Alghero, Italy
| | - Sergio Uzzau
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Italy; S.C. Microbiologia e Virologia, AOU Sassari, Italy
| | - Germano Orrù
- Dept. of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | | | - Salvatore Rubino
- Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Italy; S.C. Microbiologia e Virologia, AOU Sassari, Italy
| | - Enzo Tramontano
- Lab. of Molecular Virology, Dept. of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Italy.
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2
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Chrysostomou AC, Vrancken B, Haralambous C, Alexandrou M, Gregoriou I, Ioannides M, Ioannou C, Kalakouta O, Karagiannis C, Marcou M, Masia C, Mendris M, Papastergiou P, Patsalis PC, Pieridou D, Shammas C, Stylianou DC, Zinieri B, Lemey P, Network TCOMESSAR, Kostrikis LG. Unraveling the Dynamics of Omicron (BA.1, BA.2, and BA.5) Waves and Emergence of the Deltacton Variant: Genomic Epidemiology of the SARS-CoV-2 Epidemic in Cyprus (Oct 2021-Oct 2022). Viruses 2023; 15:1933. [PMID: 37766339 PMCID: PMC10535466 DOI: 10.3390/v15091933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Commencing in December 2019 with the emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), three years of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic have transpired. The virus has consistently demonstrated a tendency for evolutionary adaptation, resulting in mutations that impact both immune evasion and transmissibility. This ongoing process has led to successive waves of infections. This study offers a comprehensive assessment spanning genetic, phylogenetic, phylodynamic, and phylogeographic dimensions, focused on the trajectory of the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in Cyprus. Based on a dataset comprising 4700 viral genomic sequences obtained from affected individuals between October 2021 and October 2022, our analysis is presented. Over this timeframe, a total of 167 distinct lineages and sublineages emerged, including variants such as Delta and Omicron (1, 2, and 5). Notably, during the fifth wave of infections, Omicron subvariants 1 and 2 gained prominence, followed by the ascendancy of Omicron 5 in the subsequent sixth wave. Additionally, during the fifth wave (December 2021-January 2022), a unique set of Delta sequences with genetic mutations associated with Omicron variant 1, dubbed "Deltacron", was identified. The emergence of this phenomenon initially evoked skepticism, characterized by concerns primarily centered around contamination or coinfection as plausible etiological contributors. These hypotheses were predominantly disseminated through unsubstantiated assertions within the realms of social and mass media, lacking concurrent scientific evidence to validate their claims. Nevertheless, the exhaustive molecular analyses presented in this study have demonstrated that such occurrences would likely lead to a frameshift mutation-a genetic aberration conspicuously absent in our provided sequences. This substantiates the accuracy of our initial assertion while refuting contamination or coinfection as potential etiologies. Comparable observations on a global scale dispelled doubt, eventually leading to the recognition of Delta-Omicron variants by the scientific community and their subsequent monitoring by the World Health Organization (WHO). As our investigation delved deeper into the intricate dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in Cyprus, a discernible pattern emerged, highlighting the major role of international connections in shaping the virus's local trajectory. Notably, the United States and the United Kingdom were the central conduits governing the entry and exit of the virus to and from Cyprus. Moreover, notable migratory routes included nations such as Greece, South Korea, France, Germany, Brazil, Spain, Australia, Denmark, Sweden, and Italy. These empirical findings underscore that the spread of SARS-CoV-2 within Cyprus was markedly influenced by the influx of new, highly transmissible variants, triggering successive waves of infection. This investigation elucidates the emergence of new waves of infection subsequent to the advent of highly contagious and transmissible viral variants, notably characterized by an abundance of mutations localized within the spike protein. Notably, this discovery decisively contradicts the hitherto hypothesis of seasonal fluctuations in the virus's epidemiological dynamics. This study emphasizes the importance of meticulously examining molecular genetics alongside virus migration patterns within a specific region. Past experiences also emphasize the substantial evolutionary potential of viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, underscoring the need for sustained vigilance. However, as the pandemic's dynamics continue to evolve, a balanced approach between caution and resilience becomes paramount. This ethos encourages an approach founded on informed prudence and self-preservation, guided by public health authorities, rather than enduring apprehension. Such an approach empowers societies to adapt and progress, fostering a poised confidence rooted in well-founded adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bram Vrancken
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Spatial Epidemiology Lab (SpELL), Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Christos Haralambous
- Unit for Surveillance and Control of Communicable Diseases, Ministry of Health, 1148 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Maria Alexandrou
- Microbiology Department, Larnaca General Hospital, 6301 Larnaca, Cyprus
| | - Ioanna Gregoriou
- Unit for Surveillance and Control of Communicable Diseases, Ministry of Health, 1148 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | | - Costakis Ioannou
- Medical Laboratory of Ammochostos General Hospital, Ammochostos General Hospital, 5310 Paralimni, Cyprus
| | - Olga Kalakouta
- Unit for Surveillance and Control of Communicable Diseases, Ministry of Health, 1148 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | | - Markella Marcou
- Department of Microbiology, Archbishop Makarios III Hospital, 2012 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Christina Masia
- Medical Laboratory of Ammochostos General Hospital, Ammochostos General Hospital, 5310 Paralimni, Cyprus
| | - Michail Mendris
- Microbiology Department, Limassol General Hospital, 4131 Limassol, Cyprus
| | | | - Philippos C. Patsalis
- Medicover Genetics, 2409 Nicosia, Cyprus
- Medical School, University of Nicosia, 2417 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Despo Pieridou
- Microbiology Department, Nicosia General Hospital, 2029 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Christos Shammas
- S.C.I.N.A. Bioanalysis Sciomedical Centre Ltd., 4040 Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Dora C. Stylianou
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, 2109 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Barbara Zinieri
- Microbiology Department, Paphos General Hospital, Achepans, 8026 Paphos, Cyprus
| | - Philippe Lemey
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Leondios G. Kostrikis
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, 2109 Nicosia, Cyprus
- Cyprus Academy of Sciences, Letters, and Arts, 60-68 Phaneromenis Street, 1011 Nicosia, Cyprus
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3
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Chrysostomou AC, Aristokleous A, Rodosthenous JH, Christodoulou C, Stathi G, Kostrikis LG. Detection of Circulating SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern (VOCs) Using a Multiallelic Spectral Genotyping Assay. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020304. [PMID: 36836661 PMCID: PMC9960118 DOI: 10.3390/life13020304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Throughout the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has continuously evolved, resulting in new variants, some of which possess increased infectivity, immune evasion, and virulence. Such variants have been denoted by the World Health Organization as variants of concern (VOC) because they have resulted in an increased number of cases, posing a strong risk to public health. Thus far, five VOCs have been designated, Alpha (B.1.1.7), Beta (B.1.351), Gamma (P.1), Delta (B.1.617.2), and Omicron (B.1.1.529), including their sublineages. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) can produce a significant amount of information facilitating the study of variants; however, NGS is time-consuming and costly and not efficient during outbreaks, when rapid identification of VOCs is urgently needed. In such periods, there is a need for fast and accurate methods, such as real-time reverse transcription PCR in combination with probes, which can be used for monitoring and screening of the population for these variants. Thus, we developed a molecular beacon-based real-time RT-PCR assay according to the principles of spectral genotyping. This assay employs five molecular beacons that target ORF1a:ΔS3675/G3676/F3677, S:ΔH69/V70, S:ΔE156/F157, S:ΔΝ211, S:ins214EPE, and S:ΔL242/A243/L244, deletions and an insertion found in SARS-CoV-2 VOCs. This assay targets deletions/insertions because they inherently provide higher discrimination capacity. Here, the design process of the molecular beacon-based real-time RT-PCR assay for detection and discrimination of SARS-CoV-2 is presented, and experimental testing using SARS-CoV-2 VOC samples from reference strains (cultured virus) and clinical patient samples (nasopharyngeal samples), which have been previously classified using NGS, were evaluated. Based on the results, it was shown that all molecular beacons can be used under the same real-time RT-PCR conditions, consequently improving the time and cost efficiency of the assay. Furthermore, this assay was able to confirm the genotype of each of the tested samples from various VOCs, thereby constituting an accurate and reliable method for VOC detection and discrimination. Overall, this assay is a valuable tool that can be used for screening and monitoring the population for VOCs or other emerging variants, contributing to limiting their spread and protecting public health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonia Aristokleous
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, 2109 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | | | | - Georgia Stathi
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, 2109 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Leondios G. Kostrikis
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, 2109 Nicosia, Cyprus
- Cyprus Academy of Sciences, Letters, and Arts, 60-68 Phaneromenis Street, 1011 Nicosia, Cyprus
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +35-72-289-2885
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4
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Chrysostomou AC, Vrancken B, Haralambous C, Alexandrou M, Aristokleous A, Christodoulou C, Gregoriou I, Ioannides M, Kalakouta O, Karagiannis C, Koumbaris G, Loizides C, Mendris M, Papastergiou P, Patsalis PC, Pieridou D, Richter J, Schmitt M, Shammas C, Stylianou DC, Themistokleous G, Lemey P, Kostrikis LG. Genomic Epidemiology of the SARS-CoV-2 Epidemic in Cyprus from November 2020 to October 2021: The Passage of Waves of Alpha and Delta Variants of Concern. Viruses 2022; 15:108. [PMID: 36680148 PMCID: PMC9862594 DOI: 10.3390/v15010108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in December 2019 resulted in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, which has had devastating repercussions for public health. Over the course of this pandemic, the virus has continuously been evolving, resulting in new, more infectious variants that have frequently led to surges of new SARS-CoV-2 infections. In the present study, we performed detailed genetic, phylogenetic, phylodynamic and phylogeographic analyses to examine the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in Cyprus using 2352 SARS-CoV-2 sequences from infected individuals in Cyprus during November 2020 to October 2021. During this period, a total of 61 different lineages and sublineages were identified, with most falling into three groups: B.1.258 & sublineages, Alpha (B.1.1.7 & Q. sublineages), and Delta (B.1.617.2 & AY. sublineages), each encompassing a set of S gene mutations that primarily confer increased transmissibility as well as immune evasion. Specifically, these lineages were coupled with surges of new infections in Cyprus, resulting in the following: the second wave of SARS-CoV-2 infections in Cyprus, comprising B.1.258 & sublineages, during late autumn 2020/beginning of winter 2021; the third wave, comprising Alpha (B.1.1.7 & Q. sublineages), during spring 2021; and the fourth wave, comprising Delta (B.1.617.2 & AY. sublineages) during summer 2021. Additionally, it was identified that these lineages were primarily imported from and exported to the UK, Greece, and Sweden; many other migration links were also identified, including Switzerland, Denmark, Russia, and Germany. Taken together, the results of this study indicate that the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in Cyprus was characterized by successive introduction of new lineages from a plethora of countries, resulting in the generation of waves of infection. Overall, this study highlights the importance of investigating the spatiotemporal evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in the context of Cyprus, as well as the impact of protective measures placed to mitigate transmission of the virus, providing necessary information to safeguard public health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bram Vrancken
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Spatial Epidemiology Lab (SpELL), Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Christos Haralambous
- Unit for Surveillance and Control of Communicable Diseases, Ministry of Health, Nicosia 1148, Cyprus
| | - Maria Alexandrou
- Microbiology Department, Larnaca General Hospital, Larnaca 6301, Cyprus
| | - Antonia Aristokleous
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus
| | - Christina Christodoulou
- Department of Molecular Virology, Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus
| | - Ioanna Gregoriou
- Unit for Surveillance and Control of Communicable Diseases, Ministry of Health, Nicosia 1148, Cyprus
| | | | - Olga Kalakouta
- Unit for Surveillance and Control of Communicable Diseases, Ministry of Health, Nicosia 1148, Cyprus
| | | | | | | | - Michail Mendris
- Microbiology Department, Limassol General Hospital, Limassol 4131, Cyprus
| | | | - Philippos C. Patsalis
- NIPD Genetics, Nicosia 2409, Cyprus
- Medical School, University of Nicosia, Nicosia 2417, Cyprus
| | - Despo Pieridou
- Microbiology Department, Nicosia General Hospital, Nicosia 2029, Cyprus
| | - Jan Richter
- Department of Molecular Virology, Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics, Nicosia 2371, Cyprus
| | - Markus Schmitt
- Eurofins Genomics Sequencing Europe, 85560 Ebersberg, Germany
| | - Christos Shammas
- S.C.I.N.A Bioanalysis Sciomedical Centre Ltd., Limassol 4040, Cyprus
| | - Dora C. Stylianou
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus
| | | | | | - Philippe Lemey
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Leondios G. Kostrikis
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus
- Cyprus Academy of Sciences, Letters, and Arts, 60-68 Phaneromenis Street, Nicosia 1011, Cyprus
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5
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Viala VL, Slavov SN, de Lima LPO, Lima ARJ, Ribeiro G, Martins AJ, Petry B, Banho CA, Barros CRDS, Moncau CT, Moretti DB, de La-Roque DGL, Marqueze EC, Mattos EC, da Costa FADS, Fukumasu H, Bernardino JDST, Souza-Neto JA, Lesbon JCC, Kayanoki LP, Bernardo LL, Sacchetto L, Clemente LG, Alcantara LCJ, Coutinho LL, Marques BDC, Giovanetti M, Nogueira ML, Poleti MD, Assato PA, Cattony Neto PDQ, Cassano RDLRC, Neto RM, Grotto RMT, Brassaloti RA, Kashima S, Covas DT, Elias MC, Sampaio SC. The Divergent Pattern of SARS-CoV-2 Variant Predominance and Transmission Dynamics in the Brazilian Island of Ilhabela. Viruses 2022; 14:v14071481. [PMID: 35891460 PMCID: PMC9323713 DOI: 10.3390/v14071481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Our effort in SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance in Brazil has detected the Alpha Variant of Concern with a predominance higher than 75% in the population of Ilhabela island (São Paulo State) at a time when the Gamma VOC was already predominating the mainland raised concerns for closer surveillance on this island. Therefore, we intensified the surveillance for 24 weeks by generating data from 34% of local positive cases. Our data show that the patterns of VOC predominance dynamics and infection rates were in general distinct from the mainland. We report here the first known case of Alpha predominance in a Brazilian population, a delay greater than 3 months for the Gamma to dominate the previous variants compared to the mainland, and a faster dispersion rate of Gamma and Delta VOCs compared to the mainland. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the SARS-CoV-2 transmission dynamics in Ilhabela were characterized by multiple independent introduction events of Gamma and Delta, with a few events of Alpha introduction, two of them followed by community transmission. This study evidenced the peculiar behavior of SARS-CoV-2 variants in an isolated population and brought to light the importance of specific programs for SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance in isolated populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Louis Viala
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.O.d.L.); (A.R.J.L.); (G.R.); (A.J.M.); (C.R.d.S.B.); (D.B.M.); (E.C.M.); (J.d.S.T.B.); (P.D.Q.C.N.); (R.M.N.); (D.T.C.)
- Correspondence: (V.L.V.); (M.C.E.); (S.C.S.)
| | - Svetoslav Nanev Slavov
- Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil; (S.N.S.); (D.G.L.d.L.-R.); (S.K.)
| | - Loyze Paola Oliveira de Lima
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.O.d.L.); (A.R.J.L.); (G.R.); (A.J.M.); (C.R.d.S.B.); (D.B.M.); (E.C.M.); (J.d.S.T.B.); (P.D.Q.C.N.); (R.M.N.); (D.T.C.)
| | - Alex Ranieri Jeronimo Lima
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.O.d.L.); (A.R.J.L.); (G.R.); (A.J.M.); (C.R.d.S.B.); (D.B.M.); (E.C.M.); (J.d.S.T.B.); (P.D.Q.C.N.); (R.M.N.); (D.T.C.)
| | - Gabriela Ribeiro
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.O.d.L.); (A.R.J.L.); (G.R.); (A.J.M.); (C.R.d.S.B.); (D.B.M.); (E.C.M.); (J.d.S.T.B.); (P.D.Q.C.N.); (R.M.N.); (D.T.C.)
| | - Antonio Jorge Martins
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.O.d.L.); (A.R.J.L.); (G.R.); (A.J.M.); (C.R.d.S.B.); (D.B.M.); (E.C.M.); (J.d.S.T.B.); (P.D.Q.C.N.); (R.M.N.); (D.T.C.)
| | - Bruna Petry
- Centro de Genômica Funcional da ESALQ, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba 13418-900, SP, Brazil; (B.P.); (C.T.M.); (L.G.C.); (L.L.C.); (R.d.L.R.C.C.); (R.A.B.)
| | - Cecilia Artico Banho
- Medicine School of São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, SP, Brazil; (C.A.B.); (L.S.); (B.d.C.M.); (M.L.N.)
| | - Claudia Renata dos Santos Barros
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.O.d.L.); (A.R.J.L.); (G.R.); (A.J.M.); (C.R.d.S.B.); (D.B.M.); (E.C.M.); (J.d.S.T.B.); (P.D.Q.C.N.); (R.M.N.); (D.T.C.)
| | - Cristina Tschorny Moncau
- Centro de Genômica Funcional da ESALQ, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba 13418-900, SP, Brazil; (B.P.); (C.T.M.); (L.G.C.); (L.L.C.); (R.d.L.R.C.C.); (R.A.B.)
| | - Debora Botequio Moretti
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.O.d.L.); (A.R.J.L.); (G.R.); (A.J.M.); (C.R.d.S.B.); (D.B.M.); (E.C.M.); (J.d.S.T.B.); (P.D.Q.C.N.); (R.M.N.); (D.T.C.)
| | - Debora Glenda Lima de La-Roque
- Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil; (S.N.S.); (D.G.L.d.L.-R.); (S.K.)
| | - Elaine Cristina Marqueze
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.O.d.L.); (A.R.J.L.); (G.R.); (A.J.M.); (C.R.d.S.B.); (D.B.M.); (E.C.M.); (J.d.S.T.B.); (P.D.Q.C.N.); (R.M.N.); (D.T.C.)
| | - Elisangela Chicaroni Mattos
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, SP, Brazil; (E.C.M.); (H.F.); (J.C.C.L.); (M.D.P.)
| | - Felipe Allan da Silva da Costa
- Department of Bioprocesses and Biotechnology, School of Agricultural Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu 18610-034, SP, Brazil; (F.A.d.S.d.C.); (P.A.A.)
| | - Heidge Fukumasu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, SP, Brazil; (E.C.M.); (H.F.); (J.C.C.L.); (M.D.P.)
| | - Jardelina de Souza Todao Bernardino
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.O.d.L.); (A.R.J.L.); (G.R.); (A.J.M.); (C.R.d.S.B.); (D.B.M.); (E.C.M.); (J.d.S.T.B.); (P.D.Q.C.N.); (R.M.N.); (D.T.C.)
| | - Jayme A. Souza-Neto
- School of Agricultural Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu 18610-034, SP, Brazil; (J.A.S.-N.); (R.M.T.G.)
| | - Jessika Cristina Chagas Lesbon
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, SP, Brazil; (E.C.M.); (H.F.); (J.C.C.L.); (M.D.P.)
| | | | | | - Lívia Sacchetto
- Medicine School of São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, SP, Brazil; (C.A.B.); (L.S.); (B.d.C.M.); (M.L.N.)
| | - Luan Gaspar Clemente
- Centro de Genômica Funcional da ESALQ, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba 13418-900, SP, Brazil; (B.P.); (C.T.M.); (L.G.C.); (L.L.C.); (R.d.L.R.C.C.); (R.A.B.)
| | - Luiz Carlos Júnior Alcantara
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil;
- Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | - Luiz Lehmann Coutinho
- Centro de Genômica Funcional da ESALQ, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba 13418-900, SP, Brazil; (B.P.); (C.T.M.); (L.G.C.); (L.L.C.); (R.d.L.R.C.C.); (R.A.B.)
| | - Beatriz de Carvalho Marques
- Medicine School of São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, SP, Brazil; (C.A.B.); (L.S.); (B.d.C.M.); (M.L.N.)
| | - Marta Giovanetti
- Reference Laboratory of Flavivirus, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil;
- Department of Science and Technology for Humans and the Environment, University of Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Maurício Lacerda Nogueira
- Medicine School of São José do Rio Preto (FAMERP), São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, SP, Brazil; (C.A.B.); (L.S.); (B.d.C.M.); (M.L.N.)
| | - Mirele Daiana Poleti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, SP, Brazil; (E.C.M.); (H.F.); (J.C.C.L.); (M.D.P.)
| | - Patricia Akemi Assato
- Department of Bioprocesses and Biotechnology, School of Agricultural Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu 18610-034, SP, Brazil; (F.A.d.S.d.C.); (P.A.A.)
| | - Pedro De Queiroz Cattony Neto
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.O.d.L.); (A.R.J.L.); (G.R.); (A.J.M.); (C.R.d.S.B.); (D.B.M.); (E.C.M.); (J.d.S.T.B.); (P.D.Q.C.N.); (R.M.N.); (D.T.C.)
| | - Raquel de Lello Rocha Campos Cassano
- Centro de Genômica Funcional da ESALQ, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba 13418-900, SP, Brazil; (B.P.); (C.T.M.); (L.G.C.); (L.L.C.); (R.d.L.R.C.C.); (R.A.B.)
| | - Raul Machado Neto
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.O.d.L.); (A.R.J.L.); (G.R.); (A.J.M.); (C.R.d.S.B.); (D.B.M.); (E.C.M.); (J.d.S.T.B.); (P.D.Q.C.N.); (R.M.N.); (D.T.C.)
| | - Rejane Maria Tommasini Grotto
- School of Agricultural Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu 18610-034, SP, Brazil; (J.A.S.-N.); (R.M.T.G.)
- Molecular Biology and Applied Biotechnology Laboratory, Clinical Hospital of the Botucatu Medical School, Botucatu 18610-034, SP, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Augusto Brassaloti
- Centro de Genômica Funcional da ESALQ, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba 13418-900, SP, Brazil; (B.P.); (C.T.M.); (L.G.C.); (L.L.C.); (R.d.L.R.C.C.); (R.A.B.)
| | - Simone Kashima
- Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil; (S.N.S.); (D.G.L.d.L.-R.); (S.K.)
| | - Dimas Tadeu Covas
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.O.d.L.); (A.R.J.L.); (G.R.); (A.J.M.); (C.R.d.S.B.); (D.B.M.); (E.C.M.); (J.d.S.T.B.); (P.D.Q.C.N.); (R.M.N.); (D.T.C.)
- Blood Center of Ribeirão Preto, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, SP, Brazil; (S.N.S.); (D.G.L.d.L.-R.); (S.K.)
| | - Maria Carolina Elias
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.O.d.L.); (A.R.J.L.); (G.R.); (A.J.M.); (C.R.d.S.B.); (D.B.M.); (E.C.M.); (J.d.S.T.B.); (P.D.Q.C.N.); (R.M.N.); (D.T.C.)
- Correspondence: (V.L.V.); (M.C.E.); (S.C.S.)
| | - Sandra Coccuzzo Sampaio
- Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (L.P.O.d.L.); (A.R.J.L.); (G.R.); (A.J.M.); (C.R.d.S.B.); (D.B.M.); (E.C.M.); (J.d.S.T.B.); (P.D.Q.C.N.); (R.M.N.); (D.T.C.)
- Correspondence: (V.L.V.); (M.C.E.); (S.C.S.)
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On the Origin and Propagation of the COVID-19 Outbreak in the Italian Province of Trento, a Tourist Region of Northern Italy. Viruses 2022; 14:v14030580. [PMID: 35336987 PMCID: PMC8951735 DOI: 10.3390/v14030580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Trentino is an Italian province with a tourism-based economy, bordering the regions of Lombardy and Veneto, where the two earliest and largest outbreaks of COVID-19 occurred in Italy. The earliest cases in Trentino were reported in the first week of March 2020, with most of the cases occurring in the winter sport areas in the Dolomites mountain range. The number of reported cases decreased over the summer months and was followed by a second wave in the autumn and winter of 2020. Methods: we performed high-coverage Oxford Nanopore sequencing of 253 positive SARS-CoV-2 swabs collected in Trentino between March and December 2020. Results: in this work, we analyzed genome sequences to trace the routes through which the virus entered the area, and assessed whether the autumnal resurgence could be attributed to lineages persisting undetected during summer, or as a consequence of new introductions. Conclusions: Comparing the draft genomes analyzed with a large selection of European sequences retrieved from GISAID we found that multiple introductions of the virus occurred at the early stage of the epidemics; the two epidemic waves were unrelated; the second wave was due to reintroductions of the virus in summer when traveling restrictions were uplifted.
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Gupta D, Sharma P, Singh M, Kumar M, Ethayathulla AS, Kaur P. Structural and functional insights into the spike protein mutations of emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:7967-7989. [PMID: 34731254 PMCID: PMC11073194 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-04008-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Since the emergence of the first case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), the viral genome has constantly undergone rapid mutations for better adaptation in the host system. These newer mutations have given rise to several lineages/ variants of the virus that have resulted in high transmission and virulence rates compared to the previously circulating variants. Owing to this, the overall caseload and related mortality have tremendously increased globally to > 233 million infections and > 4.7 million deaths as of Sept. 28th, 2021. SARS-CoV-2, Spike (S) protein binds to host cells by recognizing human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) receptor. The viral S protein contains S1 and S2 domains that constitute the binding and fusion machinery, respectively. Structural analysis of viral S protein reveals that the virus undergoes conformational flexibility and dynamicity to interact with the hACE2 receptor. The SARS-CoV-2 variants and mutations might be associated with affecting the conformational plasticity of S protein, potentially linked to its altered affinity, infectivity, and immunogenicity. This review focuses on the current circulating variants of SARS-CoV-2 and the structure-function analysis of key S protein mutations linked with increased affinity, higher infectivity, enhanced transmission rates, and immune escape against this infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepali Gupta
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi,, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Priyanka Sharma
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi,, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Mandeep Singh
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi,, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi,, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - A S Ethayathulla
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi,, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Punit Kaur
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi,, Delhi, 110029, India.
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Suppan M, Stuby L, Harbarth S, Fehlmann CA, Achab S, Abbas M, Suppan L. Nationwide Deployment of a Serious Game Designed to Improve COVID-19 Infection Prevention Practices in Switzerland: Prospective Web-Based Study. JMIR Serious Games 2021; 9:e33003. [PMID: 34635472 PMCID: PMC8623323 DOI: 10.2196/33003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lassitude and a rather high degree of mistrust toward the authorities can make regular or overly constraining COVID-19 infection prevention and control campaigns inefficient and even counterproductive. Serious games provide an original, engaging, and potentially effective way of disseminating COVID-19 infection prevention and control guidelines. Escape COVID-19 is a serious game for teaching COVID-19 infection prevention and control practices that has previously been validated in a population of nursing home personnel. Objective We aimed to identify factors learned from playing the serious game Escape COVID-19 that facilitate or impede intentions of changing infection prevention and control behavior in a large and heterogeneous Swiss population. Methods This fully automated, prospective web-based study, compliant with the Checklist for Reporting Results of Internet E-Surveys (CHERRIES), was conducted in all 3 main language regions of Switzerland. After creating an account on the platform, participants were asked to complete a short demographic questionnaire before accessing the serious game. The only incentive given to the potential participants was a course completion certificate, which participants obtained after completing the postgame questionnaire. The primary outcome was the proportion of participants who reported that they were willing to change their infection prevention and control behavior. Secondary outcomes were the infection prevention and control areas affected by this willingness and the presumed evolution in the use of specific personal protective equipment items. The elements associated with intention to change infection prevention and control behavior, or lack thereof, were also assessed. Other secondary outcomes were the subjective perceptions regarding length, difficulty, meaningfulness, and usefulness of the serious game; impression of engagement and boredom while playing the serious game; and willingness to recommend its use to friends or colleagues. Results From March 9 to June 9, 2021, a total of 3227 accounts were created on the platform, and 1104 participants (34.2%) completed the postgame questionnaire. Of the 1104 respondents, 509 respondents (46.1%) answered that they intended to change their infection prevention and control behavior after playing the game. Among the respondents who answered that they did not intend to change their behavior, 86.1% (512/595) answered that they already apply these guidelines. Participants who followed the German version were less likely to intend to change their infection prevention and control behavior (odds ratio [OR] 0.48, 95% CI 0.24-0.96; P=.04) and found the game less engaging (P<.001). Conversely, participants aged 53 years or older had stronger intentions of changing infection prevention and control behavior (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.44-2.97; P<.001). Conclusions Escape COVID-19 is a useful tool to enhance correct infection prevention and control measures on a national scale, even after 2 COVID-19 pandemic waves; however, the serious game's impact was affected by language, age category, and previous educational training, and the game should be adapted to enhance its impact on specific populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Suppan
- Division of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical Pharmacology, Intensive Care, and Emergency Medicine, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Stephan Harbarth
- Infection Control Programme and WHO Collaborating Centre on Patient Safety, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Christophe A Fehlmann
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical Pharmacology, Intensive Care, and Emergency Medicine, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sophia Achab
- Specialized Facility in Behavioral Addictions ReConnecte, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.,WHO Collaborating Center in Training and Research in Mental Health, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mohamed Abbas
- Infection Control Programme and WHO Collaborating Centre on Patient Safety, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Laurent Suppan
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical Pharmacology, Intensive Care, and Emergency Medicine, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
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Chrysostomou AC, Hezka Rodosthenous J, Topcu C, Papa C, Aristokleous A, Stathi G, Christodoulou C, Eleftheriou C, Stylianou DC, Kostrikis LG. A Multiallelic Molecular Beacon-Based Real-Time RT-PCR Assay for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11111146. [PMID: 34833022 PMCID: PMC8619337 DOI: 10.3390/life11111146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging infectious viruses have led to global advances in the development of specific and sensitive detection techniques. Viruses have an inherent potential to easily mutate, presenting major hurdles for diagnostics and requiring methods capable of detecting genetically diverse viral strains. One such infectious agent is severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which emerged in December 2019 and has resulted in the global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study presents a real-time reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) detection assay for SARS-CoV-2, taking into account its intrinsic polymorphic nature that arises due to genetic drift and recombination, as well as the possibility of continuous and multiple introductions of genetically nonidentical strains into the human population. This advance was achieved by using mismatch-tolerant molecular beacons designed to specifically detect the SARS-CoV-2 S, E, M, and N genes. These were applied to create a simple and reproducible real-time RT-PCR assay, which was validated using external quality control panels (QCMD: CVOP20, WHO: SARS-CoV-2-EQAP-01) and clinical samples. This assay was designed for high target detection accuracy and specificity and can also be readily adapted for the detection of other emerging and rapidly mutating pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas C. Chrysostomou
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus; (A.C.C.); (J.H.R.); (C.T.); (C.P.); (A.A.); (G.S.); (C.C.); (D.C.S.)
| | - Johana Hezka Rodosthenous
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus; (A.C.C.); (J.H.R.); (C.T.); (C.P.); (A.A.); (G.S.); (C.C.); (D.C.S.)
| | - Cicek Topcu
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus; (A.C.C.); (J.H.R.); (C.T.); (C.P.); (A.A.); (G.S.); (C.C.); (D.C.S.)
| | - Christina Papa
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus; (A.C.C.); (J.H.R.); (C.T.); (C.P.); (A.A.); (G.S.); (C.C.); (D.C.S.)
| | - Antonia Aristokleous
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus; (A.C.C.); (J.H.R.); (C.T.); (C.P.); (A.A.); (G.S.); (C.C.); (D.C.S.)
| | - Georgia Stathi
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus; (A.C.C.); (J.H.R.); (C.T.); (C.P.); (A.A.); (G.S.); (C.C.); (D.C.S.)
| | - Christina Christodoulou
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus; (A.C.C.); (J.H.R.); (C.T.); (C.P.); (A.A.); (G.S.); (C.C.); (D.C.S.)
| | - Christina Eleftheriou
- Department of Health and Safety, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus;
| | - Dora C. Stylianou
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus; (A.C.C.); (J.H.R.); (C.T.); (C.P.); (A.A.); (G.S.); (C.C.); (D.C.S.)
| | - Leondios G. Kostrikis
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cyprus, Aglantzia, Nicosia 2109, Cyprus; (A.C.C.); (J.H.R.); (C.T.); (C.P.); (A.A.); (G.S.); (C.C.); (D.C.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +357-2289-2885
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Mohammad T, Choudhury A, Habib I, Asrani P, Mathur Y, Umair M, Anjum F, Shafie A, Yadav DK, Hassan MI. Genomic Variations in the Structural Proteins of SARS-CoV-2 and Their Deleterious Impact on Pathogenesis: A Comparative Genomics Approach. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:765039. [PMID: 34722346 PMCID: PMC8548870 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.765039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A continual rise in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection causing coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has become a global threat. The main problem comes when SARS-CoV-2 gets mutated with the rising infection and becomes more lethal for humankind than ever. Mutations in the structural proteins of SARS-CoV-2, i.e., the spike surface glycoprotein (S), envelope (E), membrane (M) and nucleocapsid (N), and replication machinery enzymes, i.e., main protease (Mpro) and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) creating more complexities towards pathogenesis and the available COVID-19 therapeutic strategies. This study analyzes how a minimal variation in these enzymes, especially in S protein at the genomic/proteomic level, affects pathogenesis. The structural variations are discussed in light of the failure of small molecule development in COVID-19 therapeutic strategies. We have performed in-depth sequence- and structure-based analyses of these proteins to get deeper insights into the mechanism of pathogenesis, structure-function relationships, and development of modern therapeutic approaches. Structural and functional consequences of the selected mutations on these proteins and their association with SARS-CoV-2 virulency and human health are discussed in detail in the light of our comparative genomics analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taj Mohammad
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Arunabh Choudhury
- Department of Computer Science, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Insan Habib
- Department of Computer Science, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Purva Asrani
- Department of Microbiology, University of Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Yash Mathur
- Department of Computer Science, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Mohd Umair
- Department of Computer Science, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Farah Anjum
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alaa Shafie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dharmendra Kumar Yadav
- Department of Pharmacy and Gachon Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Md. Imtaiyaz Hassan
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
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Hirotsu Y, Omata M. SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 lineage rapidly spreads and replaces R.1 lineage in Japan: Serial and stationary observation in a community. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2021; 95:105088. [PMID: 34560289 PMCID: PMC8454025 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2021.105088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) circulates in the world and acquires mutations during evolution. To identify the new emergent variants, the surveillance of the variants of concern (VOC) and variants of interest (VOI) is ongoing. This study aimed to determine how the transition of viral lineage occurred by stationary genome analysis in Yamanashi, Japan. Methods We performed the whole genome sequencing using SARS-CoV-2 positive samples collected from February 2020 to the end of June 2021. Viral lineage was defined by the Phylogenetic Assignment of Named Global Outbreak (PANGO) lineages. Results We successfully obtained 325 viral genome sequences and the number of analyzed samples accounted for 15.4% of the total 2109 COVID-19 patients identified in our district. We identified 13 types of viral lineages including R.1, P.1, B.1.1.7 (Alpha) and B.1.617.2 (Delta). These virus lineages had distinct periods of expansion and decline. After the emerging of the R.1 lineage harboring E484K variant (designated VOI in Japan), the prevalent B.1.1.214 lineage were no longer identified. The R.1 lineages were temporarily prevalent afterwards, but the influx of B.1.1.7 lineage (designated VOC) led to a decline in R.1. Currently, B.1.1.7 has become dominant after mid-April 2021. Conclusion We clearly elucidated the transition and replacement of viral lineage by the community-based analysis. The virus completely replaced by more infectious lineages, therefore, it will be necessary to continue to monitor the VOC and VOI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Hirotsu
- Genome Analysis Center, Yamanashi Central Hospital, 1-1-1 Fujimi, Kofu, Yamanashi, Japan.
| | - Masao Omata
- Department of Gastroenterology, Yamanashi Central Hospital, 1-1-1 Fujimi, Kofu, Yamanashi, Japan; The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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