Insights into SARS-CoV-2 evolution, potential antivirals, and vaccines

SARS-CoV-2 is a novel coronavirus, spread among humans, and to date, more than 100 million of laboratoryconfirmed cases have been reported worldwide. The virus demonstrates 96% similarity to a coronavirus from a horseshoe bat and most probably emerged from a spill over from bats or wild animal(s) to humans. Currently, two variants are circulating in the UK and South Africa and spread to many countries around the world. The impact of mutations on virus replication, virulence and transmissibility should be monitored carefully. Current data suggest recurrent infection with SARS-CoV-2 correlated to the level of neutralising antibodies and with sustained memory responses following infection. Recently, remdesivir was FDA approved for treatment of COVID-19, however many potential antivirals are currently in different clinical trials. Clinical data and experimental studies indicated that licenced vaccines are helpful in controlling the disease. However, the current vaccines should be evaluated against the emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2.

Automated summary

SARS-CoV-2, a novel coronavirus, has caused over 100 million laboratory-confirmed cases worldwide. The virus is similar to a coronavirus from horseshoe bats and likely originated from spillover from bats or other wild animals to humans. Current data indicate that reinfection with SARS-CoV-2 is related to neutralizing antibodies levels, and there are sustained memory responses following infection. Vaccines and antivirals like remdesivir are being used to combat the virus, but evaluation against emerging variants is necessary.