4.7 Review

SARS-CoV-2 variants and vulnerability at the global level

Related references

Note: Only part of the references are listed.
Article Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology

Pango lineage designation and assignment using SARS-CoV-2 spike gene nucleotide sequences

Aine O'Toole et al.

Summary: The study investigates how SARS-CoV-2 Pango lineages can be reliably designated using spike-only nucleotide sequences. While many lineages can be identified clearly with spike-only sequences, some sequences are shared among multiple lineages. The concept of lineage-sets is introduced to represent the range of Pango lineages consistent with observed mutations in spike sequences, providing a foundation for software tools to assign newly-generated sequences to lineage sets.

BMC GENOMICS (2022)

Article Infectious Diseases

Reinfection by the SARS-CoV-2 Gamma variant in blood donors in Manaus, Brazil

Carlos A. Prete et al.

Summary: This study used serial blood samples from repeat blood donors to estimate reinfection rates caused by the Gamma variant during the second wave in Manaus, Brazil. The study found that 13.6% of all presumed Gamma infections in 2021 were reinfections, increasing to 22.7% and 39.3% when probable and possible reinfections were included. Previous infection provided a protection rate of 85.3%, decreasing to 72.5% and 39.5% when probable and possible reinfections were included.

BMC INFECTIOUS DISEASES (2022)

Review Medical Laboratory Technology

The COVID-19 pandemic: viral variants and vaccine efficacy

Marco Ciotti et al.

Summary: The article discusses the development of COVID-19 vaccines, the impact of viral variants on transmission and virus antibodies, and methods for measuring vaccine antibody responses. It also emphasizes the importance of using the WHO International Standard to accurately calibrate immunoassays.

CRITICAL REVIEWS IN CLINICAL LABORATORY SCIENCES (2022)

Editorial Material Immunology

Global impact of delta plus variant and vaccination

Vivek P. Chavda et al.

EXPERT REVIEW OF VACCINES (2022)

Review Immunology

A global picture: therapeutic perspectives for COVID-19

Vivek P. Chavda et al.

Summary: This article provides a comprehensive overview of SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19, including viral transmission and subsequent events in the human body. It also presents different drugs and vaccines used for the management of COVID-19. Several natural drugs are proposed for COVID-19 management, and an overview of post-COVID-19 complications in recovered patients is also provided.

IMMUNOTHERAPY (2022)

Article Infectious Diseases

Haplotype distribution of SARS-CoV-2 variants in low and high vaccination rate countries during ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic in early 2021

Ngoc-Niem Bui et al.

Summary: This study characterized the haplotype and sub-haplotype diversity of SARS-CoV-2 global variants and analyzed the distribution of sub-haplotypes in groups with low and high COVID-19 vaccination rates. The results showed the dominance of certain variants and the emergence of new sub-haplotypes, highlighting the impact of vaccination strategies on viral mutations and transmission.

INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION (2022)

Editorial Material Medicine, General & Internal

Booster Vaccination to Reduce SARS-CoV-2 Transmission and Infection

Anna Wald

JAMA-JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (2022)

Article Virology

Transmission dynamics and mutational prevalence of the novel Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 Omicron Variant of Concern

Shailendra K. Saxena et al.

Summary: This study investigates the transmission dynamics and mutational prevalence of the novel SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant. The findings show that Omicron has been reported in various countries and exhibits distinct differences from other prevalent VOCs. The spike glycoprotein of Omicron displays critical amino acid changes. This study contributes to the understanding of the transmission and mutation mechanisms of Omicron.

JOURNAL OF MEDICAL VIROLOGY (2022)

News Item Infectious Diseases

The origin of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern

Talha Burki

Summary: The narrative about SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern in people living with HIV, spread by the media, is not comprehensive.

LANCET INFECTIOUS DISEASES (2022)

Article Infectious Diseases

Generation time of the alpha and delta SARS-CoV-2 variants: an epidemiological analysis

William S. Hart et al.

Summary: The study found that the Delta variant transmits more quickly within households compared to the Alpha variant, likely due to rapid depletion of susceptible individuals and a possible decrease in the generation time.

LANCET INFECTIOUS DISEASES (2022)

Editorial Material Geriatrics & Gerontology

Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) of SARS-CoV-2: Threat for the elderly?

Vivek P. Chavda et al.

MATURITAS (2022)

Review Immunology

The T cell immune response against SARS-CoV-2

Paul Moss

Summary: T cell immunity plays a central role in controlling SARS-CoV-2 infection, with early responses correlating with protection. T cell memory provides broad recognition of viral proteins, limiting the impact of viral variants and offering protection against severe disease. Current COVID-19 vaccines elicit robust T cell responses, contributing to the prevention of hospitalization or death. Therefore, the importance of T cell immunity may have been underestimated.

NATURE IMMUNOLOGY (2022)

Letter Medicine, General & Internal

Effectiveness of BNT162b2 Vaccine against Omicron Variant in South Africa

Shirley Collie et al.

Summary: Preliminary data from a test-negative study design in South Africa showed that two doses of the BNT162b2 vaccine had an efficacy of 50 to 70% against hospitalization caused by the omicron variant in Gauteng province.

NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE (2022)

Article Medicine, General & Internal

Effect of Covid-19 Vaccination on Transmission of Alpha and Delta Variants

David W. Eyre et al.

Summary: In this study, it was found that vaccination reduces the transmission risk of the Delta variant, but the protection of the vaccine decreases over time. The effectiveness of the vaccine is higher against the Alpha variant compared to the Delta variant.

NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE (2022)

Letter Immunology

Neutralization of Variant Under Investigation B.1.617.1 With Sera of BBV152 Vaccinees

Pragya D. Yadav et al.

CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES (2022)

Review Pharmacology & Pharmacy

Phytochemical Delivery Through Transferosome (Phytosome): An Advanced Transdermal Drug Delivery for Complementary Medicines

Rong-Ping Chen et al.

Summary: Transdermal drug delivery is a safe and effective method of administering drugs through the skin. Transferosomes, flexible vesicles with better skin penetration properties, have been discovered as a promising carrier for transdermal drug delivery. By attaching specific herbal extracts to phosphatidylcholine, phytosomes (Transferosomes) improve drug solubility and absorption. This review highlights the potential of nanotechnology, particularly phytosomes, as lipid-based nanocarriers for transdermal drug delivery.

FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY (2022)

Article Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Isolation and characterization of SARS-CoV-2 Beta variant from UAE travelers

Pragya D. Yadav et al.

Summary: This study collected samples from travelers and found that SARS-CoV-2 variants are more easily transmitted through international travel. The researchers successfully isolated two strains with high viral RNA loads, which is important for evaluating the protective efficacy of current and upcoming COVID-19 vaccines in India.

JOURNAL OF INFECTION AND PUBLIC HEALTH (2022)

Review Medicine, General & Internal

Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) of SARS-CoV-2: Mutation, infectivity, transmission, and vaccine resistance

Shi-Yan Ren et al.

Summary: This review summarizes the highly mutated regions, infectivity, transmission, vaccine breakthrough, and antibody resistance of the SARS-CoV-2 variant Omicron. Omicron is highly transmissible and may cause milder symptoms. Vaccines are less effective against the Omicron variant.

WORLD JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CASES (2022)

Letter Infectious Diseases

Post-recovery enhancement of anti-variant neutralisation after severe COVID-19

Yingying Lu et al.

LANCET MICROBE (2022)

Review Respiratory System

Severe asthma in the era of COVID-19: A narrative review

Joao Gaspar-Marques et al.

Summary: This paper reviews the research on severe asthma and COVID-19, and summarizes the disease mechanisms of COVID-19 and the relationship between severe asthma endotypes and COVID-19. The results suggest that type2-high may have a protective role in infection risk and disease course, and there is conflicting data regarding the epidemiological relationship between severe asthma patients and COVID-19. Furthermore, the use of biologics for severe asthma does not seem to increase the risk of infection and severe COVID-19.

PULMONOLOGY (2022)

Review Environmental Sciences

Emergence of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant, salient features, high global health concerns and strategies to counter it amid ongoing COVID-19 pandemic

Rekha Khandia et al.

Summary: Since December 2019, SARS-CoV-2 has been rapidly evolving and mutating, leading to various variants with different levels of infectivity and lethality. The most recent variant of concern is Omicron (B.1.1.529), which has raised concerns about its ability to evade pre-existing immunity and overcome antibody-based therapies. Several theories have been proposed to explain the high number of mutations in Omicron. To successfully handle the ongoing pandemic, a multifaceted approach including rapid diagnosis, genome analysis, vaccination, and updated medical facilities is needed.

ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH (2022)

Article Infectious Diseases

Hospital admission and emergency care attendance risk for SARS-CoV-2 delta (B.1.617.2) compared with alpha (B.1.1.7) variants of concern: a cohort study

Katherine A. Twohig et al.

Summary: A study in England found that patients with COVID-19 infected with the delta variant were more likely to be admitted to hospital or attend emergency care compared to those infected with the alpha variant. This suggests that outbreaks of the delta variant in unvaccinated populations may pose a greater burden on healthcare services.

LANCET INFECTIOUS DISEASES (2022)

Review Virology

Present variants of concern and variants of interest of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2: Their significant mutations in S-glycoprotein, infectivity, re-infectivity, immune escape and vaccines activity

Chiranjib Chakraborty et al.

Summary: The study discusses the emergence of alarming SARS-CoV-2 variants globally, highlighting key properties, mutations, and clinical characteristics of both variant of concern (VOC) and variant of interest (VOI) variants. The comprehensive review offers updated information on these newly appearing variants to aid researchers in formulating strategies to control the COVID-19 pandemic.

REVIEWS IN MEDICAL VIROLOGY (2022)

Article Immunology

Is Booster Dose Strategy Sufficient for Omicron Variant of SARS-CoV-2?

Vivek P. Chavda et al.

Summary: The Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 is spreading in communities where previous infections and vaccinations have taken place. Over 130 countries have implemented booster dose programs to combat the Omicron variant. While early findings suggest that booster doses may enhance protection against Omicron, further research is needed to determine the efficacy of vaccines. This short communication critically discusses research findings on the booster dose strategy for Omicron.

VACCINES (2022)

Letter Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Omicron adopts a different strategy from Delta and other variants to adapt to host

Xiaohong Du et al.

SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION AND TARGETED THERAPY (2022)

Article Genetics & Heredity

An overview of basic molecular biology of SARS-CoV-2 and current COVID-19 prevention strategies

Ankur Das et al.

Summary: COVID-19 is a severe acute respiratory disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, researchers have identified the basic biology of the virus, including its genome structure and expression information, and various prevention strategies have been implemented globally.

GENE REPORTS (2021)

Editorial Material Medicine, General & Internal

Genetic Variants of SARS-CoV-2-What Do They Mean?

Adam S. Lauring et al.

JAMA-JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (2021)

News Item Medicine, General & Internal

Sorting Out Whether Vitamin D Deficiency Raises COVID-19 Risk

Rita Rubin

JAMA-JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (2021)

Review Pharmacology & Pharmacy

An update on drugs with therapeutic potential for SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) treatment

Sylwester Drozdzal et al.

Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic poses a significant threat to global health with various therapeutic agents initially proclaimed to be effective, but later disproved. The Pfizer agent PAXLOVIDTM has shown promising results in reducing hospitalization time and death rates. Further development of additional treatments is needed due to the insufficiency of current recommended therapeutic options.

DRUG RESISTANCE UPDATES (2021)

Article Immunology

DNA vaccines for SARS-CoV-2: toward third-generation vaccination era

Vivek P. Chavda et al.

Summary: DNA vaccines have the potential to provide protection against SARS-CoV-2 by transforming host cells into protein factories that trigger the immune system to produce antibodies. This vaccine platform offers advantages such as strong cellular immune response, high safety margin, and simple production process, making it a robust choice for large-scale production.

EXPERT REVIEW OF VACCINES (2021)

Article Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Looking beyond COVID-19 vaccine phase 3 trials

Jerome H. Kim et al.

Summary: Following the announcement of COVID-19 vaccine efficacy in clinical trials, a comprehensive strategy is needed for global vaccination, including manufacturing, support, supply coordination, equitable distribution, and logistics. Additionally, addressing scientific questions to improve vaccine efficacy is crucial for ending the pandemic effectively and efficiently.

NATURE MEDICINE (2021)

Article Medicine, General & Internal

Interim Results of a Phase 1-2a Trial of Ad26.COV2.S Covid-19 Vaccine

J. Sadoff et al.

Summary: The study conducted a multicenter, placebo-controlled, phase 1-2a trial, with participants randomly assigned to receive the Ad26.COV2.S vaccine. The results showed that the safety and immunogenicity profiles of the vaccine support further development.

NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE (2021)

Article Infectious Diseases

SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern P.1 (Gamma) infection in young and middle-aged patients admitted to the intensive care units of a single hospital in Salvador, Northeast Brazil, February 2021

Carolina Kymie Vasques Nonaka et al.

Summary: The study found that there was a decrease in the median age of ICU patients from 66 to 58 years between June 2020 and February 2021, with an increased proportion of patients without comorbidities. The second wave showed a significant reduction in the cycle threshold values of SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR tests.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES (2021)

Article Immunology

Evolutionary analysis of the Delta and Delta Plus variants of the SARS-CoV-2 viruses

Saathvik R. Kannan et al.

Summary: The study revealed differences in the mutational profile between Delta and Delta Plus variants, with Delta Plus having more high-prevalence mutations and unique signature mutations. Structural analysis showed that these mutations can weaken the interactions between the virus and antibodies.

JOURNAL OF AUTOIMMUNITY (2021)

Article Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants escape neutralization by vaccine-induced humoral immunity

Wilfredo F. Garcia-Beltran et al.

Summary: New variants of SARS-CoV-2 show high resistance to vaccine neutralization, with some able to escape vaccine responses with just a few mutations, highlighting the importance of developing broadly protective measures against variants.
Article Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Evidence of escape of SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.351 from natural and vaccine-induced sera

Daming Zhou et al.

Summary: The race to develop vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 variants, such as B.1.1.7, B.1.351, and P.1, is ongoing as these variants have mutations in the spike protein, potentially leading to immune escape. A structure-function analysis of B.1.351 revealed tighter ACE2 binding and widespread evasion from monoclonal antibody neutralization, particularly driven by the E484K mutation.
Article Microbiology

Comprehensive mapping of mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain that affect recognition by polyclonal human plasma antibodies

Allison J. Greaney et al.

Summary: The evolution of SARS-CoV-2 may impact the recognition of the virus by human antibody-mediated immunity, with mutations affecting antibody binding varying significantly among individuals and within the same individual over time. Despite this variability, mutations that greatly reduce antibody binding usually occur at specific sites in the RBD, with E484 being the most crucial. These findings can inform surveillance efforts for SARS-CoV-2 evolution in the future.

CELL HOST & MICROBE (2021)

Letter Infectious Diseases

CoronaVac induces lower neutralising activity against variants of concern than natural infection

Vimvara Vacharathit et al.

LANCET INFECTIOUS DISEASES (2021)

Review Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

COVID-19: Current knowledge in clinical features, immunological responses, and vaccine development

Ramandeep Singh et al.

Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic has posed the most challenging global health crisis in a century, infecting more than 100 million people and causing over 2.15 million deaths. Rapid efforts have been made to develop vaccines to combat the virus and prevent further spread.

FASEB JOURNAL (2021)

Editorial Material Medicine, General & Internal

SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines and the Growing Threat of Viral Variants

John P. Moore et al.

Summary: This article reviews the circulating SARS-CoV-2 genetic variants and the mechanisms of immunity by which they may escape vaccine-induced protection, proposing 6 measures to address these issues, including enhanced variant isolation and testing procedures, and continued adherence to mask-wearing and other established public health measures.

JAMA-JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (2021)

Letter Medicine, General & Internal

Tracking the Emergence of SARS-CoV-2 Alpha Variant in the United Kingdom

A. Sarah Walker et al.

NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE (2021)

Letter Infectious Diseases

Introduction of Brazilian SARS-CoV-2 484K.V2 related variants into the UK

Oliver T. R. Toovey et al.

JOURNAL OF INFECTION (2021)

Review Infectious Diseases

What defines an efficacious COVID-19 vaccine? A review of the challenges assessing the clinical efficacy of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2

Susanne H. Hodgson et al.

Summary: The development of a vaccine for the novel coronavirus is crucial to prevent the spread of the pandemic and reduce disease mortality. The efficacy endpoint is protection against severe disease and death, but evaluating this in phase 3 clinical trials poses challenges.

LANCET INFECTIOUS DISEASES (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

mRNA vaccine-elicited antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 and circulating variants

Zijun Wang et al.

Summary: Volunteers who received the Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine showed high levels of antibodies and memory B cell responses against SARS-CoV-2, with activity similar to individuals who had recovered from natural infection. However, their efficacy against specific SARS-CoV-2 variants was reduced, indicating a potential need for periodic updates to mRNA vaccines to maintain clinical efficacy.

NATURE (2021)

Article Green & Sustainable Science & Technology

COVID-19 pandemics Stage II - Energy and environmental impacts of vaccination

Jiri Jaromir Klemes et al.

Summary: This paper discusses the energy and environmental impacts of vaccinations, emphasizing the importance of implementing vaccinations in a maximum sustainable way. The cold supply chain accounts for a significant portion of the energy consumption in the vaccine lifecycle, highlighting the need for a sustainable supply chain model. This effort plays a critical role in preparing for future pandemics and suggests exploring sustainable materials to mitigate environmental footprints.

RENEWABLE & SUSTAINABLE ENERGY REVIEWS (2021)

Editorial Material Medicine, General & Internal

Covid-19: India is at centre of global vaccine manufacturing, but opacity threatens public trust

Kamala Thiagarajan

BMJ-BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL (2021)

Article Environmental Sciences

Low COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance Is Correlated with Conspiracy Beliefs among University Students in Jordan

Malik Sallam et al.

Summary: The study aimed to evaluate COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among university students in Jordan and found an association between vaccine conspiracy beliefs and vaccine hesitancy.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH (2021)

Review Immunology

Lessons learned 1 year after SARS-CoV-2 emergence leading to COVID-19 pandemic

Kelvin Kai-Wang To et al.

Summary: The lack of modern medical management and vaccines could lead to the COVID-19 pandemic reaching the levels of past deadly outbreaks like the 1894 plague and 1918-A(H1N1) influenza pandemic. The presence of multiple coronaviruses with pandemic potential in animals, coupled with environmental factors like the mixing and selling of wild mammals with poor hygiene practices in urban markets, pose a significant threat to global health. The emergence of new viruses and the challenges of mass testing, contact tracing, treatment, and potential development of vaccine-resistant virus variants highlight the importance of global preparedness in combating infectious diseases.

EMERGING MICROBES & INFECTIONS (2021)

Review Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology

Exploring the COVID-19 vaccine candidates against SARS-CoV-2 and its variants: where do we stand and where do we go?

Gaurav Joshi et al.

Summary: According to WHO, there are 117 COVID-19 vaccines in clinical development and 194 in preclinical development, with major platforms including protein subunit, RNA, and inactivated virus. Despite rapid manufacturing, the wealthiest countries holding only 10.8% of the world population have 28% of total vaccines, indicating an inequity in distribution.

HUMAN VACCINES & IMMUNOTHERAPEUTICS (2021)

Article Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Antibody evasion by the P.1 strain of SARS-CoV-2

Wanwisa Dejnirattisai et al.

Summary: Ending the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic requires global vaccination. New virus strains with mutations impact antibody responses, but some variants are less resistant than others. A monoclonal antibody can neutralize different variants and partially restore neutralization potency for other public antibodies.
Review Microbiology

Tools and Techniques for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)/COVID-19 Detection

Seyed Hamid Safiabadi Tali et al.

Summary: This paper provides a comprehensive review of technologies and methods used for detecting SARS-CoV-2 during the COVID-19 pandemic, including molecular, antigen-based, and immunological point-of-care testing, diagnostic imaging techniques, and biomarkers. The importance of timing and type of specimen collection is emphasized, along with suggestions for future pandemic preparedness.

CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY REVIEWS (2021)

Review Immunology

Effects of SARS-CoV-2 variants on vaccine efficacy and response strategies

Lianlian Bian et al.

Summary: The global spread of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has led to the emergence of several variants, posing challenges to vaccine efficacy. However, some vaccines have shown advantages in providing protection against certain variants. Response strategies have been proposed to address the challenges posed by emerging variants, including accelerating the rollout of current vaccines, enhancing vaccine immunogenicity, and developing next-generation vaccines targeting the variants.

EXPERT REVIEW OF VACCINES (2021)

Editorial Material Medicine, General & Internal

Alpha variant SARS-CoV-2 infection: How it all starts

Pere Domingo et al.

EBIOMEDICINE (2021)

Article Microbiology

SARS-CoV-2 E Gene Variant Alters Analytical Sensitivity Characteristics of Viral Detection Using a Commercial Reverse Transcription-PCR Assay

Stephen Tahan et al.

Summary: Diagnostic assays for detecting SARS-CoV-2 are essential for patient management and infection prevention. Mutations can affect the accuracy of these assays, highlighting the importance of using dual-target assays to reduce false-negative results.

JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY (2021)

Review Immunology

Emerging SARS-CoV-2 Variants: A Review of Its Mutations, Its Implications and Vaccine Efficacy

Sindhu Ramesh et al.

Summary: The widespread increase in SARS-CoV-2 variants is causing significant health concerns globally, with four variants of concern and several variants of interest identified for close monitoring. These variants exhibit increased transmissibility and severity, with significant impacts on the immune system.

VACCINES (2021)

Letter Microbiology

The Emergence of Sars-CoV-2 Variant Lambda (C.37) in South America

Pedro E. Romero et al.

MICROBIOLOGY SPECTRUM (2021)

Article Infectious Diseases

Vaccine side-effects and SARS-CoV-2 infection after vaccination in users of the COVID Symptom Study app in the UK: a prospective observational study

Cristina Menni et al.

Summary: This study investigated the safety and effectiveness of the BNT162b2 and ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccines in a UK community setting. The results showed that the frequencies of side effects from these vaccines were lower than reported in clinical trials, and a significant reduction in the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection was observed starting at 12 days after vaccination.

LANCET INFECTIOUS DISEASES (2021)

Review Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Counting on COVID-19 Vaccine: Insights into the Current Strategies, Progress and Future Challenges

Ramesh Kandimalla et al.

Summary: The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 in late 2019 led to the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting rapid development of multiple vaccine candidates which have been commercialized in 2021. While these vaccines showed promising results, key insights into their epidemiology, protective mechanisms, and reinfection tendencies are lacking. This report provides insights into vaccination prospects, diverse strategies, approved vaccines, success rates, and potential challenges for the future.

BIOMEDICINES (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Increased mortality in community-tested cases of SARS-CoV-2 lineage B.1.1.7

Nicholas G. Davies et al.

Summary: Studies have shown that the SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 lineage is more transmissible and may cause more severe illness compared to pre-existing variants.

NATURE (2021)

Review Microbiology

COVID-19: breaking down a global health crisis

Saad Mallah et al.

Summary: COVID-19 is the second pandemic of the twenty-first century caused by a novel strain of coronavirus, primarily transmitted via respiratory droplets. The virus is characterized by the spike glycoprotein, and most patients experience flu-like symptoms, with common complications including pneumonia.

ANNALS OF CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY AND ANTIMICROBIALS (2021)

Editorial Material Anesthesiology

SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern: the knowns and unknowns

Richard J. Lessells

ANAESTHESIA CRITICAL CARE & PAIN MEDICINE (2021)

Article Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

Identification of and Surveillance for the SARS-CoV-2 Variants B.1.427 and B.1.429-Colorado, January-March 2021

Lindsey Martin Webb et al.

MMWR-MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT (2021)

Review Microbiology

COVID-19: Insights into Potential Vaccines

Ke-Yan Loo et al.

Summary: The fear of COVID-19 loomed over the global population as they welcomed the new year in 2021, with millions infected and lives at risk. Pharmaceutical companies swiftly developed various types of vaccines, with several already authorized for emergency use, while others await approval.

MICROORGANISMS (2021)

Review Medicine, General & Internal

Mini-Review Discussing the Reliability and Efficiency of COVID-19 Vaccines

Bogdan Doroftei et al.

Summary: After analyzing 19 relevant articles, it was concluded that among the eleven vaccines, Pfizer-BioNTech (about 95%), Moderna (about 94%), and Sputnik V (about 92%) showed an efficacy greater than 90%, while Oxford-AstraZeneca was only about 81% effective. Additionally, Moderna, Sputnik V, and Oxford-AstraZeneca also reduced the occurrence of severe adverse reactions.

DIAGNOSTICS (2021)

News Item Medicine, General & Internal

NEWS Alpha, Beta, Delta, Gamma: What's important to know about SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern?

Diana Duong

CANADIAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION JOURNAL (2021)

Review Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

The origins and potential future of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern in the evolving COVID-19 pandemic

Sarah P. Otto et al.

Summary: After a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, attention has shifted to the emergence and spread of variants of concern (VOCs) of SARS-CoV-2. These variants have shown detrimental effects on virus transmission and severity, prompting global efforts to understand their impact on disease control and public health interventions. Efforts are being made to explore the evolutionary processes involved in the emergence of new variants and to minimize their impact on the ongoing pandemic.

CURRENT BIOLOGY (2021)

Review Pharmacology & Pharmacy

Intranasal vaccines for SARS-CoV-2: From challenges to potential in COVID-19 management

Vivek P. Chavda et al.

Summary: Intranasal vaccines have advantages in targeting SARS-CoV-2 infection, eliciting immune responses, and avoiding infections, while also convenient for self-administration and storage at ambient temperatures.

DRUG DISCOVERY TODAY (2021)

Article Infectious Diseases

Neutralising capacity against Delta (B.1.617.2) and other variants of concern following Comirnaty (BNT162b2, BioNTech/Pfizer) vaccination in health care workers, Israel

Yaniv Lustig et al.

Summary: The study found that healthcare workers vaccinated with Comirnaty showed reduced neutralising titres against the Gamma, Beta, and Delta variants, but the remaining neutralisation capacity may still be protective.

EUROSURVEILLANCE (2021)

Article Infectious Diseases

The SARS-CoV-2 B.1.351 lineage (VOC β) is outgrowing the B.1.1.7 lineage (VOC α) in some French regions in April 2021

Benedicte Roquebert et al.

Summary: During April to May 2021, variants of concern beta and gamma had a significant transmission advantage over variant alpha in Ile-de-France and Hauts-de-France regions in France, possibly due to their immune evasion abilities and high proportions of prior SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals in these areas.

EUROSURVEILLANCE (2021)

Editorial Material Medicine, General & Internal

Variants of SARS-CoV-2

Adam S. Lauring et al.

JAMA-JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Age-related immune response heterogeneity to SARS-CoV-2 vaccine BNT162b2

Dami A. Collier et al.

Summary: Elderly individuals, especially those above eighty, show lower immune responses and neutralization abilities against variants of concern after the first vaccine dose, but this improves after the second dose. They have higher frequencies of spike-specific memory B cells but reduced somatic hypermutation of class-switched cells. Production of interferon-gamma and interleukin-2 by SARS-CoV-2 spike-specific T cells is lower in older participants, predominantly by CD4 T cells.

NATURE (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Reduced sensitivity of SARS-CoV-2 variant Delta to antibody neutralization

Delphine Planas et al.

Summary: The SARS-CoV-2 B.1.617 Delta variant, first identified in India in 2020, has become dominant in some regions and is spreading to many countries. This variant shows resistance to certain monoclonal antibodies and antibodies in convalescent sera, as well as reduced neutralization by some COVID-19 vaccines. Administration of two doses of the vaccine is needed for a neutralizing response against the Delta variant.

NATURE (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

BNT162b2-elicited neutralization of B.1.617 and other SARS-CoV-2 variants

Jianying Liu et al.

Summary: Serum samples from individuals vaccinated with the BNT162b2 vaccine can neutralize various SARS-CoV-2 variants, indicating mass immunization as a central strategy to end the global COVID-19 pandemic.

NATURE (2021)

Review Microbiology

SARS-CoV-2 variants, spike mutations and immune escape

William T. Harvey et al.

Summary: The evolution of SARS-CoV-2 has been characterized by the emergence of mutations and variants that impact virus characteristics. Manufacturers are preparing for possible updates to vaccines in response to changes in the virus population, and it is crucial to monitor genetic and antigenic changes alongside experiments to understand the impacts of mutations.

NATURE REVIEWS MICROBIOLOGY (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Increased elastase sensitivity and decreased intramolecular interactions in the more transmissible 501Y.V1 and 501Y.V2 SARS-CoV-2 variants' spike protein-an in silico analysis

Suman Pokhrel et al.

Summary: Two SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern have been identified recently, showing increased transmissibility compared to the Wuhan virus. While these variants do not appear to cause more severe illness or increased risk of death, the faster spread of the virus poses a major threat. Computational tools suggest that the increased transmissibility of the new variants may be due to changes in the spike protein structure, which could help in identifying potential treatments to combat these more transmittable strains.

PLOS ONE (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

SARS-CoV-2 immune evasion by the B.1.427/B.1.429 variant of concern

Matthew McCallum et al.

Summary: The novel CAL.20C (B.1.427/B.1.429) variant carries spike protein mutations, resulting in reduced neutralizing titers in vaccinated individuals and convalescent individuals. The L452R mutation reduces neutralizing activity in RBD-specific monoclonal antibodies, while the S13I and W152C mutations lead to the total loss of neutralization in NTD-specific antibodies due to antigenic supersite remodeling.

SCIENCE (2021)

Review Virology

The Spike of Concern-The Novel Variants of SARS-CoV-2

Anna Winger et al.

Summary: The high sequence identity of the initial SARS-CoV-2 samples collected in Wuhan in December 2019 did not predict the emergence of novel variants in different regions around the world. The viral spike receptor has two areas of high mutagenic plasticity, with mutations mainly focusing on the N-terminal domain and receptor binding domain. The evolution of spike mutations, including the characteristic D614G mutation, continues to drive the development of new variants.

VIRUSES-BASEL (2021)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Neutralizing activity of Sputnik V vaccine sera against SARS-CoV-2 variants

Satoshi Ikegame et al.

Summary: The authors characterize the neutralizing capacity of post-Sputnik V vaccination sera against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern B.1.1.7 (alpha) and B.1.351 (beta), showing the latter to exhibit resistance to neutralization in vitro.

NATURE COMMUNICATIONS (2021)

News Item Medicine, General & Internal

Covid-19: Single vaccine dose is 33% effective against variant from India, data show

Gareth Iacobucci

BMJ-BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL (2021)

Review Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

SARS-CoV-2: from its discovery to genome structure, transcription, and replication

Ayslan Castro Brant et al.

Summary: SARS-CoV-2 is a highly contagious respiratory virus causing adult atypical pneumonia COVID-19 with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). This virus enters susceptible cells and directly translates polyproteins to initiate viral genome replication and transcription.

CELL AND BIOSCIENCE (2021)

Article Cell Biology

Recurrent emergence of SARS-CoV-2 spike deletion H69/V70 and its role in the Alpha variant B.1.1.7

Bo Meng et al.

Summary: The Delta H69N70 mutation in SARS-CoV-2 spike protein increases infectivity and partially rescues immune escape mutations that impair infectivity. Continued surveillance and research on deletions with functional effects are necessary.

CELL REPORTS (2021)

Review Pharmacology & Pharmacy

Advanced Computational Methodologies Used in the Discovery of New Natural Anticancer Compounds

Vivek P. P. Chavda et al.

Summary: Investigations into natural chemical compounds for their programmed necrosis potential have led to the emergence of multi-target drugs and new drug discovery methods like fragment-based drug discovery for natural anticancer agents.

FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY (2021)

Editorial Material Microbiology

SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Interest and Concern naming scheme conducive for global discourse

Frank Konings et al.

Summary: A group convened and led by the Virus Evolution Working Group of the World Health Organization has announced a naming scheme to enable clear communication about SARS-CoV-2 variants of interest and concern.

NATURE MICROBIOLOGY (2021)

Article Immunology

Asian-Origin Approved COVID-19 Vaccines and Current Status of COVID-19 Vaccination Program in Asia: A Critical Analysis

Chiranjib Chakraborty et al.

Summary: This paper analyzed the Asian-origin COVID-19 vaccines and vaccination program status in Asia till March 2021 under three sections. The analysis includes the mapping of approved vaccines, evaluation of vaccination programs, and factors affecting the vaccination program, aiming to assist the successful implementation of COVID-19 vaccination program in Asia.

VACCINES (2021)

Article Public, Environmental & Occupational Health

A Machine-Generated View of the Role of Blood Glucose Levels in the Severity of COVID-19

Emmanuelle Logette et al.

Summary: The research found that elevated blood glucose is a key factor in the progression of COVID-19 and can facilitate the disease through multiple mechanisms, explaining the differences in disease severity across populations. The study provides diagnostic considerations, new areas of research, and potential treatments, while also cautioning on the need for careful treatment strategies and critical care conditions that induce elevations in blood glucose levels.

FRONTIERS IN PUBLIC HEALTH (2021)

Review Medicine, General & Internal

SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern

Jun Yong Choi et al.

Summary: Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the SARS-CoV-2 virus has evolved into various variants, with some designated as VOCs that have higher transmissibility and disease severity, potentially impacting vaccine effectiveness.

YONSEI MEDICAL JOURNAL (2021)

Article Medicine, Research & Experimental

Dominance of Alpha and Iota variants in SARS-CoV-2 vaccine breakthrough infections in New York City

Ralf Duerr et al.

Summary: The study found that breakthrough infections still occur after receiving COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, but the vaccines have high efficacy against B.1.1.7 and B.1.526 variants.

JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION (2021)

Review Medicine, General & Internal

Global access to COVID-19 vaccines: a scoping review of factors that may influence equitable access for low and middle-income countries

Elizabeth F. Peacocke et al.

Summary: This study aimed to identify factors affecting equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines for low and middle-income countries, finding four key factors such as collectively agreed global mechanisms, vaccine manufacturing, and countries' strength in implementing vaccination programs.

BMJ OPEN (2021)

Review Critical Care Medicine

Emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern and potential intervention approaches

Jasmin Khateeb et al.

Summary: Mutations in VOCs can increase the transmissibility of the virus and potentially impact vaccine efficacy, highlighting the need for combination therapeutic strategies.

CRITICAL CARE (2021)

Article Immunology

Rapidly emerging SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 sub-lineage in the United States of America with spike protein D178H and membrane protein V70L mutations

Lishuang Shen et al.

Summary: The SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 lineage, characterized by the N501Y mutation and other mutations, is highly infectious with high prevalence in Europe and the U.S. A sub-lineage of B.1.1.7 with M:V70L and S:D178H mutations emerged in the U.S., increasing in prevalence from February to April 2021. This sub-lineage, specific to the U.S., may have originated in California or Washington according to phylogenetic analysis.

EMERGING MICROBES & INFECTIONS (2021)

Letter Infectious Diseases

SARS-CoV-2 spike E484K mutation reduces antibody neutralisation

Sonia Jangra et al.

LANCET MICROBE (2021)

Review Veterinary Sciences

Factor Influences for Diagnosis and Vaccination of Avian Infectious Bronchitis Virus (Gammacoronavirus) in Chickens

Md Safiul Alam Bhuiyan et al.

Summary: IBV is a major economic problem in commercial chicken farms, despite vaccination efforts outbreaks continue due to inadequate vaccine candidates and emergence of novel variants. Improving diagnostic methods is essential to detect IBV infections, while various risk factors impact the effectiveness of IB vaccinations.

VETERINARY SCIENCES (2021)

Editorial Material Microbiology

Laboratory Diagnosis of COVID-19: Current Issues and Challenges

Yi-Wei Tang et al.

JOURNAL OF CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY (2020)

Editorial Material Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology

The COVID-19 vaccine development landscape

Tung Thanh Le et al.

NATURE REVIEWS DRUG DISCOVERY (2020)

Article Microbiology

A dynamic nomenclature proposal for SARS-CoV-2 lineages to assist genomic epidemiology

Andrew Rambaut et al.

NATURE MICROBIOLOGY (2020)

Article Ethics

Rethinking the Central Role of Equity in the Global Governance of Pandemic Response

Oghenowede Eyawo et al.

JOURNAL OF BIOETHICAL INQUIRY (2020)

Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Sequence analysis of SARS-CoV-2 genome reveals features important for vaccine design

Jacob Kames et al.

SCIENTIFIC REPORTS (2020)

Review Immunology

Progress and Pitfalls in the Quest for Effective SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccines

Katie L. Flanagan et al.

FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY (2020)

Review Immunology

Gut Microbiota Status in COVID-19: An Unrecognized Player?

Sabrina Donati Zeppa et al.

FRONTIERS IN CELLULAR AND INFECTION MICROBIOLOGY (2020)

Review Ophthalmology

Therapeutic opportunities to manage COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 infection: Present and future

Rohit Shetty et al.

INDIAN JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY (2020)

Review Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Mechanisms of viral mutation

Rafael Sanjuan et al.

CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR LIFE SCIENCES (2016)

Editorial Material Immunology

Global Vaccine Action Plan

Margaret Chan et al.

VACCINE (2013)

Review Oncology

Transcriptional mutagenesis: causes and involvement in tumour development

Damien Bregeon et al.

NATURE REVIEWS CANCER (2011)

Article Virology

New viral vaccines

AM Arvin et al.

VIROLOGY (2006)