Related references
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Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
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Summary: On November 24, 2021, the sequence of a new SARS-CoV-2 variant, Omicron-B.1.1.529, was announced. Compared to previous variants, Omicron has a higher number of mutations in the Spike (S) protein. Serum neutralization of Omicron by individuals vaccinated or previously infected with Alpha, Beta, Gamma, or Delta variants is significantly reduced or ineffective. Third vaccine doses can boost neutralization titers against Omicron, and high titers are observed in both vaccinated individuals and those infected with the Delta variant. Most potent monoclonal antibodies and antibodies under development are unable to effectively neutralize Omicron due to mutations in its Spike protein. Omicron has structural changes compared to earlier viruses and utilizes mutations that enhance its binding to ACE2, allowing for immune escape. This results in a large number of mutations in the ACE2 binding site and a rebalancing of receptor affinity similar to earlier pandemic viruses.
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Summary: The Omicron variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has caused global panic due to its high infectivity and ability to escape vaccines. A comprehensive analysis using an artificial intelligence model and antibody structure analysis reveals that Omicron may be over 10 times more contagious than the original virus and has an 88% likelihood of vaccine escape. This study highlights the importance of developing mutation-proof vaccines and antibodies.
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Summary: This study compared plasma and dried blood spots for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies. The results showed a good correlation between IgG values measured by both sampling methods, with correlation coefficients of 0.935 and 0.965 for the Receptor Binding Domain and full-length spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, respectively. Bland-Altman assessment also demonstrated good agreement between the two sampling methods. Therefore, dried blood spots are a more pragmatic method for collecting samples for sero-epidemiological surveys of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Summary: The SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in southern Africa has experienced three distinct waves, driven by different variants. The recently identified Omicron variant has rapidly spread in South Africa and to numerous countries, raising global concern.
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Summary: The Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 spread more rapidly in South Africa, where two thirds of unvaccinated residents were found to have past infections. Omicron peaked just 1 month after being detected, with hospitalizations and deaths not increasing proportionately with the rise in cases. It remains unclear whether this change is due to widespread preexisting immunity or unique features of the virus.
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Summary: The study assessed the impact of Omicron mutations on known T cell epitopes and found that T cell responses to this new variant remain robust.
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Summary: Despite reduced neutralizing antibody activity, T cell responses induced by vaccination or infection can cross-recognize the Omicron variant and provide protection.
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