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Summary: Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, the Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has emerged as the most mutated and concerning variant. It has shown high transmissibility and immune evasion abilities, rapidly replacing the Delta variant in several regions. However, recent studies suggest that Omicron has reduced pathogenicity and significant resistance to vaccines and antibody therapies. This review summarizes the molecular and clinical characteristics of Omicron, discusses potential therapeutic approaches, and highlights strategies for ending the pandemic.
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Luca Braga et al.
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Summary: The Delta variant is rapidly replacing other strains of SARS-CoV-2, with a higher R-0 value of 5.08 compared to the ancestral strain's 2.79. Increasing vaccine coverage and strengthening public health measures are now more urgent than ever to control the spread of the virus.
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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.
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Jiri Zahradnik et al.
Summary: In vitro evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor-binding domain successfully generated a high-affinity variant effective in inhibiting virus infection. Mutations present in more transmissible viruses were preferentially selected, and increased affinity to ACE2 was positively correlated with the incidence of RBD mutations in the population. The study also identified mutations with potential higher infectivity, and the high-affinity RBD variant showed efficacy in inhibiting infection in vitro and reducing clinical disease in a hamster model of SARS-CoV-2 challenge.
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