SARS Cov2: offer insights into virus evolution.
A UCL-led research team has characterised patterns of diversity of SARS-Cov-2 virus genome, offering clues to direct drug and vaccine targets. The study led by the UCL genetics institute, identified close to 200 recurrent genetic mutations in the virus. Researchers found that a large proportion of the global genetic diversity of SARS Cov2 is found in all hardest-hit countries, suggesting extensive global transmission from early on the epidemic & non-attendance of one patient zeroes in most countries.
Scientist analysing the emergence of genomic diversity in SARS-Cov-2. The new coronavirus causing COVID-19, screening the genome of over 7,500 viruses from infected patients around the globe. They identified 198 mutations. Professor Francois Balloux said: All viruses naturally mutate. Mutations in themselves are not a bad thing and there is nothing to suggest SARS-Cov-2 is mutating. As some part of the genome had very few mutations, the researchers say those invariant parts of the virus could be a better target for drug and vaccine development.