AS COVID-19 continues to spread its tentacles across the globe, some scientists are theorising that the virus, also dubbed as SARS-CoV-2, is mutating. Understanding these mutations, which are essentially small genetic changes or “errors” in the entire genome of a virus made up of 30,000 letters, is significant for the development and evaluation of new diagnostics, drugs and vaccines.
According to a study from the Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico (that has not yet been peer-reviewed), there exists a potentially more transmissible or contagious strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus due to a mutation to the spike protein (S protein)—that mediates virus entry into host cells—called D614G. As per the study, the mutation Spike D614G is of urgent concern. It began spreading in Europe in early February. When introduced to new regions, it rapidly became the dominant form. Although the observed diversity among the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic sequences is low, its rapid global spread provides the virus with ample opportunity for natural selection to act upon rare but favourable mutations.
Spike protein is the main target of antibodies, and many vaccines are developed based on it. Mutations in virus may hamper the protection induced by a vaccine based on one variant of the spike protein.
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Themes Of Choice
As Savvy Investors Seek New Avenues, Thematic Mutual Funds Are Gaining Popularity
A golden girl
One of India's most formidable beauties passed away earlier this month. The odd thing is she would absolutely hate this obituary; she hated being written about and avoided publicity for all of her nine decades. Indira Aswani was 93 when she died. But anyone who encountered her, even briefly, was in such awe of her grace and poise, and one could not but remember her forever.
The interest in wine is growing delightfully in India
The renowned British wine writer and television presenter Jancis Robinson, 74, recently came to Delhi and Mumbai to reacquaint herself with India's wine industry. This was the Robinson's fourth visit to India; the last one was seven years ago. On this trip, Robinson and her husband, restaurateur Nicholas Lander, were hosted by the Taj Hotels and Sonal Holland, India's only Master of Wine.
United in the states
Indian-Americans coming together under the Democratic umbrella could get Harris over the line in key battlegrounds
COVER DRIVE
Usage-driven motor insurance policies offer several benefits
GDP as the only measure of progress is illogical
Dasho Karma Ura, one of the world's leading happiness experts, has guided Bhutan's unique gross national happiness (GNH) project. He uses empirical data to show that money cannot buy happiness in all circumstances, rather it is family and health that have the strongest positive effect on happiness. Excerpts from an interview:
India is not a controlling big brother
Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay considers India a benevolent elder sibling as the \"big brotherly attitude\" is happily missing from bilateral ties. He thinks the relationship shared by the two countries has become a model of friendship not just for the region, but for the entire world. \"India's attitude is definitely not of a big brother who is controlling and does not allow the little brother to blossom and grow,\" says Tobgay in an exclusive interview with THE WEEK.
Comrade with no foes
Lal Salaam, Comrade Yechury-you were quite a guy!
Pinning down saffron
In her first political bout, Vinesh Phogat rides on the anti-BJP sentiment across Haryana
MAKE IN MANIPUR
Home-made rockets and weapons from across the border are escalating the conflict
