In December 2019, several cases of pneumonia of unknown etiology were reported in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. The disease which is now called COVID-19 is caused by a novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which was discovered through whole-genome sequencing, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and culture of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid obtained from affected patients.
Soon after, Chinese researchers revealed that the virus is 96 per cent identical at the whole-genome level to a bat coronavirus. The researchers also announced that the virus uses a same cell entry receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), for its entry into the host. A spike glycoprotein found on the surface of SARS-CoV-2 is a class I fusion protein which helps the virus in its initial attachment with human ACE2 receptor and its consecutive fusion with the host cells. The attachment is mediated by the S1 subunit of theprotein via its receptor-binding domain.
Simultaneously, researchers across the globe started conducting similar studies to understand how exactly this virus is attacking the humans. Researchers also started studying the infection pattern of this virus in different countries and came out with the finding that there may be a unique mutation in the viral strain infecting the Indian population. And may be that is the reason why few countries are suffering large numbers of fatalities as compared to India.
Researchers from Taiwan and Australia have apparently found a coronavirus strain isolated in India carrying mutations in the spike protein’s receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the virus. A computer simulation shows that the RBD mutation that was not found in any other variants across the world, could remove a hydrogen bond from the spike protein. In the absence of this bond, the virus is less likely to bind to ACE2 that is found in the lungs and other organs.
This story is from the May 2020 edition of Bio Spectrum.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 2020 edition of Bio Spectrum.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Early Diabetic Retinopathy Detection Remains a Challenge
The Vitreo Retinal Society of India (VRSI) and the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI) have formulated a first-of-its kind diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening guideline to help physicians and diabetologists in India educate their patients about DR.
Promega unveils GloMax Galaxy Bioluminescence Imager for illuminating protein dynamics in real time
US-based Promega Corporation, a life-sciences research partner dedicated to providing intuitive tools that empower scientists to innovate, has unveiled the new GloMax Galaxy Bioluminescence Imager.
Qiagen launches QIAcuityDx digital PCR system for clinical testing in oncology
Qiagen N.V. has announced the launch of the QIAcuityDx Digital PCR System, a pivotal addition to its digital PCR portfolio now expanding into clinical diagnostics.
Thermo Fisher introduces iCAP MX Series ICP-MS to simplify trace elemental analysis
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. has launched the Thermo Scientific iCAP MX Series ICP-MS to simplify trace element analysis with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).
Singleron, Bioscreen to enhance access to single cell multi-omics solutions for Indian researchers
Singleron Biotechnologies, a leading innovator in single cell multi-omics solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Bioscreen, a renowned distributor of advanced life science products in India.
IIT Madras identifies enhanced drug delivery method for eye treatments
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) have demonstrated how drugs injected in the human eye can be better delivered to the target region through ‘convection caused by mild laser heating’.
IIT Madras develops indigenous POCUS scanner for sports injury diagnosis
A team of researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) has developed an indigenous portable Point-of-Care-Ultrasound (POCUS) Scanner for sports injury diagnosis and management.
Practo strengthens Board with appointment of TVG Krishnamurthy and Dr Alexander Kuruvilla
Practo has appointed two new directors to its board: TVG Krishnamurthy and Dr Alexander Kuruvilla.
Dr R N Gupta steps in as National President of Indian Pharmaceutical Association
Dr R N Gupta has been elected as the National President of the Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA), the oldest and largest association of pharmaceutical professionals in the country, for the term 2024 - 2026 (October 1, 2024 - September 30, 2026).
QR678 brings medtech leader Sridhar Ranganathan to advisory board
QR678, a pioneering company dedicated to revolutionising hair and skin science through groundbreaking research and innovative solutions, has announced the appointment of Sridhar Ranganathan to its Board of Advisors.