What Is the New Coronavirus Variant-Mutation? How Was It Discovered? Will Vaccines Be Effective?

Since April 2020, the United Kingdom Covid-19 Genomics Consortium had been studying 140 thousand SARS-CoV-2 viral genomes through sequencing, analyzing genetic changes in the coronavirus. On 18 December 2020, the consortium announced the discovery of a new variant (a new form of the virus in terms of genetics and behavior). This new SARS-CoV-2 variant was named “VUI-202012/01” or “B.1.1.7”. Let us answer your questions about this variant in light of scientific developments so far.

What Is the New SARS-CoV-2? What Do We Know about It?

The new variant discovered in the United Kingdom was named “VUI-202012/01” or “B.1.1.7”. Its importance comes from the detection, unlike earlier variants, of many mutations (genetic changes).

B.1.1.7 has 17 mutations. These occurred in different regions of the virus.

The Newly Identified Coronavirus Mutations Are:

• In the ORF1ab region, T1001I, A1708D, I2230T, SGF 3675-3677 (deletion)
• In the spike (crown / spike) region, 69-70 deletion, Y144 deletion, N501Y, A570D, P681H, T716I, S982A and D1118H
• In the N region, Q27stop, R52I and Y73C in ÖRF8; D3L and S235F

The most important of these mutations are those in the spike proteins: N501Y, N439K, Y453F and 69-70del.

Why Is the New Coronavirus Variant More Transmissible?

The N501Y mutation occurred in the receptor-binding region of the virus's spike protein. This region is used by the virus to bind to the ACE2 receptor on human cells. This mutation may increase the virus's binding to the ACE2 receptor.

The other two mutations, N439K and Y453, also occurred in the receptor-binding region. These mutations have been seen to increase the virus's binding to ACE2 receptors and facilitate escape from the immune system through this process as observed.

The P681H mutation occurred at the spike protein's furin cleavage site. We do not yet know its biological effect.

The 69-70 deletion mutation resulted from deletion of amino acids 69 and 70 of the spike protein. This mutation is thought to facilitate the virus's escape from the immune system. It is suggested to have developed in a chronic Covid-19 patient receiving convalescent plasma therapy. In this patient, the virus may have changed to evade antibody treatment.

Laboratory work has previously shown that these mutations enable the virus to infect cells and mice more easily. However, we do not yet have scientific evidence that it is directly more transmissible in humans.

When Was the New Variant Discovered?

All viruses mutate over time and new variants emerge. This is expected.

Genetic analyses indicate that the new SARS-CoV-2 variant emerged in September 2020 and was seen at low levels in the community until mid-November.

The discovery of the variant stems from the English Public Health center's investigation into why cases in the city of "Kent" did not decline despite strict measures.

The variant was subsequently seen to spread rapidly in London and Essex. Its distribution in other countries is not yet known because they have not conducted detailed viral genome analyses. However, the new variant was identified in a person in Italy who had arrived from the United Kingdom.

Will Vaccines Be Effective against the New Coronavirus?

We have no scientific evidence on this subject. Laboratory research will determine whether the new variant affects vaccines.

The 3 modern vaccines developed (BioNTech, Moderna and AstraZeneca) target the virus's spike proteins. The new variant has mutations in the spike protein region. Vaccines induce antibody production against more than one region of the spike protein. The likelihood that the new variant will reduce vaccine effectiveness is therefore very low. Vaccines provide immunity through multiple antibodies.

Are Mutations in SARS-CoV-2 Expected?

SARS- CoV-2 is an RNA virus. Mutation as the virus replicates is a natural process. Since the outbreak began, thousands of mutations have been seen in SARS-CoV-2. The great majority have no effect. For example, more than 4000 mutations have been identified in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to date.

The quarantine measures and flight bans imposed by countries are quite normal. These measures need to be taken until we understand the new variant's characteristics.

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