Omicron (B.1.1.529) – variant of concern – molecular profile and epidemiology: a mini review
S. Kannan, P. Shaik Syed Ali, A. Sheeza School of Medicine, The Maldives National University, Male’, Maldives. Kannan.subbaram@mnuedu.mv
Recently a new variant of SARS-CoV-2 was reported from South Africa. World Health Organization (WHO) named this mutant as a variant of concern – Omicron (B.1.1.529) on 26th November 2021. This variant exhibited more than thirty amino acid mutations in the spike protein. This mutation rate is exceeding the other variants by approximately 5-11 times in the receptor-binding motif of the spike protein. Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant might have enhanced transmissibility and immune evasion. This new variant can reinfect individuals previously infected with other SARS-CoV-2 variants. Scientists expressed their concern about the efficacy of already existing COVID-19 vaccines against Omicron (B.1.1.529) infections. Some of the crucial mutations that are detected in the receptor-binding domain of the Omicron variant have been shared by previously evolved SARS-CoV-2 variants. Based on the Omicron mutation profile in the receptor-binding domain and motif, it might have collectively enhanced or intermediary infectivity relative to its previous variants. Due to extensive mutations in the spike protein, the Omicron variant might evade the immunity in the vaccinated individuals.
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To cite this article
S. Kannan, P. Shaik Syed Ali, A. Sheeza
Omicron (B.1.1.529) – variant of concern – molecular profile and epidemiology: a mini review
Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci
Year: 2021
Vol. 25 - N. 24
Pages: 8019-8022
DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202112_27653