Insights on the mutational landscape of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant.

ABSTRACT: The SARS-COV2 Omicron variant has sparked global concern due to the possibility of enhanced transmissibility and escape from vaccines and therapeutics. In this study, we describe the mutational landscape of the Omicron variant using amino acid interaction (AAI) networks. AAI network analysis is particularly well suited for interrogating the impact of constellations of mutations as occur on Omicron that may function in an epistatic manner. Our analyses suggest that as compared to previous variants of concern, the Omicron variant has increased antibody escape breadth due to mutations in class 3 and 4 antibody epitopes as well as increased escape depth due to accumulated mutations in class 1 antibody epitopes. We note certain RBD mutations that might further enhance Omicron's es

SUBMITTER: Miller NL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8669838 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature