Emergence of SARS-CoV-2 serotype(s): Is it a matter of time?

Author(s)

Joaquim Silva Junior, Jose Valter ; Duraes-Carvalho, Ricardo ; de Souza, Joelma Rodrigues ; Ramos Janini, Luiz Mario ; Weiblen, Rudi ; Flores, Eduardo Furtado

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: VIROLOGY; v. 585, p. 4-pg., 2023-06-13.

Abstract

Since its identification in late 2019, SARS-CoV-2 has undergone numerous mutations, resulting in the emergence of several viral variants, which may differ in transmissibility, virulence and/or evasion from host immunity. Particularly, immunity-related changes have been well documented in the Omicron variant, including reports of escaping neutralizing antibodies induced by infection/vaccination with heterologous SARS-CoV-2 or used in serological therapy. These findings may encourage some discussions about the possibility that Omicron is a distinct SARS-CoV-2 serotype. To contribute to this issue, we combined concepts from immunology, virology and evolution and performed an interesting brainstorm on the hypothesis that Omicron is a distinct SARS-CoV-2 serotype. Furthermore, we also discussed the likelihood of emergence of SARS-CoV-2 serotypes over time, which may not necessarily be related to Omicron. Finally, insights into this topic may have direct implications for vaccine formulations, immunodiagnostic platforms and serological therapies, contributing to better management of future outbreaks or waves. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 19/01255-9 - Bats: epidemiological surveillance, high-resolution phylodynamics, search and design of peptides of biotechnological interest in emergent and reemerging viruses
• Grantee: Ricardo Durães de Carvalho
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants
• FAPESP's process: 20/08943-5 - Investigation of the hosts' induced elements in response to the immunisation with ChAdOx1 nCOV-19 vaccine in a Phase III Clinical Trial
• Grantee: Luiz Mário Ramos Janini
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 21/03684-4 - Bats: epidemiological surveillance, high-resolution phylodynamics, search and design of peptides of biotechnological interest in emergent and reemerging viruses
• Grantee: Ricardo Durães de Carvalho
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Young Researchers