As scientists scramble to learn more about the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, two recent studies of the virus’ genome reached controversial conclusions: namely, that snakes are intermediate hosts of the new virus, and that a key coronavirus protein shares “uncanny similarities” with an HIV-1 protein. Now, a study in ACS’ Journal of Proteome Research refutes both ideas and suggests …
Monthly Archives: March 2020
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Mar
Mar
Thirty thousand base pairs make up the (relatively tiny) SARS-CoV-2 genome. A singular genome holds limited information. But, by comparing multiple genomes from different patients, animals, places, or time periods, the DNA’s information can be unlocked. From where the virus originated to how it spilled over from animals into humans, how quickly it mutates, and …
26
Mar
Mar
The U.K. has a plan to sequence and analyze the genetic code of SARS-CoV-2 from as many COVID-19 samples as they can. Scientists, clinicians, academic institutions, and the government have joined together in a massive collaboration to create a map of COVID-19 spread based on whole-genome sequencing. This effort, named the COVID-19 Genomics UK Consortium …
26
Mar
Mar
The list of compounds that could make an effective COVID-19 treatment grows longer each day. The latest to join the ranks, EIDD-2801, shows notable promise in becoming a weapon in the fight against SARS-CoV-2 and has infused new hope into the search for a possible therapeutic for COVID-19. A description of the efficacy of EIDD-2801 …
18
Mar
Mar
Despite internet rumors to the contrary, the new coronavirus arose from natural causes and was not concocted in a lab, according to scientists who conducted a detailed genomic examination of the virus. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 illness, shows zero evidence of being artificially engineered, reported a team who published their findings March 17 in Nature Medicine. …
07
Mar
Mar
As of today’s reports, the global number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 has surpassed 100 000. As we mark this sombre moment, the World Health Organization (WHO) reminds all countries and communities that the spread of this virus can be significantly slowed or even reversed through the implementation of robust containment and control activities. China …