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The 2019-new coronavirus epidemic: Evidence for virus evolution
Domenico Benvenuto1, Marta Giovanetti2, Alessandra Ciccozzi1
1Unit of Medical Statistics and Molecular Epidemiology, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Rome, Italy.
Journal of Medical Virology
|January 30, 2020
Summary
The novel coronavirus 2019-nCoV, a global health concern, shows evolutionary links to bat coronaviruses. Analysis reveals mutations in key proteins, suggesting bat origin and human transmission capabilities.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Epidemiology
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- The emergence of the novel coronavirus 2019-nCoV (now known as SARS-CoV-2) presented a significant global public health challenge.
- Understanding the evolutionary origins and molecular characteristics of new viruses is crucial for assessing pandemic potential and developing countermeasures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a preliminary evolutionary and molecular epidemiological analysis of the 2019-nCoV.
- To compare the genetic and structural features of 2019-nCoV with related coronaviruses, including SARS and MERS.
Main Methods:
- Phylogenetic analysis using whole genome sequences of 2019-nCoV and related coronaviruses (SARS, MERS, bat SARS-like coronaviruses).
- Fast unconstrained Bayesian approximation (FUBAR) analysis to identify sites under positive selection in viral proteins.
- Homology modeling to assess molecular and structural differences between viruses.
Main Results:
- Phylogenetic analysis indicated that 2019-nCoV clusters closely with a bat SARS-like coronavirus isolated in 2015.
- FUBAR analysis identified sites under positive pressure in the nucleocapsid and spike glycoprotein genes.
- Structural analysis revealed key mutations in the Spike Glycoprotein and nucleocapsid protein, distinguishing 2019-nCoV from SARS.
Conclusions:
- The 2019-nCoV is evolutionarily distinct from SARS, with strong evidence pointing to a bat origin.
- Mutations in critical viral proteins, particularly the spike glycoprotein, likely conferred the ability to infect humans.
- The findings underscore the importance of monitoring bat viruses for potential zoonotic spillover events.
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