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1Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Research Center for Clinical Virology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Biosensors & Bioelectronics
|January 2, 2022
Summary
A review incorrectly identified hemagglutinin esterase (HE) as a SARS-CoV-2 structural protein. Scientific evidence confirms SARS-CoV-2 lacks the HE gene, but possesses multiple accessory ORFs.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
Background:
- A published review incorrectly described the SARS-CoV-2 genome structure.
- The review erroneously included hemagglutinin esterase (HE) as a structural protein and omitted several accessory open reading frames (ORFs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To correct inaccuracies in a published review regarding the SARS-CoV-2 genome.
- To clarify the presence or absence of specific genes and proteins in the SARS-CoV-2 viral structure.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of scientific literature and genomic data.
- Review of established coronavirus taxonomy and genetic composition.
Main Results:
- The hemagglutinin esterase (HE) gene is absent in SARS-CoV-2, although present in some betacoronaviruses (Embecovirus subgenera).
- The SARS-CoV-2 genome contains accessory proteins including ORF3a, ORF3b, ORF6, ORF7a, ORF7b, ORF8, ORF9b, ORF9c, and ORF10.
- ORF3b, ORF9b, and ORF9c are confirmed components of the SARS-CoV-2 genome, contrary to the reviewed article's claims.
Conclusions:
- The reviewed article contains significant errors regarding the SARS-CoV-2 genome and protein composition.
- Accurate representation of viral genomics is crucial for understanding virus biology and developing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
