Mutation

Scientists are trying to understand a mutation of the novel coronavirus seen around the globe that some believe could make the virus more contagious, according to a report.The mutation, officially designated D614G or "G" for short, has been found to affect the virus' spike protein, which is a structure that allows it to enter human cells. The more effective the spike…

Building evidence — A mutation that's becoming common seems to boost infectivity in cultured cells. John Timmer - Jun 16, 2020 7:35 pm UTC About a month ago, news reports painted a potentially grim picture: a single mutation in SARS-CoV-2 was taking over the world, rapidly displacing earlier forms of the virus in most locations.…

This undated transmission electron microscope image shows SARS-CoV-2, also known as novel coronavirus, the virus that causes COVID-19, isolated from a patient in the U.S. Virus particles are shown emerging from the surface of cells cultured in the lab. The spikes on the outer edge of the virus particles give coronaviruses their name, crown-like. NIAID-RML/Handout…

(Reuters) - A specific mutation in the new coronavirus can significantly increase its ability to infect cells, according to a study by U.S. researchers.The research may explain why early outbreaks in some parts of the world did not end up overwhelming health systems as much as other outbreaks in New York and Italy, according to…

The novel coronavirus infection rate has been going up recently, with the global COVID-19 curve climbing to new heights. The World Health Organization said a few days ago the coronavirus isn’t any less powerful than before, warning that the danger hasn’t passed. The virus isn’t more lethal either, the organization said. New research indicates that…