Genomic Evidence Provides the Understanding of SARS-CoV-2 Composition, Divergence, and Diagnosis

A plethora of studies have shown several types of chromosomal mutations (i.e., deletion, insertion, and substitution) being present for α -CoVs, β -CoVs, γ-CoVs, and δ-CoVs. The current pandemic is caused by the β-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. The attributes of a virus are associated with its genomic composition. Mutations can cause changes in the viral genome that can lead to the crossing of the animal-human barrier or result in a more virulent strain that can increase transmission and pathogenicity for coronaviruses in general and SARS-CoV-2 in particular. Additionally, these mutations may result into new genomic properties. Some mutations have caused changes in the structure of amino acids, and this can be a potential explanation for failure in antiviral therapies. Through genome mapping, we can focus on conserved regions in a viral genome so that even if the virus undergoes a chromosomal mutation into a more virulent strain, the vaccine will still work. One of the prime targets for antiviral therapies against SARS-CoV-2 includes spike protein. Using genomic mapping we can better understand, monitor, and treat a viral infection. With the worldwide spread of Sars-CoV-2, it is ever so important to have a greater understanding of the genomic as well as the proteomic landscapes for the virus, which can guide in the future development of antiviral therapies.