New Omicron coronavirus variants
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South African scientists have discovered two new variants of the Omicron coronavirus. Lineages BA.4 and BA.5 are active in Botswana, Belgium, Germany, Denmark and the UK
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SARS-CoV-2 virus

Spike protein

Infection: Spike protein binds to ACE2* receptor – entry point into human cell for virus to replicate

Mutations: Changes in genetic code of spike protein affects ability to infect cells

Variants of concern: Mutations since virus appeared in 2019

Human cell
ACE2 receptor 
Viral genome
*angiotensin-converting enzyme 2


B.1.0 Scientific name  Genetic mutations
Alpha
B.1.1.7
Sep 2020
UK
11


Beta
B.1.351
Oct 2020
South Africa
10

Gamma
P.1
Nov 2020
Brazil
12

Delta
B.1.617.2
Oct 2020
India
10

Omicron
B.1.1.529
Nov 2021
Global
32


Omicron lineages: More mutations than all other variants combined
BA.1   BA.1.1   BA.2.H78Y   BA.3  BA.4
39      40         1         34   BA.5

Includes 13 unique mutations
BA.2 
31
Mutation of BA.2 found in 31 Denmark and Sweden
21 shared mutations between BA.1 to BA.3
Genetic variations not fully known

RNA genome
Omicron: 145 mutations found to date


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Sources: BioRxiv, CERI, Wellcome, World Health Organization
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