Wednesday, December 9, 2020

The "Hidden" Gene in COVID-19


 In an article from SciTechDaily the author discusses a new gene that was recently discovered in COVID-19. A research team identified the gene ORF3d, which is an overlapping gene in SARS-Cov-2. This gene can encode a protein that's longer than expected due to chance, this gene was also in the pangolin coronavirus. This can help explain the repeated loss and gain of the gene during SARS-CoV-2's evolution. This gene also shows a strong antibody response to COVID-19 patients, this shows that the protein made by this new gene is manufactured during human infection. I think it's interesting how researchers can identify these genes. I also think these discovering these new genes will be important in coming up with more ways to combat this virus.

1 comment:

  1. I found this article interesting because it mentions this new discovery of the existence of overlapping genes. This discovery is not only a new phenomenon but it has answered many questions about why the virus has impacted populations at large. It practically diminishes ones immune system which is why it makes it so strong against antibodies. I think its also important to take away that possible new advances is needed to be taken when concerning antibiotics and vaccines for future illnesses.

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