Integrative analyses of SARS-CoV-2 genomes from different geographical locations reveal unique features potentially consequential to host-virus interaction, pathogenesis and clues for novel therapies. Issue 9 (September 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sardar, Rahila; Satish, Deepshikha; Birla, Shweta; Gupta, Dinesh
• Is Part Of: Heliyon. Volume 6:Issue 9(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-09
• Subjects: Bioinformatics -- Genetics -- Infectious disease -- Virology -- Coronavirus -- Antiviral miRNA -- Antiviral peptides; Research -- Periodicals; Medical sciences -- Periodicals; Natural history -- Periodicals; Social sciences -- Periodicals; Earth sciences -- Periodicals; Physical sciences -- Periodicals; 507.2
• DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04658
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2405-8440

Abstract

Abstract: We have performed an integrative analysis of SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences from different countries. Apart from mutational analysis, we have predicted host antiviral miRNAs targeting virus genes, PTMs in the virus proteins and antiviral peptides. A comparison of the analyses with other coronavirus genomes has been performed, wherever possible. Our analysis confirms unique features in the SARS-CoV-2 genomes absent in other evolutionarily related coronavirus family genomes, which presumably confer unique infection, transmission and virulence capabilities to the virus. For understanding the crucial factors involved in host-virus interactions, we have performed Bioinformatics aided analysis integrated with experimental data related to other corona viruses. We have identified 42 conserved miRNAs that can potentially target SARS-CoV-2 genomes. Interestingly, out of these, 3 are previously reported to exhibit antiviral activity against other respiratory viruses. Gene expression analysis of known host antiviral factors reveals significant over-expression of IFITM3 and down regulation of cathepsins during SARS-CoV-2 infection, suggesting its active role in pathogenesis and delayed immune response. We also predicted antiviral peptides which can be used in designing peptide based drugs against SARS-CoV-2. Our analysis explores the functional impact of the virus mutations on its proteins and interaction of its genes with host antiviral mechanisms. Abstract : Bioinformatics; Genetics; Infectious Disease; Virology; Coronavirus; antiviral miRNA; antiviral peptides.