Molecular adaptive evolution of SARS-COV-2 spike protein in Saudi Arabia

Abstract EN

The sequences of SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) from Saudi Arabia along with SARS-CoV and bat SARS-like CoVs were obtained.

Positive selection analysis and secondary structure investigation of spike sequences were performed.

adaptive molecular evolution was observed in SARS-CoV-2 displayed by positive selection pressure at n-terminal domain (NTD; codons 41, 163, 174 and 218), receptor binding domain (RBD; codons 378 and 404) and S1/S2 Cleavage site (codon 690).

furthermore, the spike protein secondary structure depicted by the homo-trimer structure showed a high similarity between Saudi SARS-CoV-2 isolate and the parental strain (bat SL-COVZC45).

Despite the high similarity depicted in the spike sequence model alignment, it displayed a significant difference when each chain was treated solely owing to 7 motif differences in the three composing chains.

in addition, SARS-CoV-2 S trimer model uncovered the presence of n-acetyl glucosamine ligands.

eventually, 3C-like proteinase cleavage site was observed in s2 domain could be used as a site for drug discovery.

genetics and molecular evolutionary facts are useful for assessment of evolution, host adaptation and epidemic patterns ultimately helpful for adaptation of control strategies.