Detection of SARS‑CoV‑2 S Gene Mutations Using PCR during Seasons of Increased Incidence of Coronavirus Infection in the Chuvash Republic

Abstract

Mutations in the SARS‑CoV‑2 genome make it possible to effectively escape defense mechanisms of the host, which explains the spread of infection among vaccinated or previously affected by the virus individuals.The aim of the study was to investigate the dynamics of mutations in the SARS‑CoV‑2 virus genome during the rise of the seasonal incidence in the Chuvash Republic.Materials and methods. Under conditions of the clinical diagnostic laboratory of the Federal Center for Traumatology, Orthopedics and Endoprosthetics of the Ministry of Health of Russia (Cheboksary), samples, containing SARS‑CoV‑2 RNA, taken in January-February and July-October, 2022 were tested using reverse transcription PCR. The “MBS-Test SARS‑CoV‑2 RNA” (Technical Specifications 21.20.23-068-26329720-2021, Russia) and “AmpliTest SARS‑CoV‑2 VOC v.3” (Series V017, Certificate of Registration No. 2022/16307, Russia) were utilized in compliance with the manufacturer’s instructions.Results and discussion. Variations in the sets of SARS‑CoV‑2 S gene mutations have been revealed in the studied samples obtained during different periods of the spread of SARS‑CoV‑2 coronavirus. Timely detection of various mutations in the virus genome at the beginning of the epidemiological season and the alleged rise in the incidence of coronavirus infection is valuable information for forecasting the rate of virus transmission. It can also be used to create vaccines (taking into account changes in the virus genome) and to choose the adequate tactics for treating coronavirus infection.