Identification of a new B.1.1.33 SARS-CoV-2 Variant of Interest (VOI) circulating in Brazil with mutation E484K and multiple deletions in the Spike protein
Here, we report a new SARS-CoV-2 VOI derived from lineage B.1.1.33, preliminary designated as PANGO lineage N.10, harboring 14 lineage defining mutations. It displays as the most remarkable genetic changes the V445A and E484K mutations in the S protein RBD, several non-synonymous mutations (P9L, I210V, and L212I), and three deletions (∆141-144, ∆211, and ∆256-258) in the S protein NTD, including a truncated NS7b protein due to a frame-shifting deletion. Other five lineage-defining mutations were found among NSP3, NSP5, NSP6, and N. This VOI probably emerged in late December 2020 and comprises a significant fraction (23%) of the SARS-CoV-2 positive cases detected in the Brazilian state of Maranhão (Northeastern region), between January and February 2021.
