The Emergence of the New P.4 Lineage of SARS-CoV-2 With Spike L452R Mutation in Brazil

• DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.745310
• Publication Date: 2021-10-01T09:20:59Z
• Authors: Cíntia Bittar; Fábio Sossai Poss...; Leila Sabrina Ull...; Dayla Bott Geraldini; Vivaldo G. da Costa; Luiz G. P. de Alm...; Paulo Ricardo da ...; Nailton M. Nascim...; Eduardo M. Cilli; Cecília Artico Banho; Guilherme R. F. C...; Helena Lage Ferreira; Lívia Sacchetto; Gislaine C. D. da...; Maisa C. P. Parra; Marília M. Moraes; Paulo Inácio da C...; Ana Tereza R. Vas...; Fernando Rosado S...; Maurício L. Nogueira; Paula Rahal; João Pessoa Arauj...
• Keywords: Lineage (genetic); Monophyly; spike protein

The emergence of several SARS-CoV-2 lineages presenting adaptive mutations is a matter concern worldwide due to their potential ability increase transmission and/or evade the immune response. While performing epidemiological and genomic surveillance in samples from Porto Ferreira-São Paulo-Brazil, we identified sequences classified by pangolin as B.1.1.28 harboring Spike L452R mutation, RBD region. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that these grouped into monophyletic branch, with others Brazil, mainly state São Paulo. had set 15 clade defining amino acid mutations, which six were protein. A new lineage was proposed Pango it accepted designated P.4. In city Ferreira, P.4 has been increasing frequency since first detected March 2021, corresponding 34.7% sequenced June, second prevalence after P.1. Also, circulating 30 cities Paulo, also one sample Sergipe two Rio de Janeiro. Further studies are needed understand whether should be considered threat.