2021 Project: University of Michigan

SARS-CoV-2 sequencing to study virus evolution in a vaccinated population

What to know

The University of Michigan sequenced SARS-CoV-2 samples collected through healthcare networks and a range of local testing labs. They sought to associate viral sequences with vaccination status and assess changes in the characteristics and evolution of the virus because of vaccine campaigns. Awarded in 2021, the study combined viral genomic data with vaccination status, prior infection status, and antibody data to understand risk factors and outcomes in SARS-CoV-2 reinfection.

Decorative image with words "2021" and "SARS-CoV-2"

Findings on SARS-CoV-2 surveillance and investigations

This project described COVID-19 in Michigan, with estimates informed by variant sequencing.

Findings on SARS-CoV-2 variant characteristics

This project:

  • Examined the antigenicity and escape potential of BQ and XBB variants. 1
  • Examined the antigenicity and escape potential of BA.2.65 variants.2
  • Examined the antigenicity, receptor binding, and escape potential of BA.2.86 variants.3
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Content Source:
National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID)
  1. "Alarming antibody evasion properties of rising SARS-CoV-2 BQ and XBB variants”: Cell. 2023 Jan 19;186(2):279-286. PMID: 36580913
  2. Evolving antibody evasion and receptor affinity of the Omicron BA.2.75 sublineage of SARS-CoV-2". bioRxiv 2023.03.22.533805; doi: https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.03.22.533805
  3. "Antigenicity and receptor affinity of SARS-CoV-2 BA.2.86 spike". Nature 624, 639–644 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06750-w