JN.1 is even more contagious: Researchers warn of a ‘sneaky’ Corona variant

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Although the coronavirus is no longer the number one topic of conversation for most people, researchers are still watching the pathogen like a hawk. Because: The virus is constantly mutating.

After Eris (EG.5) and Pirola (BA.2.86), the JN.1 variant is now causing a stir in research circles. JN.1 is a descendant of Pirola. The variant was discovered by infectious disease specialist Thomas Russo of Buffalo University in New York.

According to Russo, the mutation is highly contagious and results in a variety of changes in the spike protein. That was already the case with Pirola. JN.1 is apparently at the top again, making the variant even more contagious. This means that the virus can enter the cells faster than before. This is particularly stressful for the body. That is why Russo describes the variant in the American health magazine ‘Prevention’ as ‘sneaky’.

Vaccination protects against new variants

Due to the many mutations of the coronavirus, the body needs longer for its immune response. In summary, this means that you not only get sick more quickly from JN.1, but also stay sick longer. However, nothing is currently known about new symptoms of the variant.

And what does it actually look like when it comes to the corona vaccination? Does it still protect against the mutation? Yes, the experts at the American health authority CDC know that for sure. Data has shown that current vaccines help the immune system block Pirola. The authority therefore assumes that this is also the case with JN.1 as a subvariant.

Virus takes control of a certain enzyme

Just this week it was announced that researchers at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) have discovered a coronavirus infection tactic. The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, focused on the virus’ spike protein, which allows entry into human cells, EPFL announced on Wednesday.

The virus takes control of an enzyme called ZDHHC20. This enzyme tags proteins, including the coronavirus spike protein, with small fat molecules. This is crucial for the virus to fuse with its target cells. This discovery could ultimately help develop more effective treatments against the coronavirus, EPFL said. The researchers also suspect that other viruses also use this tactic to become more contagious. (ced/SDA)

Source: Blick