The new variant COVID-19, BV-1, identified in the Texas A&M laboratory suggests a potential resistance to antibodies

COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KTRK) – Scientists at the Texas A&M University World Health Complex have identified a new variant of the COVID-19 virus that could pose a new public health challenge, according to a statement.

So far, the new variant, “BV-1,” was found in only one case: a person who had mild symptoms, according to Texas scientists A&M.

“We do not currently know the full meaning of this variant, but it has a combination of mutations similar to other variants of concern that can be reported internationally,” said Ben Neuman, chief virologist at the GHRC. “This variant combines genetic markers associated separately with rapid spread, serious disease, and high resistance to neutralizing antibodies.”

The scientists said they felt the need to share with the public because other labs have shown that neutralizing antibodies are ineffective in controlling other variants with the same genetic markers as BV-1.

“We haven’t detected any more instances of this variant,” Neuman said. “We have not grown or tested this virus in any way. This announcement is based solely on the analysis of genetic sequences performed in the laboratory.”

BV-1 is related to the UK variant of SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.

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“BV” means Brazos Valley, where Texas A&M and GHRC are located.

According to a statement, GHRC first detected BV-1 in a saliva sample extracted from a Texas A&M student as part of the university’s COVID-19 testing program. The sample tested positive on March 5th. It was re-tested and confirmed in a laboratory regulated by the federal scope of the CHI St. Regional Hospital. Joseph. The student lives off-campus, but acts on campus organizations.

Later, the student gave a second sample that tested positive on March 25, indicating that the variant may cause a longer-lasting infection. A third sample taken on April 9 was negative and revealed no evidence of virus.

The student showed mild, cold-like symptoms in the first few weeks. The symptoms did not disappear completely until April 2.

Neuman said scientists will continue to monitor if there are more cases of the variant.

“Sequencing helps provide an early warning system for new variants,” he said. “While we may not yet understand the full meaning of BV-1, the variant highlights the continuing need for rigorous surveillance and genomic testing, including asymptomatic or only mildly young adults.”

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