Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 Delta variant genomic RNA (SARS-CoV-2 Delta RNA) (SARS-CoV-2 Delta RNA)

The Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Delta variant (B.1.617.2) genomic RNA is a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA molecule of approximately 29.9 kb that serves as the primary genetic material for the virus (CDC, 2021). It functions as a template for both the translation of viral polyproteins and the replication of the viral genome by the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp). The Delta variant is distinguished by specific mutations in the RNA sequence, such as L452R, T478K, and P681R, which contribute to increased transmissibility and partial escape from neutralizing antibodies (Mlcochova et al., 2021, Nature). This genomic RNA is a direct target for sequence-specific therapeutics, including small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), which aim to degrade the viral RNA or block its translation (Alnylam, 2020). Additionally, small molecule antivirals like molnupiravir target the replication of this RNA by inducing lethal mutagenesis, while remdesivir acts as a chain terminator during RNA synthesis (Jayk Bernal et al., 2022, NEJM; Beigel et al., 2020, NEJM). Effective targeting of the genomic RNA is essential for reducing viral titers and mitigating the severity of COVID-19 infections.

Other names

B.1.617.2 genomic RNASARS-CoV-2 Delta lineage RNAVOC-21APR-02 RNA

Lethal mutagenesis, RNA-dependent RNA polymerase inhibition, RNA interference (RNAi)