2021 Project: University of New Mexico

Genomic sequencing and phylodynamic analysis of SARS-CoV-2 in the Mountain West

What to know

The University of New Mexico supported a regional partnership to expand genomic surveillance for SARS-CoV-2. This study generated genomic data for the Mountain West region and provided public health laboratories with actionable information on patterns of viral transmission and evolution. Researchers interpreted the sequences in a national and global context. Using tailored strategies and knowledge, the consortium improved surveillance sequencing data, enabling them to track known and novel variants.

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

Findings on SARS-CoV-2 surveillance and investigations

This project:

  • Described the independent evolution and spread of multiple distinct sub-lineages with a specific spike protein mutation (E677P), which suggested the mutation may increase the transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2.1
  • This study provided weekly updated visualizations of SARS-CoV-2 evolution and spread for five states in the Mountain West region, including New Mexico, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Arkanasas.
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Content Source:
National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID)
  1. Emergence in late 2020 of multiple lineages of SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein variants affecting amino acid position 677. MedRxiv, 2021.