Genetic data of Belarusian SARS-CoV-2 isolate added to GenBank

GOMEL, 12 March (BelTA) – Specialists of the Gomel State Medical University and the Forest Institute of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus have carried out a full genetic analysis and annotation of a Belarusian isolate of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The genetic data has been added to the international genetic sequence database GenBank NCBI, the university’s press service told BelTA.

It was the first time results of such a research had been added to the international genetic sequence database.

Genetic analysis of SARS-CoV-2 viruses is important for understanding the evolution of the new coronavirus, for evaluating the propagation of new strains, and for evaluating propagation dynamics. The data can help develop vaccines and antiviral medications for treating the coronavirus infection.