Milestone: Over 1 Million Coronavirus Genomes Collected Worldwide
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Chapter 1: The Significance of Genome Sequencing
In the course of the pandemic, more than 1.2 million genome sequences from 172 nations have been compiled and uploaded to a data-sharing platform. This achievement marks a significant advancement for epidemiologists and researchers who are focused on understanding the emergence and evolution of SARS-CoV-2 as it spread across the globe.
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Section 1.1: Tracking Variants
This wealth of data is vital for scientists monitoring the movement of variants, particularly those that may be more transmissible or lead to more severe cases of COVID-19. Keeping track of such information is essential to determine whether new variants can bypass existing diagnostics and treatments.
Subsection 1.1.1: GISAID's Role
The sequences have been uploaded to GISAID, an esteemed global initiative founded in 2006, which serves as a crucial open-access repository for genomic data on influenza viruses and SARS-CoV-2. The majority of the collected coronavirus genome sequences originate from samples taken in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Section 1.2: Challenges in Data Contribution
However, the process of mapping the virus's spread has not been without its challenges for data contributors. For instance, scientists in West Africa often lack the bioinformatics training necessary to effectively utilize the analytical tools available on the GISAID platform. To remedy this, GISAID affiliates have organized workshops aimed at teaching scientists how to navigate the sequence display and analytical functions.
Chapter 2: Participation and Gaps in Data
Despite these challenges, experts observe notable gaps in the data contributed to GISAID. Countries like El Salvador and Lebanon, which are facing significant outbreaks, have submitted only a limited number of entries. Additionally, there are differing opinions on the platform's terms, which require users to acknowledge contributors before publishing any studies that utilize the sequences.
The first video titled "Mayo Clinic scientist explains genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2" provides insights into how genome sequencing aids our understanding of the virus.
The second video, "From All of Us Research to All of Us in the Real World," discusses how research findings are being applied in real-world settings, emphasizing the importance of data sharing.
Nevertheless, experts express surprise at the level of participation observed. As noted by Tulio de Oliveira from the KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform in Durban, South Africa, "This is the first time I've seen people sharing so much data before publication."