Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 variant mutations reveals neutralization escape mechanisms and the ability to use ACE2 receptors from additional species

The resistance to current monoclonal antibodies and convalescent plasma from COVID-19 patients was most remarkable in B.1.351 South African variant, followed by the P.1 Brazilian variant and B.1.1.7 UK variant. The contributed mutations for this resistance were following, Y144del and 242-244del mutations in the N-terminal domain and K417N/T, E484K and N501Y mutations in the receptor-binding domain of spike protein. The B.1.351 and P.1 variants also acquired the ability to bind to mouse and mink ACE2 receptors.