The emergence and implications of SARS-CoV-2 omicron subvariant BA.2.86 on global health

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 subvariant BA.2.86 “Pirola”, first identified in Denmark in August 2023, has manifested with a significantly mutated spike protein profile, suggesting a heightened ability to evade vaccine- and infection-induced antibodies. This article outlines the epidemiological spread, immune response implications, and global responses to BA.2.86. Preliminary observations indicate community transmissions of the subvariant, even among those previously infected or vaccinated. Notably, the BA.2.86 infection has shown potential to amplify antibody responses. The variant’s emergence has evoked memories of the Omicron variant’s rise in late 2021, though global immunity levels might modulate BA.2.86’s impact differently. Continuous genomic surveillance, coupled with integrated diagnostic and epidemiological strategies, proves crucial in early detection and management. The emergence of BA.2.86 reaffirms the unpredictable nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the need for ongoing research, adaptability, and global collaboration.

Clinical development of SpikoGen®, an Advax-CpG55.2 adjuvanted recombinant spike protein vaccine

“…Since the initial clinical trials and licensure of SpikoGen® vaccine, SARS-CoV-2 has continued to mutate at a rapid pace, first into the original Omicron BA.1 to BA.5 strains and then into recombinant lineages such as XBB.1 and more recently into variants such as BA.2.86 (Pirola). 76 Each new variant has been more highly transmissible and more vaccine-resistant than the previous generation. Bivalent versions of the mRNA vaccines were released to the market, containing a mix of mRNA encoding for the original Wuhan and BA.1 (Australian market) or BA.5 (US market) spike proteins to try and compensate for poor efficacy of the original mRNA vaccines.…”

SARS-CoV-2: pathogenesis, therapeutics, variants, and vaccines

“…Compared to its ancestor BA.2, the BA.2.86 sub-variant of Omicron carries 29 substitutions, 4 deletions, and 1 insertion in the S protein, suggesting an increased ability to evade antibodies induced by vaccination and previous infections ( Looi, 2023 ; Mahase, 2023 ). The emergence of BA.2.86 highlights the continuous evolution of the SARS-CoV-2, influenced by global immunity levels, vaccination campaigns, and treatment strategies ( Satapathy et al, 2024 ).…”