A study published this week linked the COVID-19 antiviral molnupiravir to new coronavirus mutations, raising questions about whether the drug could lead to the evolution of potentially concerning strains in the future.
The drug works by causing mutations in the genetic information of the virus.
Researchers looked at 15 million coronavirus genomes to analyze the timing and type of mutations.
Study authors said the findings are important for regulators who assess the drug.
“The authors assume these mutations were associated with viral spread from molnupiravir-treated patients without documented evidence of that transmission.
Persons:
molnupiravir, ” Theo Sanderson, Francis Crick, Merck
Organizations:
Nature, Francis, Francis Crick Institute
Locations:
London, molnupiravir