Dr. Byrareddy's lab explores omicron
The lab of Siddappa Byrareddy, PhD, published a paper recently about features of the omicron variant.
The new study, "Omicron SARS-CoV-2 variant: Unique features and their impact on pre-existing antibodies," was published digitally earlier this month in Science Direct and will be featured in the January issue.
The study found that:
- The omicron variant is closely related to the gamma variant.
- There are 46 high prevalent mutations throughout the omicron variant.
- A significant number of the mutations are at the antibody binding surface of the S protein.
The authors wrote: "The structural analyses suggest that the uniquely positioned mutations in the Omicron variant may reduce the binding of antibodies present in an individual induced by either prior infection or following vaccination against the SARS-CoV-2 virus."
University of Nebraska programs and Nebraska nonprofits eligible for WIN funds
University of Nebraska programs and Nebraska nonprofit organizations can submit funding ideas to Women Investing in Nebraska for grant awards in 2022. Grant seekers must submit an online letter of inquiry form by Feb. 16.
Based on submissions, WIN will invite 12 to 16 grant seekers to provide formal grant proposals. Grant seekers must be a part of the University of Nebraska system or be a Nebraska nonprofit 501(c)(3) public charity.
The grant amounts will be based on the total amount of gifts received this year from the members of WIN. WIN will announce its grant awards this fall.
For more information and questions, grant seekers can email WIN.
WIN operates in partnership with the University of Nebraska Foundation and the UNF Charitable Gift Fund to support women philanthropists. The UNF Charitable Gift Fund is a nonprofit organization affiliated with the University of Nebraska Foundation. It provides options for donors to support the University of Nebraska as well as other worthwhile charitable causes in their community or across the country. For information on becoming a WIN member, contact Ellie Clinch at 402-570-2510 or 800-432-3216, or visit the WIN website.