First detection of SARS-CoV-2 lineage A.27 in Sardinia, Italy

Introduction. Multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2, since the end of 2020 have emerged in many geographical areas and are currently under surveillance worldwide highlighting the continuing need for genomic monitoring to detect variants previously not yet identified. Methods. In this study, we used whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and phylogenetic analysis to investigate A.27 lineage SARS-CoV-2 from Sardinia, Italy. Results. The Italian A.27 lineage genomes from Sardinia appeared related in a clade with genomes from France. Among the key mutations identified in the spike protein, the N501Y and the L452R deserve attention as considered likely vaccine escape mutations. Additional mutations were also here reported. Conclusion. A combination of features could explain our data such as SARS-CoV-2 genetic variability, viral dynamics, the human genetic diversity of Sardinian populations, the island context probably subjected to different selective pressures. Molecular and genomic investigation is essential to promptly identify variants with specific mutations with potential impact on public health and vaccine formulation.