
D614G mutation
The D614G mutation refers to a change in the genetic code of the COVID-19 virus, where an amino acid called aspartic acid (D) at position 614 in the virus’s spike protein is replaced by glycine (G). This mutation makes the virus more stable and better at infecting cells, leading to increased spread. It does not appear to cause more severe illness. Understanding this mutation helps scientists track how the virus evolves and spreads, informing vaccine development and public health strategies.