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SARS-CoV-2 variants with multiple spike mutations enable increased transmission and antibody resistance. Here, we combine cryo-EM, binding and computational analyses to study variant spikes, including one that was involved in transmission between minks and humans, and others that originated and spread in human populations. All variants showed increased ACE2 receptor binding and increased propensity for RBD up states. While adaptation to mink resulted in spike destabilization, the B.1.1.7 (UK) spike balanced stabilizing and destabilizing mutations. A local destabilizing effect of the RBD E484K mutation was implicated in resistance of the B.1.1.28/P.1 (Brazil) and B.1.351 (South Africa) variants to neutralizing antibodies. Our studies revealed allosteric effects of mutations and mechanistic differences that drive either inter-species transmission or escape from antibody neutralization.

New yorkUnited statesUnited kingdomSouth africaLeica microsystemsJoshua mendezLed engMahira aragonEugene chuaRr core teamDuke research computingNational institute of allergyDuke regional biocontainment laboratoryElectron microscopy sciencesSimons foundationGe healthcare