How Do Lethal COVID-19 Variants Escape Immune System? Key Responsible Structural Changes In Virus Revealed [Study] Scientists from Scripps Research Institute reveal that structural changes in a specific area of the spike protein due to mutations in SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus variants helps them evade immune responses of the body Indian strain of COVID spread to 44 countries already: WHO The world has been battling COVID-19 for nearly 18 months now. As the pandemic has progressed, the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus has also mobilized new troops—variants of concern (VOC). These evolved forms of the virus carry mutations that escape immune responses induced naturally or through vaccination. Now, a new study reveals the key mutation-led structural changes in the variants that enable them to evade the immune system.