Researchers identify novel SARS-CoV-2 variant with mutations in membrane protein-encoding gene A recent study published in the Journal Emerging Microbes and Infectionshas highlighted the emergence of a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variant with mutations in the membrane protein-encoding gene. Two potential mutations, M:I82T and M:V70L, have been identified within the transmembrane helices, which are expected to improve viral fitness by modulating glucose uptake during replication. Background Whole-genome sequencing studies of newly emerging viral variants are particularly important for identifying mutations that emerge under positive selection and play vital roles in viral evolution. In the later phase of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, several novel SARS-CoV-2 variants with multiple spike protein mutations have emerged. Because of significantly increased infectivity and immune escape ability, some of these variants have become the predominantly circulating variants worldwide. Therefore, to effectively control the trajectory of COVID-19 pandemic, continuous genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 sequences both at the national- and global level are of prime importance.