Publication date: Jun 26, 2025
Pediatric isolates of SARS-CoV-2 remain underrepresented in virologic studies, despite their importance for understanding viral diversity and therapeutic responses. Nasal swab and saliva samples were collected from pediatric COVID-19 patients. Viral isolation was attempted in Vero cells through five blind passages. Replication was assessed by digital RT-PCR, while cytopathic effects were observed microscopically. Genomic sequencing was conducted using next-generation sequencing, and antiviral activity was evaluated for Remdesivir, Molnupiravir, and Nirmatrelvir. A SARS-CoV-2 strain, designated N15, was successfully isolated from a pediatric nasal swab. The isolate replicated efficiently in Vero cells with kinetics comparable to B. 1 and B. 1.1. 529 lineages. Cytopathic effects appeared within 48 h post-infection, marked by aggregates of dead cells. Genomic analysis classified N15 within lineage 19B, showing 99. 9% similarity to the Wuhan-Hu-1 strain. Rare mutations were identified: N709S in the spike protein and T11M in the E protein. Antiviral testing revealed effective inhibition by Remdesivir, Molnupiravir, and Nirmatrelvir, with varying IC50 values across cell types. The pediatric N15 isolate represents a unique 19B lineage virus, retaining ancestral genomic features while harboring rare mutations. Its efficient replication and drug sensitivity underscore its value as a reference strain for comparative studies against circulating variants and for evaluating antiviral efficacy.
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| Concepts | Keywords |
|---|---|
| Dead | biology |
| Korea | genetic characterization |
| Pcr | N15 strain |
| Pediatric | pediatric patient |
| Viral | SARS-CoV-2 |