The 3D model is much more convincing.
3 of the inserted regions appear to be conserved on the same ‘finger’ of the spike protein. They aren’t randomly distributed throughout. Which would make sense, even IF this was a natural occurrence.
I find it unlikely, myself, that 4 inserted regions (from any other source, not just HIV-1) of the length involved here (not the 5aa one poster insinuated, more like 8 or 10aa) would simultaneously result in a gain of function mutant. Things work the other way, generally. Ie, significant insertion/SNP breaks the thing altogether. (see sickle cell).
what is your opinion
altered?
by chance?
Created?
Mutation?