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These aren’t molecular modelers…..They’re looking at the 2D representation of this protein…..The 3D is convincing…..All but one of these insertions are in the ‘fingertip’ region of this protein….. And the idea that you’d have any number of significant insertions and end up with a gain of function mutant is dodgy itself.

https://twitter.com/trvrb/status/1223666856923291648

BTW – the authors of this preprint posted this today:

Prashant Pradhan • 6 hours ago

This is a preliminary study. Considering the grave situation, it was shared in BioRxiv as soon as possible to have creative discussion on the fast evolution of SARS-like corona viruses. It was not our intention to feed into the conspiracy theories and no such claims are made here. While we appreciate the criticisms and comments provided by scientific colleagues at BioRxiv forum and elsewhere, the story has been differently interpreted and shared by social media and news platforms. We have positively received all criticisms and comments. To avoid further misinterpretation and confusions world-over, we have decided to withdraw the current version of the preprint and will get back with a revised version after reanalysis, addressing the comments and concerns. Thank you to all who contributed in this open-review process.

: Authors of the Manuscript

Scientists, especially the younger ones, use ‘unscientific’ terms all the time. Once us old farts die off, who knows what will appear in professional journals...it will be the end of the world, i’m sure.

“This virus is like totally woke and lit, I can't even, and be salty AF when you trolls and your white privilege peer review clap back, because like brah - duh?” Said no one ever in a serious scientific paper. YMMV : ),