Trends and impacts of SARS-CoV-2 genome sharing: a comparative analysis of China and the global community, 2020-2023

Objective The global sharing of pathogen genome sequences has been significantly expedited by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to elucidate the global landscape of SARS-CoV-2 genome sharing between 2020 and 2023 with a focus on quantity, timeliness, and quality. Specifically, the characteristics of China are examined.Methods SARS-CoV-2 genomes along with associated metadata were sourced from GISAID database. The genomes were analyzed to evaluate the quantity, timeliness, and quality across different countries/regions. The metadata characteristics of shared genomes in China in 2023 were examined and compared with the actual demographic data of China in 2023.Results From 2020 to 2023, European countries consistently maintained high levels of genomic data sharing in terms of quantity, timeliness, and quality. In 2023, China made remarkable improvements in sequence sharing, ranking among the top 3.89% globally for quantity, 22.78% for timeliness, and 17.78% for quality. The genome sharing in China in 2023 covered all provinces with Shanghai Municipality contributing the most genomes. Human samples accounted for 99.73% of the shared genomes and exhibited three distinct peaks in collection dates. Males constituted 52.06%, while females constituted 47.94%. Notably, there was an increase in individuals aged 65 and above within the GISAID database compared to China's overall population in 2023.Conclusion The global sharing of SARS-CoV-2 genomes in 2020-2023 exhibited disparities in terms of quantity, timeliness, and quality. However, China has made significant advancements since 2023 by achieving comprehensive coverage across provinces, timely dissemination of data, and widespread population monitoring. Strengthening data sharing capabilities in countries like China during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic will play a crucial role in containing and responding to future pandemics caused by emerging pathogens.