Scientists at the University of Tübingen in Germany have discovered a natural immune mechanism by which the body protects itself from SARS-CoV-2. This is reported in an article published in the journal Nature Immunology.
Researchers have identified several epitopes – specific regions of molecules on the surface of antigen-presenting cells that are recognized by immune T cells and involved in the formation of immunity. To do this, experts analyzed more than 180 volunteers who recovered from COVID-19. They also looked at blood donations that were collected before the outbreak of the pandemic.
A small number of T cells that target SARS-CoV-2 and recognize the components of the virus have been identified in 81 percent of donors not exposed to the coronavirus. This may be due to previous exposure of donors to other coronaviruses that cause the common cold in humans. However, this T cell response is not equivalent to full immunity against SARS-CoV-2.
All those who recovered from COVID-19 also showed T-cell epitopes and an immune response against the coronavirus, even if no antibody response was observed.
The results of the study will help develop a preventive vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, consisting of identified T-cell epitopes. It will aim to induce a T-cell response against coronavirus.
