CD8+ T cells specific for an immunodominant SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid epitope display high naive precursor frequency and TCR promiscuity

May 5, 2021Immunity

Immune cells targeting a key part of the COVID-19 virus start in high numbers and can recognize many versions

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Abstract

High frequencies of CD8T cells specific for the B7/N epitope were found in pre-pandemic samples and increased during COVID-19.

  • CD8T cells targeting the immunodominant B7/N epitope were detected more frequently in COVID-19 patients compared to unexposed individuals.
  • In contrast, CD8T cells for less dominant epitopes (B7/N, A2/S, A24/S) were less prevalent.
  • Pre-pandemic samples showed that most SARS-CoV-2-specific CD8T cells in all age groups had a naive phenotype, suggesting no previous exposure.
  • T cell receptor analyses indicated a diverse range of TCRαβ combinations in B7/N CD8T cells.
  • This study provides insights into the origins and responses of SARS-CoV-2-specific T cells.

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