Citation Information: JCI Insight. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1172/jci.insight.148694.
Abstract
Background: COVID-19 is more benign in children compared to adults for unknown reasons. This contrasts with other respiratory viruses where disease manifestations are often more severe in children. We hypothesize that a more robust early innate immune response to SARS-CoV-2 protects against severe disease. Methods: Clinical outcomes, SARS-CoV-2 viral copies and cellular gene expression were compared in nasopharyngeal swabs obtained at the time of presentation to the Emergency Department from 12 children and 27 adults using bulk RNA sequencing and quantitative reverse transcription PCR. Total protein, cytokines and anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgA were quantified in nasal fluid. Results: SARS-CoV-2 copies, ACE2 and TMPRSS2 gene expression were similar in children and adults, but children displayed higher expression of genes associated with interferon signaling, NLRP3 inflammasome, and other innate pathways. Higher levels of IFN-α2, IFN-γ, IP-10, IL-8, and IL-1β protein were detected in nasal fluid in children versus adults. Children also expressed higher levels of genes associated with immune cells whereas expression of those associated with epithelial cells did not differ in children versus adults. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgA and IgG were detected at similar levels in nasal fluid from both groups. None of the children required supplemental oxygen whereas 7 adults did (p=0.03); four adults died. Conclusions: These findings provide direct evidence of a more vigorous early mucosal immune response in children compared to adults and suggest that this contributes to favorable clinical outcomes.
Authors
Carl A. Pierce, Sharlene Sy, Benjamin Galen, Doctor Y. Goldstein, Erika P. Orner, Marla J. Keller, Kevan C. Herold, Betsy C. Herold
