[PDF][PDF] T cell reactivity to the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant is preserved in most but not all individuals

V Naranbhai, A Nathan, C Kaseke, C Berrios, A Khatri… - Cell, 2022 - cell.com
V Naranbhai, A Nathan, C Kaseke, C Berrios, A Khatri, S Choi, MA Getz, R Tano-Menka…
Cell, 2022cell.com
Summary The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant (B. 1.1. 529) contains mutations that mediate
escape from antibody responses, although the extent to which these substitutions in spike
and non-spike proteins affect T cell recognition is unknown. In this study, we show that T cell
responses in individuals with prior infection, vaccination, both prior infection and
vaccination, and boosted vaccination are largely preserved to Omicron spike and non-spike
proteins. However, we also identify a subset of individuals (∼ 21%) with a> 50% reduction …
Summary
The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) contains mutations that mediate escape from antibody responses, although the extent to which these substitutions in spike and non-spike proteins affect T cell recognition is unknown. In this study, we show that T cell responses in individuals with prior infection, vaccination, both prior infection and vaccination, and boosted vaccination are largely preserved to Omicron spike and non-spike proteins. However, we also identify a subset of individuals (∼21%) with a >50% reduction in T cell reactivity to the Omicron spike. Evaluation of functional CD4+ and CD8+ memory T cell responses confirmed these findings and revealed that reduced recognition to Omicron spike is primarily observed within the CD8+ T cell compartment potentially due to escape from HLA binding. Booster vaccination enhanced T cell responses to Omicron spike. In contrast to neutralizing immunity, these findings suggest preservation of T cell responses to the Omicron variant, although with reduced reactivity in some individuals.
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