What is the role of T cells in COVID-19 infection? Why immunity is about more than antibodies, CEBM

Summary CD4+ T cells help B cells to produce antibodies and help CD8+ T cells to kill virus-infected cells One of the dominant cytokines produced by T cells is interferon gamma, a key player in controlling viral infection – see also [ 2 External 0 0 0 41 false https://www.cebm.net/covi d-19/drug-vignettes-interferons/ true false%>] Lymphopenia is a main feature of COVID-19 infection, affecting CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and B cells, and is more pronounced in severely ill patients T cell responses in severely ill patients may be impaired, over-activated, or inappropriate, and further research is required to elucidate this and inform treatment strategies There is some evidence of cross-reactivity with seasonal/endemic coronaviruses Emerging studies suggest that all or a majority of people with COVID-19 develop a strong and broad T cell response, both CD4 and CD8, and some have a memory phenotype, which bodes well for potential longer-term immunity Understanding the roles of different subsets of T cells in protection or pathogenesis is crucial for preventing and treating COVID-19
Source: Current Awareness Service for Health (CASH) - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news