Scientists have identified new immune responses that help explain why some individuals are able to avoid COVID-19 infection. Using single-cell sequencing, researchers from multiple institutions studied immune reactions against SARS-CoV-2 in healthy volunteers participating in the world's first COVID-19 human challenge study. The study, published in Nature, offers detailed insights into how the body responds to SARS-CoV-2 exposure, starting from the moment of infection.
In the study, 36 volunteers without previous COVID-19 exposure were intentionally infected with SARS-CoV-2. Researchers closely monitored immune cell activity in the blood and nasal lining, using single-cell sequencing to analyze over 600,000 cells. They discovered unique immune responses involved in immediate virus detection, activation of specific mucosal immune cells, and subtle innate immune responses in those who…
