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 [41]
- 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
For More Information: https://www.cebm.net/covid-19/what-is-the-role-of-t-cells-in-covid-19-infection-why-immunity-is-about-more-than-antibodies/