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| Resource type: Journal Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mucimm.2023.11.007 ID no. (ISBN etc.): 1933-0219 BibTeX citation key: Ellis2023 View all bibliographic details |
Categories: BioAcyl Corp, BioAcyl Corp Subcategories: COVID-19, IgA switch Creators: Ellis, Way Collection: Mucosal Immunology |
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| Abstract |
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SARS-CoV-2 initially infects cells in the nasopharynx and oral cavity. The immune system at these mucosal sites plays a crucial role in minimizing viral transmission and infection. To develop new strategies for preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection, this study aimed to identify proteins that protect against viral infection in saliva. We collected 551 saliva samples from 290 healthcare workers who had tested positive for COVID-19, before vaccination, between June and December 2020. The samples were categorized based on their ability to block or enhance infection using in vitro assays. Mass spectrometry and ELISA experiments were used to identify and measure the abundance of proteins that specifically bind to SARS-CoV-2 antigens. IgA specific to SARS-CoV-2 antigens was detectable in over 83% of the convalescent saliva samples. We found that concentrations of anti-RBD IgA >500 pg/µg total protein in saliva correlates with reduced viral infectivity in vitro. However, there is a dissociation between the salivary IgA response to SARS-CoV-2, and systemic IgG titres in convalescent COVID19 patients. Then, using an innovative technique known as spike-baited mass spectrometry, we identified novel spike-binding proteins in saliva, most notably vimentin, which correlated with increased viral infectivity in vitro, could serve as a therapeutic target against COVID-19. Purpose The purpose of this work was to identify salivary immunological factors and proteins that protect against SARS-CoV-2 infection, to support the development of novel strategies for preventing COVID-19.
Schematic of methods used to study mucosal correlates of protection against in vitro SARS-CoV-2 infection in saliva. Added by: Dr. Enrique Feoli Last edited by: Dr. Enrique Feoli |