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Cherif I, Kharroubi G, Darragi I, El Benna S, Gharbi A, Baccouche A, Souissi C, Bahri O, Ben Ahmed M, Bettaieb J. Dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies after natural infection: insights from a study on Pasteur Institute of Tunis employees. Libyan J Med 2024; 19:2348233. [PMID: 38693671 PMCID: PMC11067560 DOI: 10.1080/19932820.2024.2348233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the kinetics of antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2, following natural infection in a cohort of employees of the Institut Pasteur de Tunis (IPT) and to assess the risk of reinfection over a 12-months follow-up period. A prospective study was conducted among an open cohort of IPT employees with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection that were recruited between September 2020 and March 2021. Sera samples were taken at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after confirmation of COVID-19 infection and tested for SARS-CoV-2-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies to the spike (S-RBD) protein (IgG anti-S-RBD) and for neutralizing antibodies. Participants who had an initial decline of IgG anti-S-RBD and neutralizing antibodies followed by a subsequent rise in antibody titers as well as those who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR after at least 60 days of follow up were considered as reinfected. In total, 137 individuals were included with a mean age of 44.7 ± 12.3 years and a sex-ratio (Male/Female) of 0.33. Nearly all participants (92.7%) were symptomatic, and 2.2% required hospitalization. Among the 70 participants with three or more prospective blood samples, 32.8% were reinfected among whom 11 (47.8%) reported COVID-19 like symptoms. Up to 12 months of follow up, 100% and 42.9% of participants had detectable IgG anti-S-RBD and neutralizing antibodies, respectively. This study showed that humoral immune response following COVID-19 infection may persist up to 12 months after infection despite the potential risk for reinfection that is mainly explained by the emergence of new variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Cherif
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, University of Sousse, Sousse, Tunisia
| | - Ghassen Kharroubi
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Imen Darragi
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Soumaya El Benna
- Laboratory of Microbiology-Biochemistry, Aziza Othmana Hospital, University of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Adel Gharbi
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Amor Baccouche
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Cyrine Souissi
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Olfa Bahri
- Laboratory of Microbiology-Biochemistry, Aziza Othmana Hospital, University of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Melika Ben Ahmed
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Jihene Bettaieb
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
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Serwanga J, Kato L, Oluka GK, Ankunda V, Sembera J, Baine C, Kitabye I, Namuyanja A, Opio S, Katende JS, Ejou P, Kaleebu P. The single-dose Janssen Ad26.COV2.S COVID-19 vaccine elicited robust and persistent anti-spike IgG antibody responses in a 12-month Ugandan cohort. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1384668. [PMID: 38779677 PMCID: PMC11109398 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1384668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The study investigation examined the immune response to the Janssen Ad26.COV2.S COVID-19 vaccine within a Ugandan cohort, specifically targeting antibodies directed against spike (S) and nucleocapsid (N) proteins. We aimed to examine the durability and robustness of the induced antibody response while also assessing occurrences of breakthrough infections and previous anti-Spike seropositivity to SARS-CoV-2. Methods The study included 319 specimens collected over 12 months from 60 vaccinees aged 18 to 64. Binding antibodies were quantified using a validated ELISA method to measure SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG, IgM, and IgA levels against the S and N proteins. Results The results showed that baseline seropositivity for S-IgG was high at 67%, increasing to 98% by day 14 and consistently stayed above 95% for up to 12 months. However, S-IgM responses remained suboptimal. A raised S-IgA seropositivity rate was seen that doubled from 40% at baseline to 86% just two weeks following the initial vaccine dose, indicating sustained and robust peripheral immunity. An increase in N-IgG levels at nine months post-vaccination suggested breakthrough infections in eight cases. Baseline cross-reactivity influenced spike-directed antibody responses, with individuals harbouring S-IgG antibodies showing notably higher responses. Discussion Robust and long lasting vaccine and infection-induced immune responses were observed, with significant implications for regions where administering subsequent doses poses logistical challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Serwanga
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Laban Kato
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Gerald Kevin Oluka
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Violet Ankunda
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jackson Sembera
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Claire Baine
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Isaac Kitabye
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Angela Namuyanja
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Solomon Opio
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Joseph Ssebwana Katende
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Peter Ejou
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - The COVID-19 Immunoprofiling Team
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Pontiano Kaleebu
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
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Ankunda V, Katende JS, Oluka GK, Sembera J, Baine C, Odoch G, Ejou P, Kato L, Kaleebu P, Serwanga J. The subdued post-boost spike-directed secondary IgG antibody response in Ugandan recipients of the Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2 vaccine has implications for local vaccination policies. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1325387. [PMID: 38469296 PMCID: PMC10926532 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1325387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study aimed to delineate longitudinal antibody responses to the Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine within the Ugandan subset of the Sub-Saharan African (SSA) demographic, filling a significant gap in global datasets. Methods We enrolled 48 participants and collected 320 specimens over 12 months after the primary vaccination dose. A validated enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to quantify SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG, IgM, and IgA antibody concentrations (ng/ml) and optical densities (ODs). Statistical analyses included box plots, diverging bar graphs, and the Wilcoxon test with Bonferroni correction. Results We noted a robust S-IgG response within 14 days of the primary vaccine dose, which was consistent with global data. There was no significant surge in S-IgG levels after the booster dose, contrasting trends in other global populations. The S-IgM response was transient and predominantly below established thresholds for this population, which reflects its typical early emergence and rapid decline. S-IgA levels rose after the initial dose then decreased after six months, aligning with the temporal patterns of mucosal immunity. Eleven breakthrough infections were noted, and all were asymptomatic, regardless of the participants' initial S-IgG serostatus, which suggests a protective effect from vaccination. Discussion The Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine elicited strong S-IgG responses in the SSA demographic. The antibody dynamics distinctly differed from global data highlighting the significance of region-specific research and the necessity for customised vaccination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Violet Ankunda
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Joseph Ssebwana Katende
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Gerald Kevin Oluka
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jackson Sembera
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Claire Baine
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Geoffrey Odoch
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Peter Ejou
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Laban Kato
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Pontiano Kaleebu
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jennifer Serwanga
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
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Serwanga J, Ankunda V, Katende JS, Baine C, Oluka GK, Odoch G, Nantambi H, Mugaba S, Namuyanja A, Ssali I, Ejou P, Kato L, Musenero M, Kaleebu P. Sustained S-IgG and S-IgA antibodies to Moderna's mRNA-1273 vaccine in a Sub-Saharan African cohort suggests need for booster timing reconsiderations. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1348905. [PMID: 38357547 PMCID: PMC10864610 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1348905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study sought to elucidate the long-term antibody responses to the Moderna mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine within a Ugandan cohort, aiming to contribute to the sparse data on m-RNA vaccine immunogenicity in Sub-Saharan Africa. Methods We tracked the development and persistence of the elicited antibodies in 19 participants aged 18 to 67, who received two doses of the mRNA-1273 vaccine. A validated enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to quantify SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG, IgM, and IgA antibodies against the spike (S) and nucleoproteins (N). The study's temporal scope extended from the baseline to one year, capturing immediate and long-term immune responses. Statistical analyses were performed using the Wilcoxon test to evaluate changes in antibody levels across predetermined intervals with the Hochberg correction for multiple comparisons. Results Our results showed a significant initial rise in spike-directed IgG (S-IgG) and spike-directed IgA (S-IgA) levels, which remained elevated for the duration of the study. The S-IgG concentrations peaked 14 days afterboosting, while spike-directed IgM (S-IgM) levels were transient, aligning with their early response role. Notably, post-booster antibody concentrations did not significantly change. Prior S-IgG status influenced the post-priming S-IgA dynamics, with baseline S-IgG positive individuals maintaining higher S-IgA responses, a difference that did not reach statistical difference post-boost. Three instances of breakthrough infections: two among participants who exhibited baseline seropositivity for S-IgG, and one in a participant initially seronegative for S-IgG. Discussion In conclusion, the mRNA-1273 vaccine elicited robust and persistent S-IgG and S-IgA antibody responses, particularly after the first dose, indicating potential for long-term immunity. Prior viral exposure enhances post-vaccination S-IgA responses compared to naive individuals, which aligned with the prior-naïve, post-boost. The stable antibody levels observed post-booster dose, remaining high over an extended period, with no significant secondary rise, and no difference by baseline exposure, suggest that initial vaccination may sufficiently prime the immune system for prolonged protection in this population, allowing for potential to delay booster schedules as antibody responses remained high at the time of boosting. This finding calls for a reassessment of the booster dose scheduling in this demographic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Serwanga
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Violet Ankunda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Joseph Ssebwana Katende
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Claire Baine
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Gerald Kevin Oluka
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Geoffrey Odoch
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Hellen Nantambi
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Susan Mugaba
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Angella Namuyanja
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Ivan Ssali
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Peter Ejou
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Laban Kato
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Monica Musenero
- Science, Technology, and Innovation Secretariat, Office of the President, Government of Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Pontiano Kaleebu
- Viral Pathogens Research Theme, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
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Baine C, Sembera J, Kevin Oluka G, Katende JS, Ankunda V, Serwanga J. An Optimised Indirect ELISA Protocol for Detection and Quantification of Anti-viral Antibodies in Human Plasma or Serum: A Case Study Using SARS-CoV-2. Bio Protoc 2023; 13:e4905. [PMID: 38156036 PMCID: PMC10751243 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced immunoassays are crucial in assessing antibody responses, serving immune surveillance goals, characterising immunological responses to evolving viral variants, and guiding subsequent vaccination initiatives. This protocol outlines an indirect ELISA protocol to detect and quantify virus-specific antibodies in plasma or serum after exposure to viral antigens. The assay enables the measurement of IgG, IgA, and IgM antibodies specific to the virus of interest, providing qualitative and quantitative optical densities and concentration data. Although this protocol refers to SARS-CoV-2, its methodology is versatile and can be modified to assess antibody responses for various viral infections and to evaluate vaccine trial outcomes. Key features • This protocol builds upon previously described methodology [1] explicitly tailored for SARS-CoV-2 and broadens its applicability to other viral infections. • The protocol outlines establishing antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 infections by determining optical densities and concentrations from blood plasma or serum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Baine
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jackson Sembera
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Gerald Kevin Oluka
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Joseph Ssebwana Katende
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Violet Ankunda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jennifer Serwanga
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
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Lopes-Luz L, Fogaça MBT, Bentivoglio-Silva BG, Saavedra DP, Alves LM, Franca LV, Crispim GJB, de Andrade IA, Ribeiro BM, Nagata T, Bührer-Sékula S. A novel highly specific biotinylated MAC-ELISA for detection of anti-SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid antigen IgM antibodies during the acute phase of COVID-19. Braz J Microbiol 2023; 54:2893-2901. [PMID: 37930615 PMCID: PMC10689632 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-023-01160-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The gold standard for diagnosing COVID-19 in the acute phase is RT-qPCR. However, this molecular technique can yield false-negative results when nasopharyngeal swab collection is not conducted during viremia. To mitigate this challenge, the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) identifies anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM antibodies in the initial weeks after symptom onset, facilitating early COVID-19 diagnosis. This study introduces a novel and highly specific IgM antibody capture ELISA (MAC-ELISA), which utilizes biotinylated recombinant SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N) antigen produced in plants. Our biotinylated approach streamlines the procedure by eliminating the requirement for an anti-N-conjugated antibody, circumventing the need for peroxidase-labeled antigens, and preventing cross-reactivity with IgM autoantibodies such as rheumatoid factor. Performance evaluation of the assay involved assessing sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and accuracy using 682 RT-qPCR-positive samples, categorized by weeks relative to symptoms onset. Negative controls included 205 pre-pandemic serum samples and 46 serum samples from patients diagnosed with other diseases. Based on a cut-off of 0.087 and ROC curve analysis, the highest sensitivity of 81.2% was observed in the 8-14 days post-symptom (dps) group (2nd week), followed by sensitivities of 73.8% and 68.37% for the 1-7 dps (1st week) and 15-21 dps groups (3rd week), respectively. Specificity was consistently 100% across all groups. This newly developed biotinylated N-MAC-ELISA offers a more streamlined and cost-effective alternative to molecular diagnostics. It enables simultaneous testing of multiple samples and effectively identifies individuals with false-negative results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Lopes-Luz
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento e Produção de Testes Rápidos, Centro Multiusuário de Pesquisa de Bioinsumos e Tecnologias em Saúde, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
- Innovation Hub in Point of Care Technologies, Universidade Federal de Goiás-Merck S/A Alliance, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
| | - Matheus Bernardes Torres Fogaça
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento e Produção de Testes Rápidos, Centro Multiusuário de Pesquisa de Bioinsumos e Tecnologias em Saúde, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
- Innovation Hub in Point of Care Technologies, Universidade Federal de Goiás-Merck S/A Alliance, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
| | | | - Djairo Pastor Saavedra
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento e Produção de Testes Rápidos, Centro Multiusuário de Pesquisa de Bioinsumos e Tecnologias em Saúde, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
- Innovation Hub in Point of Care Technologies, Universidade Federal de Goiás-Merck S/A Alliance, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
| | - Luana Michele Alves
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento e Produção de Testes Rápidos, Centro Multiusuário de Pesquisa de Bioinsumos e Tecnologias em Saúde, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
- Innovation Hub in Point of Care Technologies, Universidade Federal de Goiás-Merck S/A Alliance, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil
| | - Luísa Valério Franca
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | | | - Ikaro Alves de Andrade
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Bergmann Morais Ribeiro
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Tatsuya Nagata
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Samira Bührer-Sékula
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento e Produção de Testes Rápidos, Centro Multiusuário de Pesquisa de Bioinsumos e Tecnologias em Saúde, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil.
- Innovation Hub in Point of Care Technologies, Universidade Federal de Goiás-Merck S/A Alliance, Goiânia, GO, 74605-050, Brazil.
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Sembera J, Baine C, Ankunda V, Katende JS, Oluka GK, Akoli CH, Kato L, Odoch G, Ejou P, Opio S, Musenero M, Kaleebu P, Serwanga J. Sustained spike-specific IgG antibodies following CoronaVac (Sinovac) vaccination in sub-Saharan Africa, but increased breakthrough infections in baseline spike-naive individuals. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1255676. [PMID: 38098482 PMCID: PMC10720323 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1255676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study investigated the antibody responses to the inactivated COVID-19 vaccine, CoronaVac (Sinovac Biotech) in the African population to provide valuable insights into long-term immunity and breakthrough infections against SARS-CoV-2 in individuals with varying prior IgG seropositivity. Methods Real-life cohorts were used to longitudinally track antibody levels against the SARS-CoV-2 spike and nucleoprotein in 60 participants over 12 months to examine the levels of multiple antibody isotypes (S-IgG, S-IgM, S-IgA, N-IgG, and N-IgM). Results Throughout the 12 months, we observed consistently high and stable seropositivity rates for spike-IgG antibodies, spike-IgM antibodies showed a decline in frequencies over time, and spike-IgA levels remained moderate and stable. Vaccinated individuals previously positive for spike-IgG antibodies demonstrated strong and persistent seropositivity, while those initially negative experienced a gradual and delayed increase in seropositivity rates. The fold change analysis of S- and N- antibody responses demonstrated a consistently stable and comparable profile over time, indicating that vaccine-induced antibody responses remain constant and lack significant fluctuations beyond the initial boost. The study emphasized that individuals lacking previous IgG positivity showed reduced vaccine-induced spike-IgG antibodies and were more susceptible to breakthrough infections, highlighting their higher vulnerability. All cases of breakthrough infections were asymptomatic, indicating the conferred protection to the vaccinated individuals. Discussion The findings corroborated earlier studies on the effectiveness of the CoronaVac vaccine and emphasized the significance of accounting for pre-existing seropositivity in vaccine assessments. This study effectively demonstrated durable antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2 in the African population following the CoronaVac vaccination, providing crucial insights for informing vaccination strategies and safeguarding vulnerable populations. Continuous surveillance is imperative for tracking breakthrough infections and monitoring waning immunity. The insights gained offer crucial direction for public health strategies and enhance comprehension of vaccine effectiveness in sub-Saharan Africa. Further research should explore functional outcomes, cellular immune responses, and the vaccine's effectiveness against different variants to enhance our understanding and optimize vaccine strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackson Sembera
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Claire Baine
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Violet Ankunda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Joseph Ssebwana Katende
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Gerald Kevin Oluka
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Christine Hermilia Akoli
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Laban Kato
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Geoffrey Odoch
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Peter Ejou
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Solomon Opio
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Monica Musenero
- Science, Technology, and Innovation Secretariat, Office of the President, Government of Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - The COVID-19 Immunoprofiling Team
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Pontiano Kaleebu
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jennifer Serwanga
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
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8
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Ssali I, Mugaba S, Watelo AK, Bemanzi J, Katende JS, Oluka GK, Ankunda V, Baine C, Kato L, Onyachi N, Muwanga M, Jjuuko M, Kayiwa J, Nsereko C, Auma BO, Weiskopf D, Sette A, Lutalo T, Musenero M, Kaleebu P, Serwanga J. Spike protein is a key target for stronger and more persistent T-cell responses-a study of mild and asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection. Int J Infect Dis 2023; 136:49-56. [PMID: 37683720 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Understanding the immune response in very mild and asymptomatic COVID-19 is crucial for developing effective vaccines and immunotherapies, yet remains poorly characterized. This longitudinal study examined the evolution of interferon (IFN)-γ responses to SARS-CoV-2 peptides in 109 asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic Ugandan COVID-19 patients across 365 days and explored their association with antibody generation. METHODS T-cell responses to spike-containing clusters of differentiation (CD4)-S and CD8 nCoV-A (CD8-A) megapools, and the non-spike CD4-R and CD8 nCoV-B (CD8-B) megapools, were assessed and correlated with demographic and temporal variables. RESULTS SARS-CoV-2-specific IFN-γ responses were consistently detected in all peptide pools and time points, with the spike-targeted response exhibiting higher potency and durability than the non-spike responses. Throughout the entire 365-day infection timeline, a robust positive correlation was observed between CD4 T-cell responses to the spike-derived peptides and anti-spike immunoglobulin G antibody levels, underscoring their interdependent dynamics in the immune response against SARS-CoV-2; in contrast, CD8 T-cell responses exhibited no such correlation, highlighting their distinctive, autonomous role in defense. No meaningful variations in complete blood count parameters were observed between individuals with COVID-19 infection and those without, indicating clinical insignificance. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the dominant role of spike-directed T-cell responses in mild and asymptomatic disease and provides crucial longitudinal data from Sub-Saharan African settings. The findings provide valuable insights into the dynamics of T-cell responses and their potential significance in developing effective strategies for combating COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Ssali
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Susan Mugaba
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Juliana Bemanzi
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Joseph Ssebwana Katende
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda; Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Gerald Kevin Oluka
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda; Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Violet Ankunda
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Claire Baine
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Laban Kato
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Nathan Onyachi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Masaka Regional Referral Hospital, Masaka, Uganda
| | - Moses Muwanga
- Department of Internal Medicine, Entebbe Regional Referral Hospital, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Mark Jjuuko
- Department of Internal Medicine, Masaka Regional Referral Hospital, Masaka, Uganda
| | - John Kayiwa
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Christopher Nsereko
- Department of Internal Medicine, Entebbe Regional Referral Hospital, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Betty Oliver Auma
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Daniela Weiskopf
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, USA
| | - Alessandro Sette
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Research, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego (UCSD), La Jolla, USA
| | - Tom Lutalo
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Monica Musenero
- Science, Technology, and Innovation Secretariat, Office of the President, Government of Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Pontiano Kaleebu
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda; Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jennifer Serwanga
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda; Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda.
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9
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Abdullahi A, Frimpong J, Cheng MTK, Aliyu SH, Smith C, Abimiku A, Phillips RO, Owusu M, Gupta RK. Performance of SARS COV-2 IgG Anti-N as an Independent Marker of Exposure to SARS COV-2 in an Unvaccinated West African Population. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2023; 109:890-894. [PMID: 37580023 PMCID: PMC10551093 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.23-0179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Determination of previous SARS-COV-2 infection is hampered by the absence of a standardized test. The marker used to assess previous exposure is IgG antibody to the nucleocapsid (IgG anti-N), although it is known to wane quickly from peripheral blood. The accuracies of seven antibody tests (virus neutralization test, IgG anti-N, IgG anti-spike [anti-S], IgG anti-receptor binding domain [anti-RBD], IgG anti-N + anti-RBD, IgG anti-N + anti-S, and IgG anti-S + anti-RBD), either singly or in combination, were evaluated on 502 cryopreserved serum samples collected before the COVID-19 vaccination rollout in Kumasi, Ghana. The accuracy of each index test was measured using a composite reference standard based on a combination of neutralization test and IgG anti-N antibody tests. According to the composite reference, 262 participants were previously exposed; the most sensitive test was the virus neutralization test, with 95.4% sensitivity (95% CI: 93.6-97.3), followed by 79.0% for IgG anti-N + anti-S (95% CI: 76.3-83.3). The most specific tests were virus neutralization and IgG anti-N, both with 100% specificity. Viral neutralization and IgG anti-N + anti-S were the overall most accurate tests, with specificity/sensitivity of 100/95.2% and 79.0/92.1%, respectively. Our findings indicate that IgG anti-N alone is an inadequate marker of prior exposure to SARS COV-2 in this population. Virus neutralization assay appears to be the most accurate assay in discerning prior infection. A combination of IgG anti-N and IgG anti-S is also accurate and suited for assessment of SARS COV-2 exposure in low-resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Abdullahi
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Institute of Human Virology, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - James Frimpong
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Mark T. K. Cheng
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Sani H. Aliyu
- Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Richard Odame Phillips
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michael Owusu
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Ravindra K. Gupta
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology & Infectious Disease, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Africa Health Research Institute, Durban, South Africa
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Amellal H, Assaid N, Charoute H, Akarid K, Maaroufi A, Ezzikouri S, Sarih M. Kinetics of specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM, IgA, and IgG responses during the first 12 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection: A prospective longitudinal study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288557. [PMID: 37437051 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is a global health threat. The kinetics of antibodies against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) need to be assessed, as the long-term duration of these immunoglobulins remains largely controversial. The aim of this study was to assess the longitudinal dynamics of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies against the nucleocapsid (N) protein and the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein up to one year in a cohort of 190 COVID-19 patients. Between March and September 2021, we enrolled patients from two regional hospitals in Casablanca, Morocco. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for antibody levels. We used the commercial Euroimmun ELISA for the determination of anti-N IgM, the Abbott Architect™ SARS-CoV-2 IgG test for the detection of anti-RBD IgG, and an in-house kit for the assay of anti-N IgG and anti-N IgA. IgM and IgA antibodies were assessed 2-5, 9-12, 17-20 and 32-37 days after symptom onset. IgG antibodies were also assessed 60, 90, 120 and 360 days after symptom onset. One-third of patients developed IgM (32%), while two-thirds developed IgA (61%). One month of symptom onset, most patients developed IgG, with 97% and 93% positivity for anti-RBD IgG and anti-N IgG, respectively. The anti-RBD IgG positivity rate remained high up to one year of follow-up. However, the anti-N IgG positivity rate decreased over time, with only 41% of patients testing positive after one year's follow-up. IgG levels were significantly higher in older people (over 50 years) than in other study participants. We also found that patients who had received two doses of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine prior to infection had a lower IgM response than unvaccinated patients. This difference was statistically significant two weeks after the onset of symptoms. We present the first study in Africa to measure the kinetics of antibody response (IgA, IgM and IgG) to SARS-CoV-2 over one year. Most participants remained seropositive for anti-RBD IgG after one year but showed a significant decline in antibody titers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houda Amellal
- Department of Parasitology and Vector-Borne Diseases, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco
- Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Health and Environment Laboratory, Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Najlaa Assaid
- Department of Parasitology and Vector-Borne Diseases, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Hicham Charoute
- Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Research Unit of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Khadija Akarid
- Aïn Chock Faculty of Sciences, Health and Environment Laboratory, Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Immunophysiopathology Research Team, Hassan II University of Casablanca, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Abderrahmane Maaroufi
- Department of Parasitology and Vector-Borne Diseases, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Sayeh Ezzikouri
- Viral Hepatitis Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Virology Unit, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - M'hammed Sarih
- Department of Parasitology and Vector-Borne Diseases, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco
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Serwanga J, Baine C, Mugaba S, Ankunda V, Auma BO, Oluka GK, Kato L, Kitabye I, Sembera J, Odoch G, Ejou P, Nalumansi A, Gombe B, Musenero M, Kaleebu P. Seroprevalence and durability of antibody responses to AstraZeneca vaccination in Ugandans with prior mild or asymptomatic COVID-19: implications for vaccine policy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1183983. [PMID: 37205095 PMCID: PMC10187141 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1183983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The duration and timing of immunity conferred by COVID-19 vaccination in sub-Saharan Africa are crucial for guiding pandemic policy interventions, but systematic data for this region is scarce. This study investigated the antibody response after AstraZeneca vaccination in COVID-19 convalescent Ugandans. Methods We recruited 86 participants with a previous rt-PCR-confirmed mild or asymptomatic COVID-19 infection and measured the prevalence and levels of spike-directed IgG, IgM, and IgA antibodies at baseline, 14 and 28 days after the first dose (priming), 14 days after the second dose (boosting), and at six- and nine-months post-priming. We also measured the prevalence and levels of nucleoprotein-directed antibodies to assess breakthrough infections. Results Within two weeks of priming, vaccination substantially increased the prevalence and concentrations of spike-directed antibodies (p < 0.0001, Wilcoxon signed rank test), with 97.0% and 66% of vaccinated individuals possessing S-IgG and S-IgA antibodies before administering the booster dose. S-IgM prevalence changed marginally after the initial vaccination and barely after the booster, consistent with an already primed immune system. However, we also observed a rise in nucleoprotein seroprevalence, indicative of breakthroughs six months after the initial vaccination. Discussion Our results suggest that vaccination of COVID-19 convalescent individuals with the AstraZeneca vaccine induces a robust and differential spike-directed antibody response. The data highlights the value of vaccination as an effective method for inducing immunity in previously infected individuals and the importance of administering two doses to maintain protective immunity. Monitoring anti-spike IgG and IgA when assessing vaccine-induced antibody responses is suggested for this population; assessing S-IgM will underestimate the response. The AstraZeneca vaccine is a valuable tool in the fight against COVID-19. Further research is needed to determine the durability of vaccine-induced immunity and the potential need for booster doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Serwanga
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Claire Baine
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Susan Mugaba
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Violet Ankunda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Betty Oliver Auma
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Gerald Kevin Oluka
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Laban Kato
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Isaac Kitabye
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jackson Sembera
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Geoffrey Odoch
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Peter Ejou
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Amina Nalumansi
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Ben Gombe
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Monica Musenero
- Science, Technology, and Innovation Secretariat, Office of the President, Government of Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Pontiano Kaleebu
- Pathogen Genomics, Phenotype, and Immunity Program, Medical Research Council, Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Immunology, Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
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