Unravelling humoral immunity in SARS-CoV-2: Insights from infection and vaccination

Article type: Review Article

Authors: Najimi, Nouhaila^{a; b; c; *} | Kadi, Chaimae^{b; c; d} | Elmtili, Noureddine^d | Seghrouchni, Fouad^{b; c} | Bakri, Youssef^a

Affiliations: [a] Laboratory of Human Pathologies Biology and Center of Genomic of Human Pathologies Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco | [b] Mohammed VI Center for Research and Innovation, Rabat, Morocco | [c] Mohammed VI University of Sciences and Health, Casablanca, Morocco | [d] Laboratory of Biology and Health, Faculty of Sciences of Tétouan, Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Tétouan, Morocco

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author: Nouhaila Najimi: Laboratory of Human Pathologies Biology and Center of Genomic of Human Pathologies Biology Faculty of Sciences Mohammed V University Rabat, 10080 Morocco, Mohammed VI Center for Research & Innovation, Rabat, Morocco, and Mohammed VI University of Sciences and Health, Casablanca, Morocco. E-mail: Nouhaila.najimi@um5r.ac.ma.

Abstract: Following infection and vaccination against SARS-CoV-2, humoral components of the adaptive immune system play a key role in protecting the host. Specifically, B cells generate high-affinity antibodies against various antigens of the virus. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of immunity initiation through both natural infection and vaccination, shedding light on the activation of B cell subsets in response to SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination. The innate immune system serves as the initial line of primary and nonspecific defence against viruses. However, within several days following infection or a vaccine dose, a virus-specific immune response is initiated, primarily by B cells that produce antibodies. These antibodies contribute to the resolution of the disease. Subsequently, these B cells transition into memory B cells, which play a crucial role in providing long-term immunity against the virus. CD4+ T helper cells initiate a cascade, leading to B cell somatic hypermutation, germinal center memory B cells, and the production of neutralizing antibodies. B-cell dysfunction can worsen disease severity and reduce vaccine efficacy. Notably, individuals with B cell immunodeficiency show lower IL-6 production. Furthermore, this review delves into several aspects of immune responses, such as hybrid immunity, which has shown promise in boosting broad-spectrum protection. Cross-reactive immunity is under scrutiny as well, as pre-existing antibodies can offer protection against the disease. We also decipher breakthrough infection mechanisms, especially with the novel variants of the virus. Finally, we discuss some potential therapeutic solutions regarding B cells including convalescent plasma therapy, B-1 cells, B regulatory cell (Breg) modulation, and the use of neutralizing monoclonal antibodies in combating the infection. Ongoing research is crucial to grasp population immunity trends and assess the potential need for booster doses in maintaining effective immune responses against potential viral threats.

Keywords: Humoral immunity, B cells subsets, SARS-CoV-2, vaccination responses, COVID-19 Infection, Hybrid Immunity, cross-reactive immunity, breakthrough infections, high affinity antibodies, B Lymphocytes, therapeutic approaches

DOI: 10.3233/HAB-230017

Journal: Human Antibodies, vol. 32, no. 3, pp. 85-106, 2024