Title:COVID-19 Vaccine Race: Analysis of Age-Dependent Immune Responses against SARS-CoV-2 Indicates that more than Just One Strategy May Be Needed
Volume: 28
Issue: 20
Author(s): Mercedes Jimenez*, Nuria E. Campillo*Matilde Canelles
Affiliation:
- Centro de Investigaciones Biologicas Margarita Salas (CIB-CSIC), Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid,Spain
- Centro de Investigaciones Biologicas Margarita Salas (CIB-CSIC), Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040 Madrid,Spain
Keywords:
COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, infection, coronavirus immune response, vaccine development, vaccine
phases.
Abstract: In December 2019, a novel respiratory coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2 appeared
in China, causing the disease termed COVID-19 that has caused millions of infections
worldwide. In this article, we have analyzed existing evidence on the immune response
against SARS coronaviruses in order to understand the possible outcome of a
vaccine for COVID-19. From our analysis, it becomes clear that there is a big difference
in the immune response against SARS in children, young adults and the elderly, both at
the innate and adaptive levels. Taking this information into account, we have studied the
strategies that are being used for the development of COVID-19 vaccines. We discussed
the perspectives for obtention and worldwide distribution of reliable vaccines using this
perspective. The conclusion is that different vaccines may be protective for different age
segments within the population, depending on the strategy used for their design. Therefore,
it will become necessary for several vaccines to reach the finish line, not only to ensure
availability, but also to guarantee an adequate immune response at the individual
level.
