Study by scientists from the CRC1160, Medical Center – University of Freiburg published in Nature Medicine
So far it was unclear whether a SARS-CoV-2 infection or a COVID-19 disease leads to a lasting immunological memory and can thus protect against renewed infection. Several studies had shown that SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies are only detectable for a few months in many people who have survived COVID-19 and can therefore only offer temporary protection against renewed infection. A research team at the CRC1160, Medical Center-University of Freiburg led by Dr. Maike Hofmann (A02), PD Dr. Christoph Neumann-Haefelin (A06) and Prof. Dr. Robert Thimme (A02) has now been able to show: After a SARS-CoV-2 infection, immune cells are formed that are retained in the body and could mediate a rapid immune response in the event of a renewed infection. The Freiburg study was published on November 12, 2020 in the online edition of the renowned journal Nature Medicine.
Link to the study “Characterization of pre-existing and induced SARS-CoV-2-specific CD8+ T cells”
Further informations:
press release of Medical Center-University of Freiburg
TV report on SWR Aktuell
