Australian researchers have stated that human bodies possess a second line of defense against the new Omicron variant of the coronavirus, in case antibodies fail to counter it. According to the British newspaper "The Guardian," the study conducted by researchers from the University of Melbourne and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology indicated that this second defense line consists of T cells, a type of white blood cell that originates in the marrow and is an essential component of the immune system. The new study was published in the scientific journal "Viruses."
The Omicron variant contains a number of mutations greater than other variants, meaning it can escape antibodies produced by vaccination or previous infection. However, in this case, T cells are capable and effective in combatting these mutations, according to the study. The team investigated parts of the viral proteins specific to COVID-19 from patients who were vaccinated or had been infected. They found that half of the viral proteins containing the Omicron mutation are recognizable by T cells.
Ahmed Abdulkadir, a researcher at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology who participated in the study, commented on this finding, stating: "This reduces the chance of Omicron escaping T cell defenses." However, he noted that T cell responses alone do not prevent infection or transmission. Nonetheless, they provide hope for protection against severe illness.
Matthew McKay, a professor at the University of Melbourne who also participated in the study, mentioned that their results carry positive news. He added, "Even if Omicron, or some other variants, can evade antibodies, a strong T cell response is still expected to provide protection to the body and help prevent severe symptom development." He continued: "Based on our data, we expect that T cell responses resulting from vaccines and boosters, for example, will continue to help protect against Omicron, as observed with other variants. We believe this offers some positive news in the global fight against Omicron."
