Pathogenesis and immunity during SARS-CoV-2 infection

National Institute Of Allergy And Infectious Diseases

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

SARS-CoV-2 emerged in late 2019 and is the causative agent of coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). SARS-CoV-2 infection results in a mild respiratory infection; however, it can progress to a severe illness resulting in hospitalization, respiratory failure, and death. Severe disease is driven by excessive inflammation from an overactive or improper immune response. Multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants have emerged that encode mutations that limit protection from pre-existing immunity requiring a continued effort to generate the next generation of therapeutics and vaccines. We use small animal models and primary cell culture to understand the mechanisms that promote long-term immunity and induce a pro-inflammatory response in an effort to identify new targets for treatments. Multiple studies have shown the importance of antibody-based protection as a correlate of protection following vaccination and as a treatment regimen following infection using monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). The rapid identification of mAbs, evaluation of their protective efficacy in vivo, and defining their impact on development of inflammation is critical to understand their therapeutic potential. By interrogating the SARS-CoV-2 immune response and evaluating antibody-based immunomodulation, our laboratory aims to define mechanisms of protection and pathogenesis to development novel therapeutics.