Scientists focus on how immune system T cells fight coronavirus

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Some scientists are looking to a different component of the immune system, known as T cells, for their role in protecting people in the pandemic. — AP/File
Some scientists are looking to a different component of the immune system, known as T cells, for their role in protecting people in the pandemic. — AP/File

Recent studies have shown that some recovered patients who tested negative for coronavirus antibodies did develop T cells in response to their Covid-19 infection. While the studies are small and have yet to be reviewed by outside experts, some scientists now say that people who experience a mild illness, or no symptoms at all, from the new coronavirus, may be eliminating the infection through this T cell response.

The findings add to the evidence that an effective Covid-19 vaccine will need to prompt T cells to work in addition to producing antibodies, and may have implications for several treatments in development.

They may also shed light on how immunity to new exposure to infection could work.

Read the full story here.

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