The Antigen-Specific Response of NK Cells to SARS-CoV-2 Correlates With KIR2DS4 Expression
The immune response of NK cells to the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the context of the formation of immunological memory remains unknown. Scientists from the IBCh RAS in collaboration with other institutes have established the SARS-CoV-2-specific nature of NK cell responses in COVID-19-experienced individuals. Upon stimulation with SARS-CoV-2 peptides, such donors demonstrated enhanced level of activation, degranulation, IFNγ production, and proliferation of NK cells, as well as upregulation of genes involved in protein transport, metabolism, and immune response. The upregulated gene for activating KIR2DS4 receptor correlated with an enhanced NK cell response to SARS-CoV-2 peptides, indicating a possible role of this receptor in recognizing SARS-CoV-2. The work was supported by RSF grant 22-15-00503 and published in the Journal of Medical Virology.
november 18