The characterization of CD8⁺ T-cell responses in COVID-19

ABSTRACT

This review gives an overview of the protective role of CD8⁺ T cells in SARS-CoV-2 infection. The cross-reactive responses intermediated by CD8⁺ T cells in unexposed cohorts are described. Additionally, the relevance of resident CD8⁺ T cells in the upper and lower airway during infection and CD8⁺ T-cell responses following vaccination are discussed, including recent worrisome breakthrough infections and variants of concerns (VOCs). Lastly, we explain the correlation between CD8⁺ T cells and COVID-19 severity. This review aids in a deeper comprehension of the association between CD8⁺ T cells and SARS-CoV-2 and broadens a vision for future exploration.

KEYWORDS:

• COVID-19
• SARS-CoV-2
• T-Lymphocytes
• CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes
• immunopathology
• viral infection
• T-cell response

Acknowledgements

I confirm that anyone listed under the Acknowledgements section of the manuscript has been informed of their inclusion and approved this.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by R&D Program of Guangzhou Laboratory (SRPG22-006), and HUST Academic Frontier Youth Team (2018QYTD10).