Study of T cell-mediated immunity in experimental COVID-19: involvement of purinergic signaling

• Grant number: 23/15373-9
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• Start date: April 01, 2024
• End date: July 18, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Immunology - Cellular Immunology
• Principal Investigator: Maria Regina D'Império Lima
• Grantee: Marcos Vinícios Pinheiro Cione
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 15/20432-8 - Intervention in signaling pathways associated with the recognition of cellular damage to reduce the pathology of severe forms of malaria and tuberculosis, AP.TEM
• Associated scholarship(s): 24/13933-0 - Harnessing eATP-induced purinergic signaling to improve immunization strategies against viral infections, BE.EP.DD

Abstract

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease caused by the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which has affected global public health. The immune response to SARS-CoV-2 involves both the humoral response, mediated by antibodies, and the cellular response, mediated by specific T lymphocytes. The humoral response is the basis of vaccine protection generated against the virus, but it has limitations regarding its duration and scope. On the other hand, the cellular response is long-lasting and potent to control infection and prevent reinfection by new variants. One of the important components of the cellular response are memory resident T cells (TRMs), which remain at the site of infection and play a crucial role in local and long-term immunity. The aim of this project is to determine better immunization conditions to induce and maintain TRMs specific for SARS-CoV-2 in the lung, as well as to establish an experimental model to evaluate the participation of purinergic signaling in the cellular response without the interference of B lymphocytes. In addition, the role of the ATP-P2RX7 axis as an inducer mechanism of migration and proliferation of T lymphocytes specific to SARS-CoV-2 in the lung parenchyma will be investigated, aiming to promote the maintenance of TRMs. This research has the purpose of developing new innovative preventive strategies against COVID-19, with potential to create a more long-lasting and effective immunity. (AU)