Leading international researchers in immunology and genetics suggest certain individuals possess natural genetic immunity to SARS-CoV-2, potentially enabling the development of highly effective COVID-19 therapies.
In September 2021, studies highlighted "superhuman immunity" in some SARS-CoV-2 patients, who produce potent, broad-spectrum antibodies effective against the virus and its variants. Building on this, a October 18, 2021, publication in Nature Immunology explores genetic immunity.
Experts from immunology, infectious diseases, and genetics worldwide identify a key genetic trait in asymptomatic individuals amid the wide spectrum of COVID-19 outcomes—from no symptoms to severe illness.
They spearhead a global effort, the COVID Human Genetic Effort, to uncover the genetic basis of resistance to SARS-CoV-2. Clinical variability may trace to human genetics; for instance, in some families, all members contract the virus except one. Highly exposed yet uninfected people could be naturally resistant.
Vaccines rolled out rapidly to curb the pandemic, and Merck & Co.'s antiviral pills show promise. Yet, researchers argue that genetically immune individuals offer the path to the most powerful treatments.
Natural immunities have long guided research, as seen with HIV. Though the mechanisms of innate SARS-CoV-2 resistance remain unclear, asymptomatics provide strong evidence to pursue this avenue.
Under the COVID Human Genetic Effort, protocols identify uninfected family members. Volunteers will be exposed unprotected to COVID-19 patients for one hour daily over three to five days. Researchers will then evaluate SARS-CoV-2-specific T lymphocyte responses in resistant candidates versus infected individuals. Over 4,000 people have already consented.
