SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines: Inactivation by Gamma Irradiation for T and B Cell Immunity

Abstract

Despite accumulating preclinical data demonstrating a crucial role of cytotoxic T cell immunity during viral infections, ongoing efforts on developing COVID-19 vaccines are mostly focused on antibodies. In this commentary article, we discuss potential benefits of cytotoxic T cells in providing long-term protection against COVID-19. Further, we propose that gamma-ray irradiation, which is a previously tested inactivation method, may be utilized to prepare an experimental COVID-19 vaccine that can provide balanced immunity involving both B and T cells.

Keywords

• SARS-CoV-2
• COVID-19
• Gamma-ray irradiated vaccine