Limited induction of polyfunctional lung-resident memory T cells against SARS-CoV-2 by mRNA vaccination compared to infection

Abstract

Resident memory T cells at the respiratory tract may play critical roles in the response to respiratory infections including SARS-CoV-2. Here the authors characterise the lung resident T cell response generated in response to mRNA vaccination of SARS-CoV-2 Spike or in convalescent patients after natural infection. They show reduced frequency and functionality of tissue resident T cells in vaccinated versus convalescent patients which may impact disease control and vaccination strategies.