Does the IMMUNE SYSTEM CAN quickly ACTIVATE certain T CELLS that were already ready to fight the virus ? (François BALLOUX) or Does the SARS-COV-2 has DEVELOPED ways to BLOCK or WEAKEN the function of T CELLS ? (Alexander B. SIGALOV)

2) The first study (F. Balloux) investigates the rapid response of T cells to SARS-CoV-2 infection, revealing that many T cell receptors (TCRs) specific to the virus were already present in high levels before infection.

3) This suggests that the immune system can quickly mobilize pathogen-specific T cells without prior exposure to similar viruses. A similar pattern was observed in mice infected with another virus, LCMV, indicating a general mechanism for rapid immune activation.

4) The second study (A Sigalov) hypothesizes that SARS-CoV-2 may use its fusion machinery to inhibit TCR function through molecular mimicry, potentially leading to impaired T cell responses in COVID-19 patients.

5) This has several implications: current vaccines might unintentionally suppress T cell responses; combination therapies targeting both viral fusion and TCR inhibition may be more effective; and immune activation therapies could enhance T cell responses in COVID-19 patients.

6) In reality, both processes likely occur simultaneously. Our immune system has the capability to fight the virus, but the virus also employs strategies to evade that response. Understanding both sides is crucial for developing effective treatments and vaccines. Thanks 🙏

yes