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SARS-CoV-2-Specific T Lymphocytes Analysis in mRNA-Vaccinated Patients with B-Cell Lymphoid Malignancies on Active Treatment

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Patients with B-lymphocyte malignancies (BCMs) receiving B-lymphocyte-targeted therapies have increased risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes and impaired antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination in comparison to non-hematologic oncologic patients or general population. Consequently, it is vital to explore vaccine-induced T-lymphocyte responses in patients referred for the understanding of immune protection against SARS-CoV2 infections. The objective of the present study was to analyze the recall immune responses carried out by T lymphocytes after two COVID-19 mRNA vaccine doses. METHODS: We enrolled 40 patients with BCMs and 10 healthy controls (HCs) after 4 weeks from the second mRNA vaccine dose. Spike (S)-specific T-lymphocyte responses were assessed in peripheral blood mononuclear lymphocytes (PBMCs) by intracellular IFN-γ staining combined with flow cytometry. Furthermore, the humoral response was assessed with the measurement of anti-spike antibodies. RESULTS: = 0.008). The antibody response was different across BCMs: 18.75% for non-Hodgkin lymphoma, 54.5% for chronic lymphocytic leukemia, and 92.3% for multiple myeloma. Responses varied by malignancy type and treatment, with anti-CD20 therapies showing the lowest response (6.7%). T-lymphocyte analysis revealed reduced numbers and altered differentiation stages in patients compared to the controls. However, the vaccine-induced T response was generally robust, with variations in specific T subpopulations. CONCLUSIONS: mRNA vaccines induced significant humoral and cellular immune responses in B-cell lymphoid malignancy patients, although responses varied by treatment type and malignancy. Further research is needed to optimize vaccination strategies in this population.

Source: Vaccines

DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12090961