Análise da resposta imune celular e humoral em profissionais de saúde envolvidos no enfrentamento da COVID-19 no município de Uberaba-MG

Abstract

SARS-CoV-2, the etiological agent of COVID-19, belongs to the coronavirus family and has specialized to infect humans, bypassing the host's immune defenses. The interaction between virus and host proteins causes the development of cellular and humoral immune responses. Cellular immunity against sars-cov-2 is characterized by the production of cytokines, such as IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10, and the death of infected cells. Humoral immunity is determined by the differentiation of plasma cells, producing and secreting specific antibodies to control viral replication. Among the groups most exposed to infection by the virus that causes COVID-19 are health professionals and researchers. The dosage of anti- SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and cytokines can help in the determination of asymptomatic infected professionals, be useful in the prognosis and indicate repercussions on immunity. Occupational and pre-exposure data to COVID-19/vaccination and blood samples were collected from 267 professionals in two hospitals in the city of Uberaba/MG, in two moments, with an interval of 6 to 8 months. ELISAs were performed to quantify anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies based on N protein and its subclasses, in addition to cytokines. Where 98 (36.7%) of professionals had anti-sars-cov-2 igg, indicating the previous covid-19. Professionals who developed care activities had a higher level of IgG in administrative activities, due to possible contact with infected patients. there was a decrease in igg and its subclasses (IgG 1 and IgG3) between collections and positive serology for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, in addition to a negative correlation between time and IgG concentration. A progressive increase in IgG was seen between the administration of none and two doses of vaccines and when related to the positivity or not of the serology of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. There was a decrease in IFN-γ and IL-10 between collections. Our data point to a significant prevalence rate of anti- SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in health professionals. We were able to identify a certain pattern of the humoral and cellular immune response, but further studies are needed to better understand this pattern.