T cell reactivity to the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant is preserved in most but not all individuals

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) contains mutations that mediate escape from antibody responses, although the extent to which these substitutions in spike and non-spike proteins affect T cell recognition is unknown. In this study, we show that T cell responses in individuals with prior infection, vaccination, both prior infection and vaccination, and boosted vaccination are largely preserved to Omicron spike and non-spike proteins. However, we also identify a subset of individuals (∼21%) with a >50% reduction in T cell reactivity to the Omicron spike. Evaluation of functional CD4 + and CD8 + memory T cell responses confirmed these findings and revealed that reduced recognition to Omicron spike is primarily observed within the CD8 + T cell compartment potentially due to escape from HLA binding. Booster vaccination enhanced T cell responses to Omicron spike. In contrast to neutralizing immunity, these findings suggest preservation of T cell responses to the Omicron variant, although with reduced reactivity in some individuals.

Cited by papers we hold 3

• Origin, virological features, immune evasion and intervention of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron sublineages · 2022
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• SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant: recent progress and future perspectives · 2022
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• Immune boosting by B.1.1.529 ( Omicron) depends on previous SARS-CoV-2 exposure · 2022
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