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The immune response also in focus
This time, too, the immune response of the participants is tested. As in the core study, the current study uses two different serologic tests to detect specific antibodies to SARS-CoV-2. In addition, the cellular immune response is taken into account. Here, as von Laer explained, “the cells are shown the Covid-19 virus and then it is checked if it stimulates them, that is, it becomes more active.” Von Laer also calls T cells “killer cells” because they “track down virus-infected cells and kill them.”
Cellular immune defense could explain why some people do not get Covid-19 even though they have had contact with people who tested positive, he said. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that there is immunity even if there are no more antibodies.
In addition to the blood test, on this occasion the participants are asked to answer a detailed questionnaire about their health, psychological and socioeconomic situation. The study is scheduled for two months, with the first results expected early next year, von Laer said.
