Persistence of Naturally Acquired and Functional SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in Blood Donors One Year after Infection

Viruses, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/v14030637 · Published: March 18, 2022

Simple Explanation

This study examined how long antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 last in blood donors after a natural infection. Researchers looked at antibody levels and functionality over one year, considering factors like age, sex, blood type, and vaccination status. The goal was to understand the immune response to the virus in a healthy population. The research found that anti-N antibodies, which are produced after infection but not vaccination, decreased over time. However, anti-S antibodies, which are produced after both infection and vaccination, remained stable. The detected antibodies were functional, meaning they could neutralize the virus in lab tests. The study also revealed that about one in five people were unaware they had been infected with SARS-CoV-2. Interestingly, the severity of the disease course (symptomatic vs. asymptomatic) did not significantly affect the level of antibody production or its functionality.

Study Duration

1 Year

Participants

51,797 blood donations screened, 120 seropositive blood donors included

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Anti-N antibody levels decline over one year post-infection, while anti-S antibody levels remain stable.
2
Individuals with blood group AB show significantly lower levels and in vitro functionality of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies compared to other blood groups.
3
About 14% of participants experienced persistent COVID-19-related symptoms up to nine months after the initial infection.

Research Summary

The study investigated the dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in Austrian blood donors one year after infection, evaluating the impact of various factors on antibody levels and functionality. Key findings include the decline of anti-N antibodies, the stability of anti-S antibodies, and the observation that blood group AB individuals have lower antibody levels and functionality. The research also highlights that a significant portion of individuals experience long-term COVID-19 symptoms, even after a mild disease course.

Practical Implications

Public Health Strategies

The data provides insights into infection rates and antibody dynamics which can aid public health decision-making related to managing the spread of the virus.

Vaccination Strategies

Understanding the persistence of antibodies and the impact of vaccination can inform vaccination strategies and booster schedules.

Blood Donation Screening

The study results have implications for blood donation screening and the potential use of convalescent plasma as a treatment option.

Study Limitations

1
The study population consists of healthy adult blood donors, limiting extrapolation to the entire population.
2
Individuals with severe long-COVID symptoms might be underrepresented, potentially underestimating the prevalence of prolonged symptoms.
3
Pauci-/asymptomatic reinfections were not completely excluded, which might influence antibody dynamics.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Immunology