A Powerful Mechanism for Long-Term Protection Against Viruses Revealed 0 5

Intestinal immune cells are capable of forming a lasting defense against viruses, a study from the University of Toronto has shown. They produce IgA antibodies through an atypical pathway, providing long-lasting immunity. The researchers' work is published in the journal Cell.

The scientists found that in combating rotavirus, the intestine employs a special, short scheme for producing IgA antibodies. It skips one of the standard steps in immune activation, allowing for much faster protection to be established. These antibodies are not only quick but also incredibly resilient—they remain in the body for at least 200 days after the virus itself has been defeated.

This discovery explains why oral vaccines against poliovirus and rotavirus provide lifelong immunity. The researchers believe that the unique environment of the intestine—its anatomy and rich microbiome—contributes to such effective protection.

The findings pave the way for the development of oral vaccines against respiratory viruses, including influenza and SARS-CoV-2. The Gomerman laboratory has already applied for the development of a vaccine against avian influenza and is exploring how to enhance existing injectable vaccines to stimulate the IgA response.