Increased SARS-CoV-2 reactive low avidity T cells producing inflammatory
cytokines in pediatric post-acute COVID-19 sequelae (PASC)
Abstract
Background: A proportion of the convalescent SARS-CoV-2
pediatric population presents nonspecific symptoms, mental health
problems and a reduction in quality of life similar to myalgic
encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and long COVID-19
symptomatic. However, data regarding its clinical manifestation and
immune mechanisms are currently scarce. Methods: In this study,
we perform a comprehensive clinical and immunological profiling of 17
convalescent COVID-19 children with post-acute COVID-19 sequelae (PASC)
manifestation and 13 convalescent children without PASC manifestation. A
detailed medical history, blood and instrumental tests and physical
examination were obtained from all patients. SARS-CoV-2 reactive T cell
response was analyzed via multiparametric flowcytometry and the humoral
immunity was addressed via pseudovirus neutralization and ELISA assay.
Results: The most common PASC symptoms were shortness of
breath/exercise intolerance, paresthesia, smell/taste disturbance, chest
pain, dyspnea, headache and lack of concentration. Blood count and
clinical chemistry showed no statistical differences among the study
groups. We detected higher frequencies of spike (S) reactive CD4+ and
CD8+ T cells among the PASC study group, characterized by TNFα and IFNγ
production and low functional avidity. CRP levels are positively
correlated with IFNγ producing reactive CD8+ T cells.
Conclusions: Our data might indicate a possible involvement of
a persistent cellular inflammatory response triggered by SARS-CoV-2 in
the development of the observed sequelae in pediatric PASC. These
results may have implications on future therapeutic and prevention
strategies.