Italian research led by the Institute of Biomedical Technologies of the Cnr has revealed new insights into the genetic basis of inter-individual differences in the antibody response to anti-Covid vaccination. The study, published in the journal Communications Medicine, investigated how genetic variants impact the production of antibodies in response to the Bnt162b2 vaccine (Pfizer-Biontech).
The research team, comprising researchers from various Italian research bodies, evaluated genetic variants and antibody levels in 1,351 healthcare workers who were vaccinated against Covid-19 in early 2021. The study found that certain genetic variants in the major histocompatibility complex genes influenced the production of antibodies directed against the Sars-CoV-2 antigen. Specifically, a region on chromosome 6 was significantly associated with antibody levels, with different gene combinations leading to varying levels of antibodies.
The results of the study could have implications for personalized vaccination strategies, allowing for the selection of the most suitable vaccine for individuals based on their genetic makeup. The researchers believe that this approach could be extended to other vaccines, leading to precision vaccination supported by vaccine genomics.
In a related development, a new study conducted by WHO Europe has found that anti-Covid vaccines have saved at least 1.4 million lives in the European region. The study also revealed that vaccines reduced mortality by 57% in the region, with over 90% of the lives saved belonging to people aged over 60. The findings underscore the importance of vaccination in combating the Covid-19 pandemic and saving lives.