Abstract
T cells are involved in protective immunity against numerous viral infections1. Data regarding functional roles of human T cells in SARS-CoV-2 (SARS2) viral clearance in primary COVID-19 are limited. To address this knowledge gap, samples were assessed for associations between SARS2 upper respiratory tract viral RNA levels and early virus-specific adaptive immune responses, for 95 unvaccinated clinical trial participants with acute primary COVID-19. Functionality and quantity of acute SARS2-specific CD4 and CD8 T cell responses were evaluated, in addition to antibody responses. Most individuals with acute COVID-19 developed SARS2-specific T cell responses within 6 days of symptom onset. Early CD4 T cell and CD8 T cell responses were strongly associated with reduced upper respiratory tract SARS2 viral RNA, independent of neutralizing antibody titers. Overall, these findings indicate a protective role for SARS2-specific T cells during acute COVID-19.
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