Immunogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 spike antigens derived from Beta & Delta variants of concern
Bassel Akache, Tyler M. Renner, Matthew Stuible, Nazanin Rohani, Yuneivy Cepero-Donates, Lise Deschatelets, Renu Dudani, Blair A. Harrison, Christian Gervais, Jennifer J. Hill, Usha D. Hemraz, Edmond Lam, Sophie Régnier, Anne E.G. Lenferink, Yves Durocher, Michael J. McCluskie
Abstract
Using our strongly immunogenic SmT1 SARS-CoV-2 spike antigen platform, we developed antigens based on the Beta & Delta variants of concern (VOC). These antigens elicited higher neutralizing antibody activity to the corresponding variant than comparable vaccine formulations based on the original reference strain, while a multivalent vaccine generated cross-neutralizing activity in all three variants. This suggests that while current vaccines may be effective at reducing severe disease to existing VOC, variant-specific antigens, whether in a mono- or multivalent vaccine, may be required to induce optimal immune responses and reduce infection against arising variants.