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Search Results (1,347)

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Keywords = COVID-19 mRNA vaccine

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19 pages, 812 KB  
Article
Pfizer Versus Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Effectiveness Against Mortality: Evidence from Linked Mortality and Vaccination Records in Indiana
by Sadia Farzana, Francesco Maria Rossi, Qian Eric Luo, Jeff Whittle, Kevin McGurk, Benjamin W. Weston, Andy Ye Yuan, Ali Moghtaderi, Vladimir Atanasov and Bernard S. Black
Vaccines 2026, 14(8), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14080717 - 20 Aug 2026
Viewed by 699
Abstract
Objective: It is commonly believed in the public health community that the mRNA vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna were broadly similar in preventing COVID-19 mortality, with perhaps a small advantage for Moderna. We revisit this question, using a research design that controls [...] Read more.
Objective: It is commonly believed in the public health community that the mRNA vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna were broadly similar in preventing COVID-19 mortality, with perhaps a small advantage for Moderna. We revisit this question, using a research design that controls for healthy-vaccinee bias. Methods: We studied deaths among persons aged 15 years or greater from January 2021 through December 2022 in Indiana, linked to vaccination records, using an outcome measure, namely COVID-19 Excess Mortality Percentage (CEMP), which uses non-COVID natural mortality to control for HVB. Results: We find both large healthy-vaccinee bias for both vaccines, and larger bias for Pfizervaccinees: Pfizer recipients were healthier and thus would have faced lower COVID-19 mortality without vaccination. For ages 60+, we find almost 50% higher COVID-19 remaining mortality risk (RMR) for Pfizer vaccinees receiving primary vaccination over a “core period” from 2Q2021 through 1Q2022: the average Pfizer/Moderna RMR ratio was 1.49. For ages 15–59, this ratio was 1.25, but was not statistically significant. For booster dose for ages 60+, the average Pfizer/Moderna RMR ratio was 1.34. For 2Q2022 through 4Q2022, after the major Omicron wave, we find much lower vaccine effectiveness and no significant Pfizer–Moderna difference. Conclusions: During the period with both good vaccine availability and high COVID-19 mortality (2Q-2021–1Q2022), the Moderna vaccine was associated with lower COVID-19 mortality, relative to the Pfizer vaccine. A possible explanation is the higher Moderna dose (100 μg vs. 30 for Pfizer). After that period, a high percentage of the population had natural immunity from prior COVID-19 infection; we find only small mortality gains from vaccination, with no significant Pfizer–Moderna difference. Policy Implications: Controlling for healthy-vaccinee bias, Moderna was associated with lower COVID-19 mortality, relative to Pfizer. This difference was not known in real-time due to the failure of the available studies to address healthy-vaccinee bias. Controlling for such bias is vital when making vaccination policy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section COVID-19 Vaccines and Vaccination)
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21 pages, 895 KB  
Article
Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination on Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Receiving First-Line Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy: Real-World Evidence from Romania
by Valeriu Gheorghiță, Horia Teodor Cotan, Adriana Pistol, Cristina Maria Orlov-Slavu, Elena Tianu, Alexandra Teodora Lazar, Miruna Stanciu, Indira Radoi, Laura Mitroi and Cornelia Nițipir
Medicina 2026, 62(8), 1588; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62081588 - 18 Aug 2026
Viewed by 610
Abstract
Background: The interaction between COVID-19 vaccination and immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains incompletely characterized. Methods: Retrospective cohort study of 139 patients with stage IV NSCLC treated with first-line ICI-based therapy, stratified by vaccination [...] Read more.
Background: The interaction between COVID-19 vaccination and immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains incompletely characterized. Methods: Retrospective cohort study of 139 patients with stage IV NSCLC treated with first-line ICI-based therapy, stratified by vaccination status and total doses received (0–1 vs. ≥2). Progression-free (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed by Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression; logistic regression explored factors associated with treatment-related toxicity. Results: Vaccinated patients had longer median PFS (13.0 vs. 11.0 months) and OS (29.0 vs. 24.0 months; both p < 0.001). In multivariable models these associations were attenuated and of borderline significance (OS HR = 0.83, 95% CI 0.69–0.99; PFS HR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.62–0.99). Outcomes were also more favorable with ≥2 doses (median PFS 14.0 vs. 12.0 months, p = 0.001; median OS 30.0 vs. 24.0 months, p < 0.001), and tumor mutational status was the strongest independent predictor of survival. In an exploratory model, ≥2 doses were associated with higher odds of any-grade toxicity (OR = 2.47, p = 0.037); events were predominantly low grade, with no Grade 4 or 5 toxicity. Conclusions: COVID-19 vaccination was associated with improved PFS and OS in stage IV NSCLC receiving first-line ICI therapy, with a dose-related pattern. The association was attenuated after adjustment for tumor biology and is hypothesis-generating. These findings support the safety and potential clinical relevance of vaccination in this population and underline the need for structured monitoring during immunotherapy. Prospective validation is required. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Oncology)
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18 pages, 2416 KB  
Article
Safety and Immunogenicity of SW-BIC-213, a Modified COVID-19 Lipo-Polyplex mRNA Vaccine, in Laotian Healthy Adults Aged 18 Years and Above: A Phase 1/2 Trial
by Ying Yuan, Yichao Zeng, Mingxiong Zhu, Ziyu Sun, Weiwei Xu, Yinran Hu, Guanzhou Liu, Mingyun Shen, Chen Yang and Di Gao
Vaccines 2026, 14(8), 708; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14080708 - 18 Aug 2026
Viewed by 280
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Messenger RNA vaccines can induce strong immune responses, but delivery, biodistribution, and storage stability remain important considerations. We evaluated the safety and immunogenicity of SW-BIC-213, a Lipo-Polyplex (LPP)-based mRNA vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, in healthy adults in Laos. Methods: We conducted a seamless [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Messenger RNA vaccines can induce strong immune responses, but delivery, biodistribution, and storage stability remain important considerations. We evaluated the safety and immunogenicity of SW-BIC-213, a Lipo-Polyplex (LPP)-based mRNA vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, in healthy adults in Laos. Methods: We conducted a seamless phase 1/2 clinical trial in healthy adults. Phase 1 enrolled adults aged 18–60 years in an open-label, single-arm dose-escalation study; phase 2 enrolled adults aged ≥18 years in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Participants received two doses 21 days apart. The primary endpoints were safety in phase 1 and safety and immunogenicity in phase 2. Results: In phase 1, 41 participants received 25 or 45 μg of SW-BIC-213. In phase 2, 480 participants were randomized in a 2:2:1 ratio to receive 25 μg, 45 μg, or placebo. All phase 1 adverse reactions were grade 1 or 2; grade 3 reactions in phase 2 were limited to transient fever. At 14 days after the second dose, pseudovirus neutralizing-antibody seroconversion exceeded 99% against wild-type virus, 98% against Delta, 84% against Omicron BA.1, and 88% against BA.2. Neutralizing-antibody titers were higher in both vaccine groups than in the placebo group (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Two doses of SW-BIC-213 showed an acceptable safety profile and substantial humoral immunogenicity in healthy adults aged ≥18 years. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Vaccines and Surveillance of COVID-19)
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18 pages, 781 KB  
Systematic Review
Comparator-Dependent Safety Signals for Incident Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases After mRNA COVID-19 Vaccination: A Systematic Review
by Larisa Pinte, Paul Balanescu, Alina Dima, Ana-Maria Mandescu, Mirela-Emanuela Simion-Stanciu, Andra-Cristiana Dumitru and Cristian Baicus
Vaccines 2026, 14(8), 706; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14080706 - 17 Aug 2026
Viewed by 302
Abstract
Background: Pharmacovigilance systems have flagged possible associations between mRNA COVID-19 vaccination and systemic autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIRDs), generating uncertainty for rheumatologists counselling patients. As the first population-scale deployment of an mRNA vaccine platform, COVID-19 vaccination provides a unique setting to examine whether [...] Read more.
Background: Pharmacovigilance systems have flagged possible associations between mRNA COVID-19 vaccination and systemic autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIRDs), generating uncertainty for rheumatologists counselling patients. As the first population-scale deployment of an mRNA vaccine platform, COVID-19 vaccination provides a unique setting to examine whether autoimmune safety signals detected in spontaneous reporting systems correspond to measurable disease risk. We synthesised pharmacovigilance and population-based evidence on incident EULAR-defined systemic AIRDs after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination and assessed whether disproportionality signals were corroborated by analytical studies. Methods: We conducted a PRISMA 2020-compliant systematic review searching MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and the Cochrane Library from 2019 to April 2026, supplemented by medRxiv and trial registries. Eligible studies included pharmacovigilance disproportionality analyses and analytical studies, including cohorts and randomised controlled trials, evaluating BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273 in adults without known pre-existing autoimmune disease. Risk of bias was assessed using READUS-PV, ROBINS-I, and RoB 2. Meta-analysis was not performed because of substantial heterogeneity. Results: Fourteen studies were included: seven pharmacovigilance studies and seven analytical studies. Disproportionality analyses suggested increased reporting of selected AIRDs, most consistently polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis, mainly when all other adverse-event reports served as comparators. These signals were largely neutral when influenza vaccines were the reference. Across analytical studies, associations were inconsistent; modest increases in systemic lupus erythematosus appeared only in selected analyses. Long-term evidence was scarce: only four studies, from three countries (South Korea, Israel, and Norway), followed participants for up to approximately one year, and three of these reported at least one positive association—systemic lupus erythematosus, post-booster rheumatoid arthritis, and polymyalgia rheumatica in older adults—whereas studies restricted to risk windows of three months or less reported no increase. Conclusions: The available evidence does not indicate a consistent increase in incident systemic AIRDs after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination. Although pharmacovigilance studies identified comparator-dependent signals for selected diseases, particularly polymyalgia rheumatica and giant cell arteritis, these findings were generally not confirmed in comparative population-based studies and should be considered hypothesis-generating. Delayed-onset disease remains poorly characterised, and studies with at least one year of follow-up are needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Safety and Side Effects in SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine)
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20 pages, 9544 KB  
Article
Circulating SARS-CoV-2 Spike IgG Antibody Levels and Avidity in Autoimmune, IBD and Transplant Cohorts: An Observational Study Following Multiple COVID-19 Vaccine Boosters
by Huijing Xue, Troy J. Kemp, Hayley North and Ligia A. Pinto
Vaccines 2026, 14(8), 688; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14080688 - 11 Aug 2026
Viewed by 319
Abstract
Background: Individuals with autoimmune disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and transplants face a higher risk of severe COVID-19 and breakthrough hospitalizations. It is essential to understand the magnitude and durability of vaccine-induced humoral immune response in these populations. Methods: We evaluated [...] Read more.
Background: Individuals with autoimmune disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and transplants face a higher risk of severe COVID-19 and breakthrough hospitalizations. It is essential to understand the magnitude and durability of vaccine-induced humoral immune response in these populations. Methods: We evaluated SARS-CoV-2 spike IgG antibody levels and avidity in autoimmune, IBD, transplant, and healthy cohorts following multiple COVID-19 mRNA vaccine doses. Serum samples were collected approximately 1 month (8–52 days) and 6 months (158–202 days) post-vaccination. Antibody levels and avidity were measured using validated ELISA and chaotropic-based avidity assays. Results: Individuals with IBD and individuals with autoimmune disease, especially systemic autoimmune disease, exhibited lower antibody levels and avidity compared with healthy individuals at certain doses and time points. Transplant recipients demonstrated substantial impairments in both antibody levels and avidity, with avidity reduced across all doses and time points. Significantly lower avidity levels were observed in transplant recipients, suggesting challenges in developing or maintaining antibody quality. For example, geometric mean anti-spike IgG levels were substantially lower in transplant recipients than in healthy individuals at both 1 month (635 vs. 7685 BAU/mL; p < 0.0001) and 6 months (1146 vs. 3277 BAU/mL; p = 0.0057) post third dose. Similarly, transplant recipients had lower antibody avidity than healthy individuals after the third dose, with geometric mean AI80 values of 4.5 M vs. 5.5 M at 1 month (p < 0.0001) and 4.6 M vs. 5.4 M at 6 months (p < 0.0001). Age, sex, and vaccine manufacturer may further influence humoral immune responses in the transplant cohort. Conclusions: Vaccine-induced humoral immunity varies across autoimmune, IBD, and transplant cohorts, with the most persistent impairment observed in transplant recipients across vaccine dose groups and at both post-vaccination time points. These findings reveal immune response patterns that may guide future studies evaluating vaccination schedules, immune monitoring, and clinical outcomes in these populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccines and Antibody-Based Therapeutics Against Infectious Disease)
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49 pages, 10514 KB  
Review
Two Classes of Protein Therapeutics: Why Dose–Response Architecture Defines the Boundary of mRNA Medicines
by Sarfaraz K. Niazi
Pharmaceutics 2026, 18(8), 941; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics18080941 - 30 Jul 2026
Viewed by 992
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) entered clinical medicine through vaccines, where the innate immune reactivity that complicates protein therapeutics acts as a built-in adjuvant. The success of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mRNA vaccines inspired an expansive vision of an mRNA 2.0 era extending the [...] Read more.
Messenger RNA (mRNA) entered clinical medicine through vaccines, where the innate immune reactivity that complicates protein therapeutics acts as a built-in adjuvant. The success of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mRNA vaccines inspired an expansive vision of an mRNA 2.0 era extending the modality to rare and common diseases, with delivery framed as the principal challenge. This review accepts much of that vision but argues it rests on an unstated assumption: that all protein therapeutics form a single pharmacological class. They do not. We propose a taxonomy, the Dose–Response Architecture Classification, separating two classes. Exposure-controlled therapeutics require a specific quantity of active protein on a defined regimen, as outcomes depend on reproducible exposure; examples include insulin, erythropoietin, growth hormone, coagulation factors, and narrow-therapeutic-index biologics. Threshold-response therapeutics depend on surpassing a functional threshold rather than maintaining a precise concentration; these include vaccines, many enzyme-replacement therapies, genome editing, receptor-saturating antibodies, and immune-cell reprogramming. Because an mRNA drug is dosed as an instruction, and a single message is translated into a variable number of proteins through a multiplicative, stochastic intracellular chain, the dose-to-effect relationship is inherently variable. Our central, deliberately falsifiable proposition is that mRNA is suitable for threshold-response therapeutics but unsuitable for exposure-controlled therapeutics unless a construct or delivery system demonstrates validated post-delivery output control within predefined pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic limits. This is a pharmacological boundary, not a delivery obstacle. We conclude that the greatest advances in mRNA 2.0 will come not from delivery alone but from disciplined indication triage by class. Full article
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26 pages, 11339 KB  
Case Report
Extreme PTH-Independent Hypercalcemia Mediated by a Rare Non-Osteoclastic Osteolysis Mechanism in Newly Diagnosed High-Risk Biclonal IgA Multiple Myeloma: Temporal Association with the Second Dose of Moderna mRNA-1273 COVID-19 Vaccine
by Clara N. Finch-Cruz, Serena I. Fazal and Vivianette Fuentes Morales
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(15), 6832; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27156832 - 30 Jul 2026
Viewed by 423
Abstract
We report the first documented case of extreme, intact parathyroid hormone (PTH)-independent hypercalcemia mediated by a rare non-osteoclastic bone remodeling mechanism in a 65-year-old Puerto Rican woman, detected within 24 h of the second dose of the Moderna mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine and leading [...] Read more.
We report the first documented case of extreme, intact parathyroid hormone (PTH)-independent hypercalcemia mediated by a rare non-osteoclastic bone remodeling mechanism in a 65-year-old Puerto Rican woman, detected within 24 h of the second dose of the Moderna mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine and leading to the diagnosis of high-risk biclonal IgA plasma cell myeloma (R-ISS Stage III). Peak serum calcium reached 17.4 mg/dL with concurrent hyperphosphatemia, normal lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and without marrow osteoclasts or osteolytic lesions, findings inconsistent with classical cancer-associated hypercalcemia. Hypercalcemia resolved within eight days with supportive treatment alone, remaining durably normal nine months later. The temporal proximity to vaccination, together with the biochemical–histopathological profile, generates the hypothesis, without implying causation, that a vaccine-induced innate immune response triggered a rare inflammatory osteocytic perilacunar/canalicular remodeling. The biclonal gammopathy, Clone-1 (normal karyotype, CD33+, OCT-2+, MYC, CD19+, PAX5) and Clone-2 (complex high-risk karyotype, OCT-2, MYC+low, CD19), suggests epigenetic rather than genomic drivers in the predominant clone. This case proposes a novel mechanistic hypothesis for vaccine-associated hypercalcemia and generates testable questions that warrant prospective investigation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Molecular Insights into Myeloma)
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26 pages, 3173 KB  
Systematic Review
Seroconversion Rates Following COVID-19 Vaccination in People Living with HIV: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Maya Alkhidir and Kannan Sridharan
Vaccines 2026, 14(8), 648; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14080648 - 23 Jul 2026
Viewed by 517
Abstract
Background: People living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (PLWH) remain at increased risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes; however, conflicting evidence exists regarding the seroconversion rates of COVID-19 vaccines in this population. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted on studies [...] Read more.
Background: People living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (PLWH) remain at increased risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes; however, conflicting evidence exists regarding the seroconversion rates of COVID-19 vaccines in this population. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted on studies reporting seroconversion outcomes following COVID-19 vaccination in PLWH. Results: Forty-four studies (5391 PLWH) were included in the meta-analysis. The overall pooled seroconversion proportion was 93.5%. Bootstrap analysis confirmed robustness (92.8%). Subgroup analyses revealed significantly higher seroconversion rates for mRNA vaccines (98.2%) compared to non-mRNA vaccines (80.5%). CD4 count demonstrated a graded association: <200 cells/mm3 (53.8%), 200–500 cells/mm3 (86.2%), and >500 cells/mm3 (93.5%). Prior COVID-19 infection (99.1% vs. 89.5%) and antiretroviral therapy (ART) status (93.5% vs. 49.6%) were significant determinants. Safety data demonstrated a favorable profile, with predominantly mild-to-moderate local (injection-site pain: 23.8%) and systemic (headache: 12.95%, fatigue: 6.4%) adverse events; serious adverse events were rare and no consistent association with HIV disease progression was observed. Conclusions: COVID-19 vaccination induces high seroconversion rates in PLWH, particularly among those receiving mRNA vaccines, with preserved CD4 counts, on ART, or with prior infection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immunization of Immunosuppressed Patients)
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26 pages, 8164 KB  
Article
Evaluating Memory B Cell Cross-Reactivity Between Ancestral and Future SARS-CoV-2 Variants—Evidence for Original Antigenic Sin
by Lingling Yao, Zoltán Megyesi, Paul V. Lehmann and Greg A. Kirchenbaum
Vaccines 2026, 14(7), 604; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14070604 - 9 Jul 2026
Viewed by 690
Abstract
Background: Despite the circulation of evolutionarily related cold-causing coronaviruses (CCCs) in the pre-COVID era, most individuals lacked pre-existing serum IgG and/or class-switched memory B cell (Bmem) reactivity for the SARS-CoV-2 Spike (S) glycoprotein expressed by the ancestral Wuhan-Hu-1 (WH1) strain. [...] Read more.
Background: Despite the circulation of evolutionarily related cold-causing coronaviruses (CCCs) in the pre-COVID era, most individuals lacked pre-existing serum IgG and/or class-switched memory B cell (Bmem) reactivity for the SARS-CoV-2 Spike (S) glycoprotein expressed by the ancestral Wuhan-Hu-1 (WH1) strain. Subsequent priming of the immune system through natural infection or prophylactic COVID-19 mRNA vaccination successfully generated robust Bmem responses against the WH1-S antigen, along with eliciting cross-reactivity for the future Omicron (BA.1) variant responsible for breakthrough infections (BTIs). However, to what extent immunological imprinting of Bmem towards the WH1-S antigen detrimentally constrains the elicitation of variant-specific antibody responses following subsequent booster vaccinations or BTIs—a phenomena referred to as “original antigenic sin”—remains an unresolved and open question. Methods: Using ImmunoSpot®, we evaluated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from defined human cohorts for IgG+ ASC reactivity against Spike proteins representing CCCs and SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, we developed a novel dual-label inverted FluoroSpot assay to distinguish between strain-specific and cross-reactive IgG+ ASCs recognizing epitopes in the receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variants. Results: Our data demonstrate a lack of appreciable back-boosting of IgG+ Bmem recognizing structurally conserved epitopes shared between CCCs and SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, we found evidence for immunological imprinting and the preferential expansion of Bmem recognizing cross-reactive epitopes in the RBD following BTI. Nevertheless, Omicron strain-specific Bmem were detected in PBMC donors collected in 2025. Conclusions: Our novel inverted dual-label FluoroSpot methodology evidenced preferential expansion of cross-reactive Bmem following breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 infection and supports the influence of original antigenic sin shaping the recall response. Moreover, the inverted dual-label assay provides a highly flexible and easily implementable technique for distinguishing between strain-specific and cross-reactive B cell responses and has broad applications in translational vaccine research against pathogens that undergo antigenic drift. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue RBD-Based COVID-19 Vaccines: Technologies and Immune Responses)
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17 pages, 2484 KB  
Article
Safety and Immunogenicity of the BNT162b2 COVID-19 Vaccine in Immunocompromised Participants 2 Years and Older: Results of an Open-Label Phase 2b Study
by Alpana Waghmare, Rucha Dadhe, Robin Kobbe, Lara Danziger-Isakov, Eduardo Sprinz, Flor M. Muñoz, Juleen Gayed, Rohit Solan, Oyeniyi Diya, Bisrat Abraham, Ye Feng, Xia Xu, Todd Belanger, Federico J. Mensa, Roxie Girardin, Özlem Türeci, Uğur Şahin, Kayvon Modjarrad, Kena A. Swanson, Annaliesa S. Anderson, Alejandra Gurtman and Nicholas Kitchinadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Vaccines 2026, 14(7), 602; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14070602 - 8 Jul 2026
Viewed by 657
Abstract
Background: The BNT162b2 vaccine is safe and effective for COVID-19 prevention. BNT162b2 safety and immunogenicity have been evaluated in immunocompromised individuals in real-world observational studies, particularly in pediatric populations, but not in clinical trials. Methods: This phase 2b single-arm trial descriptively [...] Read more.
Background: The BNT162b2 vaccine is safe and effective for COVID-19 prevention. BNT162b2 safety and immunogenicity have been evaluated in immunocompromised individuals in real-world observational studies, particularly in pediatric populations, but not in clinical trials. Methods: This phase 2b single-arm trial descriptively evaluated a Dose 3 (age-appropriate) BNT162b2 primary series with a Dose 4 in immunocompromised individuals 2–<5, 5−<12, 12–<18, and ≥18 years of age without a previous clinical or microbiological COVID-19 diagnosis. Primary objectives were to describe immune responses, reactogenicity, and adverse events following vaccination. Results: Out of 124 participants enrolled, 119 received Dose 3 and 90 received Dose 4. Among participants without evidence of past SARS-CoV-2 infection, neutralizing geometric mean titers (GMTs) and geometric mean fold rises (GMFRs) against the SARS-CoV-2 ancestral strain ranged from 344.6 to 1584.4 and 7.9 to 36.4 at 1 month after Dose 3 and from 1474.0 to 4157.9 and 31.0 to 95.6 at 1 month after Dose 4, respectively, across age groups. Among participants with or without evidence of past infection, GMTs and GMFRs ranged from 787.1 to 2940.6 and 9.6 to 54.3 at 1 month after Dose 3 and from 1031.3 to 13,457.1 and 9.1 to 220.0 at 1 month after Dose 4. Percentages of participants with or without evidence of past SARS-CoV-2 infection achieving seroresponse ranged from 50.0 to 92.9% at 1 month after Dose 3, and from 75.0 to 100% and 33.3 to 100.0% at 1 and 6 months after Dose 4 across age groups, respectively. No new safety signals were identified. Conclusions: BNT162b2 was immunogenic, increasing GMTs in immunocompromised individuals ≥2 years old, particularly after Doses 3 and 4. GMT increases were generally similar across age groups and disease subsets. Three or four BNT162b2 doses had a favorable risk-benefit profile in this population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Vaccines, Clinical Advancement, and Associated Immunology)
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19 pages, 283 KB  
Article
The Effect of COVID-19 Vaccines on Chronic Inflammatory Remodeling in NSTEMI Patients: A Galectin-3-Based Single-Center Study
by Adem Koksal, Mesut Tomakin, Mehmet Seyfettin Saribaş, Fatih Akkaya, Fatmanur Cavdaroglu Ustabas, Ibrahim Caltekin, Diler Us Altay, Tevfik Noyan and Ali Aygun
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(13), 5312; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15135312 - 7 Jul 2026
Viewed by 506
Abstract
Background: This study evaluated the potential effects of different COVID-19 vaccine platforms (mRNA and inactivated) on acute coronary syndrome (ACS) through Galectin-3, a biomarker of chronic inflammation and fibrosis. It aimed to compare serum Galectin-3 levels among NSTEMI patients according to COVID-19 vaccination [...] Read more.
Background: This study evaluated the potential effects of different COVID-19 vaccine platforms (mRNA and inactivated) on acute coronary syndrome (ACS) through Galectin-3, a biomarker of chronic inflammation and fibrosis. It aimed to compare serum Galectin-3 levels among NSTEMI patients according to COVID-19 vaccination status and vaccine type. Methods: A total of 75 patients with NSTEMI were prospectively enrolled and categorized into three groups: inactivated vaccine recipients (n = 25), mRNA vaccine recipients (n = 25), and unvaccinated controls (n = 25). Serum Galectin-3 levels were measured to assess chronic inflammatory status. Additionally, markers of acute myocardial injury and inflammatory response were analyzed. Results: Galectin-3 levels were similar across the inactivated vaccine, mRNA vaccine, and unvaccinated NSTEMI group, with no statistically significant difference observed (p = 0.481). Although troponin I levels and acute inflammatory cell burden were higher in vaccinated patients compared with the unvaccinated NSTEMI group, Galectin-3 levels remained comparable among all groups. No significant differences in Galectin-3 levels were observed according to vaccination status or vaccine type. Conclusions: In this exploratory cohort of NSTEMI patients, serum Galectin-3 levels did not differ significantly according to COVID-19 vaccination status or vaccine type. These findings suggest no detectable association between vaccination history and Galectin-3 levels in the study population. Larger prospective studies with longitudinal follow-up are needed to confirm these observations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiology)
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12 pages, 11251 KB  
Article
Rationally Modified SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Impairs ACE2 Binding While Preserving Immunogenicity in Mice
by Elia Tamagnini, Luca Simonelli, Martin Palus, Tanja Rezzonico Jost, Edoardo Lazzarini, Davide Mangani, Václav Hönig, Markéta Dvořáková, Dominik Arbon, Federica Gambini, Sara Lestani, Fabio Grassi, Lucio Barile, Mattia Pedotti, Radislav Sedlacek and Luca Varani
Vaccines 2026, 14(7), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14070568 - 27 Jun 2026
Viewed by 890
Abstract
Background: While vaccines are designed to elicit targeted immune responses, in some cases, the immunogenic molecules employed can inherently interact with broader host cellular pathways as a secondary consequence. This phenomenon can be exemplified by COVID-19 vaccines. COVID-19 vaccines, including mRNA platforms, use [...] Read more.
Background: While vaccines are designed to elicit targeted immune responses, in some cases, the immunogenic molecules employed can inherently interact with broader host cellular pathways as a secondary consequence. This phenomenon can be exemplified by COVID-19 vaccines. COVID-19 vaccines, including mRNA platforms, use the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein as an immunogen to induce the production of neutralizing antibodies. The spike protein binds the ACE2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) receptor on human cells, mediating viral entry and infection. ACE2 is widely expressed across multiple tissues and is a key component of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) that acts as a homeostatic regulator of systemic and local blood flow, blood pressure, cardiac function, fluid balance and immunity. Some studies have proposed the interaction between the spike protein and ACE2 as a possible contributing factor to rare adverse effects observed following COVID-19 vaccination, including myocarditis, pericarditis, thrombosis, and reported alterations in blood pressure, though these mechanisms remain to be fully elucidated. Objectives: As a proof-of-concept approach in vaccine antigen development, we engineered SARS-CoV-2 spike mutants with impaired binding to the host receptor ACE2. Methods: By rational design, we produced and validated in vitro and in vivo spike point mutants that do not effectively bind ACE2. Results: The engineered spike mutants do not effectively bind the human entry receptor ACE2 while retaining the immunogenic properties equal to or better than the wild type spike and thus generate a protective response in animals when used as a vaccination agent. Conclusions: By establishing a straightforward molecular strategy for rational vaccine design, this work demonstrates the feasibility of limiting specific antigen–host receptor interactions while maintaining immunogenicity. This approach may be applicable to future vaccination strategies where antigen interaction with host cells could potentially interfere with physiological pathways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section COVID-19 Vaccines and Vaccination)
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12 pages, 1105 KB  
Article
Longevity and Magnitude of Antibody Responses After Homologous and Heterologous COVID-19 Booster Vaccinations in Bangladesh
by Marjahan Akhtar, Md. Rashedul Islam, Zahid Hasan Khan, Afroza Akter, Imam Tauheed, Tasnuva Ahmed, Ishtiakul Islam Khan, Mohammad Ashraful Amin, Fatema Khaton, Farhana Khanam, Md. Taufiqul Islam, Prasanta Kumar Biswas, Rumana Rashid, Md. Mamunur Rashid, Md. Zakir Hossain, Ahmed Nawsher Alam, A. S. M. Alamgir, Edward T. Ryan, Sayera Banu, Tahmina Shirin, Fahima Chowdhury, Ashraful Islam Khan, Taufiqur Rahman Bhuiyan and Firdausi Qadriadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Vaccines 2026, 14(6), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14060531 - 15 Jun 2026
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Abstract
Background: The dynamics of humoral immune responses following primary and booster COVID-19 vaccinations are crucial to understand in order to optimize vaccination strategies. This study evaluates the magnitude and durability of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG antibody responses across different vaccines in a large cohort of [...] Read more.
Background: The dynamics of humoral immune responses following primary and booster COVID-19 vaccinations are crucial to understand in order to optimize vaccination strategies. This study evaluates the magnitude and durability of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG antibody responses across different vaccines in a large cohort of Bangladeshi adults. Methods: A total of 6300 adults from nine hospitals across eight divisions of Bangladesh were enrolled. Participants received two primary doses of either ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (Covishield, Serum Institute of India, n = 2855), mRNA-1273 (Moderna, n = 578), BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech, n = 121), or Vero-cell-inactivated (Sinopharm, n = 2746) vaccines. Booster doses were administered at one-year intervals post-primary vaccination. SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor-binding domain (RBD)-specific IgG antibody responses were measured by ELISA using serum from vaccinees at multiple time points after two primary and two booster doses. Results: A total of 3745 individuals received booster 1 (third dose), with 59% receiving heterologous boosters (a different vaccine regimen than the primary doses). Only 5.5% (n = 347) of participants received a second booster one year after the first booster (among them, 99% received BNT162b2). Our results suggest that heterologous boosters with the mRNA vaccine induced higher IgG levels than homologous boosters for individuals who received primary vaccination with adenovirus vector-based ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 or a Vero-cell-inactivated vaccine. However, in those who initially received the mRNA-based vaccine, both homologous and heterologous boosters produced comparable IgG responses. Among all vaccine types, booster immunization with the Vero-cell-inactivated vaccine induced the lowest antibody responses. Longitudinal analysis demonstrated significantly high IgG levels over the 12 months following the first booster (p < 0.0001); however, IgG levels declined significantly after the second booster dose (fourth dose). Conclusions: Heterologous boosting strategies, particularly those involving mRNA vaccines, elicit stronger and more sustained IgG responses compared to a homologous booster. However, antibody waning after the second booster highlights the need for continued monitoring and potential additional vaccine strategies. Full article
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18 pages, 1959 KB  
Article
Impact of Maternal COVID-19 Infection Versus Vaccination on Mucosal Immunity in Breastmilk
by Mymy Nguyen, Rupsa C. Boelig, Julie Jones, Wathsala Wijayalath, Gregory D. Gromowski, Zubair H. Aghai and Elke S. Bergmann-Leitner
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(12), 4494; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15124494 - 10 Jun 2026
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Abstract
Background/Objectives: In the first months of their life, infants rely on maternal antibodies for immune protection. Breastmilk is a major source of these defenses, supplying secretory IgA, IgG, and IgM that help guard mucosal surfaces against pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2. Most studies [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: In the first months of their life, infants rely on maternal antibodies for immune protection. Breastmilk is a major source of these defenses, supplying secretory IgA, IgG, and IgM that help guard mucosal surfaces against pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2. Most studies on breastmilk immunity in the context of COVID-19 have emphasized circulating monomeric IgA, rather than the multimeric secretory IgA (sIgA) that is active at mucosal barriers. This study assessed in-depth the contribution of breastmilk antibody subtypes to SARS-CoV-2 neutralization capacity and how these profiles differ following maternal COVID-19 infection versus vaccination during pregnancy or postpartum. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, breastmilk samples were collected longitudinally from individuals who had COVID-19 during pregnancy or received COVID-19 mRNA vaccination during pregnancy or postpartum. Serological assays measured IgG, IgM, systemic IgA, and secretory IgA against SARS-CoV-2 spike and nucleocapsid antigens. Results: COVID-19 infection during pregnancy resulted in significantly higher systemic and secretory IgA levels compared to vaccination. Secretory IgA demonstrated a strong correlation with neutralization capacity. Principal component analysis revealed distinct antibody profiles in COVID-19-exposed individuals versus vaccinated cohorts, with significant overlap between pregnancy and postpartum vaccination groups. Conclusions: Although both COVID-19 vaccination and disease elicit sustained COVID-19-related antibodies in breastmilk, COVID-19 infection elicits a broader and more diverse antibody response in breastmilk, specifically with a greater secretory IgA generation. These findings support the value of maternal vaccination to safely confer mucosal immunity to neonates and the need for optimized vaccine formulations for mucosal immunity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Infectious Diseases)
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17 pages, 2098 KB  
Article
Critical Path to First-in-Human Batches of ChAdOx Vectors, Including for Emergency Response
by Marco Polo Peralta Alvarez, Shawkat Hussain, Andrea Magri, Jacqueline Vieira, Cheelsea Pereira, Faith Vinluan, Matteo N. Barbaglia, Daniel Wright, Susan J. Morris, Emma Bolam, Eleanor Berrie, Teresa Lambe, Tanja Brenner, Richard Tarrant, Sarah C. Gilbert, Catherine M. Green and Alexander D. Douglas
Vaccines 2026, 14(6), 509; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines14060509 - 4 Jun 2026
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Abstract
Background: Adenovirus-vectored vaccines played an important role in the global response to SARS-CoV-2. Adenovirus platforms have many advantages including a simple and readily transferred manufacturing process, low cost, and thermostability. Speed of production of an initial Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-compliant batch has, however, [...] Read more.
Background: Adenovirus-vectored vaccines played an important role in the global response to SARS-CoV-2. Adenovirus platforms have many advantages including a simple and readily transferred manufacturing process, low cost, and thermostability. Speed of production of an initial Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-compliant batch has, however, been viewed as a limitation of adenovirus vectors relative to mRNA platforms. Production of the initial viral starting material and release testing are key rate-limiting steps. Methods: Production of viral starting material from DNA, and release testing in accordance with regulatory expectations, for first-in-human trials of adenovirus-vectored vaccines. Results: We describe experience of these stages in the production of the first GMP batches for multiple adenovirus-vectored candidates and the adaptations made for ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 (the Oxford COVID-19 vaccine) in early 2020. We also report development of a streamlined approach to starting material generation, enabling initial GMP batch availability within c. 60 days of publication of a new pathogen sequence. Using a New World arenavirus vaccine construct as a proof of concept, we demonstrate reproducible execution of this pipeline, maintaining acceptable infectivity and other quality attributes. Conclusions: We discuss opportunities for additional time savings in the future. This work demonstrates suitability of an adenovirus platform to contribute to the “100 Days Mission” for vaccines against “Disease X”. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Viral Vector-Based Vaccines)
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