Nasal And Systemic Immunity following COvid VACcination (NASI-COVAC)

The immune system against respiratory infections is often studied in the blood, while viruses such as corona enter through the nose. The aim of this project is to gain insight into the immune system in the nose after a coronavirus infection or after repeat vaccinations. To this end, in this project, small amounts of immune cells are collected from the mucous membrane of the nose using a new method that causes minimal burden for the patient. Antibodies collected from the nose will also be measured. This research can show whether protection is built up in the nose after infections with corona (SARS-CoV-2) or repeat vaccinations. The effectiveness of the built-up defense against new variants will also be examined. Finally, the use of animal models will investigate which immune cells, and in which location, are needed for protection against infection after vaccination.