NIHR HPRU in Respiratory Infections

An ultra-early, transient interferon-associated innate immune response associates with protection from SARS-CoV-2 infection despite exposure Our interferon-associated signature of early SARS-CoV-2 infection characterises a subgroup of exposed, uninfected contacts in three independent cohorts who may have successfully aborted infection prior to induction of adaptive immunity. The earlier transient upregulation of signature genes in PCR-negative compared to PCR-positive CHIM volunteers suggests that ultra-early interferon-associated innate immune responses correlate with, and may contribute to, protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Why do some people avoid COVID-19 infection despite high levels of exposure? In our latest research we discovered an early, interferon-associated immune response in 'resistant' individuals that might halt the virus before it gains a foothold. www.thelancet.com/journals/ebi...

£80 million funding boost for research to protect the health of the nation

We're thrilled to announce that the NIHR HPRU in Respiratory Infections at Imperial College London, partnered with the UK Health Security Agency, has been awarded 5 more years of funding! We’re excited to continue innovating to protect the public’s health—stay tuned!

www.nihr.ac.uk/news/ps80-mi...