Vaccines prevent lasting immune damage from viral infections in mice

Study reveals hidden immune harm

Researchers found that mice recovering from acute viral infections suffered lasting changes to their spleens. Even though the creatures defeated the infection, their immunity stayed weak well past when signs vanished. This impairment made it harder for them to respond to new threats effectively. The study was published in Cell Death & Disease by the Infection Biology Laboratory.

Vaccination blocks structural spleen changes

Mice vaccinated before infection did not develop these harmful problems, suggesting an additional layer of protection. The infection caused fibrosis, a condition involving the buildup of scar-like tissue within the organ. This structural change disrupted the positioning of immune cells necessary to activate T cells. As a result, the mice were unable to mount strong immune reactions when faced with subsequent threats.

Professor explains lingering effects

Andreas Meyerhans, an ICREA research professor at UPF, led the research team investigating this possibility. He noted that general perception underestimates consequences that persist long after the infection itself has resolved. The immune response creates protection against future encounters with the same virus initially. Yet, following recovery from a virus, concealed harm to immunity can persist.