A cell-based method to identify target antigens and assess antibody responses

Prof. Renia presents a versatile cell-based method to measure antibodies, originally adapted from malaria research and applied to COVID-19. The technique uses cells expressing antigens on their surface to rapidly and sensitively detect antibody responses, even in asymptomatic individuals, and can measure different antibody isotypes like IgG and IgA. This method was instrumental in tracking infection, evaluating vaccine efficacy, and monitoring immune responses across age groups, highlighting the importance of boosters, especially for the elderly. Beyond COVID-19, the approach is adaptable to other pathogens and can be used for functional assays like ADCC and ADCP.