Since the arrival of COVID-19 late last year, researchers have been working tirelessly to learn more about SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the disease, and how our body responds to infection. Studies have uncovered the intricacies underpinning several areas of SARS-CoV-2 virology and immunology, including the specific receptors the virus uses to gain entry into host cells, and the antibodies and cells that the body produces to fight back.

However, many questions remain unanswered. Why does the immune response and severity of infection vary so greatly between individuals? What level of protection might antibodies provide against re-infection, and how long could this last? What does this mean for the chances of producing a safe and effective vaccine that could help life return to pre-COVID-19 normality?

In this roundtable discussion, three interdisciplinary experts will explore advances in our understanding of SARS-CoV-2 and our body’s response to infection. Our panelists will also consider how these findings will impact the development of effective vaccines against COVID-19.

By attending this roundtable discussion, you will learn about: 

• The immunological response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, including the role of the complement system
• Aspects of SARS-CoV-2 virology
• Progress and challenges in vaccine development