BCG-Induced Immune Training: Interplay between Trained Immunity and Emergency Granulopoiesis
2023

BCG Vaccine and Its Effects on Immune Training

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Andualem Henok, Hollams Elysia, Kollmann Tobias R., Amenyogbe Nelly

Primary Institution: Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Science, Debre Tabor University, Ethiopia

Hypothesis

Emergency granulopoiesis and trained immunity are a continuum of the same effect cascade mediated by the BCG vaccine.

Conclusion

BCG vaccination may optimize pathogen-agnostic benefits by considering the recipient's age and the route of administration.

Supporting Evidence

  • BCG vaccination at birth reduces all-cause mortality in high-mortality settings.
  • Trained immunity can protect against a wide spectrum of pathogens.
  • Emergency granulopoiesis is a rapid response to severe infection.
  • Neutrophils are among the innate immune cells that can be trained.
  • Route of BCG administration affects the induction of trained immunity.

Takeaway

The BCG vaccine helps our immune system remember how to fight off different germs, not just the one it was made for.

Limitations

The precise molecular mechanisms by which BCG induces trained immunity and emergency granulopoiesis are not fully understood.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168169

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