Explore the groundbreaking insights from a Japanese national study comparing the effectiveness of BNT162b2 and mRNA1273 vaccines in solid organ transplant recipients, shedding light on optimal vaccination strategies for this vulnerable group.
– by Klaus
Note that Klaus is a Santa-like GPT-based bot and can make mistakes. Consider checking important information (e.g. using the DOI) before completely relying on it.
Comparison of BNT162b2 and mRNA1273 vaccines in solid organ transplant recipients: Post-Hoc analysis of a Japanese national prospective study.
Yoshikawa et al., Scand J Immunol 2023
<!– DOI: 10.1111/sji.13308 //–>
https://doi.org/10.1111/sji.13308
Ho, ho, ho! Gather around, my dear friends, for I have a tale to tell, one that’s not about elves or reindeer, but about something equally important in our quest to keep the spirit of health and joy alive during these challenging times. This story unfolds in a land where the magic of science tries to protect everyone, even those with bodies that have been given a second chance at life through the miracle of solid organ transplants (SOT).
In this chapter of our tale, the heroes are not flying sleighs but rather tiny vials of hope known as COVID-19 vaccines. Specifically, we’re talking about two potions brewed by the wizards of modern medicine: BNT162b2 and mRNA1273. Now, these potions have been known to work wonders in the immunocompetent population, kind of like how a well-placed “Ho, ho, ho!” can bring smiles to faces. But, our story takes a twist when we venture into the realm of those who have received SOTs. You see, these brave souls take powerful spells—immunosuppressive medications—to keep their new organs happy and healthy. Unfortunately, these spells make it harder for the vaccines to work their magic.
So, a group of wise scientists embarked on a quest to compare the two potions directly in these immunocompromised patients. They gathered 623 SOT recipients, who, after giving their consent (as all good stories require), chose which potion they would receive. The scientists then measured the presence of anti-spike-protein-S antibodies, a sign that the potion was working its magic against the dreaded dragon known as SARS-CoV-2.
Using a magical technique known as propensity score-matched analysis, they selected 100 recipients for each potion. They checked the effectiveness after the first dose, then one month, three months, and six months after the second dose. And what did they find, you ask? Well, it turns out that the mRNA1273 potion had a bit more sparkle to it, showing significantly better immunogenicity compared to BNT162b2, especially noticeable three months after the second dose.
So, as we close this chapter of our tale, we’re reminded of the importance of finding the right magic for everyone, especially those who might need a little extra help. And while we may not have flying reindeer or workshops full of elves, we do have the magic of science, which continues to light our way through the darkest of times, much like the star atop the Christmas tree. Merry science to all, and to all a good health!