Human genetics of responses to vaccines

Karp-Tatham E., Knight JC., Bolze A.

Abstract The human response to vaccination exhibits considerable variability due to a complex interplay of heritable and environmental factors. This review examines the current understanding of the role of human genetics in vaccine responses, encompassing both rare adverse events following immunization as well as immunogenicity and efficacy . We highlight recent studies including from the COVID-19 pandemic, which provided a unique opportunity to study vaccine genetics at scale for a newly emerging infection and revealed significant associations between HLA alleles and responses to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Understanding genetic contributions to vaccine responses holds promise for enhancing vaccine safety and efficacy, and the development of personalized vaccination strategies.

DOI

10.1093/cei/uxaf034

Type

Journal article

Journal

Clinical and Experimental Immunology

Publisher

Oxford University Press (OUP)

Publication Date

21/05/2025

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