A mathematical model for the within-host (re)infection dynamics of SARS-CoV-2

The interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and the immune system during infection is complex. However, understanding the within-host SARS-CoV-2 dynamics is of enormous importance, especially when it comes to assessing treatment options. Mathematical models have been developed to describe the within-host SARS-CoV-2 dynamics and to dissect the mechanisms underlying COVID-19 pathogenesis. Current mathematical models focus on the acute infection phase, thereby ignoring important long-term effects. We present a mathematical model, which not only describes the SARS-CoV-2 infection dynamics during the acute infection phase, but also reflects the recovery of the number of susceptible epithelial cells to an initial homeostatic level, shows clearance of the infection within the individual, immune waning, and the formation of long-term immune response levels after infection. Moreover, the model accommodates reinfection events assuming a new virus variant with either increased infectivity and/or immune escape. Together, the model provides an improved reflection of the SARS-CoV-2 infection dynamics within humans, particularly important when using mathematical models to develop or optimize treatment options.

SCHUH Lea;  MARKOV Peter;  VELIOV Vladimir;  STILIANAKIS Nikolaos; 

2024-04-11

ELSEVIER SCIENCE INC

JRC135895

0025-5564 (online),   

https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC135895,   

10.1016/j.mbs.2024.109178 (online),