Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 10, 2025

Author Spotlight: A Pseudotype Virus System for Assessing Omicron Subvariants and Neutralizing Antibodies in SARS-CoV-2 Research
Published on: September 8, 2023
Durability of neutralization against Omicron subvariants after vaccination and breakthrough infection
Ka-Li Zhu1, Xiao-Lin Jiang2, Bing-Dong Zhan3
1State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing 10071, China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
Abstract:
Booster immunizations and breakthrough infections can elicit severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron subvariant neutralizing activity. However, the durability of the neutralization response is unknown. We characterize the sensitivity of BA.1, BA.2, BA.2.75, BA.4/BA.5, BF.7, BQ.1.1, and XBB against neutralizing antibodies from vaccination, hybrid immunity, and breakthrough infections 4-6 months after vaccination and infection. We show that a two-dose CoronaVac or a third-dose ZF2001 booster elicits limited neutralization against Omicron subvariants 6 months after vaccination. Hybrid immunity as well as Delta, BA.1, and BA.2 breakthrough infections induce long-term persistence of the antibody response, and over 70% of sera neutralize BA.1, BA.2, BA.4/BA.5, and BF.7. However, BQ.1.1 and XBB, followed by BA.2.75, are more resistant to neutralization, with neutralizing titer reductions of ∼9- to 41-fold, ∼16- to 63-fold, and ∼4- to 25-fold, respectively. These data highlight additional vaccination in CoronaVac- or ZF2001-vaccinated individuals and provide insight into the durability of neutralization against Omicron subvariants.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Immunological Memory
What is Immunological Memory?
Immunological memory is an integral function of the immune system that allows it to recognize and react more rapidly and effectively to pathogens previously encountered. This feature...
Vaccinations
Active versus Passive Immunity
Active Immunity
Active immunity refers to the resistance one develops...
Cross-reactivity
Immune Response Against Viral Pathogens
NK Cells
NK cells are a crucial part of our innate immune system, acting as the first line of defense against viral infections. These cells can recognize and kill infected cells without prior exposure to the virus, effectively slowing down the spread of infection. Additionally, NK cells produce proinflammatory...
Antimicrobial Effectiveness

