Sex Differences in the Evolution of Neutralizing Antibodies to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2

We measured anti-spike (S), nucleoprotein (N), and neutralizing antibodies in sera from 308 healthcare workers with a positive reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction result for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and with mild disease, collected at 2 timepoints up to 6 months after symptom onset. At month 1, anti-S and -N antibody levels were higher in male participants aged >50 years and participants with a body mass index (BMI) >25 kg/m(2). At months 3-6, anti-S and anti-N antibodies were detected in 99% and 59% of individuals, respectively. Anti-S antibodies and neutralizing antibodies declined faster in men than in women, independent of age and BMI, suggesting an association of sex with evolution of the humoral response.

Automated summary

In a study of 308 healthcare workers with mild COVID-19, it was found that individuals over 50 years old and with a BMI over 25 kg/m(2) had higher levels of anti-S and anti-N antibodies in the first month. Between months 3-6, 99% of individuals had detectable anti-S antibodies, while 59% had anti-N antibodies. Additionally, anti-S and neutralizing antibodies declined faster in men compared to women, regardless of age and BMI.