Human coronaviruses encompass a group of viruses capable of causing respiratory infections, ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases like Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in 2002, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) in 2012, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2. Notably, SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV, all belonging to the beta-coronaviruses, have previously posed a great threat to human health. The antiviral immune response plays a pivotal role in defending the host against infections by human coronaviruses. Upon encountering a viral pathogen, the innate immune system initiates a rapid response, triggering a cascade of immune reactions aimed at neutralizing and eliminating the threat. Additionally, adaptive immunity further fortifies the antiviral response through the activation of virus-specific T cells and B cells. The emergence of human coronavirus outbreaks underscores the critical importance of developing effective vaccines and therapeutics that target the antiviral response of the immune system.
The production of type I and type III interferons (IFNs) and pro-inflammatory cytokines induces an antiviral state in infected cells and neighboring cells, thereby inhibiting viral replication and spread. One pivotal aspect of this defense mechanism is the innate immune system, which acts swiftly to detect and respond to pathogens. This defense is orchestrated by key players in the innate immune system, such as dendritic cells and macrophages, which promptly detect viral components and initiate an inflammatory response. Regarding the adaptive immune system, virus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) play a crucial role in recognizing and eliminating human coronavirus-infected cells, whereas helper T cells (Th) aid in B cell activation and the production of neutralizing antibodies. Additionally, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and antibody-based molecules, as well as vaccines, are considered potential therapeutic candidates against emerging and re-emerging viral pathogens. Thus, successful antiviral immune responses generally lead to virus eradication and the establishment of immunological memory, providing long-lasting protection against future human coronavirus infections. Despite these defense mechanisms, human coronaviruses have evolved strategies to evade or subvert the host immune response, such as altering their antigens, producing immune evasion proteins, or manipulating host cell signals. Understanding the intricate interplay between the antiviral immune response and human coronaviruses' evasion strategies is essential for devising effective antiviral therapies and vaccines.

This research topic aims to delve into the influence of antiviral immune responses, including innate and adaptive immunity, on the outcomes of human coronavirus infections. By comprehensively investigating how the immune system combats human coronaviruses and exploring potential strategies to target specific immune pathways, this effort will advance our understanding of antiviral immune responses and facilitate the development of novel therapeutic approaches for effectively combating human coronaviruses.

We invite submissions of original research articles, high-quality systematic reviews, mini-reviews, and reviews focusing on, but not limited to, the following areas:
- The influence of host factors, including genetic variations and immune status, on antiviral immune responses in human coronaviruses.
- Key players in antiviral immune response pathways, such as pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), and immune cells' intrinsic antiviral signaling in combating human coronaviruses.
- The role of innate and adaptive immune responses in combating human coronaviruses and affecting disease progression.
- Mechanisms of T cell-mediated antiviral responses, such as cytotoxic T lymphocytes and T helper cells, and their role in clearing human coronaviruses and developing immunity.
- The role of B cells in antiviral immunity, including antibody production, class switching, and memory B cell responses, and their impact on disease outcomes.
- Dynamics of antibody production during viral infections, including neutralizing antibodies, epitope specificity, and their therapeutic potential in controlling human coronavirus spread.
- Mechanisms of human coronaviruses immune evasion and strategies to enhance immune recognition and response against viral pathogens.
- Therapeutic interventions targeting innate and adaptive immune pathways, including immunomodulatory agents and vaccine strategies, and their efficacy in managing infectious diseases.
- Consider the potential for new human coronavirus outbreaks and explore preparedness strategies from an immune response perspective.

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Frontiers in Immunology

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