B-cell DNA methylation signature in response to hepatitis B virus vaccination in females and males

Introduction: Sex-based differences in immune responses to vaccination are well-documented, yet the underlying epigenetic mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study investigates DNA methylation profiles in B cells following hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination, with a focus on sex-specific patterns. Methods: Using high-resolution genome-wide methylation analysis, we examined post-vaccination samples from healthy male and female health care workers. Results: Our results reveal distinct methylation signatures associated with vaccine response, with several loci showing sex-dependent differential methylation. Pathway analysis identified immune-related genes and regulatory elements potentially involved in B cell activation and memory formation. Our findings show that DNA methylation levels differ between responders versus non-responders to HBV vaccination and these alterations vary with biological sex. Discussion: Understanding these epigenetic variations may open new perspective on vaccination practice. Collecting data on B cell epigenetics in different vaccination protocols could improve our knowledge on immunization function and contribute to more personalized vaccination strategies.