151
|
Ho JKT, Jeevan-Raj B, Netter HJ. Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Subviral Particles as Protective Vaccines and Vaccine Platforms. Viruses 2020; 12:v12020126. [PMID: 31973017 PMCID: PMC7077199 DOI: 10.3390/v12020126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis B remains one of the major global health problems more than 40 years after the identification of human hepatitis B virus (HBV) as the causative agent. A critical turning point in combating this virus was the development of a preventative vaccine composed of the HBV surface (envelope) protein (HBsAg) to reduce the risk of new infections. The isolation of HBsAg sub-viral particles (SVPs) from the blood of asymptomatic HBV carriers as antigens for the first-generation vaccines, followed by the development of recombinant HBsAg SVPs produced in yeast as the antigenic components of the second-generation vaccines, represent landmark advancements in biotechnology and medicine. The ability of the HBsAg SVPs to accept and present foreign antigenic sequences provides the basis of a chimeric particulate delivery platform, and resulted in the development of a vaccine against malaria (RTS,S/AS01, MosquirixTM), and various preclinical vaccine candidates to overcome infectious diseases for which there are no effective vaccines. Biomedical modifications of the HBsAg subunits allowed the identification of strategies to enhance the HBsAg SVP immunogenicity to build potent vaccines for preventative and possibly therapeutic applications. The review provides an overview of the formation and assembly of the HBsAg SVPs and highlights the utilization of the particles in key effective vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joan Kha-Tu Ho
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (VIDRL), Melbourne Health, The Peter Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia; (J.K.-T.H.); (B.J.-R.)
| | - Beena Jeevan-Raj
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (VIDRL), Melbourne Health, The Peter Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia; (J.K.-T.H.); (B.J.-R.)
| | - Hans-Jürgen Netter
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (VIDRL), Melbourne Health, The Peter Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia; (J.K.-T.H.); (B.J.-R.)
- Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) University, School of Science, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
152
|
Wu F, Zhang S, Zhang Y, Mo R, Yan F, Wang H, Wong G, Chi H, Wang T, Feng N, Gao Y, Xia X, Zhao Y, Yang S. A Chimeric Sudan Virus-Like Particle Vaccine Candidate Produced by a Recombinant Baculovirus System Induces Specific Immune Responses in Mice and Horses. Viruses 2020; 12:v12010064. [PMID: 31947873 PMCID: PMC7019897 DOI: 10.3390/v12010064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ebola virus infections lead to severe hemorrhagic fevers in humans and nonhuman primates; and human fatality rates are as high as 67%–90%. Since the Ebola virus was discovered in 1976, the only available treatments have been medical support or the emergency administration of experimental drugs. The absence of licensed vaccines and drugs against the Ebola virus impedes the prevention of viral infection. In this study, we generated recombinant baculoviruses (rBV) expressing the Sudan virus (SUDV) matrix structural protein (VP40) (rBV-VP40-VP40) or the SUDV glycoprotein (GP) (rBV-GP-GP), and SUDV virus-like particles (VLPs) were produced by co-infection of Sf9 cells with rBV-SUDV-VP40 and rBV-SUDV-GP. The expression of SUDV VP40 and GP in SUDV VLPs was demonstrated by IFA and Western blot analysis. Electron microscopy results demonstrated that SUDV VLPs had a filamentous morphology. The immunogenicity of SUDV VLPs produced in insect cells was evaluated by the immunization of mice. The analysis of antibody responses showed that mice vaccinated with SUDV VLPs and the adjuvant Montanide ISA 201 produced SUDV GP-specific IgG antibodies. Sera from SUDV VLP-immunized mice were able to block infection by SUDV GP pseudotyped HIV, indicating that a neutralizing antibody against the SUDV GP protein was produced. Furthermore, the activation of B cells in the group immunized with VLPs mixed with Montanide ISA 201 was significant one week after the primary immunization. Vaccination with the SUDV VLPs markedly increased the frequency of antigen-specific cells secreting type 1 and type 2 cytokines. To study the therapeutic effects of SUDV antibodies, horses were immunized with SUDV VLPs emulsified in Freund’s complete adjuvant or Freund’s incomplete adjuvant. The results showed that horses could produce SUDV GP-specific antibodies and neutralizing antibodies. These results showed that SUDV VLPs demonstrate excellent immunogenicity and represent a promising approach for vaccine development against SUDV infection. Further, these horse anti-SUDV purified immunoglobulins lay a foundation for SUDV therapeutic drug research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fangfang Wu
- Institute of Military Veterinary Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Changchun 130122, China; (F.W.); (S.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.M.); (F.Y.); (H.W.); (H.C.); (T.W.); (N.F.); (Y.G.); (X.X.)
| | - Shengnan Zhang
- Institute of Military Veterinary Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Changchun 130122, China; (F.W.); (S.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.M.); (F.Y.); (H.W.); (H.C.); (T.W.); (N.F.); (Y.G.); (X.X.)
- College of Wildlife Resources, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Institute of Military Veterinary Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Changchun 130122, China; (F.W.); (S.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.M.); (F.Y.); (H.W.); (H.C.); (T.W.); (N.F.); (Y.G.); (X.X.)
- College of Wildlife Resources, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Ruo Mo
- Institute of Military Veterinary Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Changchun 130122, China; (F.W.); (S.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.M.); (F.Y.); (H.W.); (H.C.); (T.W.); (N.F.); (Y.G.); (X.X.)
- Animal Science and Technology College, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, China
| | - Feihu Yan
- Institute of Military Veterinary Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Changchun 130122, China; (F.W.); (S.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.M.); (F.Y.); (H.W.); (H.C.); (T.W.); (N.F.); (Y.G.); (X.X.)
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun 130000, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Hualei Wang
- Institute of Military Veterinary Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Changchun 130122, China; (F.W.); (S.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.M.); (F.Y.); (H.W.); (H.C.); (T.W.); (N.F.); (Y.G.); (X.X.)
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Gary Wong
- Institute Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai 20031, China;
- Special Pathogens Program, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB R3E3R2, Canada
| | - Hang Chi
- Institute of Military Veterinary Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Changchun 130122, China; (F.W.); (S.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.M.); (F.Y.); (H.W.); (H.C.); (T.W.); (N.F.); (Y.G.); (X.X.)
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun 130000, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Tiecheng Wang
- Institute of Military Veterinary Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Changchun 130122, China; (F.W.); (S.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.M.); (F.Y.); (H.W.); (H.C.); (T.W.); (N.F.); (Y.G.); (X.X.)
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun 130000, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Na Feng
- Institute of Military Veterinary Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Changchun 130122, China; (F.W.); (S.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.M.); (F.Y.); (H.W.); (H.C.); (T.W.); (N.F.); (Y.G.); (X.X.)
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun 130000, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yuwei Gao
- Institute of Military Veterinary Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Changchun 130122, China; (F.W.); (S.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.M.); (F.Y.); (H.W.); (H.C.); (T.W.); (N.F.); (Y.G.); (X.X.)
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun 130000, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Xianzhu Xia
- Institute of Military Veterinary Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Changchun 130122, China; (F.W.); (S.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.M.); (F.Y.); (H.W.); (H.C.); (T.W.); (N.F.); (Y.G.); (X.X.)
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun 130000, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yongkun Zhao
- Institute of Military Veterinary Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Changchun 130122, China; (F.W.); (S.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.M.); (F.Y.); (H.W.); (H.C.); (T.W.); (N.F.); (Y.G.); (X.X.)
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun 130000, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Correspondence: (Y.Z.); (S.Y.)
| | - Songtao Yang
- Institute of Military Veterinary Medicine, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Changchun 130122, China; (F.W.); (S.Z.); (Y.Z.); (R.M.); (F.Y.); (H.W.); (H.C.); (T.W.); (N.F.); (Y.G.); (X.X.)
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun 130000, China
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Disease and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Correspondence: (Y.Z.); (S.Y.)
| |
Collapse
|
153
|
Abstract
Infectious diseases are the tip of the iceberg in the economic burden of the developing countries, due to the resistance of the pathogens to antibiotics and the lack of vaccines. The vaccines have become a big challenge in the last decades, where the attention has been focused on scientific challenges such as new vaccine development and adjuvants or delivery systems. The classical vaccines were developed from live-attenuated or killed organisms, such as influenza, smallpox, and BCG, as well as subunits such as Hepatitis B. The attenuated vaccines carry the risk of regaining their pathogenicity under immunosuppression conditions. The development of subunit vaccines without risk are considered as an essential need in combination with adequate delivery systems to obtain desired cell and humoral immune responses against infectious diseases. In the last decades, the use of nanoparticles as a delivery system in vaccines has received special attention to improve vaccine efficacy. These nanoparticles could be composed of lipids, metal and nonmetal inorganics, several polymers, and virus-like particles, which have been tested in research; some of them have already been approved for human and animal use. The characteristics of the nanoparticles have allowed targeting desired antigen-presenting cells to improve immunization strategies to induce protection. The main characteristics of the nanoparticles are to protect the antigens from early proteolytic degradation, control antigen release, and help antigen uptake and processing by antigen-presenting cells, and they should be safe for human and veterinary use. In addition, the nanoparticles could be modified in their physicochemical properties to target specific cells and improve vaccine efficacy. This chapter focuses on the nanoparticle-based vaccine formulations and the approaches used to realize efficient delivery of vaccines in order to induce host protective immunity against infectious diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Diaz-Arévalo
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia-FIDIC, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, DC, Colombia
| | - Mingtao Zeng
- Center of Emphasis in Infectious Diseases, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, United States
| |
Collapse
|
154
|
Tseng TY, Liu YC, Hsu YC, Chang PC, Hsieh MK, Shien JH, Ou SC. Preparation of Chicken Anemia Virus (CAV) Virus-Like Particles and Chicken Interleukin-12 for Vaccine Development Using a Baculovirus Expression System. Pathogens 2019; 8:E262. [PMID: 31771230 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens8040262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Chicken infectious anemia (CIA) is a poultry disease that causes huge economic losses in the poultry industry worldwide. Commercially available CIA vaccines are derived from wild-type chicken anemia viruses (CAVs) by serial passage in cells or chicken embryos. However, these vaccinal viruses are not completely attenuated; therefore, they can be transmitted vertically and horizontally, and may induce clinical symptoms in young birds. In this study, we sought to eliminate these issues by developing a subunit vaccine exploiting the CAV structural proteins, engineering recombinant baculovirus-infected Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) cells that contained both the viral protein 1 (VP1) and VP2 of CAV. Moreover, we produced single-chain chicken interleukin-12 (chIL-12) in the same system, to serve as an adjuvant. The recombinant VP1 was recognized by chicken anti-CAV polyclonal antibodies in Western blotting and immunofluorescence assays, and the bioactivity of the recombinant chIL-12 was confirmed by stimulating interferon-γ (IFN-γ) secretion in chicken splenocytes. Furthermore, the ability of the recombinant VP1 to generate self-assembling virus-like particles (VLPs) was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. Specific pathogen-free (SPF) chickens inoculated with VLPs and co-administered the recombinant chIL-12 induced high CAV-specific antibodies and cell-mediated immunity. Taken together, the VLPs produced by the baculovirus expression system have the potential to be a safe and effective CIA vaccine. Finally, we demonstrated the utility of recombinant chIL-12 as an adjuvant for poultry vaccine development.
Collapse
|
155
|
Eskelin K, Poranen MM, Oksanen HM. Asymmetrical Flow Field-Flow Fractionation on Virus and Virus-Like Particle Applications. Microorganisms 2019; 7:E555. [PMID: 31726671 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms7110555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Asymmetrical flow field-flow fractionation (AF4) separates sample components based on their sizes in the absence of a stationary phase. It is well suited for high molecular weight samples such as virus-sized particles. The AF4 experiment can potentially separate molecules within a broad size range (~103−109 Da; particle diameter from 2 nm to 0.5−1 μm). When coupled to light scattering detectors, it enables rapid assays on the size, size distribution, degradation, and aggregation of the studied particle populations. Thus, it can be used to study the quality of purified viruses and virus-like particles. In addition to being an advanced analytical characterization technique, AF4 can be used in a semi-preparative mode. Here, we summarize and provide examples on the steps that need optimization for obtaining good separation with the focus on virus-sized particles.
Collapse
|
156
|
Kang HJ, Chu KB, Lee SH, Kim MJ, Park H, Jin H, Quan FS. Virus-like Particle Vaccine Containing Toxoplasma gondii Rhoptry Protein 13 Induces Protection against T. gondii ME49 Infection in Mice. Korean J Parasitol 2019; 57:543-547. [PMID: 31715698 PMCID: PMC6851246 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2019.57.5.543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii can infect humans worldwide, causing serious diseases in pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. T. gondii rhoptry protein 13 (ROP13) is known as one of the key proteins involved in host cell invasion. In this study, we generated virus-like particles (VLPs) vaccine expressing T. gondii rhoptry ROP13 and investigated VLPs vaccine efficacy in mice. Mice immunized with ROP13 VLPs vaccine elicited significantly higher levels of T. gondii-specific IgG, IgG1, IgG2a, and IgA antibody responses following boost immunization and challenge infection, whereas antibody inductions were insignificant upon prime immunization. Differing immunization routes resulted in differing antibody induction, as intranasal immunization (IN) induced greater antibody responses than intramuscular immunization (IM) after boost and challenge infection. IN immunization induced significantly higher levels of IgG and IgA antibody responses from feces, antibody-secreting cells (ASCs), CD4+ T, CD8+ T cells and germinal center B cell responses in the spleen compared to IM immunization. Compared to IM immunization, IN immunization resulted in significantly reduced cyst counts in the brain as well as lesser body weight loss, which contributed to better protection. All of the mice immunized through either route survived, whereas all naïve control mice perished. These results indicate that the ROP13 VLPs vaccine could be a potential vaccine candidate against T. gondii infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hae-Ji Kang
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Ki-Back Chu
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Su-Hwa Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Min-Ju Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | | | - Hui Jin
- Health Park Co., Ltd., Seoul 06627, Korea
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul 02447, Korea.,Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Graduate school, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
157
|
Fam SY, Chee CF, Yong CY, Ho KL, Mariatulqabtiah AR, Lau HY, Tan WS. Shielding of Hepatitis B Virus-Like Nanoparticle with Poly(2-Ethyl-2-Oxazoline). Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E4903. [PMID: 31623310 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20194903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2019] [Revised: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Virus-like nanoparticles (VLNPs) have been studied extensively as nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery to cancer cells. However, VLNPs have intrinsic drawbacks, in particular, potential antigenicity and immunogenicity, which hamper their clinical applications. Thus, they can be eliminated easily and rapidly by host immune systems, rendering these nanoparticles ineffective for drug delivery. The aim of this study was to reduce the antigenicity of hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg) VLNPs by shielding them with a hydrophilic polymer, poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) (PEtOx). In the present study, an amine-functionalized PEtOx (PEtOx-NH2) was synthesized using the living cationic ring-opening polymerization (CROP) technique and covalently conjugated to HBcAg VLNPs via carboxyl groups. The PEtOx-conjugated HBcAg (PEtOx-HBcAg) VLNPs were characterized with dynamic light scattering and UV-visible spectroscopy. The colloidal stability study indicated that both HBcAg and PEtOx-HBcAg VLNPs maintained their particle size in Tris-buffered saline (TBS) at human body temperature (37 °C) for at least five days. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) demonstrated that the antigenicity of PEtOx-HBcAg VLNPs reduced significantly as compared with unconjugated HBcAg VLNPs. This novel conjugation approach provides a general platform for resolving the antigenicity of VLNPs, enabling them to be developed into a variety of nanovehicles for targeted drug delivery.
Collapse
|
158
|
Cérbulo-Vázquez A, Arriaga-Pizano L, Cruz-Cureño G, Boscó-Gárate I, Ferat-Osorio E, Pastelin-Palacios R, Figueroa-Damian R, Castro-Eguiluz D, Mancilla-Ramirez J, Isibasi A, López-Macías C. Medical Outcomes in Women Who Became Pregnant after Vaccination with a Virus-Like Particle Experimental Vaccine against Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Virus Tested during 2009 Pandemic Outbreak. Viruses 2019; 11:E868. [PMID: 31533277 DOI: 10.3390/v11090868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The clinical effects and immunological response to the influenza vaccine in women who later become pregnant remain to be thoroughly studied. Here, we report the medical outcomes of 40 women volunteers who became pregnant after vaccination with an experimental virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine against pandemic influenza A(H1N1)2009 (influenza A(H1N1)pdm09) and their infants. When included in the VLP vaccine trial, none of the women were pregnant and were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: (1) placebo, (2) 15 μg dose of VLP vaccine, or (3) 45 μg dose of VLP vaccine. These 40 women reported becoming pregnant during the follow-up phase after receiving the placebo or VLP vaccine. Women were monitored throughout pregnancy and their infants were monitored until one year after birth. Antibody titers against VLP were measured in the mothers and infants at delivery and at six months and one year after birth. The incidence of preeclampsia, fetal death, preterm delivery, and premature rupture of membranes was similar among groups. All vaccinated women and their infants elicited antibody titers (≥1:40). Women vaccinated prior to pregnancy had no adverse events that were different from the nonvaccinated population. Even though this study is limited by the sample size, the results suggest that the anti-influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 VLP experimental vaccine applied before pregnancy is safe for both mothers and their infants.
Collapse
|
159
|
You S, Guo X, Xue X, Li Y, Dong H, Ji H, Hong T, Wei Y, Shi X, He B. PCSK9 Hapten Multicopy Displayed onto Carrier Protein Nanoparticle: An Antiatherosclerosis Vaccine. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2019; 5:4263-4271. [PMID: 33417782 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.9b00434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, various vaccination strategies have shed new light on the treatment of atherosclerosis. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/Kexin type 9 (PCSK9) is a hot target in the development of antiatherosclerosis vaccine. However, the efficacy of conventional PCSK9 is largely limited by poor immunogenicity and low hapten density. Therefore, we hypothesized whether a nanostructure synthesized by self-assembled carrier protein accompanied by multicopy hapten display could improve the efficacy of vaccine. In this study, bovine serum albumin (BSA) was self-assembled into sub-100 nm nanoparticles via an intermolecular disulfide network as the inner core. Then, sequences of PCSK9 were conjugated onto the surface of nanoparticles by "click" chemistry to consequently form an orderly structured of nanovaccine with repetitive hapten display. Compared with conventional PCSK9 peptide vaccine, our immunization study demonstrated that the PCSK9 multicopy display nanovaccine (PMCDN) was able to induce higher titers of PCSK9 antibody and more efficient lymph node drainage and improve endocytosis by antigen presenting cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shasha You
- Department of Anesthesiology and SICU, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xiaoyu Guo
- Department of Anesthesiology and SICU, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xiaomei Xue
- Department of Anesthesiology and SICU, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yongyong Li
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering & Nano Science, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Haiqing Dong
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering & Nano Science, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Haiying Ji
- Department of Anesthesiology and SICU, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Ting Hong
- Department of Anesthesiology and SICU, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Yazhong Wei
- Department of Anesthesiology and SICU, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xueyin Shi
- Department of Anesthesiology and SICU, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Bin He
- Department of Anesthesiology and SICU, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| |
Collapse
|
160
|
Ong HK, Yong CY, Tan WS, Yeap SK, Omar AR, Razak MA, Ho KL. An Influenza A Vaccine Based on the Extracellular Domain of Matrix 2 Protein Protects BALB/C Mice Against H1N1 and H3N2. Vaccines (Basel) 2019; 7:vaccines7030091. [PMID: 31430965 PMCID: PMC6789677 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines7030091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Current seasonal influenza A virus (IAV) vaccines are strain-specific and require annual reconstitution to accommodate the viral mutations. Mismatches between the vaccines and circulating strains often lead to high morbidity. Hence, development of a universal influenza A vaccine targeting all IAV strains is urgently needed. In the present study, the protective efficacy and immune responses induced by the extracellular domain of Matrix 2 protein (M2e) displayed on the virus-like particles of Macrobrachium rosenbergii nodavirus (NvC-M2ex3) were investigated in BALB/c mice. NvC-M2ex3 was demonstrated to be highly immunogenic even in the absence of adjuvants. Higher anti-M2e antibody titers corresponded well with increased survival, reduced immunopathology, and morbidity of the infected BALB/c mice. The mice immunized with NvC-M2ex3 exhibited lower H1N1 and H3N2 virus replication in the respiratory tract and the vaccine activated the production of different antiviral cytokines when they were challenged with H1N1 and H3N2. Collectively, these results suggest that NvC-M2ex3 could be a potential universal influenza A vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Kian Ong
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Chean Yeah Yong
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Wen Siang Tan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Swee Keong Yeap
- Department of Marine Biotechnology, China-ASEAN College of Marine Sciences, Xiamen University Malaysia, Jalan Sunsuria, Bandar Sunsuria, Sepang 43900, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Abdul Rahman Omar
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mariatulqabtiah Abdul Razak
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Kok Lian Ho
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, UPM Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
161
|
Honjo S, Masuda M, Ishikawa T. Effects of the Japanese Encephalitis Virus Genotype V-Derived Sub-Viral Particles on the Immunogenicity of the Vaccine Characterized by a Novel Virus-Like Particle-Based Assay. Vaccines (Basel) 2019; 7:vaccines7030081. [PMID: 31382680 PMCID: PMC6789769 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines7030081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is classified into five genotypes labelled I through V. Although the genotype V (GV) JEV was originally found and had apparently been limited in Malaysia for more than 50 years, its emergence in Korea and China has recently been reported. Therefore, the GV JEV might be spreading over new geographical regions as a cause of potential public health problems. However, it is unknown whether the currently available JEV vaccines are effective against the emerging GV strains. To investigate this issue, a novel virus-like particle-based neutralizing assay was developed in this study. By using this assay, the inactivated JEV vaccine used in Japan and the recombinant sub-viral particles (SVPs) bearing the E protein of the GV Muar strain were characterized for the immunogenicity against the GV JEV. Although the inactivated vaccine alone failed to elicit a detectable level of neutralizing antibodies against the GV JEV, the vaccine added with the Muar-derived SVPs induced relatively high titers of neutralizing antibodies, associated with the efficient Th1 immune responses, against the GV JEV. The results indicate that addition of the GV JEV-derived antigens may be useful for developing the vaccine that is universally effective against JEV including the emerging GV strains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Honjo
- Department of Microbiology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, 880 Kita-kobayashi, Mibu-machi, Shimotsuga-gun, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan
| | - Michiaki Masuda
- Department of Microbiology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, 880 Kita-kobayashi, Mibu-machi, Shimotsuga-gun, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Ishikawa
- Department of Microbiology, Dokkyo Medical University School of Medicine, 880 Kita-kobayashi, Mibu-machi, Shimotsuga-gun, Tochigi 321-0293, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
162
|
Kang HJ, Lee SH, Kim MJ, Chu KB, Lee DH, Chopra M, Choi HJ, Park H, Jin H, Quan FS. Influenza Virus-Like Particles Presenting both Toxoplasma gondii ROP4 and ROP13 Enhance Protection against T. gondii Infection. Pharmaceutics 2019; 11:pharmaceutics11070342. [PMID: 31315212 PMCID: PMC6680409 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics11070342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Rhoptry organelle proteins (ROPs) secreted by Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) play a critical role during parasite invasion into host cells. In this study, virus-like particles (VLPs) vaccines containing ROP4 and/or ROP13 together with influenza M1 were generated. ROP4+ROP13 VLPs were produced by combining ROP4 VLPs with ROP13 VLPs, and ROP(4 + 13) VLPs by co-infecting insect cells with recombinant baculovirus expressing ROP4 or ROP13. Mice intranasally immunized with ROP(4 + 13) VLPs showed significantly higher levels of IgG, IgG1, IgG2a and IgA antibody responses in sera compared to ROP4+ROP13VLPs. Upon challenge infection by oral route, mice immunized with ROP(4 + 13) VLPs elicited higher levels of IgG and IgA antibody responses in fecal, urine, intestine and vaginal samples as well as CD4+ T, CD8+ T cells, and germinal center B cell responses compared to other type of vaccines, ROP4 VLPs, ROP13 VLPs, and ROP4+ROP13 VLPs. ROP(4 + 13) VLPs vaccination showed a significant decrease in the size and number of cyst in the brain and less body weight loss compared to combination ROP4+ROP13 VLPs upon challenge infection with T. gondii ME49. These results indicated that the ROP(4 + 13) VLPs vaccination provided enhanced protection against T. gondii infection compared to ROP4+ROP13 VLPs, providing an important insight into vaccine design strategy for T. gondii VLPs vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hae-Ji Kang
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Su-Hwa Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Min-Ju Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Ki-Back Chu
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Dong-Hun Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Manika Chopra
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2V4, Canada
| | - Hyo-Jick Choi
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2V4, Canada
| | | | - Hui Jin
- Health Park Co., Ltd., Seoul 06627, Korea
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul 02447, Korea.
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Graduate school, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
163
|
Thoms F, Jennings GT, Maudrich M, Vogel M, Haas S, Zeltins A, Hofmann-Lehmann R, Riond B, Grossmann J, Hunziker P, Fettelschoss-Gabriel A, Senti G, Kündig TM, Bachmann MF. Immunization of cats to induce neutralizing antibodies against Fel d 1, the major feline allergen in human subjects. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2019; 144:193-203. [PMID: 31056187 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2019.01.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cat allergy in human subjects is usually caused by the major cat allergen Fel d 1 and is found in approximately 10% of the Western population. Currently, there is no efficient and safe therapy for cat allergy available. Allergic patients usually try to avoid cats or treat their allergy symptoms. OBJECTIVE We developed a new strategy to treat Fel d 1-induced allergy in human subjects by immunizing cats against their own major allergen, Fel d 1. METHODS A conjugate vaccine consisting of recombinant Fel d 1 and a virus-like particle derived from the cucumber mosaic virus containing the tetanus toxin-derived universal T-cell epitope tt830-843 (CuMVTT) was used to immunize cats. A first tolerability and immunogenicity study, including a boost injection, was conducted by using the Fel-CuMVTT vaccine alone or in combination with an adjuvant. RESULTS The vaccine was well tolerated and had no overt toxic effect. All cats induced a strong and sustained specific IgG antibody response. The induced anti-Fel d 1 antibodies were of high affinity and exhibited a strong neutralization ability tested both in vitro and in vivo. A reduction in the endogenous allergen level and a reduced allergenicity of tear samples, were observed. CONCLUSION Vaccination of cats with Fel-CuMVTT induces neutralizing antibodies and might result in reduced symptoms of allergic cat owners. Both human subjects and animals could profit from this treatment because allergic cat owners would reduce their risk of developing chronic diseases, such as asthma, and become more tolerant of their cats, which therefore could stay in the households and not need to be relinquished to animal shelters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Thoms
- Department of Dermatology, Zurich University Hospital, Schlieren, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; HypoPet AG, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Gary T Jennings
- Department of Dermatology, Zurich University Hospital, Schlieren, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; HypoPet AG, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Melanie Maudrich
- Department of Dermatology, Zurich University Hospital, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Monique Vogel
- Department of Immunology, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Stefanie Haas
- Department of Dermatology, Zurich University Hospital, Schlieren, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; HypoPet AG, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andris Zeltins
- Latvian Biomedical Research & Study Centre, Riga, Latvia
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Riond
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jonas Grossmann
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, University of Zurich/ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Peter Hunziker
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, University of Zurich/ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Antonia Fettelschoss-Gabriel
- Department of Dermatology, Zurich University Hospital, Schlieren, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gabriela Senti
- Clinical Trials Center, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thomas M Kündig
- Department of Dermatology, University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland; Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin F Bachmann
- HypoPet AG, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Immunology, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
164
|
Pattinson DJ, Apte SH, Wibowo N, Chuan YP, Rivera-Hernandez T, Groves PL, Lua LH, Middelberg APJ, Doolan DL. Chimeric Murine Polyomavirus Virus-Like Particles Induce Plasmodium Antigen-Specific CD8 + T Cell and Antibody Responses. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2019; 9:215. [PMID: 31275867 PMCID: PMC6593135 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2019.00215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
An effective vaccine against the Plasmodium parasite is likely to require the induction of robust antibody and T cell responses. Chimeric virus-like particles are an effective vaccine platform for induction of antibody responses, but their capacity to induce robust cellular responses and cell-mediated protection against pathogen challenge has not been established. To evaluate this, we produced chimeric constructs using the murine polyomavirus structural protein with surface-exposed CD8+ or CD4+ T cell or B cell repeat epitopes derived from the Plasmodium yoelii circumsporozoite protein, and assessed immunogenicity and protective capacity in a murine model. Robust CD8+ T cell responses were induced by immunization with the chimeric CD8+ T cell epitope virus-like particles, however CD4+ T cell responses were very low. The B cell chimeric construct induced robust antibody responses but there was no apparent synergy when T cell and B cell constructs were administered as a pool. A heterologous prime/boost regimen using plasmid DNA priming followed by a VLP boost was more effective than homologous VLP immunization for cellular immunity and protection. These data show that chimeric murine polyomavirus virus-like particles are a good platform for induction of CD8+ T cell responses as well as antibody responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David J Pattinson
- Infectious Diseases Programme, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Simon H Apte
- Infectious Diseases Programme, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Nani Wibowo
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Yap P Chuan
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Tania Rivera-Hernandez
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Penny L Groves
- Infectious Diseases Programme, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Linda H Lua
- Protein Expression Facility, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Anton P J Middelberg
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Denise L Doolan
- Infectious Diseases Programme, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
165
|
Gonelli CA, Khoury G, Center RJ, Purcell DFJ. HIV-1-based Virus-like Particles that Morphologically Resemble Mature, Infectious HIV-1 Virions. Viruses 2019; 11:v11060507. [PMID: 31159488 PMCID: PMC6630479 DOI: 10.3390/v11060507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Revised: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
A prophylactic vaccine eliciting both broad neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) to the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) and strong T cell responses would be optimal for preventing HIV-1 transmissions. Replication incompetent HIV-1 virus-like particles (VLPs) offer the opportunity to present authentic-structured, virion-associated Env to elicit bNAbs, and also stimulate T cell responses. Here, we optimize our DNA vaccine plasmids as VLP expression vectors for efficient Env incorporation and budding. The original vector that was used in human trials inefficiently produced VLPs, but maximized safety by inactivating RNA genome packaging, enzyme functions that are required for integration into the host genome, and deleting accessory proteins Vif, Vpr, and Nef. These original DNA vaccine vectors generated VLPs with incomplete protease-mediated cleavage of Gag and were irregularly sized. Mutations to restore function within the defective genes revealed that several of the reverse transcriptase (RT) deletions mediated this immature phenotype. Here, we made efficient budding, protease-processed, and mature-form VLPs that resembled infectious virions by introducing alternative mutations that completely removed the RT domain, but preserved most other safety mutations. These VLPs, either expressed from DNA vectors in vivo or purified after expression in vitro, are potentially useful immunogens that can be used to elicit antibody responses that target Env on fully infectious HIV-1 virions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A Gonelli
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.
| | - Georges Khoury
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.
| | - Rob J Center
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.
- Viral Entry and Vaccines Laboratory, Disease Elimination, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia.
| | - Damian F J Purcell
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
166
|
Dong Y, Ma T, Zhang X, Ying Q, Han M, Zhang M, Yang R, Li Y, Wang F, Liu R, Wu X. Incorporation of CD40 ligand or granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor into Hantaan virus (HTNV) virus-like particles significantly enhances the long-term immunity potency against HTNV infection. J Med Microbiol 2019; 68:480-492. [PMID: 30657443 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Hantavirus infections cause severe haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in humans and are associated with high fatality rates. In 2017, numerous outbreaks were reported in China and Germany. This represents a significant public-healthcare issue with no effective HFRS vaccines that offer a long-term immune response. In this study, we investigated the long-term humoral and cellular immune responses and protective immunity of Hantaan virus (HTNV) granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and CD40 ligand (CD40L) virus-like particles (VLPs) in mice. METHODOLOGY GM-CSF and CD40L VLPs were constructed via co-transfection of pCI-S and pCI-M-CD40L, and pCI-S and pCI-M-GM-CSF, into dihydrofolatereductase (dhfr)-deficient Chinese hamster ovary cells, respectively. Mice were immunized with HTNV VLPs 2 weeks apart. The animals were challenged 6 months after immunization. Specific and neutralizing antibodies were assessed by ELISA; IFN-γ was measured by enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISpot) assay and effectiveness by cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) cytotoxicity assays. Nucleic acid loads of HTNV were tested by quantitative real-time PCR and viral antigen was detected via indirect ELISA. Pathological alterations were detected via haematoxylin-eosin staining. RESULTS GM-CSF and CD40L VLPs provided stable, long-term protection with a high titre of neutralizing antibody in mice 6 months after immunization. Furthermore, VLPs increased HTNV-specific cellular immune responses via higher expression of IFN-γ and CTL responses. HTNV challenge assay results showed long-term protection against HFRS. No significant pathological alteration was observed in the organs of mice after immunization. CONCLUSION This is, to the best of our knowledge, the first report demonstrating the long-term potency of HTNV VLP vaccines against HTNV infection and offers new insights into HTNV vaccine development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Dong
- 1Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Tiejun Ma
- 1Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Xiaoxiao Zhang
- 1Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Qikang Ying
- 1Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Mingwei Han
- 2No. 1 Cadet Brigade, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Muqi Zhang
- 2No. 1 Cadet Brigade, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Rongjin Yang
- 2No. 1 Cadet Brigade, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Yuan Li
- 2No. 1 Cadet Brigade, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Fang Wang
- 1Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Rongrong Liu
- 1Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China
| | - Xingan Wu
- 1Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medicine, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
167
|
Shukla R, Ramasamy V, Rajpoot RK, Arora U, Poddar A, Ahuja R, Beesetti H, Swaminathan S, Khanna N. Next generation designer virus-like particle vaccines for dengue. Expert Rev Vaccines 2019; 18:105-117. [PMID: 30587054 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2019.1562909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A safe and efficacious vaccine for dengue continues to be an unmet public health need. The recent licensing of a dengue vaccine (Dengvaxia) developed by Sanofi has brought to the fore the safety issue of vaccine-induced infection enhancement. AREAS COVERED This article focuses on two new yeast-produced tetravalent dengue envelope domain III-displaying virus-like particulate vaccine candidates reported in early 2018 and reviews the rationale underlying their design, and pre-clinical data which suggest that these may offer promising alternate options. EXPERT COMMENTARY These are the only vaccine candidates so far to have demonstrated the induction of primarily serotype-specific neutralizing antibodies to all dengue virus serotypes in experimental animals. Interestingly, these antibodies lack infection-enhancing potential when evaluated using the AG129 mouse model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Shukla
- a Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division , International Centre for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology , New Delhi , India
| | - Viswanathan Ramasamy
- a Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division , International Centre for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology , New Delhi , India
| | - Ravi Kant Rajpoot
- a Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division , International Centre for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology , New Delhi , India
| | - Upasana Arora
- a Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division , International Centre for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology , New Delhi , India
| | - Ankur Poddar
- a Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division , International Centre for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology , New Delhi , India
| | - Richa Ahuja
- a Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division , International Centre for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology , New Delhi , India
| | - Hemalatha Beesetti
- a Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division , International Centre for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology , New Delhi , India
| | - Sathyamangalam Swaminathan
- a Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division , International Centre for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology , New Delhi , India
| | - Navin Khanna
- a Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division , International Centre for Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology , New Delhi , India.,b NCR Biotech Science Cluster , Translational Health Science & Technology Institute , Faridabad , India
| |
Collapse
|
168
|
Lee SH, Kang HJ, Lee DH, Quan FS. Protective Immunity Induced by Incorporating Multiple Antigenic Proteins of Toxoplasma gondii Into Influenza Virus-Like Particles. Front Immunol 2019; 9:3073. [PMID: 30666253 PMCID: PMC6330307 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.03073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Virus-like particle (VLP) as a highly efficient vaccine platform has been used to present single or multiple antigenic proteins. In this study, we generated VLPs (multi-antigen VLPs, TG146) in insect cells co-infected with recombinant baculoviruses presenting IMC, ROP18, and MIC8 of Toxoplasma gondii together with influenza matrix protein 1 (M1) as a core protein. We also generated three VLPs expressing IMC, ROP18, or MIC8 together with M1 for combination VLPs (TG1/TG4/TG6). A total of four kinds of VLPs generated were characterized by TEM. Higher number of VLPs particles per μm2 were observed in multi-antigen VLPs compared to combination VLPs. Mice (BALB/c) were intranasually immunized with multi-antigen VLPs or combination VLPs and challenged with T. gondii tachyzoites (GT1) intraperitoneally. Compared to combination VLPs, multi-antigen VLPs showed significantly higher levels of CD4+ T cell, and germinal center B cell responses with reduced apoptosis responses, resulting in significant reduction on parasite burden. These results indicate that higher efficacy of VLPs generated by multi-antigen VLPs can induce significant reduction of parasite burden and better survival of mice than that by combination VLPs, providing important insights into vaccine design strategy for VLPs vaccine expressing multiple antigenic proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Su-Hwa Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hae-Ji Kang
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dong-Hun Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
169
|
Charlton Hume HK, Vidigal J, Carrondo MJT, Middelberg APJ, Roldão A, Lua LHL. Synthetic biology for bioengineering virus-like particle vaccines. Biotechnol Bioeng 2018; 116:919-935. [PMID: 30597533 PMCID: PMC7161758 DOI: 10.1002/bit.26890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vaccination is the most effective method of disease prevention and control. Many viruses and bacteria that once caused catastrophic pandemics (e.g., smallpox, poliomyelitis, measles, and diphtheria) are either eradicated or effectively controlled through routine vaccination programs. Nonetheless, vaccine manufacturing remains incredibly challenging. Viruses exhibiting high antigenic diversity and high mutation rates cannot be fairly contested using traditional vaccine production methods and complexities surrounding the manufacturing processes, which impose significant limitations. Virus‐like particles (VLPs) are recombinantly produced viral structures that exhibit immunoprotective traits of native viruses but are noninfectious. Several VLPs that compositionally match a given natural virus have been developed and licensed as vaccines. Expansively, a plethora of studies now confirms that VLPs can be designed to safely present heterologous antigens from a variety of pathogens unrelated to the chosen carrier VLPs. Owing to this design versatility, VLPs offer technological opportunities to modernize vaccine supply and disease response through rational bioengineering. These opportunities are greatly enhanced with the application of synthetic biology, the redesign and construction of novel biological entities. This review outlines how synthetic biology is currently applied to engineer VLP functions and manufacturing process. Current and developing technologies for the identification of novel target‐specific antigens and their usefulness for rational engineering of VLP functions (e.g., presentation of structurally diverse antigens, enhanced antigen immunogenicity, and improved vaccine stability) are described. When applied to manufacturing processes, synthetic biology approaches can also overcome specific challenges in VLP vaccine production. Finally, we address several challenges and benefits associated with the translation of VLP vaccine development into the industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hayley K Charlton Hume
- The University of Queensland, Australian Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - João Vidigal
- Health & Pharma Division, Animal Cell Technology Unit, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica (iBET), Oeiras, Portugal.,Health & Pharma Division, Animal Cell Technology Unit, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Manuel J T Carrondo
- Health & Pharma Division, Animal Cell Technology Unit, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica (iBET), Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Anton P J Middelberg
- Faculty of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - António Roldão
- Health & Pharma Division, Animal Cell Technology Unit, Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica (iBET), Oeiras, Portugal.,Health & Pharma Division, Animal Cell Technology Unit, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Linda H L Lua
- The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
170
|
Abstract
Annually recurring seasonal influenza causes massive economic loss and poses severe threats to public health worldwide. The current seasonal influenza vaccines are the most effective means of preventing influenza infections but possess major weaknesses. Seasonal influenza vaccines require annual updating of the vaccine strains. However, it is an unreachable task to accurately predict the future circulating strains. Vaccines with mismatched strains dramatically compromise the vaccine efficacy. In addition, the seasonal influenza vaccines are ineffective against an unpredictable pandemic. A universal influenza vaccine would overcome these weaknesses of the seasonal vaccines and abolish the threat of influenza pandemics. One approach under investigation is to design influenza vaccine immunogens based on conserved, type-specific amino acid sequences and conformational epitopes, rather than strain-specific. Such vaccines can elicit broadly reactive humoral and cellular immunity. Universal influenza vaccine development has intensively employed nanotechnology because the structural and morphological properties of nanoparticles dramatically improve vaccine immunogenicity and the induced immunity duration. Layered protein nanoparticles can decrease off-target immune responses, fine-tune antigen recognition and processing, and facilitate comprehensive immune response induction. Herein, we review the designs of effective nanoparticle universal influenza vaccines, the recent discoveries of specific nanoparticle features that contribute to immunogenicity enhancement, and recent progress in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Deng
- Center for Inflammation, Immunity & Infection, Georgia State University, 145 Piedmont Avenue SE, Atlanta, Georgia 30302-3965, United States
| | - Bao-Zhong Wang
- Center for Inflammation, Immunity & Infection, Georgia State University, 145 Piedmont Avenue SE, Atlanta, Georgia 30302-3965, United States
| |
Collapse
|
171
|
Kang HJ, Lee SH, Chu KB, Lee DH, Quan FS. Virus-Like Particles Expressing Toxoplasma gondii Rhoptry Protein 18 Induces Better Protection Than Rhoptry Protein 4 against T. gondii Infection. Korean J Parasitol 2018; 56:429-435. [PMID: 30419728 PMCID: PMC6243183 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2018.56.5.429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous protozoan parasite responsible for causing toxoplasmosis. Preventive measures for toxoplasmosis are currently lacking and as such, development of novel vaccines are of urgent need. In this study, we generated 2 virus-like particles (VLPs) vaccines expressing T. gondii rhoptry protein 4 (ROP4) or rhoptry protein 18 (ROP18) using influenza matrix protein (M1) as a core protein. Mice were intranasally immunized with VLPs vaccines and after the last immunization, mice were challenged with ME49 cysts. Protective efficacy was assessed and compared by determining serum antibody responses, body weight changes and the reduction of cyst counts in the brain. ROP18 VLPs-immunized mice induced greater levels of IgG and IgA antibody responses than those immunized with ROP4 VLPs. ROP18 VLPs immunization significantly reduced body weight loss and the number of brain cysts in mice compared to ROP4 VLPs post-challenge. These results indicate that T. gondii ROP18 VLPs elicited better protective efficacy than ROP4 VLPs, providing important insight into vaccine design strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hae-Ji Kang
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Su-Hwa Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Ki-Back Chu
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Dong-Hun Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul 02447, Korea.,Biomedical Science Institute, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul 02447, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
172
|
Bachmann MF, El-Turabi A, Fettelschoss-Gabriel A, Vogel M. The Prospects of an Active Vaccine Against Asthma Targeting IL-5. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:2522. [PMID: 30405579 PMCID: PMC6207595 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.02522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergen-specific T helper type 2 (Th2) responses followed by eosinophilic inflammation of the lung are important causes of allergic asthma. Interleukin-5 (IL-5) is a master regulator of eosinophil differentiation as well as activation. Blocking IL-5 using monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against IL-5 is a powerful way to improve asthmatic symptoms in patients with an eosinophilic component of the disease. We have previously shown that vaccination against IL-5 can abrogate eosinophilic inflammation of the lung in allergic mice. More recently, we have demonstrated that eosinophil-mediated skin disease in horses with insect bite hypersensitivity can be strongly reduced by vaccination against IL-5. Here we would like to propose the development of a similar vaccine for the treatment of asthma in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin F. Bachmann
- Department of Immunology, RIA, University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- The Jenner Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, The Henry Wellcome Building for Molecular Physiology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Aadil El-Turabi
- The Jenner Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, The Henry Wellcome Building for Molecular Physiology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Monique Vogel
- Department of Immunology, RIA, University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
173
|
Shen WF, Galula JU, Liu JH, Liao MY, Huang CH, Wang YC, Wu HC, Liang JJ, Lin YL, Whitney MT, Chang GJJ, Chen SR, Wu SR, Chao DY. Epitope resurfacing on dengue virus-like particle vaccine preparation to induce broad neutralizing antibody. eLife 2018; 7:38970. [PMID: 30334522 PMCID: PMC6234032 DOI: 10.7554/elife.38970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Dengue fever is caused by four different serotypes of dengue virus (DENV) which is the leading cause of worldwide arboviral diseases in humans. Virus-like particles (VLPs) containing flavivirus prM/E proteins have been demonstrated to be a potential vaccine candidate; however, the structure of dengue VLP is poorly understood. Herein VLP derived from DENV serotype-2 were engineered becoming highly matured (mD2VLP) and showed variable size distribution with diameter of ~31 nm forming the major population under cryo-electron microscopy examination. Furthermore, mD2VLP particles of 31 nm diameter possess a T = 1 icosahedral symmetry with a groove located within the E-protein dimers near the 2-fold vertices that exposed highly overlapping, cryptic neutralizing epitopes. Mice vaccinated with mD2VLP generated higher cross-reactive (CR) neutralization antibodies (NtAbs) and were fully protected against all 4 serotypes of DENV. Our results highlight the potential of ‘epitope-resurfaced’ mature-form D2VLPs in inducing quaternary structure-recognizing broad CR NtAbs to guide future dengue vaccine design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Fan Shen
- Microbial Genomics Ph.D. Program, National Chung Hsing University and Academia Sinica, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | - Jedhan Ucat Galula
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | - Jyung-Hurng Liu
- Institute of Genomics and Bioinformatics, College of Life Science, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Ying Liao
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hao Huang
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chun Wang
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | - Han-Chung Wu
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jian-Jong Liang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ling Lin
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Matthew T Whitney
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States
| | - Gwong-Jen J Chang
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States
| | - Sheng-Ren Chen
- Institute of Oral Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Shang-Rung Wu
- Institute of Oral Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Day-Yu Chao
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Public Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung City, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
174
|
Bruun TJ, Andersson AMC, Draper SJ, Howarth M. Engineering a Rugged Nanoscaffold To Enhance Plug-and-Display Vaccination. ACS Nano 2018; 12:8855-8866. [PMID: 30028591 PMCID: PMC6158681 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.8b02805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Nanoscale organization is crucial to stimulating an immune response. Using self-assembling proteins as multimerization platforms provides a safe and immunogenic system to vaccinate against otherwise weakly immunogenic antigens. Such multimerization platforms are generally based on icosahedral viruses and have led to vaccines given to millions of people. It is unclear whether synthetic protein nanoassemblies would show similar potency. Here we take the computationally designed porous dodecahedral i301 60-mer and rationally engineer this particle, giving a mutated i301 (mi3) with improved particle uniformity and stability. To simplify the conjugation of this nanoparticle, we employ a SpyCatcher fusion of mi3, such that an antigen of interest linked to the SpyTag peptide can spontaneously couple through isopeptide bond formation (Plug-and-Display). SpyCatcher-mi3 expressed solubly to high yields in Escherichia coli, giving more than 10-fold greater yield than a comparable phage-derived icosahedral nanoparticle, SpyCatcher-AP205. SpyCatcher-mi3 nanoparticles showed high stability to temperature, freeze-thaw, lyophilization, and storage over time. We demonstrate approximately 95% efficiency coupling to different transmission-blocking and blood-stage malaria antigens. Plasmodium falciparum CyRPA was conjugated to SpyCatcher-mi3 nanoparticles and elicited a high avidity antibody response, comparable to phage-derived virus-like particles despite their higher valency and RNA cargo. The simple production, precise derivatization, and exceptional ruggedness of this nanoscaffold should facilitate broad application for nanobiotechnology and vaccine development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Theodora
U. J. Bruun
- Department
of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom
| | - Anne-Marie C. Andersson
- Department
of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom
| | - Simon J. Draper
- Jenner
Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Howarth
- Department
of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
175
|
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines face significant challenges in their translation from laboratory models, to routine clinical administration. While some VLP vaccines thrive and are readily adopted into the vaccination schedule, others are restrained by regulatory obstacles, proprietary limitations, or finding their niche amongst the crowded vaccine market. Often the necessity to supplant an existing vaccination regimen possesses an immediate obstacle for the development of a VLP vaccine, despite any preclinical advantages identified over the competition. Novelty, adaptability and formulation compatibility may prove invaluable in helping place VLP vaccines at the forefront of vaccination technology. AREAS COVERED The purpose of this review is to outline the diversity of VLP vaccines, VLP-specific immune responses, and to explore how modern formulation and delivery techniques can enhance the clinical relevance and overall success of VLP vaccines. EXPERT COMMENTARY The role of formation science, with an emphasis on the diversity of immune responses induced by VLP, is underrepresented amongst clinical trials for VLP vaccines. Harnessing such diversity, particularly through the use of combinations of select excipients and adjuvants, will be paramount in the development of VLP vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Braeden Donaldson
- a Department of Microbiology and Immunology , School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago , Dunedin , New Zealand.,b Department of Pathology , Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago , Dunedin , New Zealand
| | - Zabeen Lateef
- c Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago , Dunedin , New Zealand
| | - Greg F Walker
- d School of Pharmacy , University of Otago , Dunedin , New Zealand
| | - Sarah L Young
- b Department of Pathology , Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago , Dunedin , New Zealand
| | - Vernon K Ward
- a Department of Microbiology and Immunology , School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago , Dunedin , New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
176
|
Lee Y, Lee YT, Ko EJ, Kim KH, Hwang HS, Park S, Kwon YM, Kang SM. Soluble F proteins exacerbate pulmonary histopathology after vaccination upon respiratory syncytial virus challenge but not when presented on virus-like particles. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2018; 13:2594-2605. [PMID: 28854003 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2017.1362514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) fusion (F) protein is suggested to be a protective vaccine target although its efficacy and safety concerns remain not well understood. We investigated immunogenicity, efficacy, and safety of F proteins in a soluble form or on virus-like particle (F-VLP). F VLP preferentially elicited IgG2a antibody and T helper type 1 (Th1) immune responses whereas F protein induced IgG1 isotype and Th2 responses. Despite lung viral clearance after prime or prime-boost and then RSV challenge, F protein immune mice displayed weight loss and lung histopathology and high mucus production and eosinophils. In contrast, prime or prime-boost vaccination of F VLP induced effective protection, prevented infiltration of eosinophils and vaccine- enhanced disease after challenge. This study provides insight into developing an effective and safe RSV vaccine candidate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youri Lee
- a Center for Inflammation, Immunity & Infection , Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University , Atlanta , GA , USA.,b Department of Biology Institute for Biomedical Sciences , Georgia State University , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Young-Tae Lee
- a Center for Inflammation, Immunity & Infection , Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Eun-Ju Ko
- a Center for Inflammation, Immunity & Infection , Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Ki-Hye Kim
- a Center for Inflammation, Immunity & Infection , Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Hye Suk Hwang
- a Center for Inflammation, Immunity & Infection , Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Soojin Park
- a Center for Inflammation, Immunity & Infection , Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Young-Man Kwon
- a Center for Inflammation, Immunity & Infection , Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University , Atlanta , GA , USA
| | - Sang Moo Kang
- a Center for Inflammation, Immunity & Infection , Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University , Atlanta , GA , USA.,b Department of Biology Institute for Biomedical Sciences , Georgia State University , Atlanta , GA , USA
| |
Collapse
|
177
|
Abstract
In recent years, the practical application of protein-based nanoparticles (PNPs) has expanded rapidly into areas like drug delivery, vaccine development, and biocatalysis. PNPs possess unique features that make them attractive as potential platforms for a variety of nanobiotechnological applications. They self-assemble from multiple protein subunits into hollow monodisperse structures; they are highly stable, biocompatible, and biodegradable; and their external components and encapsulation properties can be readily manipulated by chemical or genetic strategies. Moreover, their complex and perfect symmetry have motivated researchers to mimic their properties in order to create de novo protein assemblies. This review focuses on recent advances in the bioengineering and bioconjugation of PNPs and the implementation of synthetic biology concepts to exploit and enhance PNP's intrinsic properties and to impart them with novel functionalities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Diaz
- Department of Molecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia.
| | - Andrew Care
- Department of Molecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia.
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia.
| | - Anwar Sunna
- Department of Molecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia.
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia.
- Biomolecular Discovery and Design Research Centre, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
178
|
Zahirović A, Lunder M. Microbial Delivery Vehicles for Allergens and Allergen-Derived Peptides in Immunotherapy of Allergic Diseases. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:1449. [PMID: 30013543 PMCID: PMC6036130 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.01449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergen-specific immunotherapy represents the only available curative approach to allergic diseases. The treatment has proven effective, but it requires repetitive administrations of allergen extracts over 3-5 years and is often associated with adverse events. This implies the need for novel therapeutic strategies with reduced side effects and decreased treatment time, which would improve patients' compliance. Development of vaccines that are molecularly well defined and have improved safety profile in comparison to whole allergen extracts represents a promising approach. Molecular allergy vaccines are based on major allergen proteins or allergen-derived peptides. Often, such vaccines are associated with lower immunogenicity and stability and therefore require an appropriate delivery vehicle. In this respect, viruses, bacteria, and their protein components have been intensively studied for their adjuvant capacity. This article provides an overview of the microbial delivery vehicles that have been tested for use in allergy immunotherapy. We review in vitro and in vivo data on the immunomodulatory capacity of different microbial vehicles for allergens and allergen-derived peptides and evaluate their potential in development of allergy vaccines. We also discuss relevant aspects and challenges concerning the use of microbes and their components in immunotherapy of allergic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abida Zahirović
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mojca Lunder
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
179
|
Brune KD, Howarth M. New Routes and Opportunities for Modular Construction of Particulate Vaccines: Stick, Click, and Glue. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1432. [PMID: 29997617 PMCID: PMC6028521 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccines based on virus-like particles (VLPs) can induce potent B cell responses. Some non-chimeric VLP-based vaccines are highly successful licensed products (e.g., hepatitis B surface antigen VLPs as a hepatitis B virus vaccine). Chimeric VLPs are designed to take advantage of the VLP framework by decorating the VLP with a different antigen. Despite decades of effort, there have been few licensed chimeric VLP vaccines. Classic approaches to create chimeric VLPs are either genetic fusion or chemical conjugation, using cross-linkers from lysine on the VLP to cysteine on the antigen. We describe the principles that make these classic approaches challenging, in particular for complex, full-length antigens bearing multiple post-translational modifications. We then review recent advances in conjugation approaches for protein-based non-enveloped VLPs or nanoparticles, to overcome such challenges. This includes the use of strong non-covalent assembly methods (stick), unnatural amino acids for bio-orthogonal chemistry (click), and spontaneous isopeptide bond formation by SpyTag/SpyCatcher (glue). Existing applications of these methods are outlined and we critically consider the key practical issues, with particular insight on Tag/Catcher plug-and-display decoration. Finally, we highlight the potential for modular particle decoration to accelerate vaccine generation and prepare for pandemic threats in human and veterinary realms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karl D Brune
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Howarth
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
180
|
Blokhina EA, Ravin NV. CONSTRUCTION OF MOSAIC HBC PARTICLES PRESENTING CONSERVATIVE FRAGMENTS OF M2 PROTEIN AND HEMAGGLUTININ OF INFLUENZA A VIRUS. Vopr Virusol 2018; 63:130-135. [PMID: 36494939 DOI: 10.18821/0507-4088-2018-63-3-130-135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Virus-like HBc particles formed as a result of the self-assembly of the nuclear antigen of the hepatitis B virus can be used as a highly immunogenic carrier for the presentation of foreign epitopes when creating recombinant vaccines. We use this vehicle to create influenza vaccines based on the conservative antigens of the influenza virus, the extracellular domain of the transmembrane protein M2 (M2e) and the fragment of the second subunit of hemagglutinin (HA2). Presentation on the surface of HBc particles should improve the immunogenicity of these peptides. Using genetic engineering techniques, we obtained a fusion protein in which the HA2 sequence is attached to the N-terminus of the HBc antigen, and the M2e peptide is included in the immunodominant loop region exposed on the surface of HBc particle. The hybrid protein expressed in Escherichia coli and purified under denaturing conditions formed virus-like HBc particles after refolding in vitro. Refolding of this protein in the presence of a previously denatured HBc antigen carrying no inserts resulted in formation of mosaic virus-like particles. The developed method will allow construction of mosaic HBc particles carrying different target epitopes of the influenza virus by combining the corresponding modified HBc proteins, which opens the possibility of creating vaccines with a wider spectrum of protection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E A Blokhina
- Federal Research Centre «Fundamentals of Biotechnology»
| | - N V Ravin
- Federal Research Centre «Fundamentals of Biotechnology»
| |
Collapse
|
181
|
Nerome K, Yamaguchi R, Fuke N, Izzati UZ, Maegawa K, Sugita S, Kawasaki K, Kuroda K, Nerome R. Development of a Japanese encephalitis virus genotype V virus-like particle vaccine in silkworms. J Gen Virol 2018; 99:897-907. [PMID: 29877787 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
To counter the spread of multiple Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) variants harboured in alternative host species and highly neurotoxic variants with new antigenicity, such as genotype V (Muar), methods for developing more effective and low-cost vaccines against a variety of epidemic JEV strains are required. Here, we successfully synthesized large amounts of a Muar virus-like particle (MVLP) vaccine for JEV in silkworm pupae by using a Bombyx mori nuclear polyhedrosis virus recombinant consisting of JEV codon-optimized envelope (E) DNA. In particular, histopathological examination suggested that MVLP was efficiently synthesized in body fat tissues as well as epithelial cells. Quantitative analysis indicated that one silkworm pupa produced 724.8 µg of E protein in the MVLP vaccine. Electron microscopic examination of purified MVLP vaccine defined a typical MVLP morphological structure. Detailed MVLP antigen assessment by immune-electron microscopy revealed that the majority of MVLPs were covered with approximately 10 nm projections. Boosted immunization with MVLP antigens in mice and rabbits tended to show improved plaque inhibition potency against homologous Muar and heterologous Nakayama, but less potency to Beijing-1 strains. Notably, mixed immune rabbit antisera against Nakayama and Muar VLP antigens led to an increase in the low antibody reaction to Beijing-1. Additionally, a stopgap divalent JEV vaccine consisting of MVLP and Nakayama VLP and its immune mouse serum significantly increased plaque inhibition titre against Muar, Nakayama and Beijing-1 strains. These findings suggested that low-cost MVLP vaccines prepared in silkworm pupae are suitable for providing simultaneous protection of individuals in developing countries against various JEV strains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ryoji Yamaguchi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Department of Veterinary, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Naoyuki Fuke
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Department of Veterinary, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Uda Zahli Izzati
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology, Department of Veterinary, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, Japan
| | | | - Shigeo Sugita
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Kazunori Kawasaki
- National Institute of Advanced Science and Technology (AIST), Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazumichi Kuroda
- Division of Microbiology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Reiko Nerome
- The Institute of Biological Resources, Okinawa, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
182
|
Kim YS, Son A, Kim J, Kwon SB, Kim MH, Kim P, Kim J, Byun YH, Sung J, Lee J, Yu JE, Park C, Kim YS, Cho NH, Chang J, Seong BL. Chaperna-Mediated Assembly of Ferritin-Based Middle East Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus Nanoparticles. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1093. [PMID: 29868035 PMCID: PMC5966535 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The folding of monomeric antigens and their subsequent assembly into higher ordered structures are crucial for robust and effective production of nanoparticle (NP) vaccines in a timely and reproducible manner. Despite significant advances in in silico design and structure-based assembly, most engineered NPs are refractory to soluble expression and fail to assemble as designed, presenting major challenges in the manufacturing process. The failure is due to a lack of understanding of the kinetic pathways and enabling technical platforms to ensure successful folding of the monomer antigens into regular assemblages. Capitalizing on a novel function of RNA as a molecular chaperone (chaperna: chaperone + RNA), we provide a robust protein-folding vehicle that may be implemented to NP assembly in bacterial hosts. The receptor-binding domain (RBD) of Middle East respiratory syndrome-coronavirus (MERS-CoV) was fused with the RNA-interaction domain (RID) and bacterioferritin, and expressed in Escherichia coli in a soluble form. Site-specific proteolytic removal of the RID prompted the assemblage of monomers into NPs, which was confirmed by electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. The mutations that affected the RNA binding to RBD significantly increased the soluble aggregation into amorphous structures, reducing the overall yield of NPs of a defined size. This underscored the RNA-antigen interactions during NP assembly. The sera after mouse immunization effectively interfered with the binding of MERS-CoV RBD to the cellular receptor hDPP4. The results suggest that RNA-binding controls the overall kinetic network of the antigen folding pathway in favor of enhanced assemblage of NPs into highly regular and immunologically relevant conformations. The concentration of the ion Fe2+, salt, and fusion linker also contributed to the assembly in vitro, and the stability of the NPs. The kinetic "pace-keeping" role of chaperna in the super molecular assembly of antigen monomers holds promise for the development and delivery of NPs and virus-like particles as recombinant vaccines and for serological detection of viral infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Young-Seok Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Vaccine Translational Research Center, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ahyun Son
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jihoon Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Vaccine Translational Research Center, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Soon Bin Kwon
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Vaccine Translational Research Center, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Myung Hee Kim
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Paul Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Vaccine Translational Research Center, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jieun Kim
- Life Science and Biotechnology, Underwood International College, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Young Ho Byun
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jemin Sung
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Vaccine Translational Research Center, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jinhee Lee
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Vaccine Translational Research Center, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ji Eun Yu
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Vaccine Translational Research Center, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Chan Park
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Vaccine Translational Research Center, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yeon-Sook Kim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Nam-Hyuk Cho
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jun Chang
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Baik L Seong
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea.,Vaccine Translational Research Center, Yonsei University, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
183
|
Biabanikhankahdani R, Ho KL, Alitheen NB, Tan WS. A Dual Bioconjugated Virus-Like Nanoparticle as a Drug Delivery System and Comparison with a pH-Responsive Delivery System. Nanomaterials (Basel) 2018; 8:nano8040236. [PMID: 29652827 PMCID: PMC5923566 DOI: 10.3390/nano8040236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Revised: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Modifications of virus-like nanoparticles (VLNPs) using chemical conjugation techniques have brought the field of virology closer to nanotechnology. The huge surface area to volume ratio of VLNPs permits multiple copies of a targeting ligand and drugs to be attached per nanoparticle. By exploring the chemistry of truncated hepatitis B core antigen (tHBcAg) VLNPs, doxorubicin (DOX) was coupled covalently to the external surface of these nanoparticles via carboxylate groups. About 1600 DOX molecules were conjugated on each tHBcAg VLNP. Then, folic acid (FA) was conjugated to lysine residues of tHBcAg VLNPs to target the nanoparticles to cancer cells over-expressing folic acid receptor (FR). The result demonstrated that the dual bioconjugated tHBcAg VLNPs increased the accumulation and uptake of DOX in the human cervical and colorectal cancer cell lines compared with free DOX, resulting in enhanced cytotoxicity of DOX towards these cells. The fabrication of these dual bioconjugated nanoparticles is simple, and drugs can be easily conjugated with a high coupling efficacy to the VLNPs without any limitation with respect to the cargo’s size or charge, as compared with the pH-responsive system based on tHBcAg VLNPs. These dual bioconjugated nanoparticles also have the potential to be modified for other combinatorial drug deliveries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roya Biabanikhankahdani
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Kok Lian Ho
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Noorjahan Banu Alitheen
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Wen Siang Tan
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
- Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
184
|
Abstract
Two of the most important human oncogenic viruses are hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human papillomavirus (HPV). HBV infection has been preventable by vaccination since 1982; vaccination of neonates and infants is highly effective, resulting already in decreased rates of new infections, chronic liver disease and hepato-cellular carcinoma. Nonetheless, HBV remains a global public health problem with high rates of vertical transmission from mother to child in some regions. Prophylactic HPV vaccines composed of virus-like particles (VLPs) of the L1 capsid protein have been licensed since 2006/2007. These target infection by the oncogenic HPVs 16 and 18 (the cause of 70% of cervical cancers); a new vaccine licensed in 2014/2015 additionally targets HPVs 31, 33, 45, 52, 58. HPV vaccines are now included in the national immunization programmes in many countries, with young adolescent peri-pubertal girls the usual cohort for immunization. Population effectiveness in women is now being demonstrated in countries with high vaccine coverage with significant reductions in high-grade cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia (a surrogate for cervical cancer), genital warts and vaccine HPV type genoprevalence. Herd effects in young heterosexual men and older women are evident. Cancers caused by HBV and HPV should, in theory, be amenable to immunotherapies and various therapeutic vaccines for HPV in particular are in development and/or in clinical trial.This article is part of the themed issue 'Human oncogenic viruses'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Stanley
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK
| |
Collapse
|
185
|
Ding X, Liu D, Booth G, Gao W, Lu Y. Virus-Like Particle Engineering: From Rational Design to Versatile Applications. Biotechnol J 2018; 13:e1700324. [PMID: 29453861 DOI: 10.1002/biot.201700324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
As mimicking natural virus structures, virus-like particles (VLPs) have evolved to become a widely accepted technology used for humans which are safe, highly efficacious, and profitable. Several remarkable advantages have been achieved to revolutionize the molecule delivery for diverse applications in nanotechnology, biotechnology, and medicine. Here, the rational structure design, manufacturing process, functionalization strategy, and emerging applications of VLPs is reviewed. The situation and challenges in the VLP engineering, the key development orientation, and future applications have been discussed. To develop a good VLP design concept, the virus/VLP-host interactions need to be examined and the screening methods of the VLP stabilization factors need to be established. The functionalization toolbox can be expanded to fabricate smart, robust, and multifunctional VLPs. Novel robust VLP manufacturing platforms are required to deliver vaccines in resource-poor regions with a significant reduction in the production time and cost. The future applications of VLPs are always driven by the development of emerging technologies and new requirements of modern life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuanwei Ding
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,Department of Microbiology, Shenyang Normal University, Shenyang, China
| | - Dong Liu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - George Booth
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Wei Gao
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,Department of Microbiology, Shenyang Normal University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuan Lu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
186
|
Uchida M, McCoy K, Fukuto M, Yang L, Yoshimura H, Miettinen HM, LaFrance B, Patterson DP, Schwarz B, Karty JA, Prevelige PE, Lee B, Douglas T. Modular Self-Assembly of Protein Cage Lattices for Multistep Catalysis. ACS Nano 2018; 12:942-953. [PMID: 29131580 PMCID: PMC5870838 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.7b06049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The assembly of individual molecules into hierarchical structures is a promising strategy for developing three-dimensional materials with properties arising from interaction between the individual building blocks. Virus capsids are elegant examples of biomolecular nanostructures, which are themselves hierarchically assembled from a limited number of protein subunits. Here, we demonstrate the bio-inspired modular construction of materials with two levels of hierarchy: the formation of catalytically active individual virus-like particles (VLPs) through directed self-assembly of capsid subunits with enzyme encapsulation, and the assembly of these VLP building blocks into three-dimensional arrays. The structure of the assembled arrays was successfully altered from an amorphous aggregate to an ordered structure, with a face-centered cubic lattice, by modifying the exterior surface of the VLP without changing its overall morphology, to modulate interparticle interactions. The assembly behavior and resultant lattice structure was a consequence of interparticle interaction between exterior surfaces of individual particles and thus independent of the enzyme cargos encapsulated within the VLPs. These superlattice materials, composed of two populations of enzyme-packaged VLP modules, retained the coupled catalytic activity in a two-step reaction for isobutanol synthesis. This study demonstrates a significant step toward the bottom-up fabrication of functional superlattice materials using a self-assembly process across multiple length scales and exhibits properties and function that arise from the interaction between individual building blocks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Uchida
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Ave., Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Kimberly McCoy
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Ave., Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Masafumi Fukuto
- National Synchrotron Light Source II, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, NY 11973, USA
- Condensed Matter Physics and Materials Science Department, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, NY 11973, USA
| | - Lin Yang
- National Synchrotron Light Source II, Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, NY 11973, USA
| | - Hideyuki Yoshimura
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Ave., Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
- Department of Physics, Meiji University, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, 214-8571, Japan
| | - Heini M. Miettinen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana 59717, USA
| | - Ben LaFrance
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana 59717, USA
| | - Dustin P. Patterson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at Tyler, Tyler, Texas 75799, USA
| | - Benjamin Schwarz
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Ave., Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Jonathan A. Karty
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Ave., Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Peter E. Prevelige
- Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294, USA
| | - Byeongdu Lee
- X-ray science division, Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, 9700 South Cass Ave., Argonne, IL 60439, USA
| | - Trevor Douglas
- Department of Chemistry, Indiana University, 800 East Kirkwood Ave., Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| |
Collapse
|
187
|
Neburkova J, Sedlak F, Zackova Suchanova J, Kostka L, Sacha P, Subr V, Etrych T, Simon P, Barinkova J, Krystufek R, Spanielova H, Forstova J, Konvalinka J, Cigler P. Inhibitor-GCPII Interaction: Selective and Robust System for Targeting Cancer Cells with Structurally Diverse Nanoparticles. Mol Pharm 2018; 15:2932-2945. [PMID: 29389139 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.7b00889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Glutamate carboxypeptidase II (GCPII) is a membrane protease overexpressed by prostate cancer cells and detected in the neovasculature of most solid tumors. Targeting GCPII with inhibitor-bearing nanoparticles can enable recognition, imaging, and delivery of treatments to cancer cells. Compared to methods based on antibodies and other large biomolecules, inhibitor-mediated targeting benefits from the low molecular weight of the inhibitor molecules, which are typically stable, easy-to-handle, and able to bind the enzyme with very high affinity. Although GCPII is established as a molecular target, comparing previously reported results is difficult due to the different methodological approaches used. In this work, we investigate the robustness and limitations of GCPII targeting with a diverse range of inhibitor-bearing nanoparticles (various structures, sizes, bionanointerfaces, conjugation chemistry, and surface densities of attached inhibitors). Polymer-coated nanodiamonds, virus-like particles based on bacteriophage Qβ and mouse polyomavirus, and polymeric poly(HPMA) nanoparticles with inhibitors attached by different means were synthesized and characterized. We evaluated their ability to bind GCPII and interact with cancer cells using surface plasmon resonance, inhibition assay, flow cytometry, and confocal microscopy. Regardless of the diversity of the investigated nanosystems, they all strongly interact with GCPII (most with low picomolar Ki values) and effectively target GCPII-expressing cells. The robustness of this approach was limited only by the quality of the nanoparticle bionanointerface, which must be properly designed by adding a sufficient density of hydrophilic protective polymers. We conclude that the targeting of cancer cells overexpressing GCPII is a viable approach transferable to a broad diversity of nanosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jitka Neburkova
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS , Flemingovo namesti 2 , 166 10 Prague , Czech Republic.,First Faculty of Medicine , Charles University , Katerinska 32 , 121 08 Prague , Czech Republic
| | - Frantisek Sedlak
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS , Flemingovo namesti 2 , 166 10 Prague , Czech Republic.,First Faculty of Medicine , Charles University , Katerinska 32 , 121 08 Prague , Czech Republic.,Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Science , Charles University , Vinicna 5 , 128 44 Prague 2 , Czech Republic
| | - Jirina Zackova Suchanova
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Science , Charles University , Vinicna 5 , 128 44 Prague 2 , Czech Republic
| | - Libor Kostka
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS , Heyrovskeho namesti 2 , 162 06 , Prague 6 , Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Sacha
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS , Flemingovo namesti 2 , 166 10 Prague , Czech Republic
| | - Vladimir Subr
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS , Heyrovskeho namesti 2 , 162 06 , Prague 6 , Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Etrych
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the CAS , Heyrovskeho namesti 2 , 162 06 , Prague 6 , Czech Republic
| | - Petr Simon
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS , Flemingovo namesti 2 , 166 10 Prague , Czech Republic
| | - Jitka Barinkova
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS , Flemingovo namesti 2 , 166 10 Prague , Czech Republic
| | - Robin Krystufek
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS , Flemingovo namesti 2 , 166 10 Prague , Czech Republic
| | - Hana Spanielova
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS , Flemingovo namesti 2 , 166 10 Prague , Czech Republic.,Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Science , Charles University , Vinicna 5 , 128 44 Prague 2 , Czech Republic
| | - Jitka Forstova
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Science , Charles University , Vinicna 5 , 128 44 Prague 2 , Czech Republic
| | - Jan Konvalinka
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS , Flemingovo namesti 2 , 166 10 Prague , Czech Republic.,Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science , Charles University , Hlavova 2030 , 128 43 Prague 2 , Czech Republic
| | - Petr Cigler
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS , Flemingovo namesti 2 , 166 10 Prague , Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
188
|
Dennis SJ, Meyers AE, Guthrie AJ, Hitzeroth II, Rybicki EP. Immunogenicity of plant-produced African horse sickness virus-like particles: implications for a novel vaccine. Plant Biotechnol J 2018; 16:442-450. [PMID: 28650085 PMCID: PMC5787833 DOI: 10.1111/pbi.12783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Revised: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
African horse sickness (AHS) is a debilitating and often fatal viral disease affecting horses in much of Africa, caused by the dsRNA orbivirus African horse sickness virus (AHSV). Vaccination remains the single most effective weapon in combatting AHS, as there is no treatment for the disease apart from good animal husbandry. However, the only commercially available vaccine is a live-attenuated version of the virus (LAV). The threat of outbreaks of the disease outside its endemic region and the fact that the LAV is not licensed for use elsewhere in the world, have spurred attempts to develop an alternative safer, yet cost-effective recombinant vaccine. Here, we report the plant-based production of a virus-like particle (VLP) AHSV serotype five candidate vaccine by Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transient expression of all four capsid proteins in Nicotiana benthamiana using the cowpea mosaic virus-based HyperTrans (CPMV-HT) and associated pEAQ plant expression vector system. The production process is fast and simple, scalable, economically viable, and most importantly, guinea pig antiserum raised against the vaccine was shown to neutralize live virus in cell-based assays. To our knowledge, this is the first report of AHSV VLPs produced in plants, which has important implications for the containment of, and fight against the spread of, this deadly disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan J. Dennis
- Biopharming Research UnitDepartment of Molecular and Cell BiologyUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Ann E. Meyers
- Biopharming Research UnitDepartment of Molecular and Cell BiologyUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Alan J. Guthrie
- Equine Research CentreUniversity of PretoriaOnderstepoortSouth Africa
| | - Inga I. Hitzeroth
- Biopharming Research UnitDepartment of Molecular and Cell BiologyUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Edward P. Rybicki
- Biopharming Research UnitDepartment of Molecular and Cell BiologyUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular MedicineFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| |
Collapse
|
189
|
Pouyanfard S, Spagnoli G, Bulli L, Balz K, Yang F, Odenwald C, Seitz H, Mariz FC, Bolchi A, Ottonello S, Müller M. Minor Capsid Protein L2 Polytope Induces Broad Protection against Oncogenic and Mucosal Human Papillomaviruses. J Virol 2018; 92:e01930-17. [PMID: 29212932 DOI: 10.1128/JVI.01930-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The amino terminus of the human papillomavirus (HPV) minor capsid protein L2 contains a major cross-neutralization epitope which provides the basis for the development of a broadly protecting HPV vaccine. A wide range of protection against different HPV types would eliminate one of the major drawbacks of the commercial, L1-based prophylactic vaccines. Previously, we have reported that insertion of the L2 epitope into a scaffold composed of bacterial thioredoxin protein generates a potent antigen inducing comprehensive protection against different animal and human papillomaviruses. We also reported, however, that although protection is broad, some oncogenic HPV types escape the neutralizing antibody response, if L2 epitopes from single HPV types are used as immunogen. We were able to compensate for this by applying a mix of thioredoxin proteins carrying L2 epitopes from HPV16, -31, and -51. As the development of a cost-efficient HPV prophylactic vaccines is one of our objectives, this approach is not feasible as it requires the development of multiple good manufacturing production processes in combination with a complex vaccine formulation. Here, we report the development of a thermostable thioredoxin-based single-peptide vaccine carrying an L2 polytope of up to 11 different HPV types. The L2 polytope antigens have excellent abilities in respect to broadness of protection and robustness of induced immune responses. To further increase immunogenicity, we fused the thioredoxin L2 polytope antigen with a heptamerization domain. In the final vaccine design, we achieve protective responses against all 14 oncogenic HPV types that we have analyzed plus the low-risk HPVs 6 and 11 and a number of cutaneous HPVs.IMPORTANCE Infections by a large number of human papillomaviruses lead to malignant and nonmalignant disease. Current commercial vaccines based on virus-like particles (VLPs) effectively protect against some HPV types but fail to do so for most others. Further, only about a third of all countries have access to the VLP vaccines. The minor capsid protein L2 has been shown to contain so-called neutralization epitopes within its N terminus. We designed polytopes comprising the L2 epitope amino acids 20 to 38 of up to 11 different mucosal HPV types and inserted them into the scaffold of thioredoxin derived from a thermophile archaebacterium. The antigen induced neutralizing antibody responses in mice and guinea pigs against 26 mucosal and cutaneous HPV types. Further, addition of a heptamerization domain significantly increased the immunogenicity. The final vaccine design comprising a heptamerized L2 8-mer thioredoxin single-peptide antigen with excellent thermal stability might overcome some of the limitations of the current VLP vaccines.
Collapse
|
190
|
Abstract
The chemical receptors present in living organisms are promising tools for developing biomimetic chemical sensors. However, these receptors require lipid membranes for functioning under physiological conditions, which prevents their utilization in the production of cell-free in vitro chemical sensing systems. Here, we report the development of a cell-free biomimetic sensing platform using virus-like particles (VLPs) with intact ligand-gated Ca2+ channels and genetically encoded Ca2+ indicator (GECI). We observed that targeting GECI to the plasma membrane was essential for efficient loading GECI in the VLPs. Although the physiological Ca2+ concentration [Ca2+] maintained in the cells was low (∼10 nM), the concentration in the VLPs was high. This prevented the detection of the increase in [Ca2+] caused by binding of the ligand to the receptor. To address this problem, we employed Lyn-R-CEPIA1, which had low affinity for Ca2+, and a membrane targeting sequence. Thus, we succeeded in monitoring the activation of cyclic nucleotide-gated channels (CNG) on the VLPs by measuring the increase in fluorescence of Lyn-R-CEPIA1. Our VLP-based sensing system can act as a fundamental platform for all kinds of ligand-gated channels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Kushida
- Department
of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1
Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Advanced
Research Division, Panasonic Corporation, 3-4 Hikaridai,
Seika, Soraku, Kyoto 619-0237, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Arai
- Department
of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1
Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Department
of Biomolecular Science and Engineering, The Institute of Scientific
and Industrial Research, Osaka University, 8-1 Mihogaoka, Ibaraki 567-0047, Japan
| | - Ken Shimono
- Advanced
Research Division, Panasonic Corporation, 3-4 Hikaridai,
Seika, Soraku, Kyoto 619-0237, Japan
| | - Takeharu Nagai
- Department
of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, 2-1
Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Japan
- Department
of Biomolecular Science and Engineering, The Institute of Scientific
and Industrial Research, Osaka University, 8-1 Mihogaoka, Ibaraki 567-0047, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
191
|
Shukla R, Rajpoot RK, Arora U, Poddar A, Swaminathan S, Khanna N. Pichia pastoris-Expressed Bivalent Virus-Like Particulate Vaccine Induces Domain III-Focused Bivalent Neutralizing Antibodies without Antibody-Dependent Enhancement in Vivo. Front Microbiol 2018; 8:2644. [PMID: 29367852 PMCID: PMC5768101 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Dengue, a significant public health problem in several countries around the world, is caused by four different serotypes of mosquito-borne dengue viruses (DENV-1, -2, -3, and -4). Antibodies to any one DENV serotype which can protect against homotypic re-infection, do not offer heterotypic cross-protection. In fact, cross-reactive antibodies may augment heterotypic DENV infection through antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE). A recently launched live attenuated vaccine (LAV) for dengue, which consists of a mixture of four chimeric yellow-fever/dengue vaccine viruses, may be linked to the induction of disease-enhancing antibodies. This is likely related to viral interference among the replicating viral strains, resulting in an unbalanced immune response, as well as to the fact that the LAV encodes prM, a DENV protein documented to elicit ADE-mediating antibodies. This makes it imperative to explore the feasibility of alternate ADE risk-free vaccine candidates. Our quest for a non-replicating vaccine centered on the DENV envelope (E) protein which mediates virus entry into the host cell and serves as an important target of the immune response. Serotype-specific neutralizing epitopes and the host receptor recognition function map to E domain III (EDIII). Recently, we found that Pichia pastoris-expressed DENV E protein, of all four serotypes, self-assembled into virus-like particles (VLPs) in the absence of prM. Significantly, these VLPs displayed EDIII and elicited EDIII-focused DENV-neutralizing antibodies in mice. We now report the creation and characterization of a novel non-replicating recombinant particulate vaccine candidate, produced by co-expressing the E proteins of DENV-1 and DENV-2 in P. pastoris. The two E proteins co-assembled into bivalent mosaic VLPs (mVLPs) designated as mE1E2bv VLPs. The mVLP, which preserved the serotype-specific antigenic integrity of its two component proteins, elicited predominantly EDIII-focused homotypic virus-neutralizing antibodies in BALB/c mice, demonstrating its efficacy. In an in vivo ADE model, mE1E2bv VLP-induced antibodies lacked discernible ADE potential, compared to the cross-reactive monoclonal antibody 4G2, as evidenced by significant reduction in the levels of IL-6 and TNF-α, suggesting inherent safety. The results obtained with these bivalent mVLPs suggest the feasibility of incorporating the E proteins of DENV-3 and DENV-4 to create a tetravalent mVLP vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Shukla
- Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi, India
| | - Ravi K Rajpoot
- Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi, India
| | - Upasana Arora
- Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi, India
| | - Ankur Poddar
- Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi, India
| | - Sathyamangalam Swaminathan
- Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi, India
| | - Navin Khanna
- Recombinant Gene Products Group, Molecular Medicine Division, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi, India.,Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad, India.,Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
192
|
Palladini A, Thrane S, Janitzek CM, Pihl J, Clemmensen SB, de Jongh WA, Clausen TM, Nicoletti G, Landuzzi L, Penichet ML, Balboni T, Ianzano ML, Giusti V, Theander TG, Nielsen MA, Salanti A, Lollini PL, Nanni P, Sander AF. Virus-like particle display of HER2 induces potent anti-cancer responses. Oncoimmunology 2018; 7:e1408749. [PMID: 29399414 PMCID: PMC5790387 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2017.1408749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Overexpression of human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) occurs in 20–30% of invasive breast cancers. Monoclonal antibody therapy is effective in treating HER2-driven mammary carcinomas, but its utility is limited by high costs, side effects and development of resistance. Active vaccination may represent a safer, more effective and cheaper alternative, although the induction of strong and durable autoantibody responses is hampered by immune-tolerogenic mechanisms. Using a novel virus-like particle (VLP) based vaccine platform we show that directional, high-density display of human HER2 on the surface of VLPs, allows induction of therapeutically potent anti-HER2 autoantibody responses. Prophylactic vaccination reduced spontaneous development of mammary carcinomas by 50%-100% in human HER2 transgenic mice and inhibited the growth of HER2-positive tumors implanted in wild-type mice. The HER2-VLP vaccine shows promise as a new cost-effective modality for prevention and treatment of HER2-positive cancer. The VLP platform may represent an effective tool for development of vaccines against other non-communicable diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Palladini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Susan Thrane
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christoph M Janitzek
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jessica Pihl
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stine B Clemmensen
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.,ExpreS2ion Biotechnologies, SCION-DTU Science Park, Hørsholm, Denmark
| | | | - Thomas M Clausen
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Giordano Nicoletti
- Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute, Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lorena Landuzzi
- Rizzoli Orthopedic Institute, Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Bologna, Italy
| | - Manuel L Penichet
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery and Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, The Molecular Biology Institute, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Tania Balboni
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marianna L Ianzano
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Veronica Giusti
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Thor G Theander
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten A Nielsen
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ali Salanti
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pier-Luigi Lollini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Patrizia Nanni
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Adam F Sander
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
193
|
Chen J, Zhang C, Zhou Y, Zhang X, Shen C, Ye X, Jiang W, Huang Z, Cong Y. A 3.0-Angstrom Resolution Cryo-Electron Microscopy Structure and Antigenic Sites of Coxsackievirus A6-Like Particles. J Virol 2018; 92:e01257-17. [PMID: 29093091 DOI: 10.1128/JVI.01257-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Coxsackievirus A6 (CVA6) has recently emerged as one of the predominant causative agents of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). The structure of the CVA6 mature viral particle has not been solved thus far. Our previous work shows that recombinant virus-like particles (VLPs) of CVA6 represent a promising CVA6 vaccine candidate. Here, we report the first cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structure of the CVA6 VLP at 3.0-Å resolution. The CVA6 VLP exhibits the characteristic features of enteroviruses but presents an open channel at the 2-fold axis and an empty, collapsed VP1 pocket, which is broadly similar to the structures of the enterovirus 71 (EV71) VLP and coxsackievirus A16 (CVA16) 135S expanded particle, indicating that the CVA6 VLP is in an expanded conformation. Structural comparisons reveal that two common salt bridges within protomers are maintained in the CVA6 VLP and other viruses of the Enterovirus genus, implying that these salt bridges may play a critical role in enteroviral protomer assembly. However, there are apparent structural differences among the CVA6 VLP, EV71 VLP, and CVA16 135S particle in the surface-exposed loops and C termini of subunit proteins, which are often antigenic sites for enteroviruses. By immunological assays, we identified two CVA6-specific linear B-cell epitopes (designated P42 and P59) located at the GH loop and the C-terminal region of VP1, respectively, in agreement with the structure-based prediction of antigenic sites. Our findings elucidate the structural basis and important antigenic sites of the CVA6 VLP as a strong vaccine candidate and also provide insight into enteroviral protomer assembly.IMPORTANCE Coxsackievirus A6 (CVA6) is becoming one of the major pathogens causing hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), leading to significant morbidity and mortality in children and adults. However, no vaccine is currently available to prevent CVA6 infection. Our previous work shows that recombinant virus-like particles (VLPs) of CVA6 are a promising CVA6 vaccine candidate. Here, we present a 3.0-Å structure of the CVA6 VLP determined by cryo-electron microscopy. The overall architecture of the CVA6 VLP is similar to those of the expanded structures of enterovirus 71 (EV71) and coxsackievirus A16 (CVA16), but careful structural comparisons reveal significant differences in the surface-exposed loops and C termini of each capsid protein of these particles. In addition, we identified two CVA6-specific linear B-cell epitopes and mapped them to the GH loop and the C-terminal region of VP1, respectively. Collectively, our findings provide a structural basis and important antigenic information for CVA6 VLP vaccine development.
Collapse
|
194
|
Wang X, Ku Z, Zhang X, Ye X, Chen J, Liu Q, Zhang W, Zhang C, Fu Z, Jin X, Cong Y, Huang Z. Structure, Immunogenicity, and Protective Mechanism of an Engineered Enterovirus 71-Like Particle Vaccine Mimicking 80S Empty Capsid. J Virol 2018; 92:e01330-17. [PMID: 29070691 DOI: 10.1128/JVI.01330-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is the major causative agent of severe hand, foot, and mouth disease, which affects millions of young children in the Asia-Pacific region annually. In this study, we engineered a novel EV71 virus-like particle (VLP) that lacks VP4 (therefore designated VLPΔVP4) and investigated its structure, antigenicity, and vaccine potential. The cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structure of VLPΔVP4 was reconstructed to 3.71-Å resolution. Results from structural and biochemical analyses revealed that VLPΔVP4 resembles the end product of the viral uncoating process, the 80S empty capsid. VLPΔVP4 is able to elicit high-titer neutralizing antibodies and to fully protect mice against lethal viral challenge. Mechanistic studies showed that, at the cellular level, the anti-VLPΔVP4 sera exert neutralization effects at both pre- and postattachment stages by inhibiting both virus attachment and internalization, and at the molecular level, the antisera can block multiple interactions between EV71 and its key receptors. Our study gives a better understanding of EV71 capsid assembly and provides important information for the design and development of new-generation vaccines for EV71, and perhaps for other enteroviruses, as well.IMPORTANCE Enterovirus 71 (EV71) infection may lead to severe hand, foot, and mouth disease, with significant morbidity and mortality. Knowledge regarding EV71 particle assembly remains limited. Here, we report the generation and characterization of a novel EV71 virus-like particle that lacks the VP4 capsid subunit protein. This particle, termed VLPΔVP4, structurally mimics the 80S empty capsid, which is the end stage of EV71 uncoating. We further show that VLPΔVP4 exhibits desirable immunogenicity and protective efficacy in proof-of-concept studies. In addition, the inhibitory mechanisms of the VLPΔVP4-induced antibodies are unraveled at both the cellular and molecular levels. Our work provides the first evidence of picornaviral particle assembly in the complete absence of VP4 and identifies VLPΔVP4 as an improved EV71 vaccine candidate with desirable traits. These findings not only enhance our understanding of particle assembly and uncoating of picornaviruses, but also provide important information for structure-guided vaccine design for EV71 and other enteroviruses.
Collapse
|
195
|
Pascual E, Mata CP, Carrascosa JL, Castón JR. Assembly/disassembly of a complex icosahedral virus to incorporate heterologous nucleic acids. J Phys Condens Matter 2017; 29:494001. [PMID: 29083994 PMCID: PMC7103166 DOI: 10.1088/1361-648x/aa96ec] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Hollow protein containers are widespread in nature, and include virus capsids as well as eukaryotic and bacterial complexes. Protein cages are studied extensively for applications in nanotechnology, nanomedicine and materials science. Their inner and outer surfaces can be modified chemically or genetically, and the internal cavity can be used to template, store and/or arrange molecular cargos. Virus capsids and virus-like particles (VLP, noninfectious particles) provide versatile platforms for nanoscale bioengineering. Study of capsid protein self-assembly into monodispersed particles, and of VLP structure and biophysics is necessary not only to understand natural processes, but also to infer how these platforms can be redesigned to furnish novel functional VLP. Here we address the assembly dynamics of infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV), a complex icosahedral virus. IBDV has a ~70 nm-diameter T = 13 capsid with VP2 trimers as the only structural subunits. During capsid assembly, VP2 is synthesized as a precursor (pVP2) whose C terminus is cleaved. The pVP2 C terminus has an amphipathic helix that controls VP2 polymorphism. In the absence of the VP3 scaffolding protein, necessary for control of assembly, 466/456-residue pVP2 intermediates bearing this helix assemble into VLP only when expressed with an N-terminal His6 tag (the HT-VP2-466 protein). HT-VP2-466 capsids are optimal for genetic insertion of proteins (cargo space ~78 000 nm3). We established an in vitro assembly/disassembly system of HT-VP2-466-based VLP for heterologous nucleic acid packaging and/or encapsulation of drugs and other molecules. HT-VP2-466 (empty) capsids were disassembled and reassembled by dialysis against low-salt/basic pH and high-salt/acid pH buffers, respectively, thus illustrating the reversibility in vitro of IBDV capsid assembly. HT-VP2-466 VLP also packed heterologous DNA by non-specific confinement during assembly. These and previous results establish the bases for biotechnological applications based on the IBDV capsid and its ability to incorporate exogenous proteins and nucleic acids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Pascual
- Department of Structure of Macromolecules, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/CSIC, Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos P Mata
- Department of Structure of Macromolecules, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/CSIC, Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain
| | - José L Carrascosa
- Department of Structure of Macromolecules, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/CSIC, Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain
| | - José R Castón
- Department of Structure of Macromolecules, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología/CSIC, Cantoblanco, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
196
|
Kusi KA, Faber BW, Koopman G, Remarque EJ. EDiP: the Epitope Dilution Phenomenon. Lessons learnt from a malaria vaccine antigen and its applicability to polymorphic antigens. Expert Rev Vaccines 2017; 17:13-21. [PMID: 29224404 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2018.1411198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Polymorphism in vaccine antigens poses major challenges to vaccinologists. The Plasmodium falciparum Apical Membrane Antigen 1 (AMA1) poses such a challenge. We found that immunization with a mixture of three variants yielded functional antibody levels to all variants comparable to levels induced by monovalent immunization. The mechanism behind the observed broadening was shown to be an increase in the fraction of cross-reactive antibodies, most likely because strain-specific epitopes are present at lower frequency relative to conserved epitopes. Areas covered: We hereby introduce the Epitope Dilution Phenomenon (EDiP) as a practical strategy for the induction of broad, cross-variant antibody responses against polymorphic antigens and discuss the utility and applicability of this phenomenon for the development of vaccines against polymorphic antigens of pathogens like Influenza, HIV, Dengue and Plasmodium. Expert commentary: EDiP can be used to broaden antibody responses by immunizing with a mixture of at least 3 antigenic variants, where the variants included can differ, yet yield broadened responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kwadwo Asamoah Kusi
- a Immunology Department , Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences University of Ghana , Accra , Ghana
| | - Bart W Faber
- b Department of Parasitology , Biomedical Primate Research Centre , Rijswijk , The Netherlands
| | - Gerrit Koopman
- c Department of Virology , Biomedical Primate Research Centre , Rijswijk , The Netherlands
| | - Edmond Joseph Remarque
- c Department of Virology , Biomedical Primate Research Centre , Rijswijk , The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
197
|
Urakami A, Ngwe Tun MM, Moi ML, Sakurai A, Ishikawa M, Kuno S, Ueno R, Morita K, Akahata W. An Envelope-Modified Tetravalent Dengue Virus-Like-Particle Vaccine Has Implications for Flavivirus Vaccine Design. J Virol 2017; 91:e01181-17. [PMID: 28956764 DOI: 10.1128/JVI.01181-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Dengue viruses (DENV) infect 50 to 100 million people each year. The spread of DENV-associated infections is one of the most serious public health problems worldwide, as there is no widely available vaccine or specific therapeutic for DENV infections. To address this, we developed a novel tetravalent dengue vaccine by utilizing virus-like particles (VLPs). We created recombinant DENV1 to -4 (DENV1-4) VLPs by coexpressing precursor membrane (prM) and envelope (E) proteins, with an F108A mutation in the fusion loop structure of E to increase the production of VLPs in mammalian cells. Immunization with DENV1-4 VLPs as individual, monovalent vaccines elicited strong neutralization activity against each DENV serotype in mice. For use as a tetravalent vaccine, DENV1-4 VLPs elicited high levels of neutralization activity against all four serotypes simultaneously. The neutralization antibody responses induced by the VLPs were significantly higher than those with DNA or recombinant E protein immunization. Moreover, antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) was not observed against any serotype at a 1:10 serum dilution. We also demonstrated that the Zika virus (ZIKV) VLP production level was enhanced by introducing the same F108A mutation into the ZIKV envelope protein. Taken together, these results suggest that our strategy for DENV VLP production is applicable to other flavivirus VLP vaccine development, due to the similarity in viral structures, and they describe the promising development of an effective tetravalent vaccine against the prevalent flavivirus.IMPORTANCE Dengue virus poses one of the most serious public health problems worldwide, and the incidence of diseases caused by the virus has increased dramatically. Despite decades of effort, there is no effective treatment against dengue. A safe and potent vaccine against dengue is still needed. We developed a novel tetravalent dengue vaccine by using virus-like particles (VLPs), which are noninfectious because they lack the viral genome. Previous attempts of other groups to use dengue VLPs resulted in generally poor yields. We found that a critical amino acid mutation in the envelope protein enhances the production of VLPs. Our tetravalent vaccine elicited potent neutralizing antibody responses against all four DENV serotypes. Our findings can also be applied to vaccine development against other flaviviruses, such as Zika virus or West Nile virus.
Collapse
|
198
|
Meshcheriakova Y, Durrant A, Hesketh EL, Ranson NA, Lomonossoff GP. Combining high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy and mutagenesis to develop cowpea mosaic virus for bionanotechnology. Biochem Soc Trans 2017; 45:1263-9. [PMID: 29101307 DOI: 10.1042/BST20160312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Particles of cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV) have enjoyed considerable success as nanoparticles. The development of a system for producing empty virus-like particles (eVLPs) of the virus, which are non-infectious and have the potential to be loaded with heterologous material, has increased the number of possible applications for CPMV-based particles. However, for this potential to be realised, it was essential to demonstrate that eVLPs were accurate surrogates for natural virus particles, and this information was provided by high-resolution cryo-EM studies of eVLPs. This demonstration has enabled the approaches developed for the production of modified particles developed with natural CPMV particles to be applied to eVLPs. Furthermore, a combination of cryo-EM and mutagenic studies allowed the development of particles which are permeable but which could still assemble efficiently. These particles were shown to be loadable with cobalt, indicating that they can, indeed, be used as nano-containers.
Collapse
|
199
|
Pitoiset F, Vazquez T, Levacher B, Nehar-Belaid D, Dérian N, Vigneron J, Klatzmann D, Bellier B. Retrovirus-Based Virus-Like Particle Immunogenicity and Its Modulation by Toll-Like Receptor Activation. J Virol 2017; 91:e01230-17. [PMID: 28794025 DOI: 10.1128/JVI.01230-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Retrovirus-derived virus-like particles (VLPs) are particularly interesting vaccine platforms, as they trigger efficient humoral and cellular immune responses and can be used to display heterologous antigens. In this study, we characterized the intrinsic immunogenicity of VLPs and investigated their possible adjuvantization by incorporation of Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands. We designed a noncoding single-stranded RNA (ncRNA) that could be encapsidated by VLPs and induce TLR7/8 signaling. We found that VLPs efficiently induce in vitro dendritic cell activation, which can be improved by ncRNA encapsidation (ncRNAVLPs). Transcriptome studies of dendritic cells harvested from the spleens of immunized mice identified antigen presentation and immune activation as the main gene expression signatures induced by VLPs, while TLR signaling and Th1 signatures characterize ncRNAVLPs. In vivo and compared with standard VLPs, ncRNAVLPs promoted Th1 responses and improved CD8+ T cell proliferation in a MyD88-dependent manner. In an HIV vaccine mouse model, HIV-pseudotyped ncRNAVLPs elicited stronger antigen-specific cellular and humoral responses than VLPs. Altogether, our findings provide molecular evidence for a strong vaccine potential of retrovirus-derived VLPs that can be further improved by harnessing TLR-mediated immune activation.IMPORTANCE We previously reported that DNA vaccines encoding antigens displayed in/on retroviral VLPs are more efficient than standard DNA vaccines at inducing cellular and humoral immune responses. We aimed to decipher the mechanisms and investigated the VLPs' immunogenicity independently of DNA vaccination. We show that VLPs have the ability to activate antigen-presenting cells directly, thus confirming their intrinsic immunostimulatory properties and their potential to be used as an antigenic platform. Notably, this immunogenicity can be further improved and/or oriented by the incorporation into VLPs of ncRNA, which provides further TLR-mediated activation and Th1-type CD4+ and CD8+ T cell response orientation. Our results highlight the versatility of retrovirus-derived VLP design and the value of using ncRNA as an intrinsic vaccine adjuvant.
Collapse
|
200
|
Darling TL, Sherwood LJ, Hayhurst A. Intracellular Crosslinking of Filoviral Nucleoproteins with Xintrabodies Restricts Viral Packaging. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1197. [PMID: 29021793 PMCID: PMC5623874 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Viruses assemble large macromolecular repeat structures that become part of the infectious particles or virions. Ribonucleocapsids (RNCs) of negative strand RNA viruses are a prime example where repetition of nucleoprotein (NP) along the genome creates a core polymeric helical scaffold that accommodates other nucleocapsid proteins including viral polymerase. The RNCs are transported through the cytosol for packaging into virions through association with viral matrix proteins at cell membranes. We hypothesized that RNC would be ideal targets for crosslinkers engineered to promote aberrant protein–protein interactions, thereby blocking their orderly transport and packaging. Previously, we had generated single-domain antibodies (sdAbs) against Filoviruses that have all targeted highly conserved C-terminal regions of NP known to be repetitively exposed along the length of the RNCs of Marburgvirus (MARV) and Ebolavirus (EBOV). Our crosslinker design consisted of dimeric sdAb expressed intracellularly, which we call Xintrabodies (X- for crosslinking). Electron microscopy of purified NP polymers incubated with purified sdAb constructs showed NP aggregation occurred in a genus-specific manner with dimeric and not monomeric sdAb. A virus-like particle (VLP) assay was used for initial evaluation where we found that dimeric sdAb inhibited NP incorporation into VP40-based VLPs whereas monomeric sdAb did not. Inhibition of NP packaging was genus specific. Confocal microscopy revealed dimeric sdAb was diffuse when expressed alone but focused on pools of NP when the two were coexpressed, while monomeric sdAb showed ambivalent partition. Infection of stable Vero cell lines expressing dimeric sdAb specific for either MARV or EBOV NP resulted in smaller plaques and reduced progeny of cognate virus relative to wild-type Vero cells. Though the impact was marginal at later time-points, the collective data suggest that viral replication can be reduced by crosslinking intracellular NP using relatively small amounts of dimeric sdAb to restrict NP packaging. The stoichiometry and ease of application of the approach would likely benefit from transitioning away from intracellular expression of crosslinking sdAb to exogenous delivery of antibody. By retuning sdAb specificity, the approach of crosslinking highly conserved regions of assembly critical proteins may well be applicable to inhibiting replication processes of a broad spectrum of viruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamarand Lee Darling
- Department of Virology and Immunology, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, United States.,Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Laura Jo Sherwood
- Department of Virology and Immunology, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Andrew Hayhurst
- Department of Virology and Immunology, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, United States
| |
Collapse
|