Accessing the Kabat antibody sequence database by computer

A synergistic therapy against influenza virus A/H1N1/PR8 by a HA1 specific neutralizing single-domain VL and an RNA hydrolyzing scFv

The emergence of anti-influenza drug-resistant strains poses a challenge for influenza therapy due to mutations in the virus's surface protein. Recently, there has been increasing interest in combination therapy consisting of two or more drugs as a potential alternative approach, aiming to enhance therapeutic efficacy. In this study, we investigated a novel synergistic therapy with a vertical effect using a single-domain VL-HA1-specific antibody against H1N1/PR8 and a horizontal effect using an RNA catalytic antibody with broad-spectrum influenza antiviral drug. We isolated a single-domain VL-HA1-specific (NVLH8) antibody binding to the virus particles showing a neutralizing activity against influenza virus A, specifically H1N1/PR8, as determined by the reduction in plaque number and lower viral HA protein expression in vitro. The neutralizing antibody likely prevented the viral entry, specifically at the viral genome-releasing step. Additionally, the 3D8 scFv hydrolyzed viral RNAs in the cytoplasm, including mRNA, vRNA, and cRNA in MDCK cells. The combined treatment of neutralizing antibodies for a vertical effect and 3D8 scFv for a horizontal effect produced a synergistic effect providing a novel approach against viral diseases when compared with a single treatment. Our results indicated that combining treatment, in particular two proteins exhibiting different mechanisms of action increased the antiviral activity against the influenza virus.

Significance of antibody numbering systems in the development of antibody engineering

Immunotherapy has become increasingly popular in recent years for treating a variety of diseases including inflammatory, neurological, oncological, and auto-immune disorders. The significant interest in antibody development is due to the high binding affinity and specificity of an antibody against a specific antigen. Recent advances in antibody engineering have provided a different view on how to engineer antibodies in silico for therapeutic and diagnostic applications. In order to improve the clinical utility of therapeutic antibodies, it is of paramount importance to understand the various molecular properties which impact antigen targeting and its potency. In antibody engineering, antibody numbering (AbN) systems play an important role to identify the complementarity determining regions (CDRs) and the framework regions (FR). Hence, it is crucial to accurately define and understand the CDR, FR and the crucial residues of heavy and light chains that aid in the binding of the antibody to the antigenic site. Detailed understanding of amino acids positions are useful for modifying the binding affinity, specificity, physicochemical features, and half-life of an antibody. In this review, we have summarized the different antibody numbering systems that are widely used in antibody engineering and highlighted their significance. Here, we have systematically explored and mentioned the various tools and servers that harness different AbN systems.

Computational Modeling of Antibody and T-Cell Receptor (CDR3 Loops)

Antibodies and T-cell receptors have been a subject of much interest due to their central role in the immune system and their potential applications in several biotechnological and medical applications from cancer therapy to vaccine development. A unique feature of these two lymphocyte receptors is their ability to bind a huge variety of different (pathogen) targets. This ability stems from six short loops in the binding domain that have hypervariable sequence due to genetic recombination mechanism. Particularly one of these loops, the third complementarity determining region (CDR3), has the highest sequence variability and a dominant role in binding the target. However, it has also been proven the most difficult to be modeled structurally, which is vitally important for downstream tasks such as binding prediction. This difficulty stems from its variability in sequence that both reduces the possibility of finding homologues and introduces unique structural features in the loop. We present here a general protocol for modeling such loops in antibodies and T-cell receptors. We also discuss the difficulties in loop modeling and the advantages and limitations of different modeling methods.

Homology Modeling of Antibody Variable Regions: Methods and Applications

Adaptive immunity specifically protects us from antigenic challenges. Antibodies are key effector proteins of adaptive immunity, and they are remarkable in their ability to recognize a virtually limitless number of antigens. Fragment variable (F_V), the antigen-binding region of antibodies, can be split into two main components, namely, framework and complementarity determining regions. The framework (FR) consists of light-chain framework (FR_L) and heavy-chain framework (FR_H). Similarly, the complementarity determining regions (CDRs) comprises of light-chain CDRs 1-3 (CDRs L1-3) and heavy-chain CDRs 1-3 (CDRs H1-3). While FRs are relatively constant in sequence and structure across diverse antibodies, sequence variation in CDRs leading to differential conformations of CDR loops accounts for the distinct antigenic specificities of diverse antibodies. The conserved structural features in FRs and conformity of CDRs to a limited set of standard conformations allow for the accurate prediction of F_V models using homology modeling techniques. Antibody structure prediction from its amino acid sequence has numerous important applications including prediction of antibody-antigen interaction interfaces and redesign of therapeutically and biotechnologically useful antibodies with improved affinity. This chapter summarizes the current practices employed in the successful homology modeling of antibody variable regions and the potential applications of the generated homology models.

Selection of single domain anti-transferrin receptor antibodies for blood-brain barrier transcytosis using a neurotensin based assay and histological assessment of target engagement in a mouse model of Alzheimer's related amyloid-beta pathology

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) presents a major obstacle in developing specific diagnostic imaging agents for many neurological disorders. In this study we aimed to generate single domain anti-mouse transferrin receptor antibodies (anti-mTfR VHHs) to mediate BBB transcytosis as components of novel MRI molecular contrast imaging agents. Anti-mTfR VHHs were produced by immunizing a llama with mTfR, generation of a VHH phage display library, immunopanning, and in vitro characterization of candidates. Site directed mutagenesis was used to generate additional variants. VHH fusions with neurotensin (NT) allowed rapid, hypothermia-based screening for VHH-mediated BBB transcytosis in wild-type mice. One anti-mTfR VHH variant was fused with an anti-amyloid-beta (Aβ) VHH dimer and labeled with fluorescent dye for direct assessment of in vivo target engagement in a mouse model of AD-related Aβ plaque pathology. An anti-mTfR VHH called M1 and variants had binding affinities to mTfR of <1nM to 1.52nM. The affinity of the VHH binding to mTfR correlated with the efficiency of the VHH-NT induced hypothermia effects after intravenous injection of 600 nmol/kg body weight, ranging from undetectable for nonbinding mutants to -6°C for the best mutants. The anti-mTfR VHH variant M1P96H with the strongest hypothermia effect was fused to the anti-Aβ VHH dimer and labeled with Alexa647; the dye-labeled VHH fusion construct still bound both mTfR and Aβ plaques at concentrations as low as 0.22 nM. However, after intravenous injection at 600 nmol/kg body weight into APP/PS1 transgenic mice, there was no detectible labeling of plaques above control levels. Thus, NT-induced hypothermia did not correlate with direct target engagement in cortex, likely because the concentration required for NT-induced hypothermia was lower than the concentration required to produce in situ labeling. These findings reveal an important dissociation between NT-induced hypothermia, presumably mediated by hypothalamus, and direct engagement with Aβ-plaques in cortex. Additional methods to assess anti-mTfR VHH BBB transcytosis will need to be developed for anti-mTfR VHH screening and the development of novel MRI molecular contrast agents.

A Novel Specific Single-Chain Variable Fragment Diagnostic System for Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia Virus

Viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus (VHSV), one of the most important viral marine pathogens worldwide, has a broad range of hosts, such as members of the families Salmonidae and Paralichthyidae. In addition to being highly contagious, VHSV causes high lethality. The transmission of VHSV can be both vertical and horizontal. In fish, the resolution of VHSV infection is challenging. Thus, early diagnosis of VHSV infections is critical, especially in fish farms that have a high population of juvenile fish. Serological methods are commonly used to detect viral antigens. However, limited serological methods are available for marine viruses. In this study, a VHSV-specific single-chain variable fragment (scFv), E5, was selected using the yeast surface display and phage display systems. scFv, a type of recombinant antibody, comprises a variable heavy chain ([Formula: see text]) and a variable light chain ([Formula: see text]) connected by a polypeptide linker. An scFv clone was selected from the VHSV glycoprotein-expressing yeast cells using the bio-panning method. The scFv-encoding gene was subcloned and expressed in the Escherichia coli expression system. The binding affinity of the expressed and purified scFv protein was determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and western blotting. Thus, this study reported a method to identify VHSV-specific scFv using bio-panning that can be utilized to develop a diagnostic system for other viruses.

Enhancing neutralizing activity against influenza H1N1/PR8 by engineering a single-domain VL-M2 specific into a bivalent form

Flu disease, with high mortality and morbidity, is caused by the influenza virus. Influenza infections are most effectively prevented through vaccination, but it requires annual reformulation due to the antigenic shift or drift of hemagglutinin and neuraminidase proteins. Increasing resistance to available anti-influenza drugs was also recently reported. The M2 surface protein of the influenza virus is an attractive target for universal vaccine development as it is highly conserved and multifunctional throughout the viral life cycle. This study aimed to discover a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) targeting the M2 protein of influenza A H1N1/PR8, showing neutralizing activity through plaque inhibition in virus replication. Several candidates were isolated using bio-panning, including scFv and single-domain V_L target M2 protein, which was displayed on the yeast surface. The scFv/V_L proteins were obtained with high yield and high purity through soluble expression in E. coli BL21 (DE3) pLysE strains. A single-domain V_L-M2-specific antibody, NVLM10, exhibited the highest binding affinity to influenza virions and was engineered into a bivalent format (NVL2M10) to improve antigen binding. Both antibodies inhibited virus replication in a dose-dependent manner, determined using plaque reduction- and immunocytochemistry assays. Furthermore, bivalent anti-M2 single-domain V_L antibodies significantly reduced the plaque number and viral HA protein intensity as well as viral genome (HA and NP) compared to the monovalent single-domain V_L antibodies. This suggests that mono- or bivalent single-domain V_L antibodies can exhibit neutralizing activity against influenza virus A, as determined through binding to virus particle activity.

Nebulized delivery of a broadly neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 RBD-specific nanobody prevents clinical, virological, and pathological disease in a Syrian hamster model of COVID-19

There remains an unmet need for globally deployable, low-cost therapeutics for the ongoing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. Previously, we reported on the isolation and in vitro characterization of a potent single-domain nanobody, NIH-CoVnb-112, specific for the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2. Here, we report on the molecular basis for the observed broad in vitro neutralization capability of NIH-CoVnb-112 against variant SARS-CoV-2 pseudoviruses. The structure of NIH-CoVnb-112 bound to SARS-CoV-2 RBD reveals a large contact surface area overlapping the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) binding site, which is largely unencumbered by the common RBD mutations. In an in vivo pilot study, we demonstrate effective reductions in weight loss, viral burden, and lung pathology in a Syrian hamster model of COVID-19 following nebulized delivery of NIH-CoVnb-112. These findings support the further development of NIH-CoVnb-112 as a potential adjunct preventative therapeutic for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection.Abbreviations: ACE2 - angiotensin converting enzyme 2BSA - buried surface areaCDR - complementary determining regionRBD - receptor binding domainRBM - receptor-binding motifSARS-CoV-2 - severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.

Nebulized delivery of a broadly neutralizing SARS-CoV-2 RBD-specific nanobody prevents clinical, virological and pathological disease in a Syrian hamster model of COVID-19

There remains an unmet need for globally deployable, low-cost therapeutics for the ongoing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. Previously, we reported on the isolation and in vitro characterization of a potent single-domain nanobody, NIH-CoVnb-112, specific for the receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2. Here, we report on the molecular basis for the observed broad in vitro neutralization capability of NIH-CoVnb-112 against variant SARS-CoV-2 pseudoviruses, including the currently dominant Delta variant. The structure of NIH-CoVnb-112 bound to SARS-CoV-2 RBD reveals a large contact surface area overlapping the angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) binding site, which is largely unencumbered by the common RBD mutations. In an in vivo pilot study, we demonstrate effective reductions in weight loss, viral burden, and lung pathology in a Syrian hamster model of COVID-19 following nebulized delivery of NIH-CoVnb-112. These findings support the further development of NIH-CoVnb-112 as a potential adjunct preventative therapeutic for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Tracking the pipeline: immunoinformatics and the COVID-19 vaccine design

With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the amount of data on genomic and proteomic sequences of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) stored in various databases has exponentially grown. A large volume of these data has led to the production of equally immense sets of immunological data, which require rigorous computational approaches to sort through and make sense of. Immunoinformatics has emerged in the recent decades as a field capable of offering this approach by bridging experimental and theoretical immunology with state-of-the-art computational tools. Here, we discuss how immunoinformatics can assist in the development of high-performance vaccines and drug discovery needed to curb the spread of SARS-CoV-2. Immunoinformatics can provide a set of computational tools to extract meaningful connections from the large sets of COVID-19 patient data, which can be implemented in the design of effective vaccines. With this in mind, we represent a pipeline to identify the role of immunoinformatics in COVID-19 treatment and vaccine development. In this process, a number of free databases of protein sequences, structures and mutations are introduced, along with docking web servers for assessing the interaction between antibodies and the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein segments as most commonly considered antigens in vaccine design.

Neutralizing Antibodies Induced by First-Generation gp41-Stabilized HIV-1 Envelope Trimers and Nanoparticles

The immunogenicity of gp41-stabilized HIV-1 BG505 envelope (Env) trimers and nanoparticles (NPs) was recently assessed in mice and rabbits. Here, we combined Env-specific B-cell sorting and repertoire sequencing to identify neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) from immunized animals. A panel of mouse NAbs was isolated from mice immunized with a 60-meric I3-01 NP presenting 20 stabilized trimers. Three mouse NAbs potently neutralized BG505.T332N by recognizing a glycan epitope centered in the C3/V4 region on BG505 Env, as revealed by electron microscopy (EM), X-ray crystallography, and epitope mapping. A set of rabbit NAbs was isolated from rabbits immunized with a soluble trimer and a 24-meric ferritin NP presenting 8 trimers. Neutralization assays against BG505.T332N variants confirmed that potent rabbit NAbs targeted previously described glycan holes on BG505 Env and accounted for a significant portion of the autologous NAb response in both the trimer and ferritin NP groups. Last, we examined NAb responses that were induced by non-BG505 Env immunogens. We determined a 3.4-Å-resolution crystal structure for the clade C transmitted/founder (T/F) Du172.17 Env with a redesigned heptad repeat 1 (HR1) bend in gp41. This clade C Env, in a soluble trimer form and in a multivalent form with 8 trimers attached to ferritin NP, and the gp41-stabilized clade A Q482-d12 Env trimer elicited distinct NAb responses in rabbits, with notable differences in neutralization breadth. Although eliciting a broad NAb response remains a major challenge, our study provides valuable information on an HIV-1 vaccine design strategy that combines gp41 stabilization and NP display. IMPORTANCE Self-assembling protein nanoparticles (NPs) presenting BG505 envelope (Env) trimers can elicit tier 2 HIV-1-neutralizing antibody (NAb) responses more effectively than soluble trimers. In the present study, monoclonal NAbs were isolated from previously immunized mice and rabbits for structural and functional analyses, which revealed that potent mouse NAbs recognize the C3/V4 region and small NP-elicited rabbit NAbs primarily target known glycan holes on BG505 Env. This study validates the gp41 stabilization strategy for HIV-1 Env vaccine design and highlights the challenge in eliciting a broad NAb response.

DutaFabs are engineered therapeutic Fab fragments that can bind two targets simultaneously

We report the development of a platform of dual targeting Fab (DutaFab) molecules, which comprise two spatially separated and independent binding sites within the human antibody CDR loops: the so-called H-side paratope encompassing HCDR1, HCDR3 and LCDR2, and the L-side paratope encompassing LCDR1, LCDR3 and HCDR2. Both paratopes can be independently selected and combined into the desired bispecific DutaFabs in a modular manner. X-ray crystal structures illustrate that DutaFabs are able to bind two target molecules simultaneously at the same Fv region comprising a VH-VL heterodimer. In the present study, this platform is applied to generate DutaFabs specific for VEGFA and PDGF-BB, which show high affinities, physico-chemical stability and solubility, as well as superior efficacy over anti-VEGF monotherapy in vivo. These molecules exemplify the usefulness of DutaFabs as a distinct class of antibody therapeutics, which is currently being evaluated in patients.

Bispecific antibodies can bind to two distinct targets though the fusion of two different Fv regions. In this study, the authors develop DutaFabs that present two separated and independent antigen binding sites within the same Fv region, giving rise to bispecific Fab fragments.

NBIGV-DB: A dedicated database of non-B cell derived immunoglobulin variable region

Immunoglobulins (Ig) are important immune molecules that possess highly diverse variable region sequences enabling antigen recognition. According to classical immune theory, B lymphocytes have been considered the only source of Ig production (B-Igs). However, accumulating evidence have suggested that Igs are also produced by many non-B cells (non-B Igs), including epithelial cells, neurons, germ cells, as well as myeloid cells of hemopoietic system. Besides acting as bona fide antibodies, Non-B Igs have alternative cellular functions, such as promotion of cell survival, adhesion and migration. More importantly, Unlike the unlimited sequence diversity of B-Igs, the non-B Igs exhibit conserved V(D)J patterns across the same lineages. To support the analysis and comparison of variable region sequences from Igs, produced by B and non-B cells, we established a database (NBIGV) constituted by a non-B Ig variable region repertoire, which includes 727,989 V_HDJ_H and VκJκ recombination sequences of non-B Igs sequenced from mouse samples. Upon database search, users can view, browse and investigate the variable region sequences of non-B Igs according to respective mice strains and tissues as well as Ig classes. Moreover, users can easily download selected sequences and/or compare sequences of interest with known non-B Ig sequences present in the database using NCBI-BLAST algorithms. Additionally, our database integrates a submission page and supplementary sample information. The NBIGV database may serve as a valuable resource for sequence analyses of Non-B Igs. NBIGV database is freely available at http://nbigv.org.

A VH1-69 antibody lineage from an infected Chinese donor potently neutralizes HIV-1 by targeting the V3 glycan supersite

An oligomannose patch around the V3 base of HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) is recognized by multiple classes of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs). Here, we investigated the bNAb response to the V3 glycan supersite in an HIV-1-infected Chinese donor by Env-specific single B cell sorting, structural and functional studies, and longitudinal analysis of antibody and virus repertoires. Monoclonal antibodies 438-B11 and 438-D5 were isolated that potently neutralize HIV-1 with moderate breadth, are encoded by the VH1-69 germline gene, and have a disulfide-linked long HCDR3 loop. Crystal structures of Env-bound and unbound antibodies revealed heavy chain-mediated recognition of the glycan supersite with a unique angle of approach and a critical role of the intra-HCDR3 disulfide. The mechanism of viral escape was examined via single-genome amplification/sequencing and glycan mutations around the N332 supersite. Our findings further emphasize the V3 glycan supersite as a prominent target for Env-based vaccine design.

Electrostatic interactions modulate the differential aggregation propensities of IgG1 and IgG4P antibodies and inform charged residue substitutions for improved developability

Native state aggregation is an important concern in the development of therapeutic antibodies. Enhanced knowledge of mAb native state aggregation mechanisms would permit sequence-based selection and design of therapeutic mAbs with improved developability. We investigated how electrostatic interactions affect the native state aggregation of seven human IgG1 and IgG4P mAb isotype pairs, each pair having identical variable domains that are different for each set of IgG1 and IgG4P constructs. Relative aggregation propensities were determined at pH 7.4, representing physiological conditions, and pH 5.0, representing commonly used storage conditions. Our work indicates that the net charge state of variable domains relative to the net charge state of the constant domains is predominantly responsible for the different native state aggregation behavior of IgG1 and IgG4P mAbs. This observation suggests that the global net charge of a multi domain protein is not a reliable predictor of aggregation propensity. Furthermore, we demonstrate a design strategy in the frameworks of variable domains to reduce the native state aggregation propensity of mAbs identified as being aggregation-prone. Importantly, substitution of specifically identified residues with alternative, human germline residues, to optimize Fv charge, resulted in decreased aggregation potential at pH 5.0 and 7.4, thus increasing developability.

Diagnostic amyloid proteomics: experience of the UK National Amyloidosis Centre

Systemic amyloidosis is a serious disease which is caused when normal circulating proteins misfold and aggregate extracellularly as insoluble fibrillary deposits throughout the body. This commonly results in cardiac, renal and neurological damage. The tissue target, progression and outcome of the disease depends on the type of protein forming the fibril deposit, and its correct identification is central to determining therapy. Proteomics is now used routinely in our centre to type amyloid; over the past 7 years we have examined over 2000 clinical samples. Proteomics results are linked directly to our patient database using a simple algorithm to automatically highlight the most likely amyloidogenic protein. Whilst the approach has proved very successful, we have encountered a number of challenges, including poor sample recovery, limited enzymatic digestion, the presence of multiple amyloidogenic proteins and the identification of pathogenic variants. Our proteomics procedures and approaches to resolving difficult issues are outlined.

Sagacity in antibody humanization for therapeutics, diagnostics and research purposes: considerations of antibody elements and their roles

The humanization of antibodies for therapeutics is a critical process that can determine the success of antibody drug development. However, the science underpinning this process remains elusive with different laboratories having very different methods. Well-funded laboratories can afford automated high-throughput screening methods to derive their best binder utilizing a very expensive initial set of equipment affordable only to a few. Often within these high-throughput processes, only standard key parameters, such as production, binding and aggregation are analyzed. Given the lack of suitable animal models, it is only at clinical trials that immunogenicity and allergy adverse effects are detected through anti-human antibodies as per FDA guidelines. While some occurrences that slip through can be mitigated by additional desensitization protocols, such adverse reactions to grafted humanized antibodies can be prevented at the humanization step. Considerations such as better antibody localization, avoidance of unspecific interactions to superantigens and the tailoring of antibody dependent triggering of immune responses, the antibody persistence on cells, can all be preemptively considered through a holistic sagacious approach, allowing for better outcomes in therapy and for research and diagnostic purposes.

Comparative analysis of CDR3 regions in paired human αβ CD8 T cells

The majority of human CD8 cytotoxic T lymphocytes express αβ T-cell receptors that recognize peptide-MHC class I complexes. Considerable attention has been devoted to TCR β repertoires, but study of TCR α chains has been limited. To gain a better understanding of the features of CDR3α and CDR3β in paired samples, we comprehensively analyzed 776 unique paired αβ TCR CDR3 regions in this study. We found that (I) the CDR3 length among paired αβ TCRs had a fairly narrow distribution due to random assortment of CDR3 length in alpha and beta chains; (II) nucleotide deletions among CDR3 regions were positively correlated with insertions in both α and β TCRs; (III) the CDR3 loops of both α and β chains contained an abundance of charged/polar residues and the CDR3 base regions contained a conserved motif; and (IV) the occurrence of Gly was CDR3 length- and position-dependent in both chains, whereas the frequency of Ser at positions 106 and 107 was positively correlated with CDR3 length in TCR β. Overall, the amino acids in CDR3 loop regions were significantly different between TCR α and β, which suggests a distinct role for each chain in the recognition of antigen-MHC complexes. Here, we have provided detailed information on CDR3 in paired TCRs expressed on human CD8+ T cells and established the basis of a reference set for αβ TCR repertoires in healthy humans.

Capturing the inherent structural dynamics of the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein fusion peptide

The N-terminal fusion peptide (FP) of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) gp41 subunit plays a critical role in cell entry. However, capturing the structural flexibility in the unbound FP is challenging in the native Env trimer. Here, FP conformational isomerism is observed in two crystal structures of a soluble clade B transmitted/founder virus B41 SOSIP.664 Env with broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) PGT124 and 35O22 to aid in crystallization and that are not specific for binding to the FP. Large rearrangements in the FP and fusion peptide proximal region occur around M530, which remains anchored in the tryptophan clasp (gp41 W623, W628, W631) in the B41 Env prefusion state. Further, we redesigned the FP at position 518 to reinstate the bNAb VRC34.01 epitope. These findings provide further structural evidence for the dynamic nature of the FP and how a bNAb epitope can be restored during vaccine design.

The fusion peptide (FP) of HIV envelope (Env) is critical in the cell entry process. Here, Kumar et al. present crystal structures of B41 SOSIP.664 Env trimer and show the dynamic nature of the FP and proximal region, which likely relates to conformational rearrangements required for membrane fusion.

Genetic and structural insights into broad neutralization of hepatitis C virus by human VH1-69 antibodies

An effective vaccine to the antigenically diverse hepatitis C virus (HCV) must target conserved immune epitopes. Here, we investigate cross-neutralization of HCV genotypes by broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) encoded by the relatively abundant human gene family V H 1-69. We have deciphered the molecular requirements for cross-neutralization by this unique class of human antibodies from crystal structures of HCV E2 in complex with bNAbs. An unusually high binding affinity is found for germ line-reverted versions of VH1-69 precursor antibodies, and neutralization breadth is acquired during affinity maturation. Deep sequencing analysis of an HCV-immune B cell repertoire further demonstrates the importance of the V H 1-69 gene family in the generation of HCV bNAbs. This study therefore provides critical insights into immune recognition of HCV with important implications for rational vaccine design.

HIV-1 vaccine design through minimizing envelope metastability

Overcoming envelope metastability is crucial to trimer-based HIV-1 vaccine design. Here, we present a coherent vaccine strategy by minimizing metastability. For 10 strains across five clades, we demonstrate that the gp41 ectodomain (gp41_ECTO) is the main source of envelope metastability by replacing wild-type gp41_ECTO with BG505 gp41_ECTO of the uncleaved prefusion-optimized (UFO) design. These gp41_ECTO-swapped trimers can be produced in CHO cells with high yield and high purity. The crystal structure of a gp41_ECTO-swapped trimer elucidates how a neutralization-resistant tier 3 virus evades antibody recognition of the V2 apex. UFO trimers of transmitted/founder viruses and UFO trimers containing a consensus-based ancestral gp41_ECTO suggest an evolutionary root of metastability. The gp41_ECTO-stabilized trimers can be readily displayed on 24- and 60-meric nanoparticles, with incorporation of additional T cell help illustrated for a hyperstable 60-mer, I3-01. In mice and rabbits, these gp140 nanoparticles induced tier 2 neutralizing antibody responses more effectively than soluble trimers.

Common helical V1V2 conformations of HIV-1 Envelope expose the α4β7 binding site on intact virions

The α4β7 integrin is a non-essential HIV-1 adhesion receptor, bound by the gp120 V1V2 domain, facilitating rapid viral dissemination into gut-associated lymphoid tissues. Antibodies blocking this interaction early in infection can improve disease outcome, and V1V2-targeted antibodies were correlated with moderate efficacy reported from the RV144 HIV-1 vaccine trial. Monoclonal α4β7-blocking antibodies recognise two slightly different helical V2 conformations, and current structural data suggests their binding sites are occluded in prefusion envelope trimers. Here, we report cocrystal structures of two α4β7-blocking antibodies from an infected donor complexed with scaffolded V1V2 or V2 peptides. Both antibodies recognised the same helix-coil V2 conformation as RV144 antibody CH58, identifying a frequently sampled alternative conformation of full-length V1V2. In the context of Envelope, this α-helical form of V1V2 displays highly exposed α4β7-binding sites, potentially providing a functional role for non-native Envelope on virion or infected cell surfaces in HIV-1 dissemination, pathogenesis, and vaccine design.

Antibodies blocking the V1V2 domain of HIV Envelope from binding integrin are associated with positive disease outcomes. Here, Wibmer et al. determine the structure of full length V1V2 bound to these antibodies, revealing an alternative fold of V1V2 with exposed integrin-binding sites that functions on non-native Envelope.

Understanding the Significance and Implications of Antibody Numbering and Antigen-Binding Surface/Residue Definition

Monoclonal antibodies are playing an increasing role in both human and animal health. Different strategies of protein and chemical engineering, including humanization techniques of non-human antibodies were applied successfully to optimize clinical performances of antibodies. Despite the emergence of techniques allowing the development of fully human antibodies such as transgenic Xeno-mice, antibody humanization remains a standard procedure for therapeutic antibodies. An important prerequisite for antibody humanization requires standardized numbering methods to define precisely complementary determining regions (CDR), frameworks and residues from the light and heavy chains that affect the binding affinity and/or specificity of the antibody-antigen interaction. The recently generated deep-sequencing data and the increasing number of solved three-dimensional structures of antibodies from human and non-human origins have led to the emergence of numerous databases. However, these different databases use different numbering conventions and CDR definitions. In addition, the large fluctuation of the variable chain lengths, especially in CDR3 of heavy chains (CDRH3), hardly complicates the comparison and analysis of antibody sequences and the identification of the antigen binding residues. This review compares and discusses the different numbering schemes and "CDR" definition that were established up to date. Furthermore, it summarizes concepts and strategies used for numbering residues of antibodies and CDR residues identification. Finally, it discusses the importance of specific sets of residues in the binding affinity and/or specificity of immunoglobulins.

Structural Basis for Recognition of a Unique Epitope by a Human Anti-tau Antibody

Aggregation of the hyperphosphorylated protein tau into neurofibrillary tangles and neuropil threads is a hallmark of Alzheimer disease (AD). Identification and characterization of the epitopes recognized by anti-tau antibodies might shed light on the molecular mechanisms of AD pathogenesis. Here we report on the biochemical and structural characterization of a tau-specific monoclonal antibody CBTAU-24.1, which was isolated from the human memory B cell repertoire. Immunohistochemical staining with CBTAU-24.1 specifically detects pathological tau structures in AD brain samples. The crystal structure of CBTAU-24.1 Fab with a phosphorylated tau peptide revealed recognition of a unique epitope (Ser235-Leu243) in the tau proline-rich domain. Interestingly, the antibody can bind tau regardless of phosphorylation state of its epitope region and also recognizes both monomeric and paired helical filament tau irrespective of phosphorylation status. This human anti-tau antibody and its unique epitope may aid in development of diagnostics and/or therapeutic AD strategies.

Generation and characterization of novel recombinant anti-hERG1 scFv antibodies for cancer molecular imaging

Modern molecular imaging techniques have greatly improved tumor detection and post-treatment follow-up of cancer patients. In this context, antibody-based imaging is rapidly becoming the gold standard, since it combines the unique specificity of antibodies with the sensitivity of the different imaging technologies. The aim of this study was to generate and characterize antibodies in single chain Fragment variable (scFv) format directed to an emerging cancer biomarker, the human ether-à-go-go-related gene-1 (hERG1) potassium channel, and to obtain a proof of concept for their potential use for in vivo molecular imaging.

The anti-hERG1scFv was generated from a full length monoclonal antibody and then mutagenized, substituting a Phenylalanine residue in the third framework of the V_H domain with a Cysteine residue. The resulting scFv-hERG1-Cys showed much higher stability and protein yield, increased affinity and more advantageous binding kinetics, compared to the “native” anti-hERG1scFv. The scFv-hERG1-Cys was hence chosen and characterized: it showed a good binding to the native hERG1 antigen expressed on cells, was stable in serum and displayed a fast pharmacokinetic profile once injected intravenously in nude mice. The calculated half-life was 3.1 hours and no general toxicity or cardiac toxic effects were detected. Finally, the in vivo distribution of an Alexa Fluor 750 conjugated scFv-hERG1-Cys was evaluated both in healthy and tumor-bearing nude mice, showing a good tumor-to-organ ratio, ideal for visualizing hERG1-expressing tumor masses in vivo.

In conclusion, the scFv-hERG1-Cys possesses features which make it a suitable tool for application in cancer molecular imaging.

Structural Biology of the TNFα Antagonists Used in the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis

The binding of the tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) to its cognate receptor initiates many immune and inflammatory processes. The drugs, etanercept (Enbrel^®), infliximab (Remicade^®), adalimumab (Humira^®), certolizumab-pegol (Cimzia^®), and golimumab (Simponi^®), are anti-TNFα agents. These drugs block TNFα from interacting with its receptors and have enabled the development of breakthrough therapies for the treatment of several autoimmune inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriatic arthritis. In this review, we describe the latest works on the structural characterization of TNFα-TNFα antagonist interactions related to their therapeutic efficacy at the atomic level. A comprehensive comparison of the interactions of the TNFα blockers would provide a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which they neutralize TNFα. In addition, an enhanced understanding of the higher order complex structures and quinary structures of the TNFα antagonists can support the development of better biologics with the improved pharmacokinetic properties. Accumulation of these structural studies can provide a basis for the improvement of therapeutic agents against TNFα for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune inflammatory diseases in which TNFα plays an important role in pathogenesis.

Detect, correct, retract: How to manage incorrect structural models

The massive technical and computational progress of biomolecular crystallography has generated some adverse side effects. Most crystal structure models, produced by crystallographers or well-trained structural biologists, constitute useful sources of information, but occasional extreme outliers remind us that the process of structure determination is not fail-safe. The occurrence of severe errors or gross misinterpretations raises fundamental questions: Why do such aberrations emerge in the first place? How did they evade the sophisticated validation procedures which often produce clear and dire warnings, and why were severe errors not noticed by the depositors themselves, their supervisors, referees and editors? Once detected, what can be done to either correct, improve or eliminate such models? How do incorrect models affect the underlying claims or biomedical hypotheses they were intended, but failed, to support? What is the long-range effect of the propagation of such errors? And finally, what mechanisms can be envisioned to restore the validity of the scientific record and, if necessary, retract publications that are clearly invalidated by the lack of experimental evidence? We suggest that cognitive bias and flawed epistemology are likely at the root of the problem. By using examples from the published literature and from public repositories such as the Protein Data Bank, we provide case summaries to guide correction or improvement of structural models. When strong claims are unsustainable because of a deficient crystallographic model, removal of such a model and even retraction of the affected publication are necessary to restore the integrity of the scientific record.

Novel half-life extended anti-MIF nanobodies protect against endotoxic shock

Sepsis-leading to septic shock-is the leading cause of death in intensive care units. The systemic inflammatory response to infection, which is initiated by activated myeloid cells, plays a key role in the lethal outcome. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is an upstream immunoregulatory mediator, released by myeloid cells, that underlies a common genetic susceptibility to different infections and septic shock. Accordingly, strategies that are aimed at inhibiting the action of MIF have therapeutic potential. Here, we report the isolation and characterization of tailorable, small, affinity-matured nanobodies (Nbs; single-domain antigen-binding fragments derived from camelid heavy-chain Abs) directed against MIF. Of importance, these bioengineered Nbs bind both human and mouse MIFs with nanomolar affinity. NbE5 and NbE10 inhibit key MIF functions that can exacerbate septic shock, such as the tautomerase activity of MIF (by blocking catalytic pocket residues that are critical for MIF's conformation and receptor binding), the TNF-inducing potential, and the ability of MIF to antagonize glucocorticoid action. A lead NbE10, tailored to be a multivalent, half-life extended construct (NbE10-NbAlb8-NbE10), attenuated lethality in murine endotoxemia when administered via single injection, either prophylactically or therapeutically. Hence, Nbs, with their structural and pharmacologic advantages over currently available inhibitors, may be an effective, novel approach to interfere with the action of MIF in septic shock and other conditions of inflammatory end-organ damage.-Sparkes, A., De Baetselier, P., Brys, L., Cabrito, I., Sterckx, Y. G.-J., Schoonooghe, S., Muyldermans, S., Raes, G., Bucala, R., Vanlandschoot, P., Van Ginderachter, J. A., Stijlemans, B. Novel half-life extended anti-MIF nanobodies protect against endotoxic shock.

Selective antibody activation through protease-activated pro-antibodies that mask binding sites with inhibitory domains

Systemic injection of therapeutic antibodies may cause serious adverse effects due to on-target toxicity to the antigens expressed in normal tissues. To improve the targeting selectivity to the region of disease sites, we developed protease-activated pro-antibodies by masking the binding sites of antibodies with inhibitory domains that can be removed by proteases that are highly expressed at the disease sites. The latency-associated peptide (LAP), C2b or CBa of complement factor 2/B were linked, through a substrate peptide of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), to an anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) antibody and an anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) antibody. Results showed that all the inhibitory domains could be removed by MMP-2 to restore the binding activities of the antibodies. LAP substantially reduced (53.8%) the binding activity of the anti-EGFR antibody on EGFR-expressing cells, whereas C2b and CBa were ineffective (21% and 9.3% reduction, respectively). Similarly, LAP also blocked 53.9% of the binding activity of the anti-TNF-α antibody. Finally, molecular dynamic simulation showed that the masking efficiency of LAP, C2b and CBa was 33.7%, 10.3% and −5.4%, respectively, over the binding sites of the antibodies. This strategy may aid in designing new protease-activated pro-antibodies that attain high therapeutic potency yet reduced systemic on-target toxicity.

Glycine Substitution at Helix-to-Coil Transitions Facilitates the Structural Determination of a Stabilized Subtype C HIV Envelope Glycoprotein

Advances in HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) design generate native-like trimers and high-resolution clade A, B, and G structures and elicit neutralizing antibodies. However, a high-resolution clade C structure is critical, as this subtype accounts for the majority of HIV infections worldwide, but well-ordered clade C Env trimers are more challenging to produce due to their instability. Based on targeted glycine substitutions in the Env fusion machinery, we defined a general approach that disfavors helical transitions leading to post-fusion conformations, thereby favoring the pre-fusion state. We generated a stabilized, soluble clade C Env (16055 NFL) and determined its crystal structure at 3.9 Å. Its overall conformation is similar to SOSIP.664 and native Env trimers but includes a covalent linker between gp120 and gp41, an engineered 201-433 disulfide bond, and density corresponding to 22 N-glycans. Env-structure-guided design strategies resulted in multiple homogeneous cross-clade immunogens with the potential to advance HIV vaccine development.

The structure of a LAIR1-containing human antibody reveals a novel mechanism of antigen recognition

Antibodies are critical components of the human adaptive immune system, providing versatile scaffolds to display diverse antigen-binding surfaces. Nevertheless, most antibodies have similar architectures, with the variable immunoglobulin domains of the heavy and light chain each providing three hypervariable loops, which are varied to generate diversity. The recent identification of a novel class of antibody in humans from malaria endemic regions of Africa was therefore surprising as one hypervariable loop contains the entire collagen-binding domain of human LAIR1. Here, we present the structure of the Fab fragment of such an antibody. We show that its antigen-binding site has adopted an architecture that positions LAIR1, while itself being occluded. This therefore represents a novel means of antigen recognition, in which the Fab fragment of an antibody acts as an adaptor, linking a human protein insert with antigen-binding potential to the constant antibody regions which mediate immune cell recruitment.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.27311.001

When bacteria, viruses or parasites invade the human body, the immune system responds by producing proteins called antibodies. Antibodies recognize and bind to molecules (known as antigens) on the surface of the invaders. This binding can either neutralize the invader directly or trigger signals that cause other parts of the immune system to destroy it.

Our blood contains a huge range of different antibody molecules that each bind to a different antigen. This is despite most human antibodies having the same basic shape and structure. Six loops, known as complementarity determining regions (CDRs), emerge from the surface of the antibody to form the surface that recognizes the antigen. However, variations in the structure of the loops alter this surface enough to allow different antibodies to recognize completely different molecules.

In 2016, a new class of antibodies was identified. Unlike previously identified antibodies, these molecules had an entire human protein, called LAIR1, inserted into one of their CDR loops. Members of this group of antibodies bind to a molecule, known as a RIFIN, that is found on the surface of human red blood cells that are infected with the parasite that causes malaria.

How do LAIR1-containing antibodies bind to their RIFIN targets? Hsieh and Higgins investigated this question by using a technique called X-ray crystallography to determine the structure of the antibody. This revealed that instead of binding directly to an antigen, all of the six CDR loops in the LAIR1-containing antibody bind to the LAIR1 insert. By doing so, LAIR1 is oriented in a manner that enables it to bind to the RIFIN molecule from the parasite.

This is the first known example of an antibody that recruits another protein to bind to an antigen rather than binding directly to the pathogen itself. A future challenge will be to see if other antibodies exist that use this mechanism and whether it can be employed to design new therapeutic antibodies.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.27311.002

Prediction and Reduction of the Aggregation of Monoclonal Antibodies

Protein aggregation remains a major area of focus in the production of monoclonal antibodies. Improving the intrinsic properties of antibodies can improve manufacturability, attrition rates, safety, formulation, titers, immunogenicity, and solubility. Here, we explore the potential of predicting and reducing the aggregation propensity of monoclonal antibodies, based on the identification of aggregation-prone regions and their contribution to the thermodynamic stability of the protein. Although aggregation-prone regions are thought to occur in the antigen binding region to drive hydrophobic binding with antigen, we were able to rationally design variants that display a marked decrease in aggregation propensity while retaining antigen binding through the introduction of artificial aggregation gatekeeper residues. The reduction in aggregation propensity was accompanied by an increase in expression titer, showing that reducing protein aggregation is beneficial throughout the development process. The data presented show that this approach can significantly reduce liabilities in novel therapeutic antibodies and proteins, leading to a more efficient path to clinical studies.

Molecular Basis for the Neutralization of Tumor Necrosis Factor α by Certolizumab Pegol in the Treatment of Inflammatory Autoimmune Diseases

Monoclonal antibodies against TNFα, including infliximab, adalimumab, golimumab, and certolizumab pegol, are widely used for the treatment of the inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Recently, the crystal structures of TNFα, in complex with the Fab fragments of infliximab and adalimumab, have revealed the molecular mechanisms of these antibody drugs. Here, we report the crystal structure of TNFα in complex with the Fab fragment of certolizumab pegol to clarify the precise antigen-antibody interactions and the structural basis for the neutralization of TNFα by this therapeutic antibody. The structural analysis and the mutagenesis study revealed that the epitope is limited to a single protomer of the TNFα trimer. Additionally, the DE loop and the GH loop of TNFα play critical roles in the interaction with certolizumab, suggesting that this drug exerts its effects by partially occupying the receptor binding site of TNFα. In addition, a conformational change of the DE loop was induced by certolizumab binding, thereby interrupting the TNFα-receptor interaction. A comprehensive comparison of the interactions of TNFα blockers with TNFα revealed the epitope diversity on the surface of TNFα, providing a better understanding of the molecular mechanism of TNFα blockers. The accumulation of these structural studies can provide a basis for the improvement of therapeutic antibodies against TNFα.

Molecular Characterization of Two Monoclonal Antibodies against the Same Epitope on B-Cell Receptor Associated Protein 31

Previously, we showed that B-cell receptor associated protein 31 (BAP31), an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane chaperone, is also expressed on the cell surface by two monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) 297-D4 and 144-A8. Both MAbs recognize the same linear epitope on the C-terminal domain of BAP31, although they were independently established. Here, flow cytometric analysis showed that 144-A8 had additional binding properties to some cells, as compared to 297-D4. Quantitative antigen binding assays also showed that 144-A8 had higher antigen binding capacity than 297-D4. Affinity measurement revealed that 144-A8 had 1.54-fold higher binding affinity than 297-D4. Analysis of the heavy- and light-chain variable region sequences of two MAbs revealed that both MAbs belonged to the same heavy chain (Igh-V3660 VH3) and light chain subgroup (IGKV21) with just two amino acid differences in each framework region, indicating that both MAbs arise from the same germline origin. Seven amino acid differences were found between the complementarity determining regions (CDRs) of the two MAbs. Molecular modeling of the epitope-paratope complexes revealed that the epitope appeared to reside in closer proximity to the CDRs of 144-A8 than to those of 297-D4 with the stronger hydrogen bond interactions with the former than the latter. More interestingly, an additional hydrophobic interaction appeared to be established between the leucine residue of epitope and the paratope of 144-A8, due to the substitution of H-Tyr101 for H-Phe101 in 144-A8. Thus, the different binding specificity and affinity of 144-A8 appeared to be due to the different hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interaction induced by the alterations of amino acids in CDRs of 144-A8. The results provide molecular insights into how the binding specificities and affinities of antibodies evolve with the same epitope in different microenvironments.

The N14 anti-afamin antibody Fab: a rare VL1 CDR glycosylation, crystallographic re-sequencing, molecular plasticity and conservative versus enthusiastic modelling

The monoclonal antibody N14 is used as a detection antibody in ELISA kits for the human glycoprotein afamin, a member of the albumin family, which has recently gained interest in the capture and stabilization of Wnt signalling proteins, and for its role in metabolic syndrome and papillary thyroid carcinoma. As a rare occurrence, the N14 Fab is N-glycosylated at Asn26L at the onset of the VL1 antigen-binding loop, with the α-1-6 core fucosylated complex glycan facing out of the L1 complementarity-determining region. The crystal structures of two non-apparent (pseudo) isomorphous crystals of the N14 Fab were analyzed, which differ significantly in the elbow angles, thereby cautioning against the overinterpretation of domain movements upon antigen binding. In addition, the map quality at 1.9 Å resolution was sufficient to crystallographically re-sequence the variable VL and VH domains and to detect discrepancies in the hybridoma-derived sequence. Finally, a conservatively refined parsimonious model is presented and its statistics are compared with those from a less conservatively built model that has been modelled more enthusiastically. Improvements to the PDB validation reports affecting ligands, clashscore and buried surface calculations are suggested.

A novel monoclonal antibody suitable for the detection of leukotriene B4

Leukotriene B4 as an inflammatory mediator is an important biomarker for different respiratory diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cystic lung fibrosis. Therefore the detection of LTB4 is helpful in the diagnosis of these pulmonary diseases. However, until now its determination in exhaled breath condensates suffers from problems of accuracy. Reasons for that could be improper sample collection and preparation methods of condensates and the lack of consistently assay specificity and reproducibility of the used immunoassay detection system. In this study we describe the development and the characterization of a specific monoclonal antibody (S27BC6) against LTB4, its use as molecular recognition element for the development of an enzyme-linked immunoassay to detect LTB4 and discuss possible future diagnostic applications.

Uncleaved prefusion-optimized gp140 trimers derived from analysis of HIV-1 envelope metastability

The trimeric HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) is critical for host immune recognition and neutralization. Despite advances in trimer design, the roots of Env trimer metastability remain elusive. Here we investigate the contribution of two Env regions to metastability. First, we computationally redesign a largely disordered bend in heptad region 1 (HR1) of SOSIP trimers that connects the long, central HR1 helix to the fusion peptide, substantially improving the yield of soluble, well-folded trimers. Structural and antigenic analyses of two distinct HR1 redesigns confirm that redesigned Env closely mimics the native, prefusion trimer with a more stable gp41. Next, we replace the cleavage site between gp120 and gp41 with various linkers in the context of an HR1 redesign. Electron microscopy reveals a potential fusion intermediate state for uncleaved trimers containing short but not long linkers. Together, these results outline a general approach for stabilization of Env trimers from diverse HIV-1 strains.

Affinity Maturation of a Potent Family of HIV Antibodies Is Primarily Focused on Accommodating or Avoiding Glycans

The high-mannose patch on the HIV-1 envelope (Env) glycoprotein is the epicenter for binding of the potent broadly neutralizing PGT121 family of antibodies, but strategies for generating such antibodies by vaccination have not been defined. We generated structures of inferred antibody intermediates by X-ray crystallography and electron microscopy to elucidate the molecular events that occurred during evolution of this family. Binding analyses revealed that affinity maturation was primarily focused on avoiding, accommodating, or binding the N137 glycan. The overall antibody approach angle to Env was defined very early in the maturation process, yet some variation evolved in the PGT121 family branches that led to differences in glycan specificities in their respective epitopes. Furthermore, we determined a crystal structure of the recombinant BG505 SOSIP.664 HIV-1 trimer with a PGT121 family member at 3.0 Å that, in concert with these antibody intermediate structures, provides insights to advance design of HIV vaccine candidates.

A human monoclonal antibody against HPV16 recognizes an immunodominant and neutralizing epitope partially overlapping with that of H16.V5

The presence of neutralizing epitopes in human papillomavirus (HPV) L1 virus-like particles (VLPs) is the structural basis of prophylactic vaccines. An anti-HPV16 neutralizing monoclonal antibody (N-mAb) 26D1 was isolated from a memory B cell of a human vaccinee. The pre-binding of heparan sulfate to VLPs inhibited the binding of both N-mAbs to the antigen, indicating that the epitopes are critical for viral cell attachment/entry. Hybrid VLP binding with surface loop swapping between types indicated the essential roles of the DE and FG loops for both 26D1 (DEa in particular) and H16.V5 binding. Specifically, Tyr(135) and Val(141) on the DEa loop were shown to be critical residues for 26D1 binding via site-directed mutagenesis. Partially overlap between the epitopes between 26D1 and H16.V5 was shown using pairwise epitope mapping, and their binding difference is demonstrated to be predominantly in DE loop region. In addition, 26D1 epitope is immunodominant epitope recognized by both antibodies elicited by the authentic virus from infected individuals and polyclonal antibodies from vaccinees. Overall, a partially overlapping but distinct neutralizing epitope from that of H16.V5 was identified using a human N-mAb, shedding lights to the antibody arrays as part of human immune response to vaccination and infection.

A method to confer Protein L binding ability to any antibody fragment

Recombinant antibody single-chain variable fragments (scFv) are difficult to purify homogeneously from a protein complex mixture. The most effective, specific and fastest method of purification is an affinity chromatography on Protein L (PpL) matrix. This protein is a multi-domain bacterial surface protein that is able to interact with conformational patterns on kappa light chains. It mainly recognizes amino acid residues located at the VL FR1 and some residues in the variable and constant (CL) domain. Not all kappa chains are recognized, however, and the lack of CL can reduce the interaction. From a scFv composed of IGKV10-94 according to IMGT®, it is possible, with several mutations, to transfer the motif from the IGKV12-46 naturally recognized by the PpL, and, with the single mutation T8P, to confer PpL recognition with a higher affinity. A second mutation S24R greatly improves the affinity, in particular by modifying the dissociation rate (kd). The equilibrium dissociation constant (KD) was measured at 7.2 10(-11) M by surface plasmon resonance. It was possible to confer PpL recognition to all kappa chains. This protein interaction can be modulated according to the characteristics of scFv (e.g., stability) and their use with conjugated PpL. This work could be extrapolated to recombinant monoclonal antibodies, and offers an alternative for protein A purification and detection.

Single-chain antibody-fragment M6P-1 possesses a mannose 6-phosphate monosaccharide-specific binding pocket that distinguishes N-glycan phosphorylation in a branch-specific manner†

The acquisition of mannose 6-phosphate (Man6P) on N-linked glycans of lysosomal enzymes is a structural requirement for their transport from the Golgi apparatus to lysosomes mediated by the mannose 6-phosphate receptors, 300 kDa cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (MPR300) and 46 kDa cation-dependent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (MPR46). Here we report that the single-chain variable domain (scFv) M6P-1 is a unique antibody fragment with specificity for Man6P monosaccharide that, through an array-screening approach against a number of phosphorylated N-glycans, is shown to bind mono- and diphosphorylated Man6 and Man7 glycans that contain terminal αMan6P(1 → 2)αMan(1 → 3)αMan. In contrast to MPR300, scFv M6P-1 does not bind phosphodiesters, monophosphorylated Man8 or mono- or diphosphorylated Man9 structures. Single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis to 2.7 Å resolution of Fv M6P-1 in complex with Man6P reveals that specificity and affinity is achieved via multiple hydrogen bonds to the mannose ring and two salt bridges to the phosphate moiety. In common with both MPRs, loss of binding was observed for scFv M6P-1 at pH values below the second pKa of Man6P (pKa = 6.1). The structures of Fv M6P-1 and the MPRs suggest that the change of the ionization state of Man6P is the main driving force for the loss of binding at acidic lysosomal pH (e.g. lysosome pH ∼ 4.6), which provides justification for the evolution of a lysosomal enzyme transport pathway based on Man6P recognition.

Complete epitopes for vaccine design derived from a crystal structure of the broadly neutralizing antibodies PGT128 and 8ANC195 in complex with an HIV-1 Env trimer

The HIV-1 envelope gp160 glycoprotein (Env) is a trimer of gp120 and gp41 heterodimers that mediates cell entry and is the primary target of the humoral immune response. Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) to HIV-1 have revealed multiple epitopes or sites of vulnerability, but mapping of most of these sites is incomplete owing to a paucity of structural information on the full epitope in the context of the Env trimer. Here, a crystal structure of the soluble BG505 SOSIP gp140 trimer at 4.6 Å resolution with the bNAbs 8ANC195 and PGT128 reveals additional interactions in comparison to previous antibody-gp120 structures. For 8ANC195, in addition to previously documented interactions with gp120, a substantial interface with gp41 is now elucidated that includes extensive interactions with the N637 glycan. Surprisingly, removal of the N637 glycan did not impact 8ANC195 affinity, suggesting that the antibody has evolved to accommodate this glycan without loss of binding energy. PGT128 indirectly affects the N262 glycan by a domino effect, in which PGT128 binds to the N301 glycan, which in turn interacts with and repositions the N262 glycan, thereby illustrating the important role of neighboring glycans on epitope conformation and stability. Comparisons with other Env trimer and gp120 structures support an induced conformation for glycan N262, suggesting that the glycan shield is allosterically modified upon PGT128 binding. These complete epitopes of two broadly neutralizing antibodies on the Env trimer can now be exploited for HIV-1 vaccine design.

Comparison of methods for the analysis of therapeutic immunoglobulin G Fc-glycosylation profiles--part 1: separation-based methods

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) crystallizable fragment (Fc) glycosylation is crucial for antibody effector functions, such as antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity, and for their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics behavior. To monitor the Fc-glycosylation in bioprocess development, as well as product characterization and release analytics, reliable techniques for glycosylation analysis are needed. A wide range of analytical methods has found its way into these applications. In this study, a comprehensive comparison was performed of separation-based methods for Fc-glycosylation profiling of an IgG biopharmaceutical. A therapeutic antibody reference material was analyzed 6-fold on 2 different days, and the methods were compared for precision, accuracy, throughput and other features; special emphasis was placed on the detection of sialic acid-containing glycans. Seven, non-mass spectrometric methods were compared; the methods utilized liquid chromatography-based separation of fluorescent-labeled glycans, capillary electrophoresis-based separation of fluorescent-labeled glycans, or high-performance anion exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection. Hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography-ultra high performance liquid chromatography of 2-aminobenzamide (2-AB)-labeled glycans was used as a reference method. All of the methods showed excellent precision and accuracy; some differences were observed, particularly with regard to the detection and quantitation of minor glycan species, such as sialylated glycans.

Structure of Hepatitis C Virus Envelope Glycoprotein E1 Antigenic Site 314-324 in Complex with Antibody IGH526

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a positive-strand RNA virus within the Flaviviridae family. The viral "spike" of HCV is formed by two envelope glycoproteins, E1 and E2, which together mediate viral entry by engaging host receptors and undergoing conformational changes to facilitate membrane fusion. While E2 can be readily produced in the absence of E1, E1 cannot be expressed without E2 and few reagents, including monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), are available for study of this essential HCV glycoprotein. A human mAb to E1, IGH526, was previously reported to cross-neutralize different HCV isolates, and therefore, we sought to further characterize the IGH526 neutralizing epitope to obtain information for vaccine design. We found that mAb IGH526 bound to a discontinuous epitope, but with a major component corresponding to E1 residues 314-324. The crystal structure of IGH526 Fab with this E1 glycopeptide at 1.75Å resolution revealed that the antibody binds to one face of an α-helical peptide. Single mutations on the helix substantially lowered IGH526 binding but did not affect neutralization, indicating either that multiple mutations are required or that additional regions are recognized by the antibody in the context of the membrane-associated envelope oligomer. Molecular dynamics simulations indicate that the free peptide is flexible in solution, suggesting that it requires stabilization for use as a candidate vaccine immunogen.

Affinity Maturation of Monoclonal Antibody 1E11 by Targeted Randomization in CDR3 Regions Optimizes Therapeutic Antibody Targeting of HER2-Positive Gastric Cancer

Anti-HER2 murine monoclonal antibody 1E11 has strong and synergistic anti-tumor activity in HER2-overexpressing gastric cancer cells when used in combination with trastuzumab. We presently optimized this antibody for human therapeutics. First, the complementarity determining regions (CDRs) of the murine antibody were grafted onto human germline immunoglobulin variable genes. No difference in affinity and biological activity was observed between chimeric 1E11 (ch1E11) and humanized 1E11 (hz1E11). Next, affinity maturation of hz1E11 was performed by the randomization of CDR-L3 and H3 residues followed by stringent biopanning selection. Milder selection pressure favored the selection of more diverse clones, whereas higher selection stringency resulted in the convergence of the panning output to a smaller number of clones with improved affinity. Clone 1A12 had four amino acid substitutions in CDR-L3, and showed a 10-fold increase in affinity compared to the parental clone and increased potency in an in vitro anti-proliferative activity assay with HER2-overepxressing gastric cancer cells. Clone 1A12 inhibited tumor growth of NCI-N87 xenograft model with similar efficacy to trastuzumab alone, and the combination treatment of 1A12 and trastuzumab completely removed the established tumors. These results suggest that humanized and affinity matured monoclonal antibody 1A12 is a highly optimized molecule for future therapeutic development against HER2-positive tumors.

Structural evolution of glycan recognition by a family of potent HIV antibodies

The HIV envelope glycoprotein (Env) is densely covered with self-glycans that should help shield it from recognition by the human immune system. Here, we examine how a particularly potent family of broadly neutralizing antibodies (Abs) has evolved common and distinct structural features to counter the glycan shield and interact with both glycan and protein components of HIV Env. The inferred germline antibody already harbors potential binding pockets for a glycan and a short protein segment. Affinity maturation then leads to divergent evolutionary branches that either focus on a single glycan and protein segment (e.g., Ab PGT124) or engage multiple glycans (e.g., Abs PGT121-123). Furthermore, other surrounding glycans are avoided by selecting an appropriate initial antibody shape that prevents steric hindrance. Such molecular recognition lessons are important for engineering proteins that can recognize or accommodate glycans.

Crystal structure of a fully glycosylated HIV-1 gp120 core reveals a stabilizing role for the glycan at Asn262

The crystal structure of a fully glycosylated HIV-1 gp120 core in complex with CD4 receptor and Fab 17b at 4.5-Å resolution reveals 9 of the 15 N-linked glycans of core gp120 to be partially ordered. The glycan at position Asn262 had the most extensive and well-ordered electron density, and a GlcNAc(2)Man(7) was modeled. The GlcNAc stem of this glycan is largely buried in a cleft in gp120, suggesting a role in gp120 folding and stability. Its arms interact with the stems of neighboring glycans from the oligomannose patch, which is a major target for broadly neutralizing antibodies.

The sub-nanomolar binding of DNA-RNA hybrids by the single-chain Fv fragment of antibody S9.6

The monoclonal antibody S9.6 binds DNA-RNA hybrids with high affinity, making it useful in research and diagnostic applications, such as in microarrays and in the detection of R-loops. A single-chain variable fragment (scFv) of S9.6 was produced, and its affinities for various synthetic nucleic acid hybrids were measured by surface plasmon resonance (SPR). S9.6 exhibits dissociation constants of approximately 0.6 nM for DNA-RNA and, surprisingly, 2.7 nM for RNA-RNA hybrids that are AU-rich. The affinity of the S9.6 scFv did not appear to be strongly influenced by various buffer conditions or by ionic strength below 500 mM NaCl. The smallest epitope that was strongly bound by the S9.6 scFv contained six base pairs of DNA-RNA hybrid. Published 2013. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Development of scoring functions for antibody sequence assessment and optimization

Antibody development is still associated with substantial risks and difficulties as single mutations can radically change molecule properties like thermodynamic stability, solubility or viscosity. Since antibody generation methodologies cannot select and optimize for molecule properties which are important for biotechnological applications, careful sequence analysis and optimization is necessary to develop antibodies that fulfil the ambitious requirements of future drugs. While efforts to grab the physical principles of undesired molecule properties from the very bottom are becoming increasingly powerful, the wealth of publically available antibody sequences provides an alternative way to develop early assessment strategies for antibodies using a statistical approach which is the objective of this paper. Here, publically available sequences were used to develop heuristic potentials for the framework regions of heavy and light chains of antibodies of human and murine origin. The potentials take into account position dependent probabilities of individual amino acids but also conditional probabilities which are inevitable for sequence assessment and optimization. It is shown that the potentials derived from human sequences clearly distinguish between human sequences and sequences from mice and, hence, can be used as a measure of humaness which compares a given sequence with the phenotypic pool of human sequences instead of comparing sequence identities to germline genes. Following this line, it is demonstrated that, using the developed potentials, humanization of an antibody can be described as a simple mathematical optimization problem and that the in-silico generated framework variants closely resemble native sequences in terms of predicted immunogenicity.

Expression and characterization of an enantioselective antigen-binding fragment directed against α-amino acids

This work describes the design and expression of a stereoselective Fab that possesses binding properties comparable to those displayed by the parent monoclonal antibody. Utilizing mRNA from hybridoma clones that secrete a stereoselective anti-l-amino acid antibody, a corresponding biotechnologically produced Fab was generated. For that, appropriate primers were designed based on extensive literature and databank searches. Using these primers in PCR resulted in successful amplification of the VH, VL, CL and CH1 gene fragments. Overlap PCR was utilized to combine the VH and CH1 sequences and the VL and CL sequences, respectively, to obtain the genes encoding the HC and LC fragments. These sequences were separately cloned into the pEXP5-CT/TOPO expression vector and used for transfection of BL21(DE3) cells. Separate expression of the two chains, followed by assembly in a refolding buffer, yielded an Fab that was demonstrated to bind to l-amino acids but not to recognize the corresponding d-enantiomers.