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Greenblott DN, Wood CV, Zhang J, Viza N, Chintala R, Calderon CP, Randolph TW. Supervised and unsupervised machine learning approaches for monitoring subvisible particles within an aluminum-salt adjuvanted vaccine formulation. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:1626-1641. [PMID: 38372650 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Suspensions of protein antigens adsorbed to aluminum-salt adjuvants are used in many vaccines and require mixing during vial filling operations to prevent sedimentation. However, the mixing of vaccine formulations may generate undesirable particles that are difficult to detect against the background of suspended adjuvant particles. We simulated the mixing of a suspension containing a protein antigen adsorbed to an aluminum-salt adjuvant using a recirculating peristaltic pump and used flow imaging microscopy to record images of particles within the pumped suspensions. Supervised convolutional neural networks (CNNs) were used to analyze the images and create "fingerprints" of particle morphology distributions, allowing detection of new particles generated during pumping. These results were compared to those obtained from an unsupervised machine learning algorithm relying on variational autoencoders (VAEs) that were also used to detect new particles generated during pumping. Analyses of images conducted by applying both supervised CNNs and VAEs found that rates of generation of new particles were higher in aluminum-salt adjuvant suspensions containing protein antigen than placebo suspensions containing only adjuvant. Finally, front-face fluorescence measurements of the vaccine suspensions indicated changes in solvent exposure of tryptophan residues in the protein that occurred concomitantly with new particle generation during pumping.
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Affiliation(s)
- David N Greenblott
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | | | | | - Nelia Viza
- Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Christopher P Calderon
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
- Ursa Analytics, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Theodore W Randolph
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
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2
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Laera D, HogenEsch H, O'Hagan DT. Aluminum Adjuvants-'Back to the Future'. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1884. [PMID: 37514070 PMCID: PMC10383759 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15071884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Aluminum-based adjuvants will continue to be a key component of currently approved and next generation vaccines, including important combination vaccines. The widespread use of aluminum adjuvants is due to their excellent safety profile, which has been established through the use of hundreds of millions of doses in humans over many years. In addition, they are inexpensive, readily available, and are well known and generally accepted by regulatory agencies. Moreover, they offer a very flexible platform, to which many vaccine components can be adsorbed, enabling the preparation of liquid formulations, which typically have a long shelf life under refrigerated conditions. Nevertheless, despite their extensive use, they are perceived as relatively 'weak' vaccine adjuvants. Hence, there have been many attempts to improve their performance, which typically involves co-delivery of immune potentiators, including Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists. This approach has allowed for the development of improved aluminum adjuvants for inclusion in licensed vaccines against HPV, HBV, and COVID-19, with others likely to follow. This review summarizes the various aluminum salts that are used in vaccines and highlights how they are prepared. We focus on the analytical challenges that remain to allowing the creation of well-characterized formulations, particularly those involving multiple antigens. In addition, we highlight how aluminum is being used to create the next generation of improved adjuvants through the adsorption and delivery of various TLR agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatello Laera
- Technical Research & Development, Drug Product, GSK, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Global Manufacturing Division, Corporate Industrial Analytics, Chiesi Pharmaceuticals, 43122 Parma, Italy
| | - Harm HogenEsch
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
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3
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Maxime V, Isabelle F, Antoine F, Hassall L, Lorenzo T, Wim VM, Romain P, Thierry L, Charline H, Paul S, Alexandre D. Development of a multiplex-based immunoassay for the characterization of diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis antigens in human combined DTaP vaccines. J Immunol Methods 2023; 517:113483. [PMID: 37100343 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2023.113483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Routine batch quality testing before vaccine release, notably for potency evaluation, still relies on animal use for several animal and human vaccines. In this context, the VAC2VAC project is a public-private consortium of 22 partners funded by EU whose the main objective is to reduce the number of animal used for batch testing by developing immunoassays that could be implemented for routine potency assessment of vaccines. This paper focused on the development of a Luminex-based multiplex assay to monitor the consistency of antigen quantity and quality throughout the production process of DTaP vaccines from two human vaccine manufacturers. Indepth characterized monoclonal antibody pairs were used for development and optimization of the Luminex assay with non-adsorbed and adsorbed antigens and with complete vaccine formulations from both manufacturers. The multiplex assay demonstrated good specificity, reproducibility and absence of cross-reactivity. Analysis of over and underdosed formulations, heat and H2O2-degraded products as well as batch to batch consistency of vaccines from both manufacturers brought the proof of concept for a future application of the multiplex immunoassay as a useful tool in the frame of DTaP vaccine quality control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Feck Isabelle
- Sciensano, Quality of Vaccines and Blood Products, Belgium
| | | | - Laura Hassall
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, United Kingdom
| | | | - Van Molle Wim
- Sciensano, Quality of Vaccines and Blood Products, Belgium
| | | | | | - Hoebreck Charline
- Jefferson Wells consultant on assignment at GlaxoSmithKline, Belgium
| | - Stickings Paul
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, United Kingdom
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4
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Maturation of Aluminium Adsorbed Antigens Contributes to the Creation of Homogeneous Vaccine Formulations. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11010155. [PMID: 36680000 PMCID: PMC9862877 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11010155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Although aluminium-based vaccines have been used for almost over a century, their mechanism of action remains unclear. It is established that antigen adsorption to the adjuvant facilitates delivery of the antigen to immune cells at the injection site. To further increase our understanding of aluminium-based vaccines, it is important to gain additional insights on the interactions between the aluminium and antigens, including antigen distribution over the adjuvant particles. Immuno-assays can further help in this regard. In this paper, we evaluated how established formulation strategies (i.e., sequential, competitive, and separate antigen addition) applied to four different antigens and aluminium oxyhydroxide, lead to formulation changes over time. Results showed that all formulation samples were stable, and that no significant changes were observed in terms of physical-chemical properties. Antigen distribution across the bulk aluminium population, however, did show a maturation effect, with some initial dependence on the formulation approach and the antigen adsorption strength. Sequential and competitive approaches displayed similar results in terms of the homogeneity of antigen distribution across aluminium particles, while separately adsorbed antigens were initially more highly poly-dispersed. Nevertheless, the formulation sample prepared via separate adsorption also reached homogeneity according to each antigen adsorption strength. This study indicated that antigen distribution across aluminium particles is a dynamic feature that evolves over time, which is initially influenced by the formulation approach and the specific adsorption strength, but ultimately leads to homogeneous formulations.
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5
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Zhang X, Wu X, He Q, Wang J, Mao Q, Liang Z, Xu M. Research progress on substitution of in vivo method(s) by in vitro method(s) for human vaccine potency assays. Expert Rev Vaccines 2023; 22:270-277. [PMID: 36779650 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2023.2178421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Potency is a critical quality attribute for controlling quality consistency and relevant biological properties of vaccines. Owing to the high demand for animals, lengthy operations and high variability of in vivo methods, in vitro alternatives for human vaccine potency assays are extensively developed. AREAS COVERED Herein, in vivo and in vitro methods for potency assays of previously licensed human vaccines were sorted, followed by a brief description of the background for substituting in vivo methods with in vitro alternatives. Based on the analysis of current research on the substitution of vaccine potency assays, barriers and suggestions for substituting were proposed. EXPERT OPINION Owing to the variability of in vivo methods, the correlation between in vivo and in vitro methods may be low. One or more in vitro method(s) that determine the vaccine antigen content and functions, should be established. Since the substitution involves with the change of critical quality attributes and specifications, the specifications of in vitro methods should be appropriately set to maintain the efficacy of vaccines. For novel vaccines in research and development, in vitro methods for monitoring the consistency and relevant biological properties, should be established based on reflecting the immunogenicity of vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuanxuan Zhang
- Institute of Biological Products, Division of Hepatitis and Enterovirus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Xing Wu
- Institute of Biological Products, Division of Hepatitis and Enterovirus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Qian He
- Institute of Biological Products, Division of Hepatitis and Enterovirus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Junzhi Wang
- Institute of Biological Products, Division of Hepatitis and Enterovirus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Qunying Mao
- Institute of Biological Products, Division of Hepatitis and Enterovirus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenglun Liang
- Institute of Biological Products, Division of Hepatitis and Enterovirus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Miao Xu
- Institute of Biological Products, Division of Hepatitis and Enterovirus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
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Jerajani K, Wan Y, Hickey JM, Kumru OS, Sharma N, Pullagurla SR, Ogun O, Mapari S, Whitaker N, Brendle S, Christensen ND, Batwal S, Mahedvi M, Rao H, Dogar V, Chandrasekharan R, Shaligram U, Joshi SB, Volkin DB. Analytical and Preformulation Characterization Studies of Human Papillomavirus Virus-Like Particles to Enable Quadrivalent Multi-Dose Vaccine Formulation Development. J Pharm Sci 2022; 111:2983-2997. [PMID: 35914546 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2022.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Introducing multi-dose formulations of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines will reduce costs and enable improved global vaccine coverage, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This work describes the development of key analytical methods later utilized for HPV vaccine multi-dose formulation development. First, down-selection of physicochemical methods suitable for multi-dose formulation development of four HPV (6, 11, 16, and 18) Virus-Like Particles (VLPs) adsorbed to an aluminum adjuvant (Alhydrogel®, AH) was performed. The four monovalent AH-adsorbed HPV VLPs were then characterized using these down-selected methods. Second, stability-indicating competitive ELISA assays were developed using HPV serotype-specific neutralizing mAbs, to monitor relative antibody binding profiles of the four AH-adsorbed VLPs during storage. Third, concentration-dependent preservative-induced destabilization of HPV16 VLPs was demonstrated by addition of eight preservatives found in parenterally administered pharmaceuticals and vaccines, as measured by ELISA, dynamic light scattering, and differential scanning calorimetry. Finally, preservative stability and effectiveness in the presence of vaccine components were evaluated using a combination of RP-UHPLC, a microbial growth inhibition assay, and a modified version of the European Pharmacopoeia assay (Ph. Eur. 5.1.3). Results are discussed in terms of analytical challenges encountered to identify and develop high-throughput methods that facilitate multi-dose formulation development of aluminum-adjuvanted protein-based vaccine candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaushal Jerajani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Ying Wan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - John M Hickey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Ozan S Kumru
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Nitya Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Swathi R Pullagurla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Oluwadara Ogun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Shweta Mapari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Neal Whitaker
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Sarah Brendle
- Department of Pathology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | - Neil D Christensen
- Department of Pathology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | | | | | - Harish Rao
- Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd., Pune, India
| | - Vikas Dogar
- Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd., Pune, India
| | | | | | - Sangeeta B Joshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - David B Volkin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA.
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van der Maas L, Danial M, Kersten GFA, Metz B, Meiring HD. Mass Spectrometry-Based Quantification of the Antigens in Aluminum Hydroxide-Adjuvanted Diphtheria-Tetanus-Acellular-Pertussis Combination Vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10071078. [PMID: 35891242 PMCID: PMC9323524 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10071078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccines undergo stringent batch-release testing, most often including in-vivo assays for potency. For combination vaccines, such as diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTaP), chemical modification induced by formaldehyde inactivation, as well as adsorption to aluminum-based adjuvants, complicates antigen-specific in-vitro analysis. Here, a mass spectrometric method was developed that allows the identification and quantitation of DTaP antigens in a combination vaccine. Isotopically labeled, antigen-specific internal standard peptides were employed that permitted absolute quantitation of their antigen-derived peptide counterparts and, consequently, the individual antigens. We evaluated the applicability of the method on monovalent non-adjuvanted antigens, on final vaccine lots and on experimental vaccine batches, where certain antigens were omitted from the drug product. Apart from the applicability for final batch release, we demonstrated the suitability of the approach for in-process control monitoring. The peptide quantification method facilitates antigen-specific identification and quantification of combination vaccines in a single assay. This may contribute, as part of the consistency approach, to a reduction in the number of animal tests required for vaccine-batch release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa van der Maas
- Intravacc, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (M.D.); (G.F.A.K.); (B.M.); (H.D.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Maarten Danial
- Intravacc, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (M.D.); (G.F.A.K.); (B.M.); (H.D.M.)
| | - Gideon F. A. Kersten
- Intravacc, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (M.D.); (G.F.A.K.); (B.M.); (H.D.M.)
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR), Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Bernard Metz
- Intravacc, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (M.D.); (G.F.A.K.); (B.M.); (H.D.M.)
| | - Hugo D. Meiring
- Intravacc, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (M.D.); (G.F.A.K.); (B.M.); (H.D.M.)
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8
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van den Biggelaar RHGA, Hoefnagel MHN, Vandebriel RJ, Sloots A, Hendriksen CFM, van Eden W, Rutten VPMG, Jansen CA. Overcoming scientific barriers in the transition from in vivo to non-animal batch testing of human and veterinary vaccines. Expert Rev Vaccines 2021; 20:1221-1233. [PMID: 34550041 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2021.1977628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Before release, vaccine batches are assessed for quality to evaluate whether they meet the product specifications. Vaccine batch tests, in particular of inactivated and toxoid vaccines, still largely rely on in vivo methods. Improved vaccine production processes, ethical concerns, and suboptimal performance of some in vivo tests have led to the development of in vitro alternatives. AREAS COVERED This review describes the scientific constraints that need to be overcome for replacement of in vivo batch tests, as well as potential solutions. Topics include the critical quality attributes of vaccines that require testing, the use of cell-based assays to mimic aspects of in vivo vaccine-induced immune responses, how difficulties with testing adjuvanted vaccines in vitro can be overcome, the use of altered batches to validate new in vitro test methods, and how cooperation between different stakeholders is key to moving the transition forward. EXPERT OPINION For safety testing, many in vitro alternatives are already available or at an advanced level of development. For potency testing, in vitro alternatives largely comprise immunochemical methods that assess several, but not all critical vaccine properties. One-to-one replacement by in vitro alternatives is not always possible and a combination of methods may be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin H G A van den Biggelaar
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Rob J Vandebriel
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Arjen Sloots
- Intravacc (Institute for Translational Vaccinology), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | | | - Willem van Eden
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Victor P M G Rutten
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Christine A Jansen
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Cell Biology and Immunology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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9
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Ren L, Zhang Z, Zhang X, Kong Z, Li S, Zhao Q. In situ analysis of biomolecular interactions on nano/microparticles in formulations. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2021; 201:114130. [PMID: 33992988 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2021.114130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Nano/microparticle-based formulations are attracting more and more attention in the drug and vaccine formulation field. Analytical methodologies are needed for analyzing the function of the protein molecules before and after their adsorption onto particles. Here, we report a fluorescence imaging-based high content analysis (HCA) for analyzing bimolecular interactions on the particle surface. Subtle conformational alteration of antigen epitope overlapping were shown to be feasible using this microplate-based HCA method. This HCA is highly amenable for automation, making it a method of choice for early formulation development as well as for stability test of products in late stage development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijie Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, PR China
| | - Zhigang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, PR China
| | - Xinyuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, PR China
| | - Zhibo Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, PR China
| | - Shaowei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, PR China
| | - Qinjian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, 361105, PR China.
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10
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Riches-Duit R, Hassall L, Kogelman A, Westdijk J, Rajagopal S, Davletov B, Doran C, Dobly A, Francotte A, Stickings P. Characterisation of tetanus monoclonal antibodies as a first step towards the development of an in vitro vaccine potency immunoassay. Biologicals 2021; 71:31-41. [PMID: 33910767 DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2021.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Batch release testing for human and veterinary tetanus vaccines still relies heavily on methods that involve animals, particularly for potency testing. The quantity and quality of tetanus antigen present in these products is of utmost importance for product safety and clinical effect. Immunochemical methods that measure consistency of antigen content and quality, potentially as an indicator of potency, could be a better choice and negate the need for an in vivo potency test. These immunochemical methods require at least one well characterised monoclonal antibody (mAb) that is specific for the target antigen. In this paper we report the results of the comprehensive characterisation of a panel of mAbs against tetanus with a view to select antibodies that can be used for development of an in vitro potency immunoassay. We have assessed binding of the antibodies to native antigen (toxin), detoxified antigen (toxoid), adsorbed antigen and heat-altered antigen. Antibody function was determined using an in-house cell-based neutralisation assay to support prior in vivo potency data that was available for some, but not all, of the antibodies. In addition, antibody affinity was measured, and epitope competition analysis was performed to identify pairs of antibodies that could be deployed in a sandwich immunoassay format. Not all characterisation tests provided evidence of "superiority" of one mAb over another, but together the results from all characterisation studies allowed for selection of an antibody pair to be taken forward to assay development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Riches-Duit
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, UK
| | - Laura Hassall
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, UK
| | - Amy Kogelman
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720, AL Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Janny Westdijk
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720, AL Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Shalini Rajagopal
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, UK
| | - Bazbek Davletov
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Ciara Doran
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Alexandre Dobly
- Sciensano, Quality of Vaccines and Blood Products Department, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Antoine Francotte
- Sciensano, Quality of Vaccines and Blood Products Department, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Paul Stickings
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, UK.
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11
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Riches-Duit R, Hassall L, Kogelman A, Westdijk J, Dobly A, Francotte A, Stickings P. Characterisation of diphtheria monoclonal antibodies as a first step towards the development of an in vitro vaccine potency immunoassay. Biologicals 2021; 69:38-48. [PMID: 33454193 DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunoassays are used for routine potency assessment of several vaccines, in some cases having been specifically developed as alternatives to in vivo potency tests. These methods require at least one well characterised monoclonal antibody (mAb) that is specific for the target antigen. In this paper we report the results of the comprehensive characterisation of a panel of mAbs against diphtheria with a view to select antibodies that can be used for development of an in vitro potency immunoassay for diphtheria vaccines. We have assessed binding of the antibodies to native antigen (toxin), detoxified antigen (toxoid), adsorbed antigen and heat-altered antigen. Antibody function was determined by a cell-based toxin neutralisation test and diphtheria toxin-domain recognition was determined by Western blotting. In addition, antibody affinity was measured, and epitope competition analysis was performed to identify pairs of antibodies that could be deployed in a sandwich immunoassay format. Not all characterisation tests provided evidence of "superiority" of one mAb over another, but together the results from all characterisation studies allowed for selection of an antibody pair to be taken forward to assay development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Riches-Duit
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, UK
| | - Laura Hassall
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, UK
| | - Amy Kogelman
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720, AL, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Janny Westdijk
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720, AL, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Alexandre Dobly
- Sciensano, Quality of Vaccines and Blood Products, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Antoine Francotte
- Sciensano, Quality of Vaccines and Blood Products, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Paul Stickings
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, UK.
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Rossi O, Aruta MG, Acquaviva A, Mancini F, Micoli F, Necchi F. Characterization of Competitive ELISA and Formulated Alhydrogel Competitive ELISA (FAcE) for Direct Quantification of Active Ingredients in GMMA-Based Vaccines. Methods Protoc 2020; 3:mps3030062. [PMID: 32878036 PMCID: PMC7563494 DOI: 10.3390/mps3030062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Generalized modules for membrane antigens (GMMA) represent a technology particularly attractive for designing affordable vaccines against Gram-negative bacteria. We explored such technology for the development of O-antigen-based vaccines against Shigella and nontyphoidal Salmonella. Adsorption of GMMA on Alhydrogel was required for abrogation of pyrogenicity in rabbits, and Shigella sonnei GMMA on Alhydrogel was well tolerated and immunogenic in humans. Quantification of key antigens in formulated vaccines was fundamental for release and to check stability overtime. Traditionally, the direct quantification of antigens adsorbed on aluminum salts has been challenging, and the quantification of each active ingredient in multicomponent formulated vaccines has been even more complicated. To directly quantify each active ingredient and unbound drug substances in formulated vaccines, we developed the Formulated Alhydrogel competitive ELISA (FAcE) and the competitive ELISA method, respectively. The methods were both fully characterized, assessing specificity, repeatability, intermediate precision, and accuracy, for S. sonnei OAg quantification, both in a single component or multicomponent GMMA formulation also containing S. flexneri GMMA. The developed immunological methods allowed us to fully characterize Shigella GMMA drug products, supporting their preclinical and clinical development. The same methods, already extended to GMMA from nontyphoidal Salmonella and Neisseria meningitidis, could be potentially extended to any antigen formulated on Alhydrogel.
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13
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Morgenroth A, Jakel V, Hanke-Robinson H, Müller T, Freuling C, Cussler K, Duchow K, Krämer B, Bastian M. A novel electrophoretic immunoblot as antigen desorption and quantification method for alum-adjuvanted veterinary rabies vaccines. Vaccine 2020; 38:4281-4287. [PMID: 32402753 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2020.04.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Rabies vaccines for domestic animals are adjuvanted with aluminum salts. A particular challenge for in-vitro batch potency tests with these products is the fact that the antigens are firmly adsorbed to the aluminum salt matrix and thus are not easily available for antigen quantification. In the current manuscript we describe a versatile technique to quantify antigens in aluminum adsorbed vaccine formulations. A combined electrophoretic desorption and blotting method is presented that transfers the antigens to a nitrocellulose membrane followed by an immunoblot quantification of the transferred rabies antigens. For the immunoblot a rabies G-protein specific, monoclonal antibody is used that by itself has neutralizing activity. This ensures that only relevant antigens are quantified. By comparing end products with non-adjuvanted in-process material it can be demonstrated that the antigens are quantitatively desorbed from the adjuvant matrix. Resuts of the new antigen quantification method were compared with the outcome of the serological batch potency test as described in the European Pharmacopoeia. It is demonstrated that the new antigen quantification method reveals relevant differences between experimental vaccine batches formulated with increasing antigen loads. This proves the broad detection range of the method. In general, the results show that this highly versatile technique can serve as an important component of a comprehensive consistency test strategy and may be applied in a modified form to any alum-adjuvanted vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Morgenroth
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Südufer 10, D-17493 Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Verena Jakel
- Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Strasse 51-59, D-63225 Langen, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Müller
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Südufer 10, D-17493 Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Conrad Freuling
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Südufer 10, D-17493 Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Klaus Cussler
- Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Strasse 51-59, D-63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Karin Duchow
- Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Strasse 51-59, D-63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Beate Krämer
- Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Strasse 51-59, D-63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Max Bastian
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Südufer 10, D-17493 Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany.
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14
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Zhang Z, Zhang T, Cao L, Wang X, Cao J, Huang X, Cai Y, Lin Z, Pan H, Yuan Q, Fang M, Li S, Zhang J, Xia N, Zhao Q. Simultaneous in situ visualization and quantitation of dual antigens adsorbed on adjuvants using high content analysis. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2019; 14:2535-2548. [PMID: 31603382 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2019-0016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Traditional antigenicity assay requires antigen recovery from the particulate adjuvants prior to analysis. An in situ method was developed for interrogating vaccine antigens with monoclonal antibodies while being adsorbed on adjuvants. Materials & methods: The fluorescence imaging-based high content analysis was used to visualize the antigen distribution on adjuvant agglomerates and to analyze the antigenicity for adsorbed antigens. Results: Simultaneous visualization and quantitation were achieved for dual antigens in a bivalent human papillomavirus vaccine with uniquely labeled antibodies. Good agreement was observed between the in situ multiplexed assays with well-established sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Conclusion: The streamlined procedures and the amenability for multiplexing make the in situ antigenicity analysis a favorable choice for in vitro functional assessment of bionanoparticles as vaccine antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhigang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology & Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China
| | - Tianying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology & Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China
| | - Lu Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology & Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China
| | - Xin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology & Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China
| | - Jiali Cao
- National Institute of Diagnostics & Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China
| | - Xiaofen Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology & Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China
| | - Yashuang Cai
- National Institute of Diagnostics & Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China
| | - Zhijie Lin
- Xiamen Innovax Biotech Co., Ltd, Xiamen, Fujian 361022, PR China
| | - Huirong Pan
- Xiamen Innovax Biotech Co., Ltd, Xiamen, Fujian 361022, PR China
| | - Quan Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology & Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China.,National Institute of Diagnostics & Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China
| | - Mujin Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology & Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China
| | - Shaowei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology & Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China.,National Institute of Diagnostics & Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China
| | - Jun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology & Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China
| | - Ningshao Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology & Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China.,National Institute of Diagnostics & Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China
| | - Qinjian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology & Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361105, PR China
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15
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Necchi F, Carducci M, Pisoni I, Rossi O, Saul A, Rondini S. Development of FAcE (Formulated Alhydrogel competitive ELISA) method for direct quantification of OAg present in Shigella sonnei GMMA-based vaccine and its optimization using Design of Experiments approach. J Immunol Methods 2019; 471:11-17. [PMID: 31039338 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2019.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Many formulated vaccines, including 1790GAHB Shigella sonnei GMMA-based vaccine, contain Alhydrogel (aluminum hydroxide), consequently the antigen content must be determined in the formulated final vaccine product, as required by regulatory authorities. The direct quantification of antigens adsorbed on aluminum salts is difficult, and antigens may need to be extracted using laborious and often ineffective desorption procedures. To directly quantify the sugar vaccine target in the LPS of 1790GAHB, we have developed a new FAcE (Formulated Alhydrogel competitive ELISA) method. FAcE is an immunoassay based on the competition between S. sonnei LPS, coated on the ELISA plate, and the LPS in formulated S. sonnei GMMA, in binding a specific monoclonal antibody. To optimize the method, which is as easy to perform as a standard ELISA, we have applied a Design of Experiments (DOE) approach. A model was found to define the significant assay variables and to predict their impact on the output responses. Results obtained using the DOE optimized FAcE assay showed that the method is sensitive (0.02 μg/mL lower detection limit), precise, reproducible and can accurately quantify independently formulated drug products, making it a useful tool in routine tests of Alhydrogel-based vaccines. We are currently using this method to determine S. sonnei vaccine potency, stability and lot-to-lot variations, and are broadening its applicability to quantify active ingredients of other Alhydrogel GMMA-vaccines and in multivalent vaccines formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Necchi
- GSK Vaccines Institute for Global Health (GVGH) S.r.l., Siena, Italy
| | - Martina Carducci
- GSK Vaccines Institute for Global Health (GVGH) S.r.l., Siena, Italy
| | - Ivan Pisoni
- GSK Vaccines Institute for Global Health (GVGH) S.r.l., Siena, Italy
| | - Omar Rossi
- GSK Vaccines Institute for Global Health (GVGH) S.r.l., Siena, Italy
| | - Allan Saul
- GSK Vaccines Institute for Global Health (GVGH) S.r.l., Siena, Italy
| | - Simona Rondini
- GSK Vaccines Institute for Global Health (GVGH) S.r.l., Siena, Italy.
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16
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Multifaceted characterization of recombinant protein-based vaccines: An immunochemical toolbox for epitope-specific analyses of the hepatitis E vaccine. Vaccine 2018; 36:7650-7658. [PMID: 30396752 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.10.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The integrity of functional epitopes is a critical quality attribute for recombinant protein based vaccines since the presence of these native-like epitopes is the structural basis for vaccines to elicit functional antibodies. To demonstrate the quality and quantity of functional epitopes on vaccine antigens, a toolbox of assessing antigen characteristics is essential. Among the physicochemical, biophysical, immunochemical and in vivo potency analyses, the epitope-specific assays are most critical assessment of the antigen functionality. In this study, we used hepatitis E virus vaccine as an example to illustrated how the monoclonal antibody (mAb) based immunochemical assays were established for in-depth and multifaceted antigen characterization. A large panel of mAbs were developed and characterized using epitope clustering analysis. A subset of these mAbs recognizing non-overlapping epitopes were chosen to be used for assay development. Orthogonal methods, including surface plasma resonance-based BIAcore, solution competitive ELISA and sandwich ELISA, were developed for the antigenicity assessment. The sandwich ELISA with a pair of mAbs, recognizing two different epitopes, was used to assess the accelerated antigen stability, showing enhanced stability with adjuvant adsorption. Such a sandwich ELISA with robust performance has the potentials to be used for in vitro potency analysis to replace animal-based potency assay as product release test. In summary, using hepatitis E vaccine as an example, we demonstrated the importance and establishment of a mAb-based immunochemical toolbox for multifaceted antigen characterization. This is particularly important to demonstrate the successful reconstruction of the native-like and functional epitopes on a recombinant antigen post expression and purification. These epitope-specific and multifaceted assays serve as critical tools for process monitoring or lot consistency tests in support of vaccine development and manufacturing.
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17
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HogenEsch H, O'Hagan DT, Fox CB. Optimizing the utilization of aluminum adjuvants in vaccines: you might just get what you want. NPJ Vaccines 2018; 3:51. [PMID: 30323958 PMCID: PMC6180056 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-018-0089-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Revised: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Aluminum-containing adjuvants have been used for over 90 years to enhance the immune response to vaccines. Recent work has significantly advanced our understanding of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of these adjuvants, offering key insights on underlying mechanisms. Given the long-term success of aluminum adjuvants, we believe that they should continue to represent the “gold standard” against which all new adjuvants should be compared. New vaccine candidates that require adjuvants to induce a protective immune responses should first be evaluated with aluminum adjuvants before other more experimental approaches are considered, since use of established adjuvants would facilitate both clinical development and the regulatory pathway. However, the continued use of aluminum adjuvants requires an appreciation of their complexities, in combination with access to the necessary expertise to optimize vaccine formulations. In this article, we will review the properties of aluminum adjuvants and highlight those elements that are critical to optimize vaccine performance. We will discuss how other components (excipients, TLR ligands, etc.) can affect the interaction between adjuvants and antigens, and impact the potency of vaccines. This review provides a resource and guide, which will ultimately contribute to the successful development of newer, more effective and safer vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harm HogenEsch
- 1Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN USA.,2Purdue Institute of Inflammation, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN USA
| | | | - Christopher B Fox
- 4IDRI, Seattle, WA USA.,5Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
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18
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Nouchikian L, Roque C, Song JY, Rahman N, Ausar SF. An intrinsic fluorescence method for the determination of protein concentration in vaccines containing aluminum salt adjuvants. Vaccine 2018; 36:5738-5746. [PMID: 30107994 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Determination of protein concentration in vaccines containing aluminum salt adjuvant typically necessitates desorption of the protein prior to analysis. Here we describe a method based on the intrinsic fluorescence of tyrosine and tryptophan that requires no desorption of proteins. Adjuvanted formulations of three model Bordetella pertussis antigens were excited at 280 nm and their emission spectra collected from 290 to 400 nm. Emission spectra of protein antigens in the presence of aluminum salt adjuvants were able to be detected, the effects of adjuvants on the spectra were analyzed, and linear regressions were calculated. The fluorescence method proved to be very sensitive with a limit of quantification between 0.4 and 4.4 µg/mL and limit of linearity between 100 and 200 µg/mL, across the formulations tested. The fluorescence method was found to be influenced by adjuvant presence, type of adjuvant, adjuvant concentration, buffer and pH conditions. The method also demonstrated ability to monitor the percent adsorption of antigens to the adjuvants. Furthermore, intrinsic fluorescence showed good correlation with micro-Kjeldahl elemental assay in quantifying protein concentration. Being a non-invasive, quick and sensitive method, intrinsic fluorescence has the potential to be utilized as a high throughput tool for vaccine development and conceivably implemented in-line, using in-line fluorimeters, to monitor antigen concentration during formulation processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucienne Nouchikian
- BioProcess Research and Development, Sanofi Pasteur, 1755 Steeles Ave West, Toronto, Ontario M3R 3T4, Canada
| | - Cristopher Roque
- BioProcess Research and Development, Sanofi Pasteur, 1755 Steeles Ave West, Toronto, Ontario M3R 3T4, Canada
| | - Jimmy Y Song
- BioProcess Research and Development, Sanofi Pasteur, 1755 Steeles Ave West, Toronto, Ontario M3R 3T4, Canada
| | - Nausheen Rahman
- BioProcess Research and Development, Sanofi Pasteur, 1755 Steeles Ave West, Toronto, Ontario M3R 3T4, Canada
| | - Salvador F Ausar
- BioProcess Research and Development, Sanofi Pasteur, 1755 Steeles Ave West, Toronto, Ontario M3R 3T4, Canada.
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19
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The Preparation and Physicochemical Characterization of Aluminum Hydroxide/TLR7a, a Novel Vaccine Adjuvant Comprising a Small Molecule Adsorbed to Aluminum Hydroxide. J Pharm Sci 2018; 107:1577-1585. [PMID: 29421216 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2018.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Revised: 01/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Adjuvants are necessary to enable vaccine development against a significant number of challenging pathogens for which effective vaccines are not available. We engineered a novel small-molecule immune potentiator, a benzonaphthyridine agonist targeting toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7), as a vaccine adjuvant. TLR7 agonist (TLR7a) was engineered to be adsorbed onto aluminum hydroxide (AlOH), and the resulting AlOH/TLR7a was evaluated as a vaccine adjuvant. AlOH/TLR7a exploits the flexibility of AlOH formulations, has an application in many vaccine candidates, and induced good efficacy and safety profiles against all tested antigens (bacterial- and viral-derived protein antigens, toxoids, glycoconjugates, and so forth) in many animal models, including nonhuman primates. In this article, we describe the outcome of the physicochemical characterization of AlOH/TLR7a. Reverse-phase ultra performance liquid chromatography, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, zeta potential, and phosphophilicity assays were used as tools to demonstrate the association of TLR7a to AlOH and to characterize this novel formulation. Raman spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectroscopy were also used to investigate the interaction between TLR7a and AlOH (data not shown). This pivotal work paved the way for AlOH/TLR7a to progress into the clinic for evaluation as an adjuvant platform for vaccines against challenging preventable diseases.
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20
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He L, Su J, Ming M, Bernardo L, Chen T, Gisonni-Lex L, Gajewska B. Flow cytometry: An efficient method for antigenicity measurement and particle characterization on an adjuvanted vaccine candidate H4-IC31 for tuberculosis. J Immunol Methods 2017; 452:39-45. [PMID: 29056527 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We have developed an accurate, precise and stability-indicating flow cytometry (FC) based assay to directly measure antigenicity of H4 protein (also known as HyVac4) in a vaccine formulation of H4-IC31, without desorbing the H4 protein from the IC31 adjuvant. This method involves immuno-staining of H4-IC31 complex with anti-H4 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) followed by FC analysis. The assay is not only able to consistently measure H4 antigenicity levels in H4-IC31 stored under normal condition at 2-8°C, but also able to detect changes in H4 antigenicity after H4-IC31 undergoes heat stress or freeze-thawing. In addition, the FC method is able to characterize particle morphology while measuring antigenicity. The biological relevance of the changes in H4 antigenicity detected by the FC assay was supported by an in vitro cell based functional assay using human PBMCs to measure IFN-gamma (IFN-γ) secretion upon re-stimulation with H4-IC31. Our results show that the FC based antigenicity assay can efficiently monitor the biological and physicochemical properties of H4-IC31 and is an indicator for adjuvanted vaccine product stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei He
- Sanofi Pasteur, Analytical Research and Development, 1755 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Jin Su
- Sanofi Pasteur, Analytical Research and Development, 1755 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, Canada
| | - Marin Ming
- Sanofi Pasteur, Analytical Research and Development, 1755 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lidice Bernardo
- Sanofi Pasteur, Analytical Research and Development, 1755 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tricia Chen
- Sanofi Pasteur, Analytical Research and Development, 1755 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lucy Gisonni-Lex
- Sanofi Pasteur, Analytical Research and Development, 1755 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, Canada
| | - Beata Gajewska
- Sanofi Pasteur, Analytical Research and Development, 1755 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, Canada
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21
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Westdijk J, Metz B, Spruit N, Tilstra W, van der Gun J, Hendriksen C, Kersten G. Antigenic fingerprinting of diphtheria toxoid adsorbed to aluminium phosphate. Biologicals 2017; 47:69-75. [PMID: 28259519 DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2016.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Revised: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The antigenicity of alum-adsorbed diphtheria toxoid (DTd) was determined in combination vaccines, containing DTd, tetanus toxoid and inactivated poliovirus. A panel of monoclonal antibodies was used, covering five epitopes, distributed over the antigen. The resulting antigenic fingerprint of DTd demonstrates consistency of adsorption at antigen level in final product combination vaccines. The antigenic quality of DTd alone, adsorbed to aluminium phosphate, was also determined and compared with pre-adsorbed toxoid (starting material as well as toxoid desorbed from aluminium phosphate). Some epitopes became less accessible after adsorption, while others became relatively better exposed. Some epitopes disappeared almost completely upon adsorption, but were re-established after desorption of the antigen. The results indicate that DTd is adsorbed to aluminium phosphate in a preferred orientation and not randomly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janny Westdijk
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720 AL Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Bernard Metz
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720 AL Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Nanda Spruit
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720 AL Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Wichard Tilstra
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720 AL Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Johan van der Gun
- Bilthoven Biologicals, P.O. Box 457, 3720 AL Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Coenraad Hendriksen
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720 AL Bilthoven, The Netherlands; Utrecht University, Department of Animals in Science and Society-3R Centre Utrecht Life Sciences, Yalelaan 2, P.O. Box 80.166, 3508TD Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Gideon Kersten
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720 AL Bilthoven, The Netherlands; Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Drug Delivery Technology, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands
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22
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Broecker F, Martin CE, Wegner E, Mattner J, Baek JY, Pereira CL, Anish C, Seeberger PH. Synthetic Lipoteichoic Acid Glycans Are Potential Vaccine Candidates to Protect from Clostridium difficile Infections. Cell Chem Biol 2016; 23:1014-1022. [PMID: 27524293 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2016.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Revised: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Infections with Clostridium difficile increasingly cause morbidity and mortality worldwide. Bacterial surface glycans including lipoteichoic acid (LTA) were identified as auspicious vaccine antigens to prevent colonization. Here, we report on the potential of synthetic LTA glycans as vaccine candidates. We identified LTA-specific antibodies in the blood of C. difficile patients. Therefore, we evaluated the immunogenicity of a semi-synthetic LTA-CRM197 glycoconjugate. The conjugate elicited LTA-specific antibodies in mice that recognized natural LTA epitopes on the surface of C. difficile bacteria and inhibited intestinal colonization of C. difficile in mice in vivo. Our findings underscore the promise of synthetic LTA glycans as C. difficile vaccine candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Broecker
- Department of Biomolecular Systems, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, 14424 Potsdam, Germany; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Christopher E Martin
- Department of Biomolecular Systems, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, 14424 Potsdam, Germany; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Erik Wegner
- Mikrobiologisches Institut ? Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jochen Mattner
- Mikrobiologisches Institut ? Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ju Yuel Baek
- Department of Biomolecular Systems, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, 14424 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Claney L Pereira
- Department of Biomolecular Systems, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, 14424 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Chakkumkal Anish
- Department of Biomolecular Systems, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, 14424 Potsdam, Germany.
| | - Peter H Seeberger
- Department of Biomolecular Systems, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, 14424 Potsdam, Germany; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
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23
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Li M, Wang X, Cao L, Lin Z, Wei M, Fang M, Li S, Zhang J, Xia N, Zhao Q. Quantitative and epitope-specific antigenicity analysis of the human papillomavirus 6 capsid protein in aqueous solution or when adsorbed on particulate adjuvants. Vaccine 2016; 34:4422-8. [PMID: 27426626 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Revised: 07/03/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) 6 is a human pathogen which causes genital warts. Recombinant virus-like particle (VLP) based antigens are the active components in prophylactic vaccines to elicit functional antibodies. The binding and functional characteristics of a panel of 15 murine monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against HPV6 was quantitatively assessed. Elite conformational indicators, recognizing the conformational epitopes, are also elite viral neutralizers as demonstrated with their viral neutralization efficiency (5 mAbs with neutralization titer below 4ng/mL) in a pseudovirion (PsV)-based system. The functionality of a given mAb is closely related to the nature of the corresponding epitope, rather than the apparent binding affinity to antigen. The epitope-specific antigenicity assays can be used to assess the binding activity of PsV or VLP preparations to neutralizing mAbs. These mAb-based assays can be used for process monitoring and for product release and characterization to confirm the existence of functional epitopes in purified antigen preparations. Due to the particulate nature of the alum adjuvants, the vaccine antigen adsorbed on adjuvants was considered largely as "a black box" due to the difficulty in analysis and visualization. Here, a novel method with fluorescence-based high content imaging for visualization and quantitating the immunoreactivity of adjuvant-adsorbed VLPs with neutralizing mAbs was developed, in which antigen desorption was not needed. The facile and quantitative in situ antigenicity analysis was amendable for automation. The integrity of a given epitope or two non-overlapping epitopes on the recombinant VLPs in their adjuvanted form can be assessed in a quantitative manner for cross-lot or cross-product comparative analysis with minimal manipulation of samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Xin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Lu Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Zhijie Lin
- Innovax Corporation, Xiamen, Fujian 361000, PR China.
| | - Minxi Wei
- Innovax Corporation, Xiamen, Fujian 361000, PR China.
| | - Mujin Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Shaowei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Jun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Ningshao Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Qinjian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
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Multiplex immunoassay for in vitro characterization of acellular pertussis antigens in combination vaccines. Vaccine 2016; 34:1040-6. [PMID: 26784684 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Revised: 12/24/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Vaccines characterization is required to ensure physical, chemical, and biological integrity of antigens and adjuvants. Current analytical methods mostly require complete antigen desorption from aluminum-based adjuvants and are not always suitable to distinguish individual antigens in multivalent formulations. Here, Luminex technology is proposed to improve the analytics of vaccine characterization. As proof of concept, TdaP (tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis) combination, adjuvanted with aluminum hydroxide, was chosen as model formulation to quantify and determine the level of adsorption of acellular pertussis (aP) antigens onto adjuvant surface at the same time. The assay used specific antibodies bound to magnetic microspheres presenting unique digital signatures for each pertussis antigen, allowing the simultaneous recognition of respective antigens in the whole vaccine, avoiding laborious procedures for adjuvant separation. Accurate and reproducible quantification of aP antigens in TdaP vaccine has been achieved in the range 0.78-50 ng/mL, providing simultaneously information on antigen identity, quantity, and degree of adsorption to aluminum hydroxide. The current study could further be considered as a model to set up in vitro potency assays thus supporting the replacement of animal tests accordingly to the 3Rs concept.
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25
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Determination of freeze damage on HPV vaccines by use of flow cytometry. Biologicals 2015; 43:266-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2015.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2015] [Revised: 03/26/2015] [Accepted: 03/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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26
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Rabinovich S, Powell RLR, Lindsay RWB, Yuan M, Carpov A, Wilson A, Lopez M, Coleman JW, Wagner D, Sharma P, Kemelman M, Wright KJ, Seabrook JP, Arendt H, Martinez J, DeStefano J, Chiuchiolo MJ, Parks CL. A novel, live-attenuated vesicular stomatitis virus vector displaying conformationally intact, functional HIV-1 envelope trimers that elicits potent cellular and humoral responses in mice. PLoS One 2014; 9:e106597. [PMID: 25215861 PMCID: PMC4162551 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0106597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2014] [Accepted: 08/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Though vaccination with live-attenuated SIV provides the greatest protection from progressive disease caused by SIV challenge in rhesus macaques, attenuated HIV presents safety concerns as a vaccine; therefore, live viral vectors carrying HIV immunogens must be considered. We have designed a replication-competent vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) displaying immunogenic HIV-1 Env trimers and attenuating quantities of the native surface glycoprotein (G). The clade B Env immunogen is an Env-VSV G hybrid (EnvG) in which the transmembrane and cytoplasmic tail regions are derived from G. Relocation of the G gene to the 5'terminus of the genome and insertion of EnvG into the natural G position induced a ∼1 log reduction in surface G, significant growth attenuation compared to wild-type, and incorporation of abundant EnvG. Western blot analysis indicated that ∼75% of incorporated EnvG was a mature proteolytically processed form. Flow cytometry showed that surface EnvG bound various conformationally- and trimer-specific antibodies (Abs), and in-vitro growth assays on CD4+CCR5+ cells demonstrated EnvG functionality. Neither intranasal (IN) or intramuscular (IM) administration in mice induced any observable pathology and all regimens tested generated potent Env-specific ELISA titers of 10(4)-10(5), with an IM VSV prime/IN VSV boost regimen eliciting the highest binding and neutralizing Ab titers. Significant quantities of Env-specific CD4+ T cells were also detected, which were augmented as much as 70-fold by priming with IM electroporated plasmids encoding EnvG and IL-12. These data suggest that our novel vector can achieve balanced safety and immunogenicity and should be considered as an HIV vaccine platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana Rabinovich
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, The School of Graduate Studies, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Rebecca L. R. Powell
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Ross W. B. Lindsay
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Maoli Yuan
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Alexei Carpov
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Aaron Wilson
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Mary Lopez
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - John W. Coleman
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Denise Wagner
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Palka Sharma
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Marina Kemelman
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Kevin J. Wright
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - John P. Seabrook
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Heather Arendt
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Martinez
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Joanne DeStefano
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Maria J. Chiuchiolo
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, The School of Graduate Studies, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
| | - Christopher L. Parks
- International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, Design and Development Laboratory, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, The School of Graduate Studies, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
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27
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Designing and building the next generation of improved vaccine adjuvants. J Control Release 2014; 190:563-79. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2014.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2014] [Revised: 06/17/2014] [Accepted: 06/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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28
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Dey AK, Malyala P, Singh M. Physicochemical and functional characterization of vaccine antigens and adjuvants. Expert Rev Vaccines 2014; 13:671-85. [PMID: 24702271 DOI: 10.1586/14760584.2014.907528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
As novel vaccine antigens and adjuvants are being tested in humans, understanding of critical quality attributes essential for eliciting optimal vaccine response and vaccine antigen-adjuvant interactions is pivotal for vaccine safety and eliciting 'protective' immune responses. Therefore, the efforts to better characterize and evaluate vaccine antigen and antigen-adjuvant drug products need to begin very early during the discovery and development phase. In this review, we discuss the importance of characterization of physicochemical and functional properties in vaccine antigen, adjuvant and the final antigen-adjuvant drug product and emphasize the greater need for more extensive understanding of vaccine antigen-adjuvant interactions. We highlight the key parameters and quality attributes that are critical to measure during preclinical and clinical testing of the vaccine and discuss in some detail the technologies, and their limitations, used in analyzing the key physicochemical and functional attributes of vaccine antigen and antigen-adjuvant drug product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antu K Dey
- Novartis Vaccines Inc., 475 Green Oaks Parkway, Holly Springs, NC 27540, USA
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Identification of an HIV-1 clade A envelope that exhibits broad antigenicity and neutralization sensitivity and elicits antibodies targeting three distinct epitopes. J Virol 2013; 87:5372-83. [PMID: 23468492 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02827-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) PG9 and PG16 were isolated from an International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) Protocol G subject infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) clade A. Both antibodies are highly potent and neutralize greater than 70% of viruses tested. We sought to begin immunogen design based on viral sequences from this patient; however, pseudoviruses prepared with 19 envelope sequences from this subject were resistant to neutralization by PG9 and PG16. Therefore, we used a bioinformatics approach to identify closely related viruses that were potentially sensitive to PG9 and PG16. A most-recent common ancestor (MRCA) sequence for the viral envelope (Env) was determined and aligned with 99 subtype A gp160 sequences from the Los Alamos HIV database. Virus BG505.W6M.ENV.C2 (BG505) was found to have the highest degree of homology (73%) to the MRCA sequence. Pseudoviruses prepared with this Env were sensitive to neutralization with a broad panel of bNAbs, including PG9 and PG16. When expressed by 293T cells as soluble gp120, the BG505 monomer bound well to both PG9 and PG16. We further showed that a point mutation (L111A) enabled more efficient production of a stable gp120 monomer that preserves the major neutralization epitopes. Finally, we showed that an adjuvanted formulation of this gp120 protein elicited neutralizing antibodies in rabbits (following a gp120 DNA vaccine prime) and that the antisera competed with bNAbs from 3 classes of nonoverlapping epitopes. Thus, the BG505 Env protein warrants further investigation as an HIV vaccine candidate, as a stand-alone protein, or as a component of a vaccine vector.
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