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Nakada-Masuta T, Takeda H, Uchida K. Novel Approach for Obtaining Variable Domain of New Antigen Receptor with Different Physicochemical Properties from Japanese Topeshark ( Hemitriakis japanica). Mar Drugs 2023; 21:550. [PMID: 37999374 PMCID: PMC10672104 DOI: 10.3390/md21110550] [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: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Diverse candidate antibodies are needed to successfully identify therapeutic and diagnostic applications. The variable domain of IgNAR (VNAR), a shark single-domain antibody, has attracted attention owing to its favorable physicochemical properties. The phage display method used to screen for optimal VNARs loses sequence diversity because of the bias caused by the differential ease of protein expression in Escherichia coli. Here, we investigated a VNAR selection method that combined panning with various selection pressures and next-generation sequencing (NGS) analyses to obtain additional candidates. Drawing inspiration from the physiological conditions of sharks and the physicochemical properties of VNARs, we examined the effects of NaCl and urea concentrations, low temperature, and preheating at the binding step of panning. VNAR phage libraries generated from Japanese topeshark (Hemitriakis japanica) were enriched under these conditions. We then performed NGS analysis and attempted to select clones that were specifically enriched under each panning condition. The identified VNARs exhibited higher reactivity than those obtained by panning without selection pressure. Additionally, they possess physicochemical properties that reflect their respective selection pressures. These results can greatly enhance our understanding of VNAR properties and offer guidance for the screening of high-quality VNAR clones that are present at low frequencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomofumi Nakada-Masuta
- Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, 7-1-49 Minatojimaminamimachi Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047, Japan;
- Bio-Diagnostic Reagent Technology Center, Sysmex Corporation, 4-3-2 Nishi-ku Takatsukadai, Kobe 651-2271, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Takeda
- Division of Proteo-Drug-Discovery Sciences, Ehime University Proteo-Science Center, Bunkyocho 3, Matsuyama 790-8577, Japan;
| | - Kazuhisa Uchida
- Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, 7-1-49 Minatojimaminamimachi Chuo-ku, Kobe 650-0047, Japan;
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Jiang X, Sun L, Hu C, Zheng F, Lyu Z, Shao J. Shark IgNAR: The Next Broad Application Antibody in Clinical Diagnoses and Tumor Therapies? Mar Drugs 2023; 21:496. [PMID: 37755109 PMCID: PMC10532743 DOI: 10.3390/md21090496] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibodies represent a relatively mature detection means and serve as therapeutic drug carriers in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of cancer-among which monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) currently occupy a dominant position. However, the emergence and development of small-molecule monodomain antibodies are inevitable due to the many limitations of mAbs, such as their large size, complex structure, and sensitivity to extreme temperature, and tumor microenvironments. Thus, since first discovered in Chondroid fish in 1995, IgNAR has become an alternative therapeutic strategy through which to replace monoclonal antibodies, thus entailing that this novel type of immunoglobulin has received wide attention with respect to clinical diagnoses and tumor therapies. The variable new antigen receptor (VNAR) of IgNAR provides an advantage for the development of new antitumor drugs due to its small size, high stability, high affinity, as well as other structural and functional characteristics. In that respect, a better understanding of the unique characteristics and therapeutic potential of IgNAR/VNAR in clinical and anti-tumor treatment is needed. This article reviews the advantages of its unique biochemical conditions and molecular structure for clinical diagnoses and novel anti-tumor drugs. At the same time, the main advantages of the existing conjugated drugs, which are based on single-domain antibodies, are introduced here, thereby providing new ideas and methods for the development of clinical diagnoses and anti-tumor therapies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Jiang
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China; (L.S.); (C.H.); (Z.L.)
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
- Jiangsu Baiying Biotech Co., Ltd., Taizhou 225300, China;
| | - Ling Sun
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China; (L.S.); (C.H.); (Z.L.)
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Chengwu Hu
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China; (L.S.); (C.H.); (Z.L.)
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Feijian Zheng
- Jiangsu Baiying Biotech Co., Ltd., Taizhou 225300, China;
| | - Zhengbing Lyu
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China; (L.S.); (C.H.); (Z.L.)
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Jianzhong Shao
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
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Takeda H, Ozawa T, Zenke H, Ohnuki Y, Umeda Y, Zhou W, Tomoda H, Takechi A, Narita K, Shimizu T, Miyakawa T, Ito Y, Sawasaki T. VNAR development through antigen immunization of Japanese topeshark ( Hemitriakis japanica). Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1265582. [PMID: 37771574 PMCID: PMC10522858 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1265582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The VNAR (Variable New Antigen Receptor) is the smallest single-domain antibody derived from the variable domain of IgNAR of cartilaginous fishes. Despite its biomedical and diagnostic potential, research on VNAR has been limited due to the difficulties in obtaining and maintaining immune animals and the lack of research tools. In this study, we investigated the Japanese topeshark as a promising immune animal for the development of VNAR. This shark is an underutilized fishery resource readily available in East Asia coastal waters and can be safely handled without sharp teeth or venomous stingers. The administration of Venus fluorescent protein to Japanese topesharks markedly increased antigen-specific IgM and IgNAR antibodies in the blood. Both the phage-display library and the yeast-display library were constructed using RNA from immunized shark splenocytes. Each library was enriched by biopanning, and multiple antigen-specific VNARs were acquired. The obtained antibodies had affinities of 1 × 10-8 M order and showed high plasticity, retaining their binding activity even after high-temperature or reducing-agent treatment. The dissociation rate of a low-affinity VNAR was significantly improved via dimerization. These results demonstrate the potential utility of the Japanese topeshark for the development of VNAR. Furthermore, we conducted deep sequencing analysis to reveal the quantitative changes in the CDR3-coding sequences, revealing distinct enrichment bias between libraries. VNARs that were primarily enriched in the phage display had CDR3 coding sequences with fewer E. coli rare codons, suggesting translation machinery on the selection and enrichment process during biopanning.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tatsuhiko Ozawa
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Academic Assembly, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
- Center for Advanced Antibody Drug Development, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Hiroki Zenke
- Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Yoh Ohnuki
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Yuri Umeda
- Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Wei Zhou
- Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Honoka Tomoda
- Fisheries Research Center, Ehime Research Institute of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Iyo, Japan
| | - Akihiko Takechi
- Fisheries Research Center, Ehime Research Institute of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Iyo, Japan
| | - Kimiyoshi Narita
- Fisheries Research Center, Ehime Research Institute of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Iyo, Japan
| | - Takaaki Shimizu
- Fisheries Research Center, Ehime Research Institute of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Iyo, Japan
| | - Takuya Miyakawa
- Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuji Ito
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
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Kim WS, Chae HD, Jung I, Lee WK, Lee WJ, Lee J, Gong Y, Lee D, Kim BW, Kim JK, Hwang J, Kweon DH, Jung ST, Na JH. Isolation and characterization of single domain antibodies from banded houndshark (Triakis scyllium) targeting SARS-CoV-2 spike RBD protein. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 138:108807. [PMID: 37169112 PMCID: PMC10167778 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2023.108807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted human health for three years. To mitigate the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the development of neutralizing antibodies has been accelerated, including the exploration of alternative antibody formats such as single-domain antibodies. In this study, we identified new variable antigen receptors (VNARs) specific for the receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 by immunizing a banded houndshark (Triakis scyllium) with recombinant wild-type RBD. Notably, the CoV2NAR-1 clone showed high binding affinities in the nanomolar range to various RBDs and demonstrated neutralizing activity against SARS-CoV-2 pseudoviruses. These results highlight the potential of the banded houndshark as an animal model for the development of VNAR-based therapeutics or diagnostics against future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woo Sung Kim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Sangji University, Wonju, 26339, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Do Chae
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Sangji University, Wonju, 26339, Republic of Korea
| | - Inji Jung
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; BK21 Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Kyu Lee
- New Drug Development Center, Osong Medical Innovation Foundation (Kbiohealth), Chungbuk, 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo Jun Lee
- Department of Marine Biology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Jisun Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; BK21 Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Yejin Gong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Sangji University, Wonju, 26339, Republic of Korea
| | - Dohyun Lee
- New Drug Development Center, Osong Medical Innovation Foundation (Kbiohealth), Chungbuk, 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Byeong-Won Kim
- New Drug Development Center, Osong Medical Innovation Foundation (Kbiohealth), Chungbuk, 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Koo Kim
- Department of Marine Biology, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaehyeon Hwang
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoburo 2066, Suwon, Gyeonggi, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Hyuk Kweon
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoburo 2066, Suwon, Gyeonggi, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Taek Jung
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; BK21 Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jung-Hyun Na
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Sangji University, Wonju, 26339, Republic of Korea.
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Khalid Z, Chen Y, Yu D, Abbas M, Huan M, Naz Z, Mengist HM, Cao MJ, Jin T. IgNAR antibody: Structural features, diversity and applications. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 121:467-477. [PMID: 35077867 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2022.01.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In response to the invasion of exogenous microorganisms, one of the defence strategies of the immune system is to produce antibodies. Cartilaginous fish is among those who evolved the earliest humoral immune system that utilizes immunoglobulin-type antibodies. The cartilaginous fish antibodies fall into three categories: IgW, IgM, and IgNAR. The shark Immunoglobulin Novel Antigen Receptor (IgNAR) constitutes disulfide-bonded dimers of two protein chains, similar to the heavy chain of mammalian IgGs. Shark IgNAR is the primary antibody of a shark's adaptive immune system with a serum concentration of 0.1-1.0 mg/mL. Its structure comprises of one variable (V) domain (VNAR) and five constant (C1 -C5) domains in the secretory form. VNARs are classified into several subclasses based on specific properties such as the quantity and position of additional non-canonical cysteine (Cys) residues in the VNAR. The VDJ recombination in IgNAR comprises various fragments; one variable component, three diverse sections, one joining portion, and a solitary arrangement of constant fragments framed in each IgNAR gene cluster. The re-arrangement happens just inside this gene cluster bringing about a VD1D2D3J segment. Therefore, four re-arrangement procedures create the entire VNAR space. IgNAR antibody can serve as an excellent diagnostic, therapeutic, and research tool because it has a smaller size, high specificity for antigen-binding, and perfect stability. The domain characterization, structural features, types, diversity and therapeutic applications of IgNAR molecules are highlighted in this review. It would be helpful for further research on IgNAR antibodies acting as an essential constituent of the adaptive immune system and a potential therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zunera Khalid
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
| | - Yulei Chen
- College of Ocean Food and Biological Engineering, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Marine Functional Food, Fujian Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Marine Functional Food, Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Exploitation and Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Jimei University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Du Yu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Misbah Abbas
- CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Ma Huan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
| | - Zara Naz
- CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Hylemariam Mihiretie Mengist
- CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Min-Jie Cao
- College of Ocean Food and Biological Engineering, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Marine Functional Food, Fujian Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Marine Functional Food, Fujian Collaborative Innovation Center for Exploitation and Utilization of Marine Biological Resources, Jimei University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
| | - Tengchuan Jin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China; CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, 200031, China.
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Pandey SS, Kovaleva M, Barelle CJ, Ubah OC. Overview, Generation, and Significance of Variable New Antigen Receptors (VNARs) as a Platform for Drug and Diagnostic Development. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2446:19-33. [PMID: 35157267 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2075-5_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The approval of the first VHH-based drug caplacizumab (anti-von Willebrand factor) has validated a two-decade long commitment in time and research effort to realize the clinical potential of single-domain antibodies. The variable domain (VNAR) of the immunoglobulin new antigen receptor (IgNAR) found in sharks provides an alternative small binding domain to conventional monoclonal antibodies and their fragments and heavy-chain antibody-derived VHHs. Evolutionarily distinct from mammalian antibody variable domains, VNARs have enhanced thermostability and unusual convex paratopes. This predisposition to bind cryptic and recessed epitopes has facilitated both the targeting of new antigens and new (neutralizing) epitopes on existing antigens. Together these unique properties position the VNAR platform as an alternative non-antibody binding domain for therapeutic drug, diagnostic and reagent development. In this introductory chapter, we highlight recent VNAR advancements that further underline the exciting potential of this discovery platform.
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Leow HC, Fischer K, Leow YC, Braet K, Cheng Q, McCarthy J. Cytoplasmic and periplasmic expression of recombinant shark VNAR antibody in Escherichia coli. Prep Biochem Biotechnol 2019; 49:315-327. [DOI: 10.1080/10826068.2019.1566145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Herng C. Leow
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Katja Fischer
- Clinical Tropical Medicine Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Yee C. Leow
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Katleen Braet
- Department of Research, BioMARIC, Zwijnaarde, Belgium
| | - Qin Cheng
- Clinical Tropical Medicine Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Department of Drug Resistance Diagnostics, Australian Army Malaria Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - James McCarthy
- Clinical Tropical Medicine Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Matz H, Dooley H. Shark IgNAR-derived binding domains as potential diagnostic and therapeutic agents. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 90:100-107. [PMID: 30236879 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2018.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 08/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Many of the most successful drugs generated in recent years are based upon monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). However, for some therapeutic and diagnostic applications mAbs are far from ideal; for example, while their relatively large size and inherent receptor binding aids their longevity in vivo it can also limit their tissue penetration. Further, their structural complexity makes them expensive to produce and prone to denaturation in non-physiological environments. Thus, researchers have been searching for alternative antigen-binding molecules that can be utilized in situations where mAbs are suboptimal tools. One potential source currently being explored are the shark-derived binding domains known as VNARs. Despite their small size VNARs can bind antigens with high specificity and high affinity. Combined with their propensity to bind epitopes that are inaccessible to conventional mAbs, and their ability to resist denaturation, VNARs are an emerging prospect for use in therapeutic, diagnostic, and biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanover Matz
- Dept. Microbiology & Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Institute of Marine & Environmental Technology (IMET), Baltimore, MD, 21202, USA
| | - Helen Dooley
- Dept. Microbiology & Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Institute of Marine & Environmental Technology (IMET), Baltimore, MD, 21202, USA.
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Next-generation flexible formats of VNAR domains expand the drug platform's utility and developability. Biochem Soc Trans 2018; 46:1559-1565. [PMID: 30381336 DOI: 10.1042/bst20180177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic mAbs have delivered several blockbuster drugs in oncology and autoimmune inflammatory disease. Revenue for mAbs continues to rise, even in the face of competition from a growing portfolio of biosimilars. Despite this success, there are still limitations associated with the use of mAbs as therapeutic molecules. With a molecular mass of 150 kDa, a two-chain structure and complex glycosylation these challenges include a high cost of goods, limited delivery options, and poor solid tumour penetration. There remains an urgency to create alternatives to antibody scaffolds in a bid to circumvent these limitations, while maintaining or improving the therapeutic success of conventional mAb formats. Smaller, less complex binders, with increased domain valency, multi-specific/paratopic targeting, tuneable serum half-life and low inherent immunogenicity are a few of the characteristics being explored by the next generation of biologic molecules. One novel 'antibody-like' binder that has naturally evolved over 450 million years is the variable new antigen receptor (VNAR) identified as a key component of the adaptive immune system of sharks. At only 11 kDa, these single-domain structures are the smallest IgG-like proteins in the animal kingdom and provide an excellent platform for molecular engineering and biologics drug discovery. VNAR attributes include high affinity for target, ease of expression, stability, solubility, multi-specificity, and increased potential for solid tissue penetration. This review article documents the recent drug developmental milestones achieved for therapeutic VNARs and highlights the first reported evidence of the efficacy of these domains in clinically relevant models of disease.
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Leow CH, Fischer K, Leow CY, Braet K, Cheng Q, McCarthy J. Isolation and characterization of malaria PfHRP2 specific V NAR antibody fragments from immunized shark phage display library. Malar J 2018; 17:383. [PMID: 30355309 PMCID: PMC6201582 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-018-2531-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) represent an important antibody based immunoassay platform. Unfortunately, conventional monoclonal antibodies are subject to degradation shortening shelf lives of RDTs. The variable region of the receptor (VNAR) from shark has a potential as alternative to monoclonal antibodies in RDTs due to high thermal stability. METHODS In this study, new binders derived from shark VNAR domains library were investigated. Following immunization of a wobbegong shark (Orectolobus ornatus) with three recombinant malaria biomarker proteins (PfHRP2, PfpLDH and Pvaldolase), a single domain antibody (sdAb) library was constructed from splenocytes. Target-specific VNAR phage were isolated by panning. One specific clone was selected for expression in Escherichia coli expression system, and study of binding reactivity undertaken. RESULTS The primary VNAR domain library possessed a titre of 1.16 × 106 pfu/mL. DNA sequence analysis showed 82.5% of isolated fragments appearing to contain an in-frame sequence. After multiple rounds of biopanning, a highly dominant clone specific to PfHRP2 was identified and selected for protein production in an E. coli expression system. Biological characterization showed the recombinant protein expressed in periplasmic has better detection sensitivity than that of cytoplasmic proteins. Assays of binding activity indicated that its reactivity was inferior to the positive control mAb C1-13. CONCLUSIONS Target-specific bacteriophage VNARs were successfully isolated after a series of immunization, demonstrating that phage display technology is a useful tool for selection of antigen binders. Generation of new binding reagents such as VNAR antibodies that specifically recognize the malaria biomarkers represents an appealing approach to improve the performance of RDTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiuan Herng Leow
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia.
| | - Katja Fischer
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Chiuan Yee Leow
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Katleen Braet
- Department of Research, BioMARIC, Zwijnaarde, Belgium
| | - Qin Cheng
- Australian Army Malaria Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - James McCarthy
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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Könning D, Hinz S, Grzeschik J, Schröter C, Krah S, Zielonka S, Kolmar H. Construction of Histidine-Enriched Shark IgNAR Variable Domain Antibody Libraries for the Isolation of pH-Sensitive vNAR Fragments. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1827:109-127. [PMID: 30196494 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-8648-4_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The adaptive immune system of sharks comprises a heavy chain-only antibody isotype, referred to as immunoglobulin new antigen receptor (IgNAR). Antigen binding in case of IgNAR antibodies is mediated by a single variable domain (vNAR). Due to their inherent beneficial biophysical properties, such as small size and high thermal stability combined with a high specificity and affinity to their target antigens, vNAR domains emerged as promising tools for biotechnological and biomedical applications. Herein, we present detailed protocols for the engineering of pH-sensitivity into IgNAR V domains by constructing histidine-enriched and CDR3-diversified semisynthetic antibody libraries which can then be screened upon using yeast surface display. Protonation or deprotonation of incorporated histidine residues at different pH values results in structural transitions caused by altered electrostatic interactions. These interactions account for an altered binding behavior toward the target antigen. In the following protocol, we describe the generation of a semisynthetic vNAR master library that comprises two histidine residues on average in the 12-residue CDR3 loop. Moreover, once a pH-dependent vNAR population toward the target antigen is identified, this population can further be optimized in terms of affinity and pH sensitivity upon conducting a CDR1-mediated affinity maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doreen Könning
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
- Antibody-Drug Conjugates and Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Steffen Hinz
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Julius Grzeschik
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Christian Schröter
- Antibody-Drug Conjugates and Targeted NBE Therapeutics, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Simon Krah
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
- Protein Engineering and Antibody Technologies, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Stefan Zielonka
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany
- Protein Engineering and Antibody Technologies, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Harald Kolmar
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany.
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Grzeschik J, Könning D, Hinz SC, Krah S, Schröter C, Empting M, Kolmar H, Zielonka S. Generation of Semi-Synthetic Shark IgNAR Single-Domain Antibody Libraries. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1701:147-167. [PMID: 29116504 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7447-4_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Besides classical antibodies with the composition of heavy and light chains, sharks produce a unique heavy chain only isotype, termed Immunoglobulin New Antigen Receptor (IgNAR), in which antigen binding is solely mediated by a single domain, referred to as vNAR. Owing to their high affinity and specificity combined with their small size and high stability, vNAR domains emerged as promising target-binding scaffolds that can be tailor-made for biotechnological and biomedical applications. Herein, we describe protocols for the construction of semi-synthetic, CDR3-randomized vNAR libraries for the isolation of target-specific antibodies using yeast surface display or phage display as platform technology. Additionally, we provide information for affinity maturation of target-specific molecules through CDR1 diversification and sublibrary establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julius Grzeschik
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Strasse 4, D-64287, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Doreen Könning
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Strasse 4, D-64287, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Steffen C Hinz
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Strasse 4, D-64287, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Simon Krah
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Strasse 4, D-64287, Darmstadt, Germany.,Protein Engineering and Antibody Technologies, Merck-Serono, Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Straße 250, D-64293, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Christian Schröter
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Strasse 4, D-64287, Darmstadt, Germany.,Protein Engineering and Antibody Technologies, Merck-Serono, Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Straße 250, D-64293, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Martin Empting
- Department Drug Design and Optimization, Helmholtz-Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Harald Kolmar
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Strasse 4, D-64287, Darmstadt, Germany.
| | - Stefan Zielonka
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Strasse 4, D-64287, Darmstadt, Germany. .,Protein Engineering and Antibody Technologies, Merck-Serono, Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Straße 250, D-64293, Darmstadt, Germany.
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Könning D, Zielonka S, Grzeschik J, Empting M, Valldorf B, Krah S, Schröter C, Sellmann C, Hock B, Kolmar H. Camelid and shark single domain antibodies: structural features and therapeutic potential. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2016; 45:10-16. [PMID: 27865111 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2016.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In addition to canonical antibodies composed of heavy and light chains, the adaptive immune systems of camelids and cartilaginous fish comprise heavy-chain only isotypes (HcAb) devoid of light chains, where antigen-binding is mediated exclusively by one variable domain. Due to their inherent favorable attributes, such as high affinity and specificity for their cognate antigen, extraordinary stability, small size and, most importantly, the possibility to complement classical antibodies in terms of 'drugable' target-space, HcAb-derived entities evolved as promising candidates for biomedical applications of which many have already proven to be successful in early stage clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doreen Könning
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Strasse 4, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Stefan Zielonka
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Strasse 4, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Julius Grzeschik
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Strasse 4, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Martin Empting
- Helmholtz-Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Department Drug Design and Optimization, Saarland University, Campus C2.3, D-66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Bernhard Valldorf
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Strasse 4, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Simon Krah
- Protein Engineering and Antibody Technologies, Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, D-64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Christian Schröter
- Protein Engineering and Antibody Technologies, Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, D-64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Carolin Sellmann
- Protein Engineering and Antibody Technologies, Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, D-64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Björn Hock
- Protein Engineering and Antibody Technologies, Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, D-64293 Darmstadt, Germany.
| | - Harald Kolmar
- Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Technische Universität Darmstadt, Alarich-Weiss-Strasse 4, D-64287 Darmstadt, Germany.
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Krah S, Schröter C, Zielonka S, Empting M, Valldorf B, Kolmar H. Single-domain antibodies for biomedical applications. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2015; 38:21-8. [DOI: 10.3109/08923973.2015.1102934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Zielonka S, Empting M, Grzeschik J, Könning D, Barelle CJ, Kolmar H. Structural insights and biomedical potential of IgNAR scaffolds from sharks. MAbs 2015; 7:15-25. [PMID: 25523873 PMCID: PMC4622739 DOI: 10.4161/19420862.2015.989032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In addition to antibodies with the classical composition of heavy and light chains, the adaptive immune repertoire of sharks also includes a heavy-chain only isotype, where antigen binding is mediated exclusively by a small and highly stable domain, referred to as vNAR. In recent years, due to their high affinity and specificity combined with their small size, high physicochemical stability and low-cost of production, vNAR fragments have evolved as promising target-binding scaffolds that can be tailor-made for applications in medicine and biotechnology. This review highlights the structural features of vNAR molecules, addresses aspects of their generation using immunization or in vitro high throughput screening methods and provides examples of therapeutic, diagnostic and other biotechnological applications.
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Key Words
- CDR, complementarity-determining region
- HV, hypervariable region
- IgNAR
- IgNAR V domain, variable domain of IgNAR
- IgNAR, immunoglobulin new antigen receptor
- VH, variable domain of the heavy chain
- VHH, variable domain of camelid heavy chain antibodies
- VL, variable domain of the light chain
- antibody technology
- biologic therapeutic
- heavy chain antibody
- mAbs, monoclonal antibodies
- scFv, single chain variable fragment
- shark
- single chain binding domain
- vNAR, variable domain of IgNAR
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Zielonka
- a Institute for Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry ; Technische Universität Darmstadt ; Darmstadt , Germany
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VNARs: An Ancient and Unique Repertoire of Molecules That Deliver Small, Soluble, Stable and High Affinity Binders of Proteins. Antibodies (Basel) 2015. [DOI: 10.3390/antib4030240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
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Kovaleva M, Ferguson L, Steven J, Porter A, Barelle C. Shark variable new antigen receptor biologics - a novel technology platform for therapeutic drug development. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2014; 14:1527-39. [PMID: 25090369 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2014.937701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Biologics drugs have succeeded in achieving a commercial dominance in the global market for new therapies and large pharmaceutical companies' interest remains strong through a continued commitment to pipeline development. It is not surprising, therefore, that next-generation biologics, particularly antibody-like scaffolds that offer many of the advantages of the original biologic drugs but in simplified formats, have entered the clinic as competing substitute therapeutic products, to capture market share. AREAS COVERED Specifically, this paper will position shark-derived variable new antigen receptors (VNARs) within an overview of the existing biologics landscape including the growth, diversity and success to date of alternative scaffolds. The intention is not to provide a comprehensive review of biologics as a whole but to discuss the main competing single-domain technologies and the exciting therapeutic potential of VNAR domains as clinical candidates within this context. EXPERT OPINION The inherent ability to specifically bind target and intervene in disease-related biological processes, while reducing off-site toxicity, makes mAbs an effective, potent and now proven class of therapeutics. There are, however, limitations to these 'magic bullets'. Their size and complexity can restrict their utility in certain diseases types and disease locations. In contrast, a number of so-called alternative scaffolds, derived from both immunoglobulin- and non-immunoglobulin-based sources have been developed with real potential to overcome many of the shortcomings documented for mAb treatments. Unlike competing approaches such as Darpins and Affibodies, we now know that shark VNAR domains (like camel VHH nanobody domains), are an integral part of the adaptive immune system of these animals and have evolved naturally (but from very different starting molecules) to exhibit high affinity and selectivity for target. In addition, and again influenced by the environment in which they have evolved naturally, their small size, simple architecture, high solubility and stability, deliver additional flexibility compared to classical antibodies (and many non-natural alternative scaffolds), thereby providing an attractive basis for particular clinical indications where these attributes may offer advantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Kovaleva
- University of Aberdeen, Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Life Sciences and Medicine , Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD , UK +012 2443 8545 ;
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Liu JL, Zabetakis D, Brown JC, Anderson GP, Goldman ER. Thermal stability and refolding capability of shark derived single domain antibodies. Mol Immunol 2014; 59:194-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2014.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2013] [Revised: 02/19/2014] [Accepted: 02/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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