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Wang N, Yu H, Yin J, Yu X. pH-responsive nano-vaccine combined with anti-PD-1 antibodies for enhanced immunotherapy of breast cancer. Theranostics 2025; 15:6022-6043. [PMID: 40365283 PMCID: PMC12068292 DOI: 10.7150/thno.107200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2025] [Indexed: 05/15/2025] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential and underlying mechanisms of a novel pH-responsive nano-vaccine in combination with anti-Programmed Cell Death Protein 1 (PD-1) antibodies for the treatment of breast cancer (BC), with a focus on tumor growth inhibition, metastasis prevention, and immune microenvironment modulation. Methods: A pH-responsive amphiphilic diblock copolymer was synthesized using reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization and conjugated with STING agonist ADU-S100 and mannose to specifically target dendritic cells (DCs). The nano-vaccine was further formulated with antigen peptides and polyethyleneimine (PEI) to enhance antigen delivery. Its particle size, stability, and surface charge were characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential analysis. In vitro, the immunostimulatory capacity of the nano-vaccine was evaluated via flow cytometry (FCM) analysis of DC activation markers. In vivo, mouse immune and tumor recurrence models were used to assess the its effects on T-cell activation, tumor suppression, and immune memory induction. The therapeutic efficacy of nano-vaccine/anti-PD-1 combination therapy was further assessed. Results: The nano-vaccine efficiently activated DCs and promoted antigen presentation, as indicated by increased CD80, CD86, and MHC-II expression in vitro. In mouse models, it effectively inhibited tumor growth, induced antigen-specific T-cell responses, and suppressed recurrent and metastatic tumor progression. The combination with anti-PD-1 antibodies further enhanced tumor control, immune cell infiltration, and survival rates compared to monotherapy. Conclusion: The pH-responsive nano-vaccine combined with anti-PD-1 antibodies showed remarkable synergistic effects in BC treatment, highlighting its potential to enhance immune checkpoint blockade therapy and offer a promising strategy for clinical applications in solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Wang
- Department of Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Hong Yu
- Department of Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Jianqiao Yin
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Xiaopeng Yu
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
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Dehghankhold M, Nezafat N, Farahmandnejad M, Abolmaali SS, Tamaddon AM. Immunoinformatic approach to design an efficient multi-epitope peptide vaccine against melanoma. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2025; 72:164-186. [PMID: 39245893 DOI: 10.1002/bab.2654] [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] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024]
Abstract
Melanoma is known to be the most hazardous and life-threatening type of skin cancer. Although numerous treatments have been authorized in recent years, they often result in severe side effects and may not fully cure the disease. To combat this issue, immunotherapy has emerged as a promising approach for the prevention and treatment of melanoma. Specifically, the use of epitope melanoma vaccine, a subset of immunotherapy, has recently gained attention. The aim of this study was to create a multi-epitope melanoma vaccine using immunoinformatic methods. Two well-known antigens, NYESO-1 and MAGE-C2, were selected due to their strong immunogenicity and high expression in melanoma. To enhance the immunogenicity of the peptide vaccine, Brucella cell-surface protein 31 (BCSP31), the G5 domain of resuscitation-promoting factor B (RpfB) adjuvants, and the helper epitope of pan HLADR-binding epitope (PADRE) were incorporated to vaccine construct. These different segments were connected with suitable linkers and the resulting vaccine structure was evaluated for its physicochemical, structural, and immunological properties using computational tools. The designed vaccine was found to have satisfactory allergenicity, antigenicity, and physicochemical parameters. Additionally, a high-quality tertiary structure of the vaccine was achieved through modeling, refinement, and validation. Docking and molecular dynamics studies showed that the vaccine had a stable and appropriate interaction with the cognate TLR2 and TLR4 receptors during the simulation period. Finally, in silico immune simulation analysis revealed a significant increase in the levels of helper and cytotoxic T cells, as well as the cytokines interferon-gamma and interleukin-2, after repeated exposure to the melanoma vaccine. These results suggest that the designed vaccine has the potential to be an effective therapeutic option for melanoma. However, additional in vitro and in vivo validations are crucial to assess real-world efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahvash Dehghankhold
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Navid Nezafat
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Computational Vaccine and Drug Design Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mitra Farahmandnejad
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Samira Sadat Abolmaali
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology and Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Mohammad Tamaddon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology and Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Chen C, Xu Y, Meng H, Bao H, Hu Y, Li C, Xia D. Nano-Oncologic Vaccine for Boosting Cancer Immunotherapy: The Horizons in Cancer Treatment. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2025; 15:122. [PMID: 39852737 PMCID: PMC11767563 DOI: 10.3390/nano15020122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2024] [Revised: 01/13/2025] [Accepted: 01/14/2025] [Indexed: 01/26/2025]
Abstract
Nano-oncologic vaccines represent a groundbreaking approach in the field of cancer immunotherapy, leveraging the unique advantages of nanotechnology to enhance the effectiveness and specificity of cancer treatments. These vaccines utilize nanoscale carriers to deliver tumor-associated antigens and immunostimulatory adjuvants, facilitating targeted immune activation and promoting robust antitumor responses. By improving antigen presentation and localizing immune activation within the tumor microenvironment, nano-oncologic vaccines can significantly increase the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy, particularly when combined with other treatment modalities. This review highlights the mechanisms through which nano-oncologic vaccines operate, their potential to overcome existing limitations in cancer treatment, and ongoing advancements in design. Additionally, it discusses the targeted delivery approach, such as EPR effects, pH response, ultrasonic response, and magnetic response. The combination therapy effects with photothermal therapy, radiotherapy, or immune checkpoint inhibitors are also discussed. Overall, nano-oncologic vaccines hold great promise for changing the landscape of cancer treatment and advancing personalized medicine, paving the way for more effective therapeutic strategies tailored to individual patient needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Chen
- Institute for Applied Research in Public Health, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China; (C.C.); (Y.X.); (H.M.)
| | - Yue Xu
- Institute for Applied Research in Public Health, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China; (C.C.); (Y.X.); (H.M.)
| | - Hui Meng
- Institute for Applied Research in Public Health, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China; (C.C.); (Y.X.); (H.M.)
| | - Hongyi Bao
- School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China;
| | - Yong Hu
- Nanjing University (Suzhou) High-Tech Institute, Renai Road 150, Suzhou Industrial Park, Suzhou 215123, China;
| | - Chunjian Li
- Center of Forecasting and Analysis, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Donglin Xia
- Institute for Applied Research in Public Health, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China; (C.C.); (Y.X.); (H.M.)
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Elhassan Taha MM, Abdelwahab SI, Moni SS, Farasani A, Aljahdali IA, Oraibi B, Alfaifi HA, Alzahrani AH, Ali Jerah A. Nano-enhanced immunity: A bibliometric analysis of nanoparticles in vaccine adjuvant research. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2427464. [PMID: 39539151 PMCID: PMC11572201 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2427464] [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] [Received: 09/12/2024] [Revised: 10/18/2024] [Accepted: 11/06/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024] Open
Abstract
This study analyzed the growth, collaboration, citation trends, and emerging topics in nanoparticle-based vaccine and adjuvant research (NVAR) from 1977 to 2023, using data from the Scopus database. The field showed a steady growth rate of 7.53% per year. Leading researchers Jaafari, M.R. and Alving, C.R. contributed significantly to the field, with 24.22% of publications and 38.92% of total citations coming from the United States. International collaboration was very strong, particularly between the US, UK, Germany, China, and France. Key research topics include nanoparticles, immunotherapy, COVID-19, and vaccines with a focus on SARS-CoV-2 and malaria. Emerging topics include vaccine adjuvants, mRNA, and neutralizing antibodies. This study emphasizes the importance of ongoing collaboration and interdisciplinary efforts to advance the field of NVAR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sivakumar S. Moni
- Health Research Centre, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Farasani
- Health Research Centre, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- College of Nursing and Health Science, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ieman A. Aljahdali
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bassem Oraibi
- Health Research Centre, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan Ahmad Alfaifi
- Pharmaceutical Care Administration, Ministry of Health, (Jeddah Second Health Cluster), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal Hamdan Alzahrani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Ali Jerah
- College of Nursing and Health Science, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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Yang J, Lv Y, Zhu Y, Song J, Zhu M, Wu C, Fu Y, Zhao W, Zhao Y. Optimizing sheep B-cell epitopes in Echinococcus granulosus recombinant antigen P29 for vaccine development. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1451538. [PMID: 39206186 PMCID: PMC11349700 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1451538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Echinococcus granulosus is a widespread zoonotic parasitic disease, significantly impacting human health and livestock development; however, no vaccine is currently available for humans. Our preliminary studies indicate that recombinant antigen P29 (rEg.P29) is a promising candidate for vaccine. Methods Sheep were immunized with rEg.P29, and venous blood was collected at various time points. Serum was isolated, and the presence of specific antibodies was detected using ELISA. We designed and synthesized a total of 45 B cell monopeptides covering rEg.P29 using the overlap method. ELISA was employed to assess the serum antibodies of the immunized sheep for recognition of these overlapping peptides, leading to the preliminary identification of B cell epitopes. Utilizing these identified epitopes, new single peptides were designed, synthesized, and used to optimize and confirm B-cell epitopes. Results rEg.P29 effectively induces a sustained antibody response in sheep, particularly characterized by high and stable levels of IgG. Eight B-cell epitopes of were identified, which were mainly distributed in three regions of rEg.P29. Finally, three B cell epitopes were identified and optimized: rEg.P2971-90, rEg.P29151-175, and rEg.P29211-235. These optimized epitopes were well recognized by antibodies in sheep and mice, and the efficacy of these three epitopes significantly increased when they were linked in tandem. Conclusion Three B-cell epitopes were identified and optimized, and the efficacy of these epitopes was significantly enhanced by tandem connection, which indicated the feasibility of tandem peptide vaccine research. This laid a solid foundation for the development of epitope peptide vaccine for Echinococcus granulosus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihui Yang
- Center of Scientific Technology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Common Infectious Diseases, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yongxue Lv
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Common Infectious Diseases, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yazhou Zhu
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Common Infectious Diseases, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Jiahui Song
- Center of Scientific Technology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Common Infectious Diseases, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Mingxing Zhu
- Center of Scientific Technology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Common Infectious Diseases, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Changyou Wu
- Institute of Immunology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong Fu
- Qinghai Academy of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Center of Scientific Technology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Common Infectious Diseases, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Yinqi Zhao
- Center of Scientific Technology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Ningxia Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Common Infectious Diseases, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
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Souto EB, Blanco-Llamero C, Krambeck K, Kiran NS, Yashaswini C, Postwala H, Severino P, Priefer R, Prajapati BG, Maheshwari R. Regulatory insights into nanomedicine and gene vaccine innovation: Safety assessment, challenges, and regulatory perspectives. Acta Biomater 2024; 180:1-17. [PMID: 38604468 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2024.04.010] [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] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
This analysis explores the principal regulatory concerns linked to nanomedicines and gene vaccines, including the complexities involved and the perspectives on how to navigate them. In the realm of nanomedicines, ensuring the safety of nanomaterials is paramount due to their unique characteristics and potential interactions with biological systems. Regulatory bodies are actively formulating guidelines and standards to assess the safety and risks associated with nanomedicine products, emphasizing the need for standardized characterization techniques to accurately gauge their safety and effectiveness. Regarding gene vaccines, regulatory frameworks must be tailored to address the distinct challenges posed by genetic interventions, necessitating special considerations in safety and efficacy evaluations, particularly concerning vector design, target specificity, and long-term patient monitoring. Ethical concerns such as patient autonomy, informed consent, and privacy also demand careful attention, alongside the intricate matter of intellectual property rights, which must be balanced against the imperative of ensuring widespread access to these life-saving treatments. Collaborative efforts among regulatory bodies, researchers, patent offices, and the private sector are essential to tackle these challenges effectively, with international cooperation being especially crucial given the global scope of nanomedicine and genetic vaccine development. Striking the right balance between safeguarding intellectual properties and promoting public health is vital for fostering innovation and ensuring equitable access to these ground-breaking technologies, underscoring the significance of addressing these regulatory hurdles to fully harness the potential benefits of nanomedicine and gene vaccines for enhancing healthcare outcomes on a global scale. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Several biomaterials are being proposed for the development of nanovaccines, from polymeric micelles, PLGA-/PEI-/PLL-nanoparticles, solid lipid nananoparticles, cationic lipoplexes, liposomes, hybrid materials, dendrimers, carbon nanotubes, hydrogels, to quantum dots. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have gained tremendous attention since the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of Pfizer and Moderna's COVID-19 vaccines, raising public awareness to the regulatory challenges associated with nanomedicines and genetic vaccines. This review provides insights into the current perspectives and potential strategies for addressing these issues, including clinical trials. By navigating these regulatory landscapes effectively, we can unlock the full potential of nanomedicine and genetic vaccines using a range of promising biomaterials towards improving healthcare outcomes worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliana B Souto
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Cristina Blanco-Llamero
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria (UFV), Ctra. Pozuelo-Majadahonda Km 1,800, 28223, Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Karolline Krambeck
- Health Sciences School, Guarda Polytechnic Institute, Rua da Cadeia, 6300-035 Guarda, Portugal
| | | | - Chandrashekar Yashaswini
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Applied Sciences, REVA University, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Humzah Postwala
- L. M. College of Pharmacy, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Patricia Severino
- Institute of Research and Technology, University Tiradentes, Av. Murilo Dantas 300, Aracaju 49032-490, Sergipe, Brazil; Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ronny Priefer
- Institute of Research and Technology, University Tiradentes, Av. Murilo Dantas 300, Aracaju 49032-490, Sergipe, Brazil
| | - Bhupendra Gopalbhai Prajapati
- Shree. S. K. Patel College of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Ganpat University, Kherva, Gujarat 384012, India
| | - Rahul Maheshwari
- School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) Deemed-to-University, Jadcherla, Hyderabad 509301, India
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