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Kord E, Roohvand F, Dubuisson J, Vausselin T, Nasr Azadani H, Keshavarz A, Nejati A, Samimi-Rad K. BacMam virus-based surface display for HCV E2 glycoprotein induces strong cross-neutralizing antibodies and cellular immune responses in vaccinated mice. Infect Agent Cancer 2021; 16:69. [PMID: 34922563 PMCID: PMC8684228 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-021-00407-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite recent advancements, limitations in the treatment and control of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection reprioritized the studies for invention of an efficient HCV vaccine to elicit strong neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) and cellular responses. Methods Herein, we report molecular construction of a BacMam virus-based surface display for a subtype-1a HCV gpE2 (Bac-CMV-E2-gp64; Bac) that both expressed and displayed gpE2 in mammalian cells and bacouloviral envelope, respectively. Results Assessments by western blotting, Immunofluorescence and Immunogold-electron microscopy indicated the proper expression and incorporation in insect cell and baculovirus envelope, respectively. Mice immunized in three different prime-boost immunization groups of: Bac/Bac, Bac/Pro (bacoulovirus-derived gpE2) and Bac/DNA (plasmid DNA (pCDNA)-encoding gpE2) developed high levels of IgG and IFN-γ (highest for Bac/Bac group) indicating the induction of both humeral and cellular immune responses. Calculation of the IgG2a/IgG1 and IFN-γ/IL-4 ratios indicated a Th1 polarization of immune responses in the Bac/Bac and Bac/DNA groups but a balanced Th1-Th2 phenotype in the Bac/Pro group. Sera of the mice in the Bac/Bac group provided the highest percentage of cross-NAbs against a subtype-2a HCVcc (JFH1) compared to Bac/Pro and Bac/DNA groups (62% versus 41% and 6%). Conclusions Results indicated that BacMam virus-based surface display for gpE2 might act as both subunit and DNA vaccine and offers a promising strategy for development of HCV vaccine for concurrent induction of strong humoral and cellular immune responses. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13027-021-00407-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebrahim Kord
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Enqelab Square, P.O. Box 1417613151, Tehran, Iran.,Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Resistant Tuberculosis Institute, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Farzin Roohvand
- Department of Virology, Pasteur Institute of Iran (IPI), No. 69, Pasteur Ave, P.O. Box 1316943551, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jean Dubuisson
- CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Batiment, IBL, CS50477, Molecular & Cellular Virology, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, University Lille, 59021, Lille Cedex, France
| | - Thibaut Vausselin
- CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Batiment, IBL, CS50477, Molecular & Cellular Virology, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, University Lille, 59021, Lille Cedex, France
| | - Hosein Nasr Azadani
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Enqelab Square, P.O. Box 1417613151, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Keshavarz
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Enqelab Square, P.O. Box 1417613151, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Nejati
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Enqelab Square, P.O. Box 1417613151, Tehran, Iran
| | - Katayoun Samimi-Rad
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Enqelab Square, P.O. Box 1417613151, Tehran, Iran.
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Masavuli MG, Wijesundara DK, Underwood A, Christiansen D, Earnest-Silveira L, Bull R, Torresi J, Gowans EJ, Grubor-Bauk B. A Hepatitis C Virus DNA Vaccine Encoding a Secreted, Oligomerized Form of Envelope Proteins Is Highly Immunogenic and Elicits Neutralizing Antibodies in Vaccinated Mice. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1145. [PMID: 31178869 PMCID: PMC6543710 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) persistently infects approximately 71 million people globally. To prevent infection a vaccine which elicits neutralizing antibodies against the virus envelope proteins (E1/E2) which are required for entry into host cells is desirable. DNA vaccines are cost-effective to manufacture globally and despite recent landmark studies highlighting the therapeutic efficacy of DNA vaccines in humans against cervical cancer, DNA vaccines encoding E1/E2 developed thus far are poorly immunogenic. We now report a novel and highly immunogenic DNA vaccination strategy that incorporates secreted E1 and E2 (sE1 and sE2) into oligomers by fusion with the oligomerization domain of the C4b-binding protein, IMX313P. The FDA approved plasmid, pVax, was used to encode sE1, sE2, or sE1E2 with or without IMX313P, and intradermal prime-boost vaccination studies in BALB/c mice showed that vaccines encoding IMX313P were the most effective in eliciting humoral and cell-mediated immunity against the envelope proteins. Further boosting with recombinant E1E2 proteins but not DNA nor virus-like particles (VLPs) expressing E1E2 increased the immunogenicity of the DNA prime-boost regimen. Nevertheless, the antibodies generated by the homologous DNA prime-boost vaccinations more effectively inhibited the binding of VLPs to target cells and neutralized transduction with HCV pseudoparticles (HCVpp) derived from different genotypes including genotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This report provides the first evidence that IMX313P can be used as an adjuvant for E1/E2-based DNA vaccines and represents a translatable approach for the development of a HCV DNA vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makutiro Ghislain Masavuli
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Medicine, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Danushka K Wijesundara
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Medicine, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Alexander Underwood
- Faculty of Medicine, The Kirby Institute, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Dale Christiansen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Linda Earnest-Silveira
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Rowena Bull
- Faculty of Medicine, The Kirby Institute, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Joseph Torresi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Eric J Gowans
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Medicine, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Branka Grubor-Bauk
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Medicine, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Abstract
In spite of the immense progress in hepatitis C virus (HCV) research, efforts to prevent infection, such as generating a vaccine, have not yet been successful. The high price tag associated with current treatment options for chronic infection and the spike in new infections concurrent with growing opioid abuse are strong motivators for developing effective immunization and understanding neutralizing antibodies' role in preventing infection. Humanized mice-both human liver chimeras as well as genetically humanized models-are important platforms for testing both possible vaccine candidates as well as antibody-based therapies. This chapter details the variety of ways humanized mouse technology can be employed in pursuit of learning how HCV infection can be prevented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna M Gaska
- Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Qiang Ding
- Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Alexander Ploss
- Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
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Sánchez-Sampedro L, Perdiguero B, Mejías-Pérez E, García-Arriaza J, Di Pilato M, Esteban M. The evolution of poxvirus vaccines. Viruses 2015; 7:1726-803. [PMID: 25853483 PMCID: PMC4411676 DOI: 10.3390/v7041726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/27/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
After Edward Jenner established human vaccination over 200 years ago, attenuated poxviruses became key players to contain the deadliest virus of its own family: Variola virus (VARV), the causative agent of smallpox. Cowpox virus (CPXV) and horsepox virus (HSPV) were extensively used to this end, passaged in cattle and humans until the appearance of vaccinia virus (VACV), which was used in the final campaigns aimed to eradicate the disease, an endeavor that was accomplished by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1980. Ever since, naturally evolved strains used for vaccination were introduced into research laboratories where VACV and other poxviruses with improved safety profiles were generated. Recombinant DNA technology along with the DNA genome features of this virus family allowed the generation of vaccines against heterologous diseases, and the specific insertion and deletion of poxvirus genes generated an even broader spectrum of modified viruses with new properties that increase their immunogenicity and safety profile as vaccine vectors. In this review, we highlight the evolution of poxvirus vaccines, from first generation to the current status, pointing out how different vaccines have emerged and approaches that are being followed up in the development of more rational vaccines against a wide range of diseases.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- History, 18th Century
- History, 19th Century
- History, 20th Century
- History, 21st Century
- Humans
- Poxviridae/immunology
- Poxviridae/isolation & purification
- Smallpox/prevention & control
- Smallpox Vaccine/history
- Smallpox Vaccine/immunology
- Smallpox Vaccine/isolation & purification
- Vaccines, Attenuated/history
- Vaccines, Attenuated/immunology
- Vaccines, Attenuated/isolation & purification
- Vaccines, Synthetic/history
- Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology
- Vaccines, Synthetic/isolation & purification
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Sánchez-Sampedro
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid-28049, Spain.
| | - Beatriz Perdiguero
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid-28049, Spain.
| | - Ernesto Mejías-Pérez
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid-28049, Spain
| | - Juan García-Arriaza
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid-28049, Spain
| | - Mauro Di Pilato
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid-28049, Spain.
| | - Mariano Esteban
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid-28049, Spain.
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High, broad, polyfunctional, and durable T cell immune responses induced in mice by a novel hepatitis C virus (HCV) vaccine candidate (MVA-HCV) based on modified vaccinia virus Ankara expressing the nearly full-length HCV genome. J Virol 2013; 87:7282-300. [PMID: 23596307 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.03246-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A major goal in the control of hepatitis C infection is the development of a vaccine. Here, we have developed a novel HCV vaccine candidate based on the highly attenuated poxvirus vector MVA (referred to as MVA-HCV) expressing the nearly full-length (7.9-kbp) HCV sequence, with the aim to target almost all of the T and B cell determinants described for HCV. In infected cells, MVA-HCV produces a polyprotein that is subsequently processed into the structural and nonstructural HCV proteins, triggering the cytoplasmic accumulation of dense membrane aggregates. In both C57BL/6 and transgenic HLA-A2-vaccinated mice, MVA-HCV induced high, broad, polyfunctional, and long-lasting HCV-specific T cell immune responses. The vaccine-induced T cell response was mainly mediated by CD8 T cells; however, although lower in magnitude, the CD4(+) T cells were highly polyfunctional. In homologous protocol (MVA-HCV/MVA-HCV) the main CD8(+) T cell target was p7+NS2, whereas in heterologous combination (DNA-HCV/MVA-HCV) the main target was NS3. Antigenic responses were also detected against other HCV proteins (Core, E1-E2, and NS4), but the magnitude of the responses was dependent on the protocol used. The majority of the HCV-induced CD8(+) T cells were triple or quadruple cytokine producers. The MVA-HCV vaccine induced memory CD8(+) T cell responses with an effector memory phenotype. Overall, our data showed that MVA-HCV induced broad, highly polyfunctional, and durable T cell responses of a magnitude and quality that might be associated with protective immunity and open the path for future considerations of MVA-HCV as a prophylactic and/or therapeutic vaccine candidate against HCV.
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Reyes-del Valle J, de la Fuente C, Turner MA, Springfeld C, Apte-Sengupta S, Frenzke ME, Forest A, Whidby J, Marcotrigiano J, Rice CM, Cattaneo R. Broadly neutralizing immune responses against hepatitis C virus induced by vectored measles viruses and a recombinant envelope protein booster. J Virol 2012; 86:11558-66. [PMID: 22896607 PMCID: PMC3486281 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01776-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2012] [Accepted: 08/06/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains a serious public health problem worldwide. Treatments are limited, and no preventive vaccine is available. Toward developing an HCV vaccine, we engineered two recombinant measles viruses (MVs) expressing structural proteins from the prototypic HCV subtype 1a strain H77. One virus directs the synthesis of the HCV capsid (C) protein and envelope glycoproteins (E1 and E2), which fold properly and form a heterodimer. The other virus expresses the E1 and E2 glycoproteins separately, with each one fused to the cytoplasmic tail of the MV fusion protein. Although these hybrid glycoproteins were transported to the plasma membrane, they were not incorporated into MV particles. Immunization of MV-susceptible, genetically modified mice with either vector induced neutralizing antibodies to MV and HCV. A boost with soluble E2 protein enhanced titers of neutralizing antibody against the homologous HCV envelope. In animals primed with MV expressing properly folded HCV C-E1-E2, boosting also induced cross-neutralizating antibodies against two heterologous HCV strains. These results show that recombinant MVs retain the ability to induce MV-specific humoral immunity while also eliciting HCV neutralizing antibodies, and that anti-HCV immunity can be boosted with a single dose of purified E2 protein. The use of MV vectors could have advantages for pediatric HCV vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Reyes-del Valle
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Virology and Gene Therapy Track, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Cynthia de la Fuente
- Laboratory of Virology and Infectious Diseases, Center for the Study of Hepatitis C, Rockefeller University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Mallory A. Turner
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Virology and Gene Therapy Track, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Christoph Springfeld
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Virology and Gene Therapy Track, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Swapna Apte-Sengupta
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Virology and Gene Therapy Track, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Marie E. Frenzke
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Virology and Gene Therapy Track, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Amelie Forest
- Laboratory of Virology and Infectious Diseases, Center for the Study of Hepatitis C, Rockefeller University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jillian Whidby
- Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Joseph Marcotrigiano
- Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Charles M. Rice
- Laboratory of Virology and Infectious Diseases, Center for the Study of Hepatitis C, Rockefeller University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Roberto Cattaneo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Virology and Gene Therapy Track, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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Roohvand F, Kossari N. Advances in hepatitis C virus vaccines, part two: advances in hepatitis C virus vaccine formulations and modalities. Expert Opin Ther Pat 2012; 22:391-415. [PMID: 22455502 DOI: 10.1517/13543776.2012.673589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Developing a vaccine against HCV is an important medical and global priority. Unavailability and potential dangers associated with using attenuated HCV viral particles for vaccine preparation have resulted in the use of HCV genes and proteins formulated in novel vaccine modalities. AREAS COVERED In part one of this review, advances in basic knowledge for HCV vaccine design were provided. Herein, a detailed and correlated patents (searched by Espacenet) and literatures (searched by Pubmed) review on HCV vaccine formulations and modalities is provided, including: subunit, DNA, epitopic-peptide/polytopic, live vector- and whole yeast-based vaccines. Less-touched areas in vaccine studies such as mucosal, plant-based, and chimeric HBV/HCV vaccines are also discussed. Furthermore, results of preclinical/clinical studies on selected HCV vaccines as well as pros and cons of different strategies are reviewed. Finally, potential strategies for creation and/or improvement of HCV vaccine formulations are discussed. EXPERT OPINION Promising outcomes of a few HCV vaccine modalities in phase I/II clinical trials predict the accessibility of at least partially effective vaccines to inhibit or treat the chronic state of HCV infection (specially in combination with standard antiviral therapy). ChronVac-C (plasmid DNA), TG4040 (MVA-based), and GI-5005 (whole yeast-based) might be the most obvious HCV vaccine candidates to be approved in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzin Roohvand
- Hepatitis & AIDS Department, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
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Wen B, Deng Y, Guan J, Yan W, Wang Y, Tan W, Gao J. Signal peptide replacements enhance expression and secretion of hepatitis C virus envelope glycoproteins. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2011; 43:96-102. [PMID: 21196448 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmq117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
A large number of researches focused on glycoproteins E1 and E2 of hepatitis C virus (HCV) aimed at the development of anti-HCV vaccines and inhibitors. Enhancement of E1/E2 expression and secretion is critical for the characterization of these glycoproteins and thus for subunit vaccine development. In this study, we designed and synthesized three signal peptide sequences based on online programs SignalP, TargetP, and PSORT, then removed and replaced the signal peptide preceding E1/E2 by overlapping the polymerase chain reaction method. We assessed the effect of this alteration on E1/E2 expression and secretion in mammalian cells, using western blot analysis, dot blot, and Galanthus nivalis agglutinin lectin capture enzyme immunoassay. Replacing the peptides preceding E1 and E2 with the signal peptides of the tissue plasminogen activator and Gaussia luciferase resulted in maximum enhancement of E1/E2 expression and secretion of E1 in mammalian cells, without altering glycosylation. Such an advance would help to facilitate both the research of E1/E2 biology and the development of an effective HCV subunit vaccine. The strategy used in this study could be applied to the expression and production of other glycoproteins in mammalian cell line-based systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Wen
- Wenzhou Medical College, Wenzhou, China
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Bailey J. An assessment of the use of chimpanzees in hepatitis C research past, present and future: 1. Validity of the chimpanzee model. Altern Lab Anim 2011; 38:387-418. [PMID: 21105756 DOI: 10.1177/026119291003800501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The USA is the only significant user of chimpanzees in biomedical research in the world, since many countries have banned or limited the practice due to substantial ethical, economic and scientific concerns. Advocates of chimpanzee use cite hepatitis C research as a major reason for its necessity and continuation, in spite of supporting evidence that is scant and often anecdotal. This paper examines the scientific and ethical issues surrounding chimpanzee hepatitis C research, and concludes that claims of the necessity of chimpanzees in historical and future hepatitis C research are exaggerated and unjustifiable, respectively. The chimpanzee model has several major scientific, ethical, economic and practical caveats. It has made a relatively negligible contribution to knowledge of, and tangible progress against, the hepatitis C virus compared to non-chimpanzee research, and must be considered scientifically redundant, given the array of alternative methods of inquiry now available. The continuation of chimpanzee use in hepatitis C research adversely affects scientific progress, as well as chimpanzees and humans in need of treatment. Unfounded claims of its necessity should not discourage changes in public policy regarding the use of chimpanzees in US laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarrod Bailey
- New England Anti-Vivisection Society, Boston, MA 02108-5100, USA.
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El-Awady MK, Tabll AA, Yousif H, El-Abd Y, Reda M, Khalil SB, El-Zayadi AR, Shaker MH, Bader El Din NG. Murine neutralizing antibody response and toxicity to synthetic peptides derived from E1 and E2 proteins of hepatitis C virus. Vaccine 2010; 28:8338-44. [PMID: 19995542 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2009.11.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2009] [Revised: 11/19/2009] [Accepted: 11/20/2009] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The highest estimated prevalence of HCV infection has been reported in Egypt, nearly 12% mostly type 4. Currently, a commercial vaccine to protect this high risk population as well as global HCV infected patients is not available. OBJECTIVES In the present study, we aim at: (1) examining the viral binding capacities of purified monospecific polyclonal murine antibodies raised against genetically conserved viral protein sequences, i.e. synthetic peptides derived from those sequences located within envelope proteins and (2) assessment of immunogenic properties and safety parameters of those peptides individually and in a vaccine format in mice. METHODS Purified IgG Abs from immunized mice were used in immunocapture RT-PCR experiments to test viral neutralization by Abs raised against each of 4 peptides termed p35 (E1), p36 (E2), p37 (E2) and p38 (E2). Swiss mice were immunized with each of the 3 peptides (p35, p37 and p38) which generated neutralizing antibodies in immunocapture experiments. Antibody responses to corresponding peptides were determined using different routes of administration, different adjuvants, different doses and at different time points post-injection. To explore the dose range for future pharmacological studies, three doses namely 50 ng, 10 μg and 50 μg/25 gm mouse body weight were tested for biochemical and histopathological changes in several organs. RESULTS Murine Abs against p35, p37 and p38 but not p36 showed HCV neutralization in immunocapture experiments. Subcutaneous injection of peptides elicited higher responses than i.m. and i.p. Immunization with Multiple Antigenic Peptide (MAP) form or coupled to Al PO4 elicited the highest Ab responses. Peptide doses of 50 ng/25 gm body weight or less were effective and safe, however dose assessment still requires further study. Histopathological changes were observed in animals that received doses ∼1000 times higher than the potential therapeutic dose. CONCLUSION Exploration of humoral immunogenicity, neutralization capacity and safety suggested that the peptides presented herein are candidate vaccine components for further preclinical assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa K El-Awady
- Biomedical Technology Department, National Research Center, Tahrir Street 12622, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt.
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11
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Major ME. Prophylactic and Therapeutic Vaccination against Hepatitis C Virus (HCV): Developments and Future Perspectives. Viruses 2009; 1:144-65. [PMID: 21994543 PMCID: PMC3185488 DOI: 10.3390/v1020144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2009] [Revised: 07/25/2009] [Accepted: 08/11/2009] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies in patients and chimpanzees that spontaneously clear Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) have demonstrated that natural immunity to the virus is induced during primary infections and that this immunity can be cross protective. These discoveries led to optimism regarding prophylactic HCV vaccines and a number of studies in the chimpanzee model have been performed, all of which resulted in modified infections after challenge but did not always prevent persistence of the virus. Therapeutic vaccine strategies have also been pursued in an effort to reduce the costs and side effects associated with anti-viral drug treatment. This review summarizes the studies performed thus far in both patients and chimpanzees for prophylactic and therapeutic vaccination, assesses the progress made and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marian E Major
- Division of Viral Products, Center for Biologics, Food and Drug Administration, Bldg29A/Rm1D10, 8800 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA; E-mail: ; Tel.: +1-301-827-1881
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El-Awady MK, Tabll AA, El-Abd YS, Yousif H, Hegab M, Reda M, El Shenawy R, Moustafa RI, Degheidy N, El Din NGB. Conserved peptides within the E2 region of Hepatitis C virus induce humoral and cellular responses in goats. Virol J 2009. [PMID: 19473491 DOI: 10.1186/1743-422x-6-66.] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The reason(s) why human antibodies raised against hepatitis C virus (HCV) E2 epitopes do not offer protection against multiple viral infections may be related to either genetic variations among viral strains particularly within the hypervariable region-1 (HVR-1), low titers of anti E2 antibodies or interference of non neutralizing antibodies with the function of neutralizing antibodies. This study was designed to assess the immunogenic properties of genetically conserved peptides derived from the C-terminal region of HVR-1 as potential therapeutic and/or prophylactic vaccines against HCV infection. Goats immunized with E2-conserved synthetic peptides termed p36 (a.a 430-446), p37(a.a 517-531) and p38 (a.a 412-419) generated high titers of anti-p36, anti-p37 and anti-P38 antibody responses of which only anti- p37 and anti- p38 were neutralizing to HCV particles in sera from patients infected predominantly with genotype 4a. On the other hand anti-p36 exhibited weak viral neutralization capacity on the same samples. Animals super-immunized with single epitopes generated 2 to 4.5 fold higher titers than similar antibodies produced in chronic HCV patients. Also the studied peptides elicited approximately 3 fold increase in cell proliferation of specific antibody-secreting peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from immunized goats. These results indicate that, besides E1 derived peptide p35 (a.a 315-323) described previously by this laboratory, E2 conserved peptides p37 and p38 represent essential components of a candidate peptide vaccine against HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa K El-Awady
- Department of Biomedical Technology, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt.
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El-Awady MK, Tabll AA, El-Abd YS, Yousif H, Hegab M, Reda M, El Shenawy R, Moustafa RI, Degheidy N, El Din NGB. Conserved peptides within the E2 region of Hepatitis C virus induce humoral and cellular responses in goats. Virol J 2009; 6:66. [PMID: 19473491 PMCID: PMC2694788 DOI: 10.1186/1743-422x-6-66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2009] [Accepted: 05/27/2009] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The reason(s) why human antibodies raised against hepatitis C virus (HCV) E2 epitopes do not offer protection against multiple viral infections may be related to either genetic variations among viral strains particularly within the hypervariable region-1 (HVR-1), low titers of anti E2 antibodies or interference of non neutralizing antibodies with the function of neutralizing antibodies. This study was designed to assess the immunogenic properties of genetically conserved peptides derived from the C-terminal region of HVR-1 as potential therapeutic and/or prophylactic vaccines against HCV infection. Goats immunized with E2-conserved synthetic peptides termed p36 (a.a 430-446), p37(a.a 517-531) and p38 (a.a 412-419) generated high titers of anti-p36, anti-p37 and anti-P38 antibody responses of which only anti- p37 and anti- p38 were neutralizing to HCV particles in sera from patients infected predominantly with genotype 4a. On the other hand anti-p36 exhibited weak viral neutralization capacity on the same samples. Animals super-immunized with single epitopes generated 2 to 4.5 fold higher titers than similar antibodies produced in chronic HCV patients. Also the studied peptides elicited approximately 3 fold increase in cell proliferation of specific antibody-secreting peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from immunized goats. These results indicate that, besides E1 derived peptide p35 (a.a 315-323) described previously by this laboratory, E2 conserved peptides p37 and p38 represent essential components of a candidate peptide vaccine against HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa K El-Awady
- Department of Biomedical Technology, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ashraf A Tabll
- Department of Biomedical Technology, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Yasmine S El-Abd
- Department of Biomedical Technology, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Hassan Yousif
- Department of Biomedical Technology, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohsen Hegab
- Department of Biomedical Technology, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Reda
- Department of Biomedical Technology, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Reem El Shenawy
- Department of Biomedical Technology, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Rehab I Moustafa
- Department of Biomedical Technology, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Nabila Degheidy
- Parasitology and Animal Diseases Department, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
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Evidence for protection against chronic hepatitis C virus infection in chimpanzees by immunization with replicating recombinant vaccinia virus. J Virol 2008; 82:10896-905. [PMID: 18753204 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01179-08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Given the failures of nonreplicating vaccines against chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, we hypothesized that a replicating viral vector may provide protective immunity. Four chimpanzees were immunized transdermally twice with recombinant vaccinia viruses (rVV) expressing HCV genes. After challenge with 24 50% chimpanzee infective doses of homologous HCV, the two control animals that had received only the parental VV developed chronic HCV infection. All four immunized animals resolved HCV infection. The difference in the rate of chronicity between the immunized and the control animals was close to statistical significance (P = 0.067). Immunized animals developed vigorous gamma interferon enzyme-linked immunospot responses and moderate proliferative responses. To investigate cross-genotype protection, the immunized recovered chimpanzees were challenged with a pool of six major HCV genotypes. During the acute phase after the multigenotype challenge, all animals had high-titer viremia in which genotype 4 dominated (87%), followed by genotype 5 (13%). However, after fluctuating low-level viremia, the viremia finally turned negative or persisted at very low levels. This study suggests the potential efficacy of replicating recombinant vaccinia virus-based immunization against chronic HCV infection.
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16
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Hepatitis C virus envelope glycoprotein immunization of rodents elicits cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies. Vaccine 2007; 25:7773-84. [PMID: 17919789 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2007.08.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2007] [Revised: 08/14/2007] [Accepted: 08/26/2007] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Neutralizing antibody responses elicited during infection generally confer protection from infection. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) encodes two glycoproteins E1 and E2 that are essential for virus entry and are the major target for neutralizing antibodies. To assess whether both glycoproteins are required for the generation of a neutralizing antibody response, rodents were immunized with a series of glycoproteins comprising full length and truncated versions. Guinea pigs immunized with HCV-1 genotype 1a E1E2p7, E1E2 or E2 generated high titer anti-glycoprotein antibody responses that neutralized the infectivity of HCVpp and HCVcc expressing gps of the same genotype as the immunizing antigen. Less potent neutralization of viruses bearing the genotype 2 strain J6 gps was observed. In contrast, immunized mice demonstrated reduced anti-gp antibody responses, consistent with their minimal neutralizing activity. Immunization with E2 alone was sufficient to induce a high titer response that neutralized HCV pseudoparticles (HCVpp) bearing diverse glycoproteins and cell culture grown HCV (HCVcc). The neutralization titer was reduced 3-fold by the presence of lipoproteins in human sera. Cross-competition of the guinea pig anti-E1E2 immune sera with a panel of epitope mapped anti-E2 monoclonal antibodies for binding E2 identified a series of epitopes within the N-terminal domain that may be immunogenic in the immunized rodents. These data demonstrate that recombinant E2 and E1E2 can induce polyclonal antibody responses with cross-reactive neutralizing activity, supporting the future development of prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines.
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Fournillier A, Gerossier E, Evlashev A, Schmitt D, Simon B, Chatel L, Martin P, Silvestre N, Balloul JM, Barry R, Inchauspé G. An accelerated vaccine schedule with a poly-antigenic hepatitis C virus MVA-based candidate vaccine induces potent, long lasting and in vivo cross-reactive T cell responses. Vaccine 2007; 25:7339-53. [PMID: 17875349 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2007.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2007] [Revised: 07/31/2007] [Accepted: 08/09/2007] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We designed and evaluated in HLA-class I transgenic mouse models a hepatitis C virus (HCV) T cell-based MVA vectored vaccine expressing three viral antigens known to be targets of potent CD8+- and CD4+-mediated responses. An accelerated (3 week-based) vaccination induced specific CD8+ T cells harboring two effector functions (cytolytic activity - both in vitro and in vivo- and production of IFNgamma) as well as specific CD4+ T cells recognizing all three vaccine antigens. Responses were long lasting (6 months), boostable by a fourth MVA vaccination and in vivo cross-reactive as demonstrated in a surrogate Listeria-based challenge assay. This candidate vaccine has now moved into clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Fournillier
- Transgene S.A., Site AFSSA, 31 avenue Tony Garnier, 69364 Lyon Cédex 07, France.
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18
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Wintermeyer P, Wands JR. Vaccines to prevent chronic hepatitis C virus infection: current experimental and preclinical developments. J Gastroenterol 2007; 42:424-32. [PMID: 17671756 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-007-2057-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2007] [Accepted: 03/07/2007] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Philip Wintermeyer
- The Liver Research Center, Rhode Island Hospital and The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
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Li YP, Kang HN, Babiuk LA, Liu Q. Elicitation of strong immune responses by a DNA vaccine expressing a secreted form of hepatitis C virus envelope protein E2 in murine and porcine animal models. World J Gastroenterol 2006; 12:7126-35. [PMID: 17131474 PMCID: PMC4087773 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v12.i44.7126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To characterize the immunogenicity of a hepatitis C virus (HCV) E2 DNA vaccine alone or with a protein vaccine boost in murine and porcine animal models.
METHODS: A DNA vaccine expressing a secreted form of HCV E2 protein was constructed and used to vaccinate mice and piglets with or without boosting with a recombinant E2 protein vaccine formulated with CpG ODN and 10% Emulsigen. The immunogenicity of HCV E2 vaccines was analyzed by ELISA for antibody responses, MTT assay for lymphocyte proliferation, ELISPOT for the number of interferon-γ secreting cells, and cytotoxic T lymphocyte assays.
RESULTS: Intradermal injection of E2 DNA vaccine induced strong Th1-like immune responses in mice. In piglets, E2 DNA vaccine elicited moderate and more balanced immune responses. A DNA vaccine prime and protein boost vaccination strategy induced significantly higher E2-specific antibody levels and shifted the immune response towards Th2-like ones in piglets.
CONCLUSION: A DNA vaccine expressing a secreted form of HCV E2 protein elicited E2-specific immune responses in mice and piglets. Recombinant E2 protein vaccination following DNA immunization significantly increased the antibody response in piglets. These HCV E2 vaccines may represent promising hepatitis C vaccine candidates for further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ping Li
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization, University of Saskatchewan, 120 Veterinary Road, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5E3, Canada
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Gonzalez-Aseguinolaza G, Crettaz J, Ochoa L, Otano I, Aldabe R, Paneda A. Gene therapy for viral hepatitis. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2006; 6:1263-78. [PMID: 17223736 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.6.12.1263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B and C infections are two of the most prevalent viral diseases in the world. Existing therapies against chronic viral hepatitis are far from satisfactory due to low response rates, undesirable side effects and selection of resistant viral strains. Therefore, new therapeutic approaches are urgently needed. This review, after briefly summarising the in vitro and in vivo systems for the study of both diseases and the genetic vehicles commonly used for liver gene transfer, examines the existing status of gene therapy-based antiviral strategies that have been employed to prevent, eliminate or reduce viral infection. In particular, the authors focus on the results obtained in clinical trials and experimental clinically relevant animal models.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Disease Models, Animal
- Genetic Therapy/methods
- Genetic Therapy/trends
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/genetics
- Hepatitis B, Chronic/prevention & control
- Hepatitis C, Chronic/genetics
- Hepatitis C, Chronic/prevention & control
- Hepatitis, Viral, Animal/genetics
- Hepatitis, Viral, Animal/prevention & control
- Hepatitis, Viral, Human/genetics
- Hepatitis, Viral, Human/prevention & control
- Humans
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Gonzalez-Aseguinolaza
- University of Navarra, Division of Gene Therapy and Hepatology, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain.
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Abstract
Classical major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I antigens are trimeric molecules found on the surface of nucleated cells in all jawed vertebrates. MHC I are recognised by two families of receptors: clonotypic T cell receptors expressed on the surface of CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), and monomorphic receptors expressed by both natural killer cells and CTLs. The production of MHC I molecules within the cells is a sequential process performed with the help of interacting proteins: proteases, chaperones, transporters and so on. Although largely homologous in their structure, organisation and function, the human and mouse MHC I antigen processing and presentation machineries show fine differences. Transgenesis and 'knockout' or 'knock-in' technologies permit the addition of relevant human genes or the replacement of mouse genes by their human orthologues in order to produce immunologically humanised mice. Such experimental animals are especially relevant for the comparative evaluation of immunotherapies and for the characterisation of MHC I peptide epitopes. This review presents the similarities and differences between mouse and human MHC I antigen processing machinery, and describes the development and utilisation of improving mouse models of human cytotoxic T cell immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Pascolo
- Department of Immunology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 15, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.
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Qureshi SA. Hepatitis C virus-biology, host evasion strategies, and promising new therapies on the horizon. Med Res Rev 2006; 27:353-73. [PMID: 16958135 DOI: 10.1002/med.20063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C reduces the quality of life for some 170 million people around the globe and is one of the most prevalent diseases on the planet. It is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) that is replicated by an error-prone polymerase and therefore undergoes rapid evolution. To date, although much has been learned about the biology of HCV, only a partially effective combination therapy comprised of ribavirin and pegylated-interferon-alpha is available to hepatitis C sufferers. Given the prevalence of hepatitis C, together with the fact that almost half the chronically infected HCV patients are refractory to current therapy, there is an urgent need for an efficacious immunoprophylactic that protects individuals from HCV infection, as well as drugs that impede the viral life cycle effectively and eradicate infection. Herein, I provide an overview of the molecular biology of HCV, highlighting the functions of different virally encoded proteins in terms of how they alter signaling pathways of host cell to establish an infection and discuss whether a more promising therapy for treating hepatitis C is anywhere in sight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohail A Qureshi
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi 74800, Pakistan.
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Abstract
The recent discovery of natural immunity to the hepatitis C virus and vaccine efficacy in the chimpanzee challenge model has allowed optimism about the development of at least a partly effective vaccine against this heterogeneous pathogen that is responsible for much of the chronic liver disease around the world. The immune systems of some infected individuals can spontaneously clear the virus, whereas other people need treatment with antivirals that work partly by stimulating humoral and cellular immune responses. Therefore, therapeutic vaccine strategies are also being pursued to improve treatment outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Houghton
- Chiron Corporation, 4560 Horton Street, Emeryville, California 94608, USA.
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