1
|
Wang Y, Theodore M, Xing Z, Narsaria U, Yu Z, Zeng L, Zhang J. Structural mechanisms of Tad pilus assembly and its interaction with an RNA virus. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadl4450. [PMID: 38701202 PMCID: PMC11067988 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adl4450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Caulobacter crescentus Tad (tight adherence) pili, part of the type IV pili family, are crucial for mechanosensing, surface adherence, bacteriophage (phage) adsorption, and cell-cycle regulation. Unlike other type IV pilins, Tad pilins lack the typical globular β sheet domain responsible for pilus assembly and phage binding. The mechanisms of Tad pilus assembly and its interaction with phage ΦCb5 have been elusive. Using cryo-electron microscopy, we unveiled the Tad pilus assembly mechanism, featuring a unique network of hydrogen bonds at its core. We then identified the Tad pilus binding to the ΦCb5 maturation protein (Mat) through its β region. Notably, the amino terminus of ΦCb5 Mat is exposed outside the capsid and phage/pilus interface, enabling the attachment of fluorescent and affinity tags. These engineered ΦCb5 virions can be efficiently assembled and purified in Escherichia coli, maintaining infectivity against C. crescentus, which presents promising applications, including RNA delivery and phage display.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Wang
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Matthew Theodore
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Zhongliang Xing
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Utkarsh Narsaria
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Zihao Yu
- Center for Phage Technology, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Puente AA, Ortega-Rivera OA, Wirth DM, Pokorski JK, Steinmetz NF. Melt Processing Virus-Like Particle-Based Vaccine Candidates into Biodegradable Polymer Implants. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2720:221-245. [PMID: 37775669 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3469-1_16] [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: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Melt processing is an emerging production method to efficiently encapsulate proteins into polymeric devices for sustained release. In the context of vaccines, melt processing is well-suited to develop vaccine delivery devices that are stable outside the cold chain and can generate protective immunity from a single dose. We have demonstrated the compatibility of bacteriophage Qβ virus-like particles (VLPs) with hot-melt extrusion (HME) and have leveraged this technology to develop a single-dose vaccine candidate for vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV). Here, we detail the methods for chemically conjugating an HPV peptide epitope from the L2 minor capsid protein to Qβ VLPs to generate HPV-Qβ particles. We outline techniques used to characterize HPV-Qβ particles, and we elaborate on the process to encapsulate HPV-Qβ into biodegradable poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) implants and discuss methods for the materials characterization of the HPV-Qβ/polymer melts. The methods described could be adapted to other disease targets, i.e., by conjugation of a different peptide epitope, or transferred to other VLP systems suited for conjugation, immune response, or stability during processing. Such VLPs are ideally suited for use in HME, a mature, scalable, continuous, and solvent-free process which can be adapted to mold devices, therefore allowing the processing of the melts into various geometries, such as subcutaneous implants, or self-administrable microneedle patches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Armando A Puente
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Oscar A Ortega-Rivera
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - David M Wirth
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan K Pokorski
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Institute for Materials Design and Delivery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Nicole F Steinmetz
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Department of NanoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Center for Nano-ImmunoEngineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Institute for Materials Design and Delivery, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Tumban E. Bacteriophage Virus-Like Particles: Platforms for Vaccine Design. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2738:411-423. [PMID: 37966612 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3549-0_24] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Virus-like particles (VLPs) derived from bacteriophages have many applications in biomedical sciences, especially in the development of candidate vaccines against viral and bacterial infections. Bacteriophage VLPs can be manufactured cheaply and in large quantities in bacteria compared to eukaryotic expression systems. In addition to this, bacteriophage VLPs are excellent platforms for vaccine design for the following reason: Humans do not have preexisting antibodies against bacteriophage VLPs. Thus, antigens displayed on bacteriophage VLP platforms are expected to be highly immunogenic. As such, VLPs derived from MS2, PP7, Qβ, AP205, P22 bacteriophages, etc. have been used to develop candidate vaccines against human infectious and noninfectious agents. This mini-review summarizes data from some of the candidate bacteriophage-based VLP peptide vaccines that have been developed. The review also highlights some strategies used to develop the candidate bacteriophage-based VLP peptide vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ebenezer Tumban
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Texas Tech University, Amarillo, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Keshavarz-Joud P, Zhao L, Bobe D, Hernandez C, Kopylov M, Yen LY, Djeddar N, Thompson B, Connors C, Gibson G, Bryksin A, Finn M. Exploring the Landscape of the PP7 Virus-like Particle for Peptide Display. ACS NANO 2023; 17:18470-18480. [PMID: 37669408 PMCID: PMC10540251 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c06178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Self-assembling virus-like particles (VLPs) can tolerate a wide degree of genetic and chemical manipulation to their capsid protein to display a foreign molecule polyvalently. We previously reported the successful incorporation of foreign peptide sequences in the junction loop and onto the C-terminus of PP7 dimer VLPs, as these regions are accessible for surface display on assembled capsids. Here, we report the implementation of a library-based approach to test the assembly tolerance of PP7 dimer capsid proteins to insertions or terminal extensions of randomized 15-mer peptide sequences. By performing two iterative rounds of assembly-based selection, we evaluated the degree of favorability of all 20 amino acids at each of the 15 randomized positions. Deep sequencing analysis revealed a distinct preference for the inclusion of hydrophilic peptides and negatively charged amino acids (Asp and Glu) and the exclusion of positively charged peptides and bulky and hydrophobic amino acid residues (Trp, Phe, Tyr, and Cys). Within the libraries tested here, we identified 4000 to 22,000 unique 15-mer peptide sequences that can successfully be displayed on the surface of the PP7 dimer capsid. Overall, the use of small initial libraries consisting of no more than a few million members yielded a significantly larger number of unique and assembly-competent VLP sequences than have been previously characterized for this class of nucleoprotein particle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Keshavarz-Joud
- School
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute
of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30306, United States
| | - Liangjun Zhao
- School
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute
of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30306, United States
| | - Daija Bobe
- New
York Structural Biology Center, New York, New York 10027, United States
| | - Carolina Hernandez
- New
York Structural Biology Center, New York, New York 10027, United States
| | - Mykhailo Kopylov
- New
York Structural Biology Center, New York, New York 10027, United States
| | - Laura Y. Yen
- New
York Structural Biology Center, New York, New York 10027, United States
| | - Naima Djeddar
- Parker
H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30306, United States
| | - Brianna Thompson
- School
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute
of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30306, United States
| | - Caleb Connors
- School
of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute
of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30306, United States
| | - Greg Gibson
- School
of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute
of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30306, United States
| | - Anton Bryksin
- Parker
H. Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Biosciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30306, United States
| | - M.G. Finn
- School
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute
of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30306, United States
- School
of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute
of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30306, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Fowler A, Ye C, Clarke EC, Pascale JM, Peabody DS, Bradfute SB, Frietze KM, Chackerian B. A method for mapping the linear epitopes targeted by the natural antibody response to Zika virus infection using a VLP platform technology. Virology 2023; 579:101-110. [PMID: 36623351 PMCID: PMC9904412 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2023.01.001] [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: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV), a mosquito-borne pathogen, is associated with neurological complications in adults and congenital abnormalities in newborns. There are no vaccines or treatments for ZIKV infection. Understanding the specificity of natural antibody responses to ZIKV could help inform vaccine efforts. Here, we used a technology called Deep Sequence-Coupled Biopanning to map the targets of the human antibody responses to ZIKV infection. A bacteriophage virus-like particle (VLP) library displaying overlapping linear peptides derived from the ZIKV polyprotein was generated. The library was panned using IgG from 23 ZIKV-infected patients from Panama and deep sequencing identified common targets of anti-ZIKV antibodies within the ZIKV envelope glycoprotein. These included epitopes within the fusion loop within domain II and four epitopes within domain III. Additionally, we showed that VLPs displaying selected epitopes elicited antibodies that bound to native ZIKV envelope protein but failed to prevent infection in a mouse challenge model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Fowler
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA.
| | - Chunyan Ye
- Center for Global Health, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Elizabeth C Clarke
- Center for Global Health, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | | | - David S Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Steven B Bradfute
- Center for Global Health, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Kathryn M Frietze
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ul Haq I, Krukiewicz K, Yahya G, Haq MU, Maryam S, Mosbah RA, Saber S, Alrouji M. The Breadth of Bacteriophages Contributing to the Development of the Phage-Based Vaccines for COVID-19: An Ideal Platform to Design the Multiplex Vaccine. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:1536. [PMID: 36675046 PMCID: PMC9861788 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021536] [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: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Phages are highly ubiquitous biological agents, which means they are ideal tools for molecular biology and recombinant DNA technology. The development of a phage display technology was a turning point in the design of phage-based vaccines. Phages are now recognized as universal adjuvant-free nanovaccine platforms. Phages are well-suited for vaccine design owing to their high stability in harsh conditions and simple and inexpensive large-scale production. The aim of this review is to summarize the overall breadth of the antiviral therapeutic perspective of phages contributing to the development of phage-based vaccines for COVID-19. We show that phage vaccines induce a strong and specific humoral response by targeted phage particles carrying the epitopes of SARS-CoV-2. Further, the engineering of the T4 bacteriophage by CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) presents phage vaccines as a valuable platform with potential capabilities of genetic plasticity, intrinsic immunogenicity, and stability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ihtisham Ul Haq
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Technology of Polymers, Silesian University of Technology, M. Strzody 9, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
- Joint Doctoral School, Silesian University of Technology, Akademicka 2A, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Krukiewicz
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Technology of Polymers, Silesian University of Technology, M. Strzody 9, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
- Centre for Organic and Nanohybrid Electronics, Silesian University of Technology, Konarskiego 22B, 44-100 Gliwice, Poland
| | - Galal Yahya
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Al Sharqia 44519, Egypt
| | - Mehboob Ul Haq
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Sajida Maryam
- Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Rasha A. Mosbah
- Infection Control Unit, Zagazig University Hospital, Zagazig University, El Sharkia 44519, Egypt
| | - Sameh Saber
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa 11152, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Alrouji
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Shaqra University, Shaqra 11961, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ronsard L, Yousif AS, Peabody J, Okonkwo V, Devant P, Mogus AT, Barnes RM, Rohrer D, Lonberg N, Peabody D, Chackerian B, Lingwood D. Engineering an Antibody V Gene-Selective Vaccine. Front Immunol 2021; 12:730471. [PMID: 34566992 PMCID: PMC8459710 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.730471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The ligand-binding surface of the B cell receptor (BCR) is formed by encoded and non-encoded antigen complementarity determining regions (CDRs). Genetically reproducible or ‘public’ antibodies can arise when the encoded CDRs play deterministic roles in antigen recognition, notably within human broadly neutralizing antibodies against HIV and influenza virus. We sought to exploit this by engineering virus-like-particle (VLP) vaccines that harbor multivalent affinity against gene-encoded moieties of the BCR antigen binding site. As proof of concept, we deployed a library of RNA bacteriophage VLPs displaying random peptides to identify a multivalent antigen that selectively triggered germline BCRs using the human VH gene IGVH1-2*02. This VLP selectively primed IGHV1-2*02 BCRs that were present within a highly diversified germline antibody repertoire within humanized mice. Our approach thus provides methodology to generate antigens that engage specific BCR configurations of interest, in the absence of structure-based information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Larance Ronsard
- The Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, The Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Ashraf S Yousif
- The Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, The Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Julianne Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Vintus Okonkwo
- The Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, The Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Pascal Devant
- The Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, The Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Alemu Tekewe Mogus
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | | | - Daniel Rohrer
- Bristol-Myers Squibb, Redwood City, CA, United States
| | - Nils Lonberg
- Bristol-Myers Squibb, Redwood City, CA, United States
| | - David Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Daniel Lingwood
- The Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, The Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Fowler A, Sampson M, Remaley AT, Chackerian B. A VLP-based vaccine targeting ANGPTL3 lowers plasma triglycerides in mice. Vaccine 2021; 39:5780-5786. [PMID: 34474934 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.08.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Elevated triglycerides (TGs) are an important risk factor for the development of coronary heart disease (CHD) and in acute pancreatitis. Angiopoietin-like proteins 3 (ANGPTL3) and 4 (ANGPTL4) are critical regulators of TG metabolism that function by inhibiting the activity of lipoprotein lipase (LPL), which is responsible for hydrolyzing triglycerides in lipoproteins into free fatty acids. Interestingly, individuals with loss-of-function mutations in ANGPTL3 and ANGPTL4 have low plasma TG levels, have a reduced risk of CHD, and are otherwise healthy. Consequently, interventions targeting ANGPTL3 and ANGPTL4 have emerged as promising new approaches for reducing elevated TGs. Here, we developed virus-like particle (VLP) based vaccines that target the LPL binding domains of ANGPTL3 and ANGPTL4. ANGPTL3 VLPs and ANGPTL4 VLPs are highly immunogenic in mice and vaccination with ANGPTL3 VLPs, but not ANGPTL4 VLPs, was associated with reduced steady state levels of TGs. Immunization with ANGPTL3 VLPs rapidly cleared circulating TG levels following an oil gavage challenge and enhanced plasma LPL activity. These data indicate that targeting ANGPTL3 by active vaccination is a potential alternative to other ANGPTL3-inhibiting therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Fowler
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, MSC08-4660, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Maureen Sampson
- Lipoprotein Metabolism Section, Cardio-Pulmonary Branch, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Building 10-2C433, 10 Center Drive, MSC 1666, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Alan T Remaley
- Lipoprotein Metabolism Section, Cardio-Pulmonary Branch, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Building 10-2C433, 10 Center Drive, MSC 1666, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, MSC08-4660, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Peabody DS, Peabody J, Bradfute SB, Chackerian B. RNA Phage VLP-Based Vaccine Platforms. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:764. [PMID: 34451861 PMCID: PMC8401894 DOI: 10.3390/ph14080764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Virus-like particles from a variety of RNA bacteriophages have turned out to be useful platforms for delivery of vaccine antigens in a highly immunogenic format. Here we update the current state of development of RNA phage VLPs as platforms for presentation of diverse antigens by genetic, enzymatic, and chemical display methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David S. Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (J.P.); (B.C.)
| | - Julianne Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (J.P.); (B.C.)
| | - Steven B. Bradfute
- Center for Global Health, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 505, USA;
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA; (J.P.); (B.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Warner NL, Frietze KM. Development of Bacteriophage Virus-Like Particle Vaccines Displaying Conserved Epitopes of Dengue Virus Non-Structural Protein 1. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:726. [PMID: 34358143 PMCID: PMC8310087 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9070726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Dengue virus (DENV) is a major global health problem, with over half of the world's population at risk of infection. Despite over 60 years of efforts, no licensed vaccine suitable for population-based immunization against DENV is available. Here, we describe efforts to engineer epitope-based vaccines against DENV non-structural protein 1 (NS1). NS1 is present in DENV-infected cells as well as secreted into the blood of infected individuals. NS1 causes disruption of endothelial cell barriers, resulting in plasma leakage and hemorrhage. Immunizing against NS1 could elicit antibodies that block NS1 function and also target NS1-infected cells for antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity. We identified highly conserved regions of NS1 from all four DENV serotypes. We generated synthetic peptides to these regions and chemically conjugated them to bacteriophage Qβ virus-like particles (VLPs). Mice were immunized two times with the candidate vaccines and sera were tested for the presence of antibodies that bound to the cognate peptide, recombinant NS1 from all four DENV serotypes, and DENV-2-infected cells. We found that two of the candidate vaccines elicited antibodies that bound to recombinant NS1, and one candidate vaccine elicited antibodies that bound to DENV-infected cells. These results show that an epitope-specific vaccine against conserved regions of NS1 could be a promising approach for DENV vaccines or therapeutics to bind circulating NS1 protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikole L. Warner
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA;
| | - Kathryn M. Frietze
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA;
- Clinical and Translational Science Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Namvar A, Bolhassani A, Javadi G, Noormohammadi Z. Combination of human papillomaviruses L1 and L2 multiepitope constructs protects mice against tumor cells. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2021; 35:1055-1068. [PMID: 33930201 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Different types of cancer including cervical (>90%), anal (~88%), vaginal (~40%), and penile (~40%) cancers are associated with human papillomaviruse (HPV) infections. Three prophylactic vaccines (Cervarix, Gardasil, and Gardasil-9) were approved to provide immuno-protection against certain types of HPVs. Currently, next-generation HPV vaccines such as L1/L2-based vaccines are being developed to provide broad-type HPV protection. In this study, we introduced a comprehensive framework for design of L1/L2 polyepitope-based HPV vaccine candidate. This framework started with protein sequence retrieval and followed by conservancy analysis between high-risk HPVs, MHC-I and MHC-II epitope mapping, and B-cell and T-cell epitope mapping. Subsequently, we performed Tap transport and proteasomal cleavage, population coverage, antigenicity, allergenicity and cross-reactivity. After that, peptide-MHCI/II flexible docking and comprehensive conservancy analysis against all HPV types were carried out. The next steps were prediction of interferon-gamma and interleukin-10 inducing epitopes, epitope selection and construct design, tertiary structure prediction, refinement and validation, discontinuous B-cell epitope prediction, vaccine-TLR4 molecular docking, and codon optimization. Our data showed that two designed vaccine constructs harboring 8 L1 peptides or 7 L2 peptides, individually were highly conserved between all well-known HPV types. In addition, the combination of in silico/in vivo approaches indicated the potential ability of L1 and L2 polyepitope constructs for development of next generation prophylactic/therapeutic HPV vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Namvar
- Department of Biology, School of Basic Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Bolhassani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Javadi
- Department of Biology, School of Basic Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Noormohammadi
- Department of Biology, School of Basic Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Huber B, Wang JW, Roden RBS, Kirnbauer R. RG1-VLP and Other L2-Based, Broad-Spectrum HPV Vaccine Candidates. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10051044. [PMID: 33802456 PMCID: PMC7959455 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10051044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Licensed human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines contain virus-like particles (VLPs) self-assembled from L1 major-capsid proteins that are remarkably effective prophylactic immunogens. However, the induced type-restricted immune response limits coverage to the included vaccine types, and costly multiplex formulations, restrictive storage and distribution conditions drive the need for next generation HPV vaccines. Vaccine candidates based upon the minor structural protein L2 are particularly promising because conserved N-terminal epitopes induce broadly cross-type neutralizing and protective antibodies. Several strategies to increase the immunological potency of such epitopes are being investigated, including concatemeric multimers, fusion to toll-like receptors ligands or T cell epitopes, as well as immunodominant presentation by different nanoparticle or VLP structures. Several promising L2-based vaccine candidates have reached or will soon enter first-in-man clinical studies. RG1-VLP present the HPV16L2 amino-acid 17–36 conserved neutralization epitope “RG1” repetitively and closely spaced on an immunodominant surface loop of HPV16 L1-VLP and small animal immunizations provide cross-protection against challenge with all medically-significant high-risk and several low-risk HPV types. With a successful current good manufacturing practice (cGMP) campaign and this promising breadth of activity, even encompassing cross-neutralization of several cutaneous HPV types, RG1-VLP are ready for a first-in-human clinical study. This review aims to provide a general overview of these candidates with a special focus on the RG1-VLP vaccine and its road to the clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bettina Huber
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Joshua Weiyuan Wang
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; (J.W.W.); (R.B.S.R.)
- PathoVax LLC, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Richard B. S. Roden
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; (J.W.W.); (R.B.S.R.)
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Reinhard Kirnbauer
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +43-1-40400-77680
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Farmer E, Cheng MA, Hung CF, Wu TC. Vaccination Strategies for the Control and Treatment of HPV Infection and HPV-Associated Cancer. Recent Results Cancer Res 2021; 217:157-195. [PMID: 33200366 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-57362-1_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection, currently affecting close to 80 million Americans. Importantly, HPV infection is recognized as the etiologic factor for numerous cancers, including cervical, vulval, vaginal, penile, anal, and a subset of oropharyngeal cancers. The prevalence of HPV infection and its associated diseases are a significant problem, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. Likewise, the incidence of HPV infection poses a significant burden on individuals and the broader healthcare system. Between 2011 and 2015, there were an estimated 42,700 new cases of HPV-associated cancers each year in the United States alone. Similarly, the global burden of HPV is high, with around 630,000 new cases of HPV-associated cancer occurring each year. In the last decade, a total of three preventive major capsid protein (L1) virus-like particle-based HPV vaccines have been licensed and brought to market as a means to prevent the spread of HPV infection. These prophylactic vaccines have been demonstrated to be safe and efficacious in preventing HPV infection. The most recent iteration of the preventive HPV vaccine, a nanovalent, L1-VLP vaccine, protects against a total of nine HPV types (seven high-risk and two low-risk HPV types), including the high-risk types HPV16 and HPV18, which are responsible for causing the majority of HPV-associated cancers. Although current prophylactic HPV vaccines have demonstrated huge success in preventing infection, existing barriers to vaccine acquisition have limited their widespread use, especially in low- and middle-income countries, where the burden of HPV-associated diseases is highest. Prophylactic vaccines are unable to provide protection to individuals with existing HPV infections or HPV-associated diseases. Instead, therapeutic HPV vaccines capable of generating T cell-mediated immunity against HPV infection and associated diseases are needed to ameliorate the burden of disease in individuals with existing HPV infection. To generate a cell-mediated immune response against HPV, most therapeutic vaccines target HPV oncoproteins E6 and E7. Several types of therapeutic HPV vaccine candidates have been developed including live-vector, protein, peptide, dendritic cell, and DNA-based vaccines. This chapter will review the commercially available prophylactic HPV vaccines and discuss the recent progress in the development of therapeutic HPV vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily Farmer
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Cancer Research Building II, 1550 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Max A Cheng
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Cancer Research Building II, 1550 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Chien-Fu Hung
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Cancer Research Building II, 1550 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA.,Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Cancer Research Building II, 1550 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - T-C Wu
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Cancer Research Building II, 1550 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA. .,Department of Oncology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Cancer Research Building II, 1550 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Cancer Research Building II, 1550 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA. .,Department of Pathology, Oncology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Cancer Research Building II, Room 309, 1550 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Progress in L2-Based Prophylactic Vaccine Development for Protection against Diverse Human Papillomavirus Genotypes and Associated Diseases. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8040568. [PMID: 33019516 PMCID: PMC7712070 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8040568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are a family of small DNA tumor viruses including over 200 genotypes classified by phylogeny into several genera. Different genera of HPVs cause ano-genital and oropharyngeal cancers, skin cancers, as well as benign diseases including skin and genital warts. Licensed vaccines composed of L1 virus-like particles (VLPs) confer protection generally restricted to the ≤9 HPV types targeted. Here, we examine approaches aimed at broadening the protection against diverse HPV types by targeting conserved epitopes of the minor capsid protein, L2. Compared to L1 VLP, L2 is less immunogenic. However, with appropriate presentation to the immune system, L2 can elicit durable, broadly cross-neutralizing antibody responses and protection against skin and genital challenge with diverse HPV types. Such approaches to enhance the strength and breadth of the humoral response include the display of L2 peptides on VLPs or viral capsids, bacteria, thioredoxin and other platforms for multimerization. Neither L2 nor L1 vaccinations elicit a therapeutic response. However, fusion of L2 with early viral antigens has the potential to elicit both prophylactic and therapeutic immunity. This review of cross-protective HPV vaccines based on L2 is timely as several candidates have recently entered early-phase clinical trials.
Collapse
|
15
|
Liekniņa I, Černova D, Rūmnieks J, Tārs K. Novel ssRNA phage VLP platform for displaying foreign epitopes by genetic fusion. Vaccine 2020; 38:6019-6026. [PMID: 32713683 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2020.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Virus-like particles (VLPs) can be used as efficient carriers of various antigens and therefore serve as attractive tools in vaccine development. Although VLPs of different viruses can be used, VLPs of ssRNA phages have convincing advantages due to their unique properties, including efficient protein production in bacterial and yeast expression systems, low production cost and easy and fast purification. Currently, the range of ssRNA phage VLPs is limited. In particular, this is true for VLPs that tolerate insertions at the N- and C-termini of the coat protein. It is therefore necessary to find new alternatives within the known ssRNA phage VLP range. From previous studies, we found approximately 80 new VLPs forming ssRNA phage coat proteins. In the current study, we attached a model peptide to the N- and C-termini of coat proteins. As a model peptide, we used a triple repeat of 23 N-terminal residues of the ectodomain of the influenza M2 protein, used previously in the development of the flu vaccine. Examining 43 novel phage coat proteins for the ability to form chimeric VLPs, we found ten new promising candidates for further vaccine design, five of which were tolerant to insertions at both the N- and C-termini. Furthermore, we demonstrate that most of the chimeric VLPs have good antigenic properties as judged from their reactivity with anti-M2 antibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilva Liekniņa
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Center, Ratsupites 1 k-1, LV1067 Riga, Latvia
| | - Darja Černova
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Center, Ratsupites 1 k-1, LV1067 Riga, Latvia
| | - Jānis Rūmnieks
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Center, Ratsupites 1 k-1, LV1067 Riga, Latvia
| | - Kaspars Tārs
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Center, Ratsupites 1 k-1, LV1067 Riga, Latvia.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Virus-Like Particles as an Immunogenic Platform for Cancer Vaccines. Viruses 2020; 12:v12050488. [PMID: 32349216 PMCID: PMC7291217 DOI: 10.3390/v12050488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Virus-like particles (VLP) spontaneously assemble from viral structural proteins. They are naturally biocompatible and non-infectious. VLP can serve as a platform for many potential vaccine epitopes, display them in a dense repeating array, and elicit antibodies against non-immunogenic substances, including tumor-associated self-antigens. Genetic or chemical conjugation facilitates the multivalent display of a homologous or heterologous epitope. Most VLP range in diameter from 25 to 100 nm and, in most cases, drain freely into the lymphatic vessels and induce antibodies with high titers and affinity without the need for additional adjuvants. VLP administration can be performed using different strategies, regimens, and doses to improve the immunogenicity of the antigen they expose on their surface. This article summarizes the features of VLP and presents them as a relevant platform technology to address not only infectious diseases but also chronic diseases and cancer.
Collapse
|
17
|
Lei X, Cai X, Yang Y. Genetic engineering strategies for construction of multivalent chimeric VLPs vaccines. Expert Rev Vaccines 2020; 19:235-246. [PMID: 32133886 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2020.1738227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Over the past two decades, virus-like particles (VLPs) have been developed as a new generation of vaccines against viral infections. Based on VLPs, chimeric VLPs (chi-VLPs) have been generated through genetic modifications or chemical couplings. For construction of multivalent chi-VLPs vaccines, multiple genetic engineering strategies are continuously being developed. Thus, it is important to provide a summary as reference for researchers in this field.Areas covered: The representative studies on the genetic engineered multivalent chi-VLPs are summarized and mainly focused on chimeric capsid VLPs and chimeric enveloped VLPs. The advantages and limitations of each strategy are also discussed at last, as well as opinions on platform choice and future directions of eVLPs vaccines.Expert opinion: The design of multivalent chi-VLPs vaccines needs to meet the following specifications: 1) the incorporated antigens are suggested to display on the exposed surface of chi-VLPs and do not have excessive adverse effects on the stability of chi-VLPs; 2) the chi-VLPs should elicit protective antibodies against the incorporated antigen as well as the source virus of VLPs. However, there is no requirement of retaining the antigenicity of VLPs when using VLPs solely as carriers for antigens display or drug delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinnuo Lei
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Engineering in Animal Vaccines, Research Center of Reverse Vaccinology (RCRV), Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Laboratory of Functional Proteomics (LFP), College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiong Cai
- Institute of Innovation and Applied Research in Chinese Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Protein Engineering in Animal Vaccines, Research Center of Reverse Vaccinology (RCRV), Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Laboratory of Functional Proteomics (LFP), College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Yadav R, Zhai L, Tumban E. Virus-like Particle-Based L2 Vaccines against HPVs: Where Are We Today? Viruses 2019; 12:v12010018. [PMID: 31877975 PMCID: PMC7019592 DOI: 10.3390/v12010018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 12/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. Ninety percent of infected individuals clear the infection within two years; however, in the remaining 10% of infected individuals, the infection(s) persists and ultimately leads to cancers (anogenital cancers and head and neck cancers) and genital warts. Fortunately, three prophylactic vaccines have been approved to protect against HPV infections. The most recent HPV vaccine, Gardasil-9 (a nonavalent vaccine), protects against seven HPV types associated with ~90% of cervical cancer and against two HPV types associated with ~90% genital warts with little cross-protection against non-vaccine HPV types. The current vaccines are based on virus-like particles (VLPs) derived from the major capsid protein, L1. The L1 protein is not conserved among HPV types. The minor capsid protein, L2, on the other hand, is highly conserved among HPV types and has been an alternative target antigen, for over two decades, to develop a broadly protective HPV vaccine. The L2 protein, unlike the L1, cannot form VLPs and as such, it is less immunogenic. This review summarizes current studies aimed at developing HPV L2 vaccines by multivalently displaying L2 peptides on VLPs derived from bacteriophages and eukaryotic viruses. Recent data show that a monovalent HPV L1 VLP as well as bivalent MS2 VLPs displaying HPV L2 peptides (representing amino acids 17–36 and/or consensus amino acids 69–86) elicit robust broadly protective antibodies against diverse HPV types (6/11/16/18/26/31/33/34/35/39/43/44/45/51/52/53/56/58/59/66/68/73) associated with cancers and genital warts. Thus, VLP-based L2 vaccines look promising and may be favorable, in the near future, over current L1-based HPV vaccines and should be explored further.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rashi Yadav
- Department of Biological Sciences, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA; (R.Y.); (L.Z.)
| | - Lukai Zhai
- Department of Biological Sciences, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA; (R.Y.); (L.Z.)
- Current address: Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
| | - Ebenezer Tumban
- Department of Biological Sciences, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA; (R.Y.); (L.Z.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-906-487-2256; Fax: +1-906-487-3167
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Yazdani R, Shams-Bakhsh M, Hassani-Mehraban A, Arab SS, Thelen N, Thiry M, Crommen J, Fillet M, Jacobs N, Brans A, Servais AC. Production and characterization of virus-like particles of grapevine fanleaf virus presenting L2 epitope of human papillomavirus minor capsid protein. BMC Biotechnol 2019; 19:81. [PMID: 31752839 PMCID: PMC6868843 DOI: 10.1186/s12896-019-0566-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Virus-like particle (VLP) platform represents a promising approach for the generation of efficient and immunogenic subunit vaccines. Here, the feasibility of using grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV) VLPs as a new carrier for the presentation of human papillomavirus (HPV) L2 epitope was studied. To achieve this goal, a model of the HPV L2 epitope secondary structure was predicted and its insertion within 5 external loops in the GFLV capsid protein (CP) was evaluated. Results The epitope sequence was genetically inserted in the αB-αB” domain C of the GFLV CP, which was then over-expressed in Pichia pastoris and Escherichia coli. The highest expression yield was obtained in E. coli. Using this system, VLP formation requires a denaturation-refolding step, whereas VLPs with lower production yield were directly formed using P. pastoris, as confirmed by electron microscopy and immunostaining electron microscopy. Since the GFLV L2 VLPs were found to interact with the HPV L2 antibody under native conditions in capillary electrophoresis and in ELISA, it can be assumed that the inserted epitope is located at the VLP surface with its proper ternary structure. Conclusions The results demonstrate that GFLV VLPs constitute a potential scaffold for surface display of the epitope of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Razieh Yazdani
- Plant Pathology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Pajouhesh Blvd., Tehran to Karaj highway, Tehran, Iran.,Laboratory for the Analysis of Medicines (LAM), Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CIRM, University of Liège, Quartier Hôpital, B36, Tower 4, Avenue Hippocrate, 15, 4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Masoud Shams-Bakhsh
- Plant Pathology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Pajouhesh Blvd., Tehran to Karaj highway, Tehran, Iran.
| | | | - Seyed Shahriar Arab
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nicolas Thelen
- Cellular and Tissular Biology, GIGA-Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Marc Thiry
- Cellular and Tissular Biology, GIGA-Neurosciences, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Jacques Crommen
- Laboratory for the Analysis of Medicines (LAM), Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CIRM, University of Liège, Quartier Hôpital, B36, Tower 4, Avenue Hippocrate, 15, 4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Marianne Fillet
- Laboratory for the Analysis of Medicines (LAM), Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CIRM, University of Liège, Quartier Hôpital, B36, Tower 4, Avenue Hippocrate, 15, 4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Nathalie Jacobs
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology, GIGA-Research, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Alain Brans
- Center for Protein Engineering, University of Liège, Chemistry Institute B6, 4000, Liège (Sart Tilman), Belgium
| | - Anne-Catherine Servais
- Laboratory for the Analysis of Medicines (LAM), Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CIRM, University of Liège, Quartier Hôpital, B36, Tower 4, Avenue Hippocrate, 15, 4000, Liège, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Balke I, Zeltins A. Use of plant viruses and virus-like particles for the creation of novel vaccines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2019; 145:119-129. [PMID: 30172923 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2018.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2017] [Revised: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In recent decades, the development of plant virology and genetic engineering techniques has resulted in the construction of plant virus-based vaccines for protection against different infectious agents, cancers and autoimmune diseases in both humans and animals. Interaction studies between plant viruses and mammalian organisms have suggested that plant viruses and virus-like particles (VLPs) are safe and noninfectious to humans and animals. Plant viruses with introduced antigens are powerful vaccine components due to their strongly organized, repetitive spatial structure; they can elicit strong immune responses similar to those observed with infectious mammalian viruses. The analysis of published data demonstrated that at least 73 experimental vaccines, including 61 prophylactic and 12 therapeutic vaccines, have been constructed using plant viruses as a carrier structure for presentation of different antigens. This information clearly demonstrates that noninfectious viruses are also applicable as vaccine carriers. Moreover, several plant viruses have been used for platform development, and corresponding vaccines are currently being tested in human and veterinary clinical trials. This review therefore discusses the main principles of plant VLP vaccine construction, emphasizing the physical, chemical, genetic and immunological aspects. Results of the latest studies suggest that several plant virus-based vaccines will join the list of approved human and animal vaccines in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ina Balke
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites 1, Riga LV1067, Latvia
| | - Andris Zeltins
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, Ratsupites 1, Riga LV1067, Latvia.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zhao L, Kopylov M, Potter CS, Carragher B, Finn MG. Engineering the PP7 Virus Capsid as a Peptide Display Platform. ACS NANO 2019; 13:4443-4454. [PMID: 30912918 PMCID: PMC6991139 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.8b09683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
As self-assembling polyvalent nanoscale structures that can tolerate substantial genetic and chemical modification, virus-like particles are useful in a variety of fields. Here we describe the genetic modification and structural characterization of the Leviviridae PP7 capsid protein as a platform for the presentation of functional polypeptides. This particle was shown to tolerate the display of sequences from 1 kDa (a cell penetrating peptide) to 14 kDa (the Fc-binding double Z-domain) on its exterior surface as C-terminal genetic fusions to the coat protein. In addition, a dimeric construct allowed the presentation of exogenous loops between capsid monomers and the simultaneous presentation of two different peptides at different positions on the icosahedral structure. The PP7 particle is thereby significantly more tolerant of these types of polypeptide additions than Qβ and MS2, the other Leviviridae-derived VLPs in common use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liangjun Zhao
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, 901 Atlantic Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| | - Mykhailo Kopylov
- National Resource for Automated Molecular Microscopy, Simons Electron Microscopy Center, New York Structural Biology Center, 89 Convent Avenue, New York, New York 10027, United States
| | - Clinton S. Potter
- National Resource for Automated Molecular Microscopy, Simons Electron Microscopy Center, New York Structural Biology Center, 89 Convent Avenue, New York, New York 10027, United States
| | - Bridget Carragher
- National Resource for Automated Molecular Microscopy, Simons Electron Microscopy Center, New York Structural Biology Center, 89 Convent Avenue, New York, New York 10027, United States
| | - M. G. Finn
- School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology, 901 Atlantic Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, 901 Atlantic Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, United States
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Barra F, Leone Roberti Maggiore U, Bogani G, Ditto A, Signorelli M, Martinelli F, Chiappa V, Lorusso D, Raspagliesi F, Ferrero S. New prophylactics human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccines against cervical cancer. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2018; 39:1-10. [DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2018.1493441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Barra
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Giorgio Bogani
- Department of Gynaecologic Oncology, IRCCS National Cancer Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonino Ditto
- Department of Gynaecologic Oncology, IRCCS National Cancer Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Mauro Signorelli
- Department of Gynaecologic Oncology, IRCCS National Cancer Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Martinelli
- Department of Gynaecologic Oncology, IRCCS National Cancer Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Chiappa
- Department of Gynaecologic Oncology, IRCCS National Cancer Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Domenica Lorusso
- Department of Gynaecologic Oncology, IRCCS National Cancer Institute, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Simone Ferrero
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Basu R, Zhai L, Contreras A, Tumban E. Immunization with phage virus-like particles displaying Zika virus potential B-cell epitopes neutralizes Zika virus infection of monkey kidney cells. Vaccine 2018; 36:1256-1264. [PMID: 29395533 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.01.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Revised: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that has re-emerged and is associated with many debilitating clinical manifestations. Research is currently being conducted to develop a prophylactic vaccine against the virus; however, there has not been any licensed ZIKV vaccine. Recent studies have identified potential B-cell epitopes (amino acids 241-259, 294-315, 317-327, 346-361, 377-388 and 421-437) on the envelope protein of ZIKV, which could be explored to develop peptide vaccines against ZIKV infection. Nevertheless, the immunogenicity of these epitopes has never been assessed. Here, we displayed these epitopes on highly immunogenic bacteriophage virus-like particles (VLPs; MS2, PP7 and Qβ) platforms and assessed their immunogenicity in mice. Mice immunized with a mixture of VLPs displaying ZIKV envelope B-cell epitopes elicited anti-ZIKV antibodies. Although, immunized mice were not protected against a high challenge dose of ZIKV, sera - albeit at low titers - from immunized mice neutralized (in vitro) a low dose of ZIKV. Taken together, these results show that these epitopes are B-cell epitopes and they are immunogenic when displayed on a Qβ VLP platform. Furthermore, the results also show that immunization with VLPs displaying a single B-cell epitope minimally reduces ZIKV infection whereas immunization with a mixture of VLPs displaying a combination of the B-cell epitopes neutralizes ZIKV infection. Thus, immunization with a mixture of VLPs displaying multiple ZIKV B-cell epitopes is a good strategy to enhance ZIKV neutralization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rupsa Basu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA
| | - Lukai Zhai
- Department of Biological Sciences, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA
| | - Alice Contreras
- Department of Biological Sciences, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA
| | - Ebenezer Tumban
- Department of Biological Sciences, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Minor Capsid Protein L2 Polytope Induces Broad Protection against Oncogenic and Mucosal Human Papillomaviruses. J Virol 2018; 92:JVI.01930-17. [PMID: 29212932 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01930-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The amino terminus of the human papillomavirus (HPV) minor capsid protein L2 contains a major cross-neutralization epitope which provides the basis for the development of a broadly protecting HPV vaccine. A wide range of protection against different HPV types would eliminate one of the major drawbacks of the commercial, L1-based prophylactic vaccines. Previously, we have reported that insertion of the L2 epitope into a scaffold composed of bacterial thioredoxin protein generates a potent antigen inducing comprehensive protection against different animal and human papillomaviruses. We also reported, however, that although protection is broad, some oncogenic HPV types escape the neutralizing antibody response, if L2 epitopes from single HPV types are used as immunogen. We were able to compensate for this by applying a mix of thioredoxin proteins carrying L2 epitopes from HPV16, -31, and -51. As the development of a cost-efficient HPV prophylactic vaccines is one of our objectives, this approach is not feasible as it requires the development of multiple good manufacturing production processes in combination with a complex vaccine formulation. Here, we report the development of a thermostable thioredoxin-based single-peptide vaccine carrying an L2 polytope of up to 11 different HPV types. The L2 polytope antigens have excellent abilities in respect to broadness of protection and robustness of induced immune responses. To further increase immunogenicity, we fused the thioredoxin L2 polytope antigen with a heptamerization domain. In the final vaccine design, we achieve protective responses against all 14 oncogenic HPV types that we have analyzed plus the low-risk HPVs 6 and 11 and a number of cutaneous HPVs.IMPORTANCE Infections by a large number of human papillomaviruses lead to malignant and nonmalignant disease. Current commercial vaccines based on virus-like particles (VLPs) effectively protect against some HPV types but fail to do so for most others. Further, only about a third of all countries have access to the VLP vaccines. The minor capsid protein L2 has been shown to contain so-called neutralization epitopes within its N terminus. We designed polytopes comprising the L2 epitope amino acids 20 to 38 of up to 11 different mucosal HPV types and inserted them into the scaffold of thioredoxin derived from a thermophile archaebacterium. The antigen induced neutralizing antibody responses in mice and guinea pigs against 26 mucosal and cutaneous HPV types. Further, addition of a heptamerization domain significantly increased the immunogenicity. The final vaccine design comprising a heptamerized L2 8-mer thioredoxin single-peptide antigen with excellent thermal stability might overcome some of the limitations of the current VLP vaccines.
Collapse
|
25
|
Bolli E, O'Rourke JP, Conti L, Lanzardo S, Rolih V, Christen JM, Barutello G, Forni M, Pericle F, Cavallo F. A Virus-Like-Particle immunotherapy targeting Epitope-Specific anti-xCT expressed on cancer stem cell inhibits the progression of metastatic cancer in vivo. Oncoimmunology 2017; 7:e1408746. [PMID: 29399412 PMCID: PMC5790338 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2017.1408746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Aggressive forms of breast cancer, such as Her2+ and triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), are enriched in breast cancer stem cells (BCSC) and have limited therapeutic options. BCSC represent a key cellular reservoir for relapse, metastatic progression and therapeutic resistance. Their ability to resist common cytotoxic therapies relies on different mechanisms, including improved detoxification. The cystine-glutamate antiporter protein xCT (SLC7A11) regulates cystine intake, conversion to cysteine and subsequent glutathione synthesis, protecting cells against oxidative and chemical insults. Our previous work showed that xCT is highly expressed in tumorspheres derived from breast cancer cell lines and downregulation of xCT altered BCSC function in vitro and inhibited pulmonary metastases in vivo. We further strengthened these observations by developing a virus-like-particle (VLP; AX09-0M6) immunotherapy targeting the xCT protein. AX09-0M6 elicited a strong antibody response against xCT including high levels of IgG2a antibody. IgG isolated from AX09-0M6 treated mice bound to tumorspheres, inhibited xCT function as assessed by reactive oxygen species generation and decreased BCSC growth and self-renewal. To assess if AX09-0M6 impacts BCSC in vivo seeding, Her2+ TUBO-derived tumorspheres were injected into the tail vein of AX09-0M6 or control treated female BALB/c mice. AX09-0M6 significantly inhibited formation of pulmonary nodules. To evaluate its ability to impact metastases, AX09-0M6 was administered to mice with established subcutaneous 4T1 tumors. AX09-0M6 administration significantly hampered tumor growth and development of pulmonary metastases. These data show that a VLP-based immunization approach inhibits xCT activity, impacts BCSC biology and significantly reduces metastatic progression in preclinical models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Bolli
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Laura Conti
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Stefania Lanzardo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Valeria Rolih
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppina Barutello
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Marco Forni
- EuroClone S.p.A Research Laboratory, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Federica Cavallo
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, Molecular Biotechnology Center, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Peabody J, Muttil P, Chackerian B, Tumban E. Characterization of a spray-dried candidate HPV L2-VLP vaccine stored for multiple years at room temperature. PAPILLOMAVIRUS RESEARCH (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2017; 3:116-120. [PMID: 28720444 PMCID: PMC5604873 DOI: 10.1016/j.pvr.2017.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Revised: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
HPV infections are associated with human cancers. Although three prophylactic vaccines have been approved to protect against HPV infections, the vaccines require cold-chain storage and may not be suitable for third world countries with less developed refrigeration facilities. We previously developed a bacteriophage L2 virus-like particle (VLP)-based candidate vaccine, which elicited broadly protective antibodies against diverse HPV types. Spray-drying of MS2-16L2 VLPs into a dry powder enhanced the stability of these VLPs. Building on these studies, we assessed the long-term stability and immunogenicity of the spray-dried VLPs. Mice immunized with a single dose of spray-dried MS2-16L2 VLPs, which had been stored for 14 months at room temperature (RT), were partially protected from challenge with a high dose of HPV16, one year after immunization. However, immunization with two doses of MS2-16L2 VLPs stored at RT for 34 months elicited high titer anti-HPV antibodies. More importantly, this group of mice showed significant protection from HPV16, 4 months after immunization. These results suggest that spray-dried MS2-16L2 VLPs retain their effectiveness after long-term storage at RT, and may be suitable in third world countries with less developed refrigeration facilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julianne Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Pavan Muttil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Ebenezer Tumban
- Department of Biological Sciences, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Sun Y, Sun Y, Zhao R. Establishment of MicroRNA delivery system by PP7 bacteriophage-like particles carrying cell-penetrating peptide. J Biosci Bioeng 2017; 124:242-249. [PMID: 28442387 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2017.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2016] [Revised: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs have great therapeutic potential in cancer and other diseases. However, their instability and low in vivo delivery efficiency limits their application. Recombinant PP7 bacteriophage-based virus-like particles (VLPs) could protect microRNAs against rapid degradation by RNase by packaging specific exogenous pre-microRNAs using the pac site. Insertion of a cell-penetrating peptide (CPP) into the AB-loop of VLPs could significantly improve the delivery efficiency of microRNAs into mammalian cells. Unlike other microRNA delivery methods (viral or non-viral vectors), recombinant PP7 VLPs carrying a CPP and microRNA could be efficiently expressed in Escherichia coli using the one-plasmid double expression system. Here we showed that PP7 VLPs carrying a CPP penetrated hepatoma SK-HEP-1 cells and delivered the pre-microRNA-23b, which was processed into a mature product within 24 h; a concentration of 10 nM was sufficient for the inhibition of hepatoma cell migration via the downregulation of liver-intestine cadherin expression. Furthermore, PP7 VLPs carrying a CPP and a pre-microRNA were not infectious, replicative, or cytotoxic. Therefore, recombinant PP7 VLPs can be used for simultaneous and targeted delivery of both microRNAs and peptides because of their ability to package specific exogenous RNA using the pac site and to display peptides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Sun
- Institute of Nanomedicine Technology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institutional Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics, 12th 5-Year Project of Shandong Province, Key Discipline of Clinical Laboratory Medicine of Shandong Province, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, China.
| | - Yanhua Sun
- Department of Hematology, Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang 261000, China
| | - Ronglan Zhao
- Institute of Nanomedicine Technology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institutional Key Laboratory of Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics, 12th 5-Year Project of Shandong Province, Key Discipline of Clinical Laboratory Medicine of Shandong Province, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
VLP-based vaccine induces immune control of Staphylococcus aureus virulence regulation. Sci Rep 2017; 7:637. [PMID: 28377579 PMCID: PMC5429642 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-00753-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is the leading cause of skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) and mounting antibiotic resistance requires innovative treatment strategies. S. aureus uses secreted cyclic autoinducing peptides (AIPs) and the accessory gene regulator (agr) operon to coordinate expression of virulence factors required for invasive infection. Of the four agr alleles (agr types I-IV and corresponding AIPs1-4), agr type I isolates are most frequently associated with invasive infection. Cyclization via a thiolactone bond is essential for AIP function; therefore, recognition of the cyclic form of AIP1 may be necessary for antibody-mediated neutralization. However, the small sizes of AIPs and labile thiolactone bond have hindered vaccine development. To overcome this, we used a virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine platform (PP7) for conformationally-restricted presentation of a modified AIP1 amino acid sequence (AIP1S). Vaccination with PP7-AIP1S elicited AIP1-specific antibodies and limited agr-activation in vivo. Importantly, in a murine SSTI challenge model with a highly virulent agr type I S. aureus isolate, PP7-AIP1S vaccination reduced pathogenesis and increased bacterial clearance compared to controls, demonstrating vaccine efficacy. Given the contribution of MRSA agr type I isolates to human disease, vaccine targeting of AIP1-regulated virulence could have a major clinical impact in the fight against antibiotic resistance.
Collapse
|
29
|
Developments in L2-based human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines. Virus Res 2016; 231:166-175. [PMID: 27889616 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2016.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Revised: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Infections with sexually transmitted high-risk Human Papillomavirus (hrHPV), of which there are at least 15 genotypes, are responsible for a tremendous disease burden by causing cervical, and subsets of other ano-genital and oro-pharyngeal carcinomas, together representing 5% of all cancer cases worldwide. HPV subunit vaccines consisting of virus-like particles (VLP) self-assembled from major capsid protein L1 plus adjuvant have been licensed. Prophylactic vaccinations with the 2-valent (HPV16/18), 4-valent (HPV6/11/16/18), or 9-valent (HPV6/11/16/18/31/33/45/52/58) vaccine induce high-titer neutralizing antibodies restricted to the vaccine types that cause up to 90% of cervical carcinomas, a subset of other ano-genital and oro-pharyngeal cancers and 90% of benign ano-genital warts (condylomata). The complexity of manufacturing multivalent L1-VLP vaccines limits the number of included VLP types and thus the vaccines' spectrum of protection, leaving a panel of oncogenic mucosal HPV unaddressed. In addition, current vaccines do not protect against cutaneous HPV types causing benign skin warts, or against beta-papillomavirus (betaPV) types implicated in the development of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) in immunosuppressed patients. In contrast with L1-VLP, the minor capsid protein L2 contains type-common epitopes that induce low-titer yet broadly cross-neutralizing antibodies to heterologous PV types and provide cross-protection in animal challenge models. Efforts to increase the low immunogenicity of L2 (poly)-peptides and thereby to develop broader-spectrum HPV vaccines are the focus of this review.
Collapse
|
30
|
Pumpens P, Renhofa R, Dishlers A, Kozlovska T, Ose V, Pushko P, Tars K, Grens E, Bachmann MF. The True Story and Advantages of RNA Phage Capsids as Nanotools. Intervirology 2016; 59:74-110. [DOI: 10.1159/000449503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
|
31
|
Intracellular delivery of messenger RNA by recombinant PP7 virus-like particles carrying low molecular weight protamine. BMC Biotechnol 2016; 16:46. [PMID: 27233770 PMCID: PMC4884372 DOI: 10.1186/s12896-016-0274-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) have been widely used as carriers to transport different molecules into living cells, whereas messenger RNAs (mRNAs) have been utilized as target molecules for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. However, the instability of CPPs and mRNAs has limited their application. Bacteriophage PP7 virus-like particles (VLPs) may protect peptides and RNAs from degradation through displaying foreign peptides on their surface and encapsidating RNA linked with the pac site. RESULTS In this study, the cDNA of the PP7 coat protein single-chain dimer carrying low molecular weight protamine (LMWP) and the cDNA of green fluorescent protein (GFP) were inserted into two multiple cloning sites of pETDuet-1, respectively. PP7 VLPs carrying the LMWP peptide and GFP mRNA were subsequently expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) with high yield and thermal stability, and were easily purified. The VLPs were also non-replicative, non-infectious, and non-toxic. Moreover, they penetrated the mouse prostate cancer cells RM-1 after 24 h incubation. Last, PP7 VLPs carrying the LMWP could encapsidate the GFP mRNA, which was translated into mature protein in mammalian cells. CONCLUSIONS Recombinant PP7 VLPs can be used simultaneously as a targeted delivery vector for both peptides and mRNA due to their abilities to package RNA and display peptides.
Collapse
|
32
|
Ingale J, Stano A, Guenaga J, Sharma SK, Nemazee D, Zwick MB, Wyatt RT. High-Density Array of Well-Ordered HIV-1 Spikes on Synthetic Liposomal Nanoparticles Efficiently Activate B Cells. Cell Rep 2016; 15:1986-99. [PMID: 27210756 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2016.04.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Revised: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/21/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A major step toward an HIV-1 vaccine is an immunogen capable of inducing neutralizing antibodies. Envelope glycoprotein (Env) mimetics, such as the NFL and SOSIP designs, generate native-like, well-ordered trimers and elicit tier 2 homologous neutralization (SOSIPs). We reasoned that the display of well-ordered trimers by high-density, particulate array would increase B cell activation compared to soluble trimers. Here, we present the design of liposomal nanoparticles displaying well-ordered Env spike trimers on their surface. Biophysical analysis, cryo- and negative stain electron microscopy, as well as binding analysis with a panel of broadly neutralizing antibodies confirm a high-density, well-ordered trimer particulate array. The Env-trimer-conjugated liposomes were superior to soluble trimers in activating B cells ex vivo and germinal center B cells in vivo. In addition, the trimer-conjugated liposomes elicited modest tier 2 homologous neutralizing antibodies. The trimer-conjugated liposomes represent a promising initial lead toward the development of more effective HIV vaccine immunogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jidnyasa Ingale
- Department of Immunology and Microbial Science, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Armando Stano
- Department of Immunology and Microbial Science, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Javier Guenaga
- IAVI Neutralizing Antibody Center at The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI), La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Shailendra Kumar Sharma
- IAVI Neutralizing Antibody Center at The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI), La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - David Nemazee
- Department of Immunology and Microbial Science, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Michael B Zwick
- Department of Immunology and Microbial Science, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Richard T Wyatt
- Department of Immunology and Microbial Science, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; IAVI Neutralizing Antibody Center at The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI), La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Saboo S, Tumban E, Peabody J, Wafula D, Peabody DS, Chackerian B, Muttil P. Optimized Formulation of a Thermostable Spray-Dried Virus-Like Particle Vaccine against Human Papillomavirus. Mol Pharm 2016; 13:1646-55. [PMID: 27019231 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.6b00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Existing vaccines against human papillomavirus (HPV) require continuous cold-chain storage. Previously, we developed a bacteriophage virus-like particle (VLP)-based vaccine for HPV infection, which elicits broadly neutralizing antibodies against diverse HPV types. Here, we formulated these VLPs into a thermostable dry powder using a multicomponent excipient system and by optimizing the spray-drying parameters using a half-factorial design approach. Dry-powder VLPs were stable after spray drying and after long-term storage at elevated temperatures. Immunization of mice with a single dose of reconstituted dry-powder VLPs that were stored at 37 °C for more than a year elicited high anti-L2 IgG antibody titers. Spray-dried thermostable, broadly protective L2 bacteriophage VLPs vaccine could be accessible to remote regions of the world (where ∼84% of cervical cancer patients reside) by eliminating the cold-chain requirement during transportation and storage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sugandha Saboo
- Department of Industrial and Physical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Purdue University , West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Ebenezer Tumban
- Department of Biological Sciences, Michigan Technological University , Houghton, Michigan 49931, United States
| | | | - Denis Wafula
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland , College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Engineering virus-like particles as vaccine platforms. Curr Opin Virol 2016; 18:44-9. [PMID: 27039982 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2016.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/08/2016] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Virus-like particles (VLPs) have been utilized as vaccine platforms to increase the immunogenicity of heterologous antigens. A variety of diverse VLP types can serve as vaccine platforms, and research has focused on engineering VLPs to improve their efficacy as vaccines, enhance their stability, and allow for more versatile display of antigens. Here, we review selected VLP vaccine platforms, highlight efforts to improve these platforms through structure-informed rational design, and point to areas of future research that will assist in these efforts.
Collapse
|
35
|
Ord RL, Rodriguez M, Lobo CA. Malaria invasion ligand RH5 and its prime candidacy in blood-stage malaria vaccine design. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2016; 11:1465-73. [PMID: 25844685 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2015.1026496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
With drug resistance to available therapeutics continuing to develop against Plasmodium falciparum malaria, the development of an effective vaccine candidate remains a major research goal. Successful interruption of invasion of parasites into erythrocytes during the blood stage of infection will prevent the severe clinical symptoms and complications associated with malaria. Previously studied blood stage antigens have highlighted the hurdles that are inherent to this life-cycle stage, namely that highly immunogenic antigens are also globally diverse, resulting in protection only against the vaccine strain, or that naturally acquired immunity to blood stage antigens do not always correlate with actual protection. The blood stage antigen reticulocyte binding homolog RH5 is essential for parasite viability, has globally limited diversity, and is associated with protection from disease. Here we summarize available information on this invasion ligand and recent findings that highlight its candidacy for inclusion in a blood-stage malaria vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosalynn L Ord
- a Blood-Borne Parasites; Lindsley Kimball Research Institute; New York Blood Center ; New York , NY , USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Jiang RT, Schellenbacher C, Chackerian B, Roden RBS. Progress and prospects for L2-based human papillomavirus vaccines. Expert Rev Vaccines 2016; 15:853-62. [PMID: 26901354 DOI: 10.1586/14760584.2016.1157479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a worldwide public health problem, particularly in resource-limited countries. Fifteen high-risk genital HPV types are sexually transmitted and cause 5% of all cancers worldwide, primarily cervical, anogenital and oropharyngeal carcinomas. Skin HPV types are generally associated with benign disease, but a subset is linked to non-melanoma skin cancer. Licensed HPV vaccines based on virus-like particles (VLPs) derived from L1 major capsid antigen of key high risk HPVs are effective at preventing these infections but do not cover cutaneous types and are not therapeutic. Vaccines targeting L2 minor capsid antigen, some using capsid display, adjuvant and fusions with early HPV antigens or Toll-like receptor agonists, are in development to fill these gaps. Progress and challenges with L2-based vaccines are summarized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosie T Jiang
- a Department of Pathology , The Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Christina Schellenbacher
- b Division of Immunology, Allergy and Infectious Diseases (DIAID), Department of Dermatology , Medical University Vienna (MUW) , Vienna , Austria
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- c Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology , University of New Mexico School of Medicine , Albuquerque , NM , USA
| | - Richard B S Roden
- a Department of Pathology , The Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA.,d Department of Oncology , The Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA.,e Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics , The Johns Hopkins University , Baltimore , MD , USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
Nanoscale engineering is revolutionizing the way we prevent, detect, and treat diseases. Viruses have played a special role in these developments because they can function as prefabricated nanoscaffolds that have unique properties and are easily modified. The interiors of virus particles can encapsulate and protect sensitive compounds, while the exteriors can be altered to display large and small molecules in precisely defined arrays. These properties of viruses, along with their innate biocompatibility, have led to their development as actively targeted drug delivery systems that expand on and improve current pharmaceutical options. Viruses are naturally immunogenic, and antigens displayed on their surface have been used to create vaccines against pathogens and to break self-tolerance to initiate an immune response to dysfunctional proteins. Densely and specifically aligned imaging agents on viruses have allowed for high-resolution and noninvasive visualization tools to detect and treat diseases earlier than previously possible. These and future applications of viruses have created an exciting new field within the disciplines of both nanotechnology and medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marianne Manchester
- Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093
| | - Nicole F Steinmetz
- Departments of 2Biomedical Engineering
- Radiology
- Materials Science and Engineering, and
- Macromolecular Science and Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Schools of Medicine and Engineering, Cleveland, Ohio 44106;
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Caldeira J, Bustos J, Peabody J, Chackerian B, Peabody DS. Epitope-Specific Anti-hCG Vaccines on a Virus Like Particle Platform. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0141407. [PMID: 26516771 PMCID: PMC4627648 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0141407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The possibility of a contraceptive vaccine targeting human chorionic gonadotropin has long been recognized, but never fully realized. Here we describe an epitope-specific approach based on immunogenic display of hCG-derived peptides on virus-like particles of RNA bacteriophage. A number of recombinant VLPs were constructed, each displaying a different hCG-derived peptide. Some were taken from the disordered C-terminal tail of the hormone, another came from an internal loop, and yet another was an epitope mimic produced by affinity-selection on an hCG-neutralizing antibody target. Immunization of mice with some VLPs yielded antisera that bound the hormone and neutralized hCG biological activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jerri Caldeira
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States of America
| | - Jeremiah Bustos
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States of America
| | - Julianne Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States of America
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States of America
| | - David S. Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Crossey E, Frietze K, Narum DL, Peabody DS, Chackerian B. Identification of an Immunogenic Mimic of a Conserved Epitope on the Plasmodium falciparum Blood Stage Antigen AMA1 Using Virus-Like Particle (VLP) Peptide Display. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0132560. [PMID: 26147502 PMCID: PMC4493041 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0132560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We have developed a peptide display platform based on VLPs of the RNA bacteriophage MS2 that combines the high immunogenicity of VLP display with affinity selection capabilities. Random peptides can be displayed on the VLP surface by genetically inserting sequences into a surface-exposed loop of the viral coat protein. VLP-displayed peptides can then be isolated by selection using antibodies, and the VLP selectants can then be used directly as immunogens. Here, we investigated the ability of this platform to identify mimotopes of a highly conserved conformational epitope present on the Plasmodium falciparum blood-stage protein AMA1. Using 4G2, a monoclonal antibody that binds to this epitope and is a potent inhibitor of erythrocyte invasion, we screened three different VLP-peptide libraries and identified specific VLPs that bound strongly to the selecting mAb. We then tested the ability of a handful of selected VLPs to elicit anti-AMA1 antibody responses in mice. Most of the selected VLPs failed to reliably elicit AMA1 specific antibodies. However, one VLP consistently induced antibodies that cross-reacted with AMA1. Surprisingly, this VLP bound to 4G2 more weakly than the other selectants we identified. Taken together, these data demonstrate that VLP-peptide display can identify immunogenic mimics of a complex conformational epitope and illustrate the promise and challenges of this approach.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Amino Acid Sequence
- Animals
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/immunology
- Antibodies, Protozoan/immunology
- Antibody Affinity
- Antigen-Antibody Reactions
- Antigens, Protozoan/chemistry
- Antigens, Protozoan/immunology
- Antigens, Surface/chemistry
- Antigens, Surface/immunology
- Chromatography, Gel
- Cross Reactions
- Dimerization
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
- Epitopes/chemistry
- Epitopes/immunology
- Levivirus
- Malaria Vaccines/immunology
- Membrane Proteins/chemistry
- Membrane Proteins/immunology
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Models, Molecular
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Mutagenesis, Site-Directed
- Peptide Library
- Peptides/chemistry
- Peptides/immunology
- Plasmodium falciparum/immunology
- Protein Conformation
- Protozoan Proteins/chemistry
- Protozoan Proteins/immunology
- Sequence Analysis, Protein
- Vaccines, Virus-Like Particle/immunology
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin Crossey
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States of America
| | - Kathryn Frietze
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States of America
| | - David L. Narum
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 20852, United States of America
| | - David S. Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States of America
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Tumban E, Muttil P, Escobar CAA, Peabody J, Wafula D, Peabody DS, Chackerian B. Preclinical refinements of a broadly protective VLP-based HPV vaccine targeting the minor capsid protein, L2. Vaccine 2015; 33:3346-53. [PMID: 26003490 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2015.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Revised: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
An ideal prophylactic human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine would provide broadly protective and long-lasting immune responses against all high-risk HPV types, would be effective after a single dose, and would be formulated in such a manner to allow for long-term storage without the necessity for refrigeration. We have developed candidate HPV vaccines consisting of bacteriophage virus-like particles (VLPs) that display a broadly neutralizing epitope derived from the HPV16 minor capsid protein, L2. Immunization with 16L2 VLPs elicited high titer and broadly cross-reactive and cross-neutralizing antibodies against diverse HPV types. In this study we introduce two refinements for our candidate vaccines, with an eye towards enhancing efficacy and clinical applicability in the developing world. First, we assessed the role of antigen dose and boosting on immunogenicity. Mice immunized with 16L2-MS2 VLPs at doses ranging from 2 to 25 μg with or without alum were highly immunogenic at all doses; alum appeared to have an adjuvant effect at the lowest dose. Although boosting enhanced antibody titers, even a single immunization could elicit strong and long-lasting antibody responses. We also developed a method to enhance vaccine stability. Using a spray dry apparatus and a combination of sugars & an amino acid as protein stabilizers, we generated dry powder vaccine formulations of our L2 VLPs. Spray drying of our L2 VLPs did not affect the integrity or immunogenicity of VLPs upon reconstitution. Spray dried VLPs were stable at room temperature and at 37 °C for over one month and the VLPs were highly immunogenic. Taken together, these enhancements are designed to facilitate implementation of a next-generation VLP-based HPV vaccine which addresses U.S. and global disparities in vaccine affordability and access in rural/remote populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ebenezer Tumban
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.
| | - Pavan Muttil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | | | - Julianne Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Denis Wafula
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - David S Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Affinity selection of epitope-based vaccines using a bacteriophage virus-like particle platform. Curr Opin Virol 2015; 11:76-82. [PMID: 25829254 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2015.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Revised: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Display of epitopes on virus-like particles (VLPs) is a highly effective technique for enhancing the immunogenicity of antigens that are poorly immunogenic in their native context. VLP-based vaccines can be used to elicit long-lasting, high-titer antibody responses against diverse target antigens, even self-antigens. Most VLP platform-based vaccines are rationally engineered; specific target epitopes or domains are arrayed so that they are displayed at high-valency on the surface of VLPs. In this review, we describe an alternate technique for vaccine discovery using VLPs. This strategy, analogous to filamentous phage display, allows bacteriophage VLP-based vaccines to be identified from a vast library of potential vaccines by affinity selection. This technology integrates epitope discovery and immunization functions into a single platform.
Collapse
|
42
|
Abstract
Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are the causative agents of cervical cancer, the third most common cancer in women. The development of prophylactic HPV vaccines Gardasil® and Cervarix® targeting the major oncogenic HPV types is now the frontline of cervical cancer prevention. Both vaccines have been proven to be highly effective and safe although there are still open questions about their target population, cross-protection, and long-term efficacy. The main limitation for a worldwide implementation of Gardasil® and Cervarix® is their high cost. To develop more affordable vaccines research groups are concentrated in new formulations with different antigens including capsomeres, the minor capsid protein L2 and DNA. In this article we describe the vaccines' impact on HPV-associated disease, the main open questions about the marketed vaccines, and current efforts for the development of second-generation vaccines.
Collapse
|
43
|
O’Rourke JP, Daly SM, Triplett KD, Peabody D, Chackerian B, Hall PR. Development of a mimotope vaccine targeting the Staphylococcus aureus quorum sensing pathway. PLoS One 2014; 9:e111198. [PMID: 25379726 PMCID: PMC4224382 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0111198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A major hurdle in vaccine development is the difficulty in identifying relevant target epitopes and then presenting them to the immune system in a context that mimics their native conformation. We have engineered novel virus-like-particle (VLP) technology that is able to display complex libraries of random peptide sequences on a surface-exposed loop in the coat protein without disruption of protein folding or VLP assembly. This technology allows us to use the same VLP particle for both affinity selection and immunization, integrating the power of epitope discovery and epitope mimicry of traditional phage display with the high immunogenicity of VLPs. Previously, we showed that using affinity selection with our VLP platform identifies linear epitopes of monoclonal antibodies and subsequent immunization generates the proper antibody response. To test if our technology could identify immunologic mimotopes, we used affinity selection on a monoclonal antibody (AP4-24H11) that recognizes the Staphylococcus aureus autoinducing peptide 4 (AIP4). AIP4 is a secreted eight amino acid, cyclized peptide produced from the S. aureus accessory gene regulator (agrIV) quorum-sensing operon. The agr system coordinates density dependent changes in gene expression, leading to the upregulation of a host of virulence factors, and passive transfer of AP4-24H11 protects against S. aureus agrIV-dependent pathogenicity. In this report, we identified a set of peptides displayed on VLPs that bound with high specificity to AP4-24H11. Importantly, similar to passive transfer with AP4-24H11, immunization with a subset of these VLPs protected against pathogenicity in a mouse model of S. aureus dermonecrosis. These data are proof of principle that by performing affinity selection on neutralizing antibodies, our VLP technology can identify peptide mimics of non-linear epitopes and that these mimotope based VLP vaccines provide protection against pathogens in relevant animal models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John P. O’Rourke
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, United States of America
- * E-mail: (JPO); (PH)
| | - Seth M. Daly
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM United States of America
| | - Kathleen D. Triplett
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM United States of America
| | - David Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, United States of America
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, United States of America
| | - Pamela R. Hall
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM United States of America
- * E-mail: (JPO); (PH)
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Ord RL, Caldeira JC, Rodriguez M, Noe A, Chackerian B, Peabody DS, Gutierrez G, Lobo CA. A malaria vaccine candidate based on an epitope of the Plasmodium falciparum RH5 protein. Malar J 2014; 13:326. [PMID: 25135070 PMCID: PMC4152569 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2875-13-326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2014] [Accepted: 08/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Plasmodium falciparum protein RH5 is an adhesin molecule essential for parasite invasion of erythrocytes. Recent studies show that anti-PfRH5 sera have potent invasion-inhibiting activities, supporting the idea that the PfRH5 antigen could form the basis of a vaccine. Therefore, epitopes recognized by neutralizing anti-PfRH5 antibodies could themselves be effective vaccine immunogens if presented in a sufficiently immunogenic fashion. However, the exact regions within PfRH5 that are targets of this invasion-inhibitory activity have yet to be identified. Methods A battery of anti-RH5 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were produced and screened for their potency by inhibition of invasion assays in vitro. Using an anti-RH5 mAb that completely inhibited invasion as the selecting mAb, affinity-selection using random sequence peptide libraries displayed on virus-like particles of bacteriophage MS2 (MS2 VLPs) was performed. VLPs were sequenced to identify the specific peptide epitopes they encoded and used to raise specific antisera that was in turn tested for inhibition of invasion. Results Three anti-RH5 monoclonals (0.1 mg/mL) were able to inhibit invasion in vitro by >95%. Affinity-selection with one of these mAbs yielded a VLP which yielded a peptide whose sequence is identical to a portion of PfRH5 itself. The VLP displaying the peptide binds strongly to the antibody, and in immunized animals elicits an anti-PfRH5 antibody response. The resulting antisera against the specific VLP inhibit parasite invasion of erythrocytes more than 90% in vitro. Conclusions Here, data is presented from an anti-PfRH5 mAb that completely inhibits erythrocyte invasion by parasites in vitro, one of the few anti-malarial monoclonal antibodies reported to date that completely inhibits invasion with such potency, adding to other studies that highlight the potential of PfRH5 as a vaccine antigen. The specific neutralization sensitive epitope within RH5 has been identified, and antibodies against this epitope also elicit high anti-invasion activity, suggesting this epitope could form the basis of an effective vaccine against malaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Cheryl A Lobo
- Department of Blood-Borne Parasites, New York Blood Center, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Tyler M, Tumban E, Peabody DS, Chackerian B. The use of hybrid virus-like particles to enhance the immunogenicity of a broadly protective HPV vaccine. Biotechnol Bioeng 2014; 111:2398-406. [PMID: 24917327 DOI: 10.1002/bit.25311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2014] [Revised: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 06/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Virus-like particles (VLPs) can serve as a highly immunogenic vaccine platform for the multivalent display of epitopes from pathogens. We have used bacteriophage VLPs to develop vaccines that target a highly conserved epitope from the human papillomavirus (HPV) minor capsid protein, L2.VLPs displaying an L2-peptide from HPV16 elicit antibodies that broadly neutralize infection by HPV types associated with the development of cervical cancer. To broaden the cross-neutralization further, we have developed a strategy to display two different peptides on a single, hybrid VLP in a multivalent, highly immunogenic fashion. In general, hybrid VLPs elicited high-titer antibody responses against both targets, although in one case we observed an immunodominant response against only one of the displayed epitopes. Immunization with hybrid particles elicited antibodies that were able to neutralize heterologous HPV types at higher titers than those elicited by particles displaying one epitope alone, indicating that the hybrid VLP approach may be an effective technique to target epitopes that undergo antigenic variation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Tyler
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87131
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Tyler M, Tumban E, Dziduszko A, Ozbun MA, Peabody DS, Chackerian B. Immunization with a consensus epitope from human papillomavirus L2 induces antibodies that are broadly neutralizing. Vaccine 2014; 32:4267-74. [PMID: 24962748 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2014.06.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2014] [Revised: 04/23/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Vaccines targeting conserved epitopes in the HPV minor capsid protein, L2, can elicit antibodies that can protect against a broad spectrum of HPV types that are associated with cervical cancer and other HPV malignancies. Thus, L2 vaccines have been explored as alternatives to the current HPV vaccines, which are largely type-specific. In this study we assessed the immunogenicity of peptides spanning the N-terminal domain of L2 linked to the surface of a highly immunogenic bacteriophage virus-like particle (VLP) platform. Although all of the HPV16 L2 peptide-displaying VLPs elicited high-titer anti-peptide antibody responses, only a subset of the immunogens elicited antibody responses that were strongly protective from HPV16 pseudovirus (PsV) infection in a mouse genital challenge model. One of these peptides, mapping to HPV16 L2 amino acids 65-85, strongly neutralized HPV16 PsV but showed little ability to cross-neutralize other high-risk HPV types. In an attempt to broaden the protection generated through vaccination with this peptide, we immunized mice with VLPs displaying a peptide that represented a consensus sequence from high-risk and other HPV types. Vaccinated mice produced antibodies with broad, high-titer neutralizing activity against all of the HPV types that we tested. Therefore, immunization with virus-like particles displaying a consensus HPV sequence is an effective method to broaden neutralizing antibody responses against a type-specific epitope.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Tyler
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico, MSC08-4660, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States
| | - Ebenezer Tumban
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico, MSC08-4660, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States
| | - Agnieszka Dziduszko
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico, MSC08-4660, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States
| | - Michelle A Ozbun
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico, MSC08-4660, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States
| | - David S Peabody
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico, MSC08-4660, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States
| | - Bryce Chackerian
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico, MSC08-4660, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Tyler M, Tumban E, Chackerian B. Second-generation prophylactic HPV vaccines: successes and challenges. Expert Rev Vaccines 2013; 13:247-55. [PMID: 24350614 DOI: 10.1586/14760584.2014.865523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The role of HPV as the causative factor in cervical cancer has led to the development of the HPV vaccines Gardasil and Cervarix. These vaccines effectively protect against two HPV types associated with 70% of cervical cancer cases. Despite this success, researchers continue to develop second-generation HPV vaccines to protect against more HPV types and allow increased uptake in developing countries. While a reformulated vaccine based on the current technology is currently in clinical trials, another strategy consists of targeting highly conserved epitopes in the minor capsid protein of HPV, L2. Vaccines targeting L2 induce broadly neutralizing antibodies, capable of blocking infection by a wide range of HPV types. Several vaccine designs have been developed to optimize the display of L2 epitopes to the immune system and to reduce the cost of manufacture and distribution. L2-based vaccines show considerable promise as a potential next-generation HPV vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Tyler
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Wang JW, Roden RBS. Virus-like particles for the prevention of human papillomavirus-associated malignancies. Expert Rev Vaccines 2013; 12:129-41. [PMID: 23414405 DOI: 10.1586/erv.12.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
As compared with peptide- or protein-based vaccines, naked DNA vectors and even traditional attenuated or inactivated virus vaccines, virus-like particles (VLPs) are an attractive vaccine platform, as they offer a combination of safety, ease of production and both high-density B-cell epitope display and intracellular presentation of T-cell epitopes that induce potent humoral and cellular immune responses, respectively. Indeed, HPV vaccines based on VLP production by recombinant expression of major capsid antigen L1 in yeast (Gardasil(®), Merck & Co., NJ, USA) or insect cells (Cervarix(®), GlaxoSmithKline, London, UK) have been licensed for the prevention of cervical and anogenital infection and disease associated with the genotypes targeted by each vaccine. However, these HPV vaccines have not been demonstrated as effective to treat existing infections, and efforts to develop a therapeutic HPV vaccine continue. Furthermore, current HPV L1-VLP vaccines provide type-restricted protection, requiring highly multivalent formulations to broaden coverage to the dozen or more oncogenic HPV genotypes. This raises the complexity and cost of vaccine production. The lack of access to screening and high disease burden in developing countries has spurred efforts to develop second-generation HPV vaccines that are more affordable, induce wider protective coverage and offer therapeutic coverage against HPV-associated malignancies. Given the previous success with L1-VLP-based vaccines against HPV, VLPs have been also adopted as platforms for many second-generation HPV and non-HPV vaccine candidates with both prophylactic and therapeutic intent. In this article, the authors examine the progress and challenges of these efforts, with a focus on how they inform VLP vaccine design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua W Wang
- Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287-0014, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Tumban E, Peabody J, Peabody DS, Chackerian B. A universal virus-like particle-based vaccine for human papillomavirus: longevity of protection and role of endogenous and exogenous adjuvants. Vaccine 2013; 31:4647-54. [PMID: 23933337 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2013.07.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2013] [Revised: 07/01/2013] [Accepted: 07/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Antibodies targeting epitopes within the amino terminus of the minor capsid protein L2 of human papillomavirus (HPV) are broadly neutralizing against diverse HPV isolates. We have constructed bacteriophage virus-like particle (VLP)-based vaccines that display short L2 peptides and elicit high-titer and broadly protective antibody responses. Here, we further characterize two additional features of these VLP-based vaccines; the longevity of protection and the role of endogenous and exogenous adjuvants on the magnitude and characteristics of the antibody response. We show that vaccinated mice have long-lived antibody responses against L2, persisting over 18 months after vaccination. Vaccinated mice were strongly protected against infection by diverse HPV pseudoviruses over a year after immunization. We also show that exogenous and endogenous adjuvants (LPS and encapsidated single-stranded RNA) have minor effects on antibody titers. Immunization with VLPs containing encapsidated ssRNA predominantly shifts the response to a Th1, rather than a Th2-like response. Importantly, immunization with L2-VLPs (without endogenous and exogenous adjuvants) in the presence of alum hydroxide elicited a robust antibody response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ebenezer Tumban
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Liang TJ. Current progress in development of hepatitis C virus vaccines. Nat Med 2013; 19:869-78. [PMID: 23836237 PMCID: PMC6263146 DOI: 10.1038/nm.3183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2012] [Accepted: 02/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Despite major advances in the understanding and treatment of hepatitis C, a preventive vaccine remains elusive. The marked genetic diversity and multiple mechanisms of persistence of hepatitis C virus, combined with the relatively poor immune response of the infected host against the virus, are major barriers. The lack of robust and convenient model systems further hampers the effort to develop an effective vaccine. Advances in our understanding of virus-host interactions and protective immunity in hepatitis C virus infection provide an important roadmap to develop potent and broadly directed vaccine candidates targeting both humoral and cellular immune responses. Multiple approaches to generating and testing viral immunogens have met with variable success. Several candidates have advanced to clinical trials based on promising results in chimpanzees. The ultimate path to a successful preventive vaccine requires comprehensive evaluations of all aspects of protective immunity, innovative application of state-of-the-art vaccine technology and properly designed vaccine trials that can affirm definitive endpoints of efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T Jake Liang
- Liver Diseases Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, US National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
| |
Collapse
|