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Kumar R, Sinha NR, Mohan RR. Corneal gene therapy: Structural and mechanistic understanding. Ocul Surf 2023; 29:279-297. [PMID: 37244594 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Cornea, a dome-shaped and transparent front part of the eye, affords 2/3rd refraction and barrier functions. Globally, corneal diseases are the leading cause of vision impairment. Loss of corneal function including opacification involve the complex crosstalk and perturbation between a variety of cytokines, chemokines and growth factors generated by corneal keratocytes, epithelial cells, lacrimal tissues, nerves, and immune cells. Conventional small-molecule drugs can treat mild-to-moderate traumatic corneal pathology but requires frequent application and often fails to treat severe pathologies. The corneal transplant surgery is a standard of care to restore vision in patients. However, declining availability and rising demand of donor corneas are major concerns to maintain ophthalmic care. Thus, the development of efficient and safe nonsurgical methods to cure corneal disorders and restore vision in vivo is highly desired. Gene-based therapy has huge potential to cure corneal blindness. To achieve a nonimmunogenic, safe and sustained therapeutic response, the selection of a relevant genes, gene editing methods and suitable delivery vectors are vital. This article describes corneal structural and functional features, mechanistic understanding of gene therapy vectors, gene editing methods, gene delivery tools, and status of gene therapy for treating corneal disorders, diseases, and genetic dystrophies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajnish Kumar
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA; One-health One-medicine Vision Research Program, Departments of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery & Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA; Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow campus, UP, 226028, India
| | - Nishant R Sinha
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA; One-health One-medicine Vision Research Program, Departments of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery & Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Rajiv R Mohan
- Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA; One-health One-medicine Vision Research Program, Departments of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery & Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA; Mason Eye Institute, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65212, USA.
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2
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Amador C, Shah R, Ghiam S, Kramerov AA, Ljubimov AV. Gene therapy in the anterior eye segment. Curr Gene Ther 2021; 22:104-131. [PMID: 33902406 DOI: 10.2174/1566523221666210423084233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This review provides comprehensive information about the advances in gene therapy in the anterior segment of the eye including cornea, conjunctiva, lacrimal gland, and trabecular meshwork. We discuss gene delivery systems including viral and non-viral vectors as well as gene editing techniques, mainly CRISPR-Cas9, and epigenetic treatments including antisense and siRNA therapeutics. We also provide a detailed analysis of various anterior segment diseases where gene therapy has been tested with corresponding outcomes. Disease conditions include corneal and conjunctival fibrosis and scarring, corneal epithelial wound healing, corneal graft survival, corneal neovascularization, genetic corneal dystrophies, herpetic keratitis, glaucoma, dry eye disease, and other ocular surface diseases. Although most of the analyzed results on the use and validity of gene therapy at the ocular surface have been obtained in vitro or using animal models, we also discuss the available human studies. Gene therapy approaches are currently considered very promising as emerging future treatments of various diseases, and this field is rapidly expanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Amador
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Ruchi Shah
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Sean Ghiam
- Sackler School of Medicine, New York State/American Program of Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Andrei A Kramerov
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Alexander V Ljubimov
- Eye Program, Board of Governors Regenerative Medicine Institute and Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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3
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Marino A, Pergolizzi S, Cimino F, Lauriano ER, Speciale A, D'Angelo V, Sicurella M, Argnani R, Manservigi R, Marconi P. Role of Herpes Simplex Envelope Glycoprotein B and Toll-Like Receptor 2 in Ocular Inflammation: An ex vivo Organotypic Rabbit Corneal Model. Viruses 2019; 11:v11090819. [PMID: 31487910 PMCID: PMC6783931 DOI: 10.3390/v11090819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been recently reported, using in vitro studies, that the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) encoded envelope glycoprotein B (gB1) interacts with cell surface toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and induces the secretion of interleukin-8 (IL8), a representative marker of inflammatory cytokine activation. The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of gB1 in activating host inflammatory responses by using a secreted form of gB1 (gB1s) and an ex vivo organotypic rabbit corneal model. Abraded corneas exposed to gB1s alone or to the recombinant protein mixed with anti gB polyclonal antibody were cultured in an air-liquid interface. The corneas exposed to gB1s show the appearance of mydriasis and high levels of TLR2 and IL-8 mRNAs transcripts were detected in the superficial layer of corneal epithelial cells. Histological stain and immunohistochemical analyses revealed morphological changes in the epithelium of the treated corneas and variations in expression and localization of TLR2. Collectively these findings provide new insight into the pathogenesis of HSV-1 ocular infection by demonstrating the leading role of gB in activating an inflammatory response and in the appearance of mydriasis, a sign of HSV-1 anterior uveitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreana Marino
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Simona Pergolizzi
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Cimino
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Eugenia Rita Lauriano
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Antonio Speciale
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Valeria D'Angelo
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Polo Annunziata, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Mariaconcetta Sicurella
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences (DipSCF), University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 64/A, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Rafaela Argnani
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Manservigi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology (SVeB), University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Peggy Marconi
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences (DipSCF), University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara 64/A, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
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Royer DJ, Carr MM, Gurung HR, Halford WP, Carr DJJ. The Neonatal Fc Receptor and Complement Fixation Facilitate Prophylactic Vaccine-Mediated Humoral Protection against Viral Infection in the Ocular Mucosa. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 199:1898-1911. [PMID: 28760885 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1700316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The capacity of licensed vaccines to protect the ocular surface against infection is limited. Common ocular pathogens, such as HSV-1, are increasingly recognized as major contributors to visual morbidity worldwide. Humoral immunity is an essential correlate of protection against HSV-1 pathogenesis and ocular pathology, yet the ability of Ab to protect against HSV-1 is deemed limited due to the slow IgG diffusion rate in the healthy cornea. We show that a live-attenuated HSV-1 vaccine elicits humoral immune responses that are unparalleled by a glycoprotein subunit vaccine vis-à-vis Ab persistence and host protection. The live-attenuated vaccine was used to assess the impact of the immunization route on vaccine efficacy. The hierarchical rankings of primary immunization route with respect to efficacy were s.c. ≥ mucosal > i.m. Prime-boost vaccination via sequential s.c. and i.m. administration yielded greater efficacy than any other primary immunization route alone. Moreover, our data support a role for complement in prophylactic protection, as evidenced by intracellular deposition of C3d in the corneal epithelium of vaccinated animals following challenge and delayed viral clearance in C3-deficient mice. We also identify that the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) is upregulated in the cornea following infection or injury concomitant with increased Ab perfusion. Lastly, selective small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of FcRn in the cornea impeded protection against ocular HSV-1 challenge in vaccinated mice. Collectively, these findings establish a novel mechanism of humoral protection in the eye involving FcRn and may facilitate vaccine and therapeutic development for other ocular surface diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek J Royer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
| | - Meghan M Carr
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104
| | - Hem R Gurung
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104; and
| | - William P Halford
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology, and Cell Biology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL 62794
| | - Daniel J J Carr
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104; .,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104; and
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Herrero-Vanrell R, Vicario de la Torre M, Andrés-Guerrero V, Barbosa-Alfaro D, Molina-Martínez I, Bravo-Osuna I. Nano and microtechnologies for ophthalmic administration, an overview. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/s1773-2247(13)50016-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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6
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Targeting herpetic keratitis by gene therapy. J Ophthalmol 2012; 2012:594869. [PMID: 23326647 PMCID: PMC3541562 DOI: 10.1155/2012/594869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2012] [Accepted: 11/30/2012] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Ocular gene therapy is rapidly becoming a reality. By November 2012, approximately 28 clinical trials were approved to assess novel gene therapy agents. Viral infections such as herpetic keratitis caused by herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) can cause serious complications that may lead to blindness. Recurrence of the disease is likely and cornea transplantation, therefore, might not be the ideal therapeutic solution. This paper will focus on the current situation of ocular gene therapy research against herpetic keratitis, including the use of viral and nonviral vectors, routes of delivery of therapeutic genes, new techniques, and key research strategies. Whereas the correction of inherited diseases was the initial goal of the field of gene therapy, here we discuss transgene expression, gene replacement, silencing, or clipping. Gene therapy of herpetic keratitis previously reported in the literature is screened emphasizing candidate gene therapy targets. Commonly adopted strategies are discussed to assess the relative advantages of the protective therapy using antiviral drugs and the common gene therapy against long-term HSV-1 ocular infections signs, inflammation and neovascularization. Successful gene therapy can provide innovative physiological and pharmaceutical solutions against herpetic keratitis.
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Hill JM, Nolan NM, McFerrin HE, Clement C, Foster TP, Halford WP, Kousoulas KG, Lukiw WJ, Thompson HW, Stern EM, Bhattacharjee PS. HSV-1 latent rabbits shed viral DNA into their saliva. Virol J 2012; 9:221. [PMID: 23021094 PMCID: PMC3519556 DOI: 10.1186/1743-422x-9-221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2012] [Accepted: 09/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rabbits latent with HSV-1 strain McKrae spontaneously shed infectious virus and viral DNA into their tears and develop recurrent herpetic-specific corneal lesions. The rabbit eye model has been used for many years to assess acute ocular infections and pathogenesis, antiviral efficacy, as well as latency, reactivation, and recurrent eye diseases. This study used real-time PCR to quantify HSV-1 DNA in the saliva and tears of rabbits latent with HSV-1 McKrae. Methods New Zealand white rabbits used were latent with HSV-1 strain McKrae and had no ocular or oral pathology. Scarified corneas were topically inoculated with HSV-1. Eye swabs and saliva were taken from post inoculation (PI) days 28 through 49 (22 consecutive days). Saliva samples were taken four times each day from each rabbit and the DNA extracted was pooled for each rabbit for each day; one swab was taken daily from each eye and DNA extracted. Real-time PCR was done on the purified DNA samples for quantification of HSV-1 DNA copy numbers. Data are presented as copy numbers for each individual sample, plus all the copy numbers designated as positive, for comparison between left eye (OS), right eye (OD), and saliva. Results The saliva and tears were taken from 9 rabbits and from 18 eyes and all tested positive at least once. Saliva was positive for HSV-1 DNA at 43.4% (86/198) and tears were positive at 28.0% (111/396). The saliva positives had 48 episodes and the tears had 75 episodes. The mean copy numbers ± the SEM for HSV-1 DNA in saliva were 3773 ± 2019 and 2294 ± 869 for tears (no statistical difference). Conclusion Rabbits latent with strain McKrae shed HSV-1 DNA into their saliva and tears. HSV-1 DNA shedding into the saliva was similar to humans. This is the first evidence that documents HSV-1 DNA in the saliva of latent rabbits.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M Hill
- Department of Ophthalmology LSUHSC School of Medicine, 533 Bolivar Street, Room 3D13, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
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Cortesi R, Ravani L, Rinaldi F, Marconi P, Drechsler M, Manservigi M, Argnani R, Menegatti E, Esposito E, Manservigi R. Intranasal immunization in mice with non-ionic surfactants vesicles containing HSV immunogens: a preliminary study as possible vaccine against genital herpes. Int J Pharm 2012; 440:229-37. [PMID: 22743007 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2012.06.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2012] [Revised: 06/14/2012] [Accepted: 06/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential of intranasal immunization with non-ionic surfactant vesicles (NISV) containing either the secretory recombinant form of glycoprotein B (gBs) of herpes simplex virus type 1 or a related polylysine reach peptides (DTK) for induction of protective immunity against genital herpes infection in mice. NISV were prepared by lipid film hydration method. The mean diameter of vesicles was around 390 nm for DTK-containing NISV (DTK-NISV) and 320 nm for gB1s-containing NISV (gB1s-NISV). The encapsulation efficiency of the molecules was comprised between 57% and 70%. After 7-14 day NISV maintained stable dimensions and a drug encapsulation higher than 48%. We showed that intranasal immunization with gB1s-NISV induces gB-specific IgG antibody and lymphoproliferative responses, whereas vaccination with DTK-NISV was not able to generate a gB-specific immune response. Our results indicate that vaccination of BALB/c mice with gB1s-NISV induced Th1 responses, as characterized by increased titre of IG2a in plasma and IFN-production in CD4+ splenic cells. Intranasal immunization with gB1s-NISV could elicit 90% (almost complete) protection against a heterologous lethal vaginal challenge with herpes simplex virus type 2. These data may have implications for the development of a mucosal vaccine against genital herpes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Cortesi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
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9
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Klausner EA, Zhang Z, Wong SP, Chapman RL, Volin MV, Harbottle RP. Corneal gene delivery: chitosan oligomer as a carrier of CpG rich, CpG free or S/MAR plasmid DNA. J Gene Med 2012; 14:100-8. [DOI: 10.1002/jgm.1634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Zhong Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy; Downers Grove; IL; USA
| | - Suet P. Wong
- Imperial College London; Gene Therapy Research Group, Molecular Medicine; Sir Alexander Fleming Building; London; UK
| | - Robert L. Chapman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences; Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy; Downers Grove; IL; USA
| | - Michael V. Volin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology; Midwestern University Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine; Downers Grove; IL; USA
| | - Richard P. Harbottle
- Imperial College London; Gene Therapy Research Group, Molecular Medicine; Sir Alexander Fleming Building; London; UK
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Pouyanfard S, Bamdad T, Parsania M, Hashemi H, Mohammadi MG. Impact of timing strategy of LIGHT, a new TNF superfamily on immune platform induced by HSV-1 gB DNA vaccine. Cytokine 2010; 50:99-103. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2009.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2009] [Revised: 11/07/2009] [Accepted: 12/17/2009] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Klausner EA, Peer D, Chapman RL, Multack RF, Andurkar SV. Corneal gene therapy. J Control Release 2007; 124:107-33. [PMID: 17707107 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2007.05.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2007] [Accepted: 05/15/2007] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Gene therapy to the cornea can potentially correct inherited and acquired diseases of the cornea. Factors that facilitate corneal gene delivery are the accessibility and transparency of the cornea, its stability ex vivo and the immune privilege of the eye. Initial corneal gene delivery studies characterized the relationship between intraocular modes of administration and location of reporter gene expression. The challenge of achieving effective topical gene transfer, presumably due to tear flow, blinking and low penetration of the vector through epithlelial tight junctions left no alternative but invasive administration to the anterior chamber and corneal stroma. DNA vaccination, RNA interference and gene transfer of cytokines, growth factors and enzymes modulated the corneal microenvironment. Positive results were obtained in preclinical studies for prevention and treatment of corneal graft rejection, neovascularization, haze and herpetic stromal keratitis. These studies, corneal gene delivery systems and modes of administration, and considerations regarding the choice of animal species used are the focus of this review. Opportunities in the field of corneal gene therapy lie in expanding the array of corneal diseases investigated and in the implementation of recent designs of safer vectors with reduced immunogenicity and longer duration of gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eytan A Klausner
- Midwestern University Chicago College of Pharmacy, 555 31st Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515, United States.
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12
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Rajcáni J, Durmanová V. Developments in herpes simplex virus vaccines: old problems and new challenges. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2006; 51:67-85. [PMID: 16821715 DOI: 10.1007/bf02932160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Vaccination has remained the best method for preventing virus spread. The herpes simplex virus (HSV) candidate vaccines tested till now were mostly purified subunit vaccines and/or recombinant envelope glycoproteins (such as gB and gD). In many experiments performed in mice, guinea pigs and rabbits, clear-cut protection against acute virus challenge was demonstrated along with the reduction of the extent of latency, when established in the immunized host. The immunotherapeutic effect of herpes vaccines seems less convincing. However, introduction of new adjuvants, which shift the cytokine production of helper T-cells toward stimulation of cytotoxic T-cells (TH1 type cytokine response), reveals a promising development. Mathematical analysis proved that overall prophylactic vaccination of seronegative women, even when eliciting 40-60 % antibody response only, would reduce the frequency of genital herpes within the vaccinated population. Even when partially effective, immunotherapeutic vaccination might represent a suitable alternative of chronic chemotherapy in recurrent labial and genital herpes.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Rajcáni
- Institute of Virology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 845 05 Bratislava, Slovakia
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13
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Cortesi R, Argnani R, Esposito E, Dalpiaz A, Scatturin A, Bortolotti F, Lufino M, Guerrini R, Cavicchioni G, Incorvaia C, Menegatti E, Manservigi R. Cationic liposomes as potential carriers for ocular administration of peptides with anti-herpetic activity. Int J Pharm 2006; 317:90-100. [PMID: 16600535 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2006.02.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2005] [Revised: 02/24/2006] [Accepted: 02/27/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
In the present study the preparation, characterization and activity of cationic liposomes containing the secretory form of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) glycoprotein B (gB1s) or two related polylysine rich peptides, namely DTK1 and DTK2, were described. The immunotherapeutic potential of these HSV antigens containing liposomes was examined with a rabbit ocular model of HSV-1 infection. Our study indicates that the liposomes (i) are able to encapsulate quantitatively gB1s and around 30% the DTK peptides, (ii) are characterized by dimensions compatible with ocular applications and (iii) can release the peptide comparably to the free solution. In addition, neutralization studies demonstrated that an anti-DTK specific polyclonal antiserum can inhibit HSV-1 infection, indicating that such peptides could be a good immunogen/antigen in an anti-HSV vaccine formulation. Although the vaccination protocol did not induce protection against the eye disease, a significative protection against a lethal ocular challenge was detectable together with the absence of reactivation episodes from latency on the survived animals. In this respect, the use of cationic liposomes coupled to gB1s and DTK peptides, as a local ocular vaccine, could represent an interesting approach in order to obtain a possible efficacy in protecting animals against a subsequent HSV-1 ocular challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Cortesi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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14
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Pepose JS, Keadle TL, Morrison LA. Ocular herpes simplex: changing epidemiology, emerging disease patterns, and the potential of vaccine prevention and therapy. Am J Ophthalmol 2006; 141:547-557. [PMID: 16490506 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2005.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2005] [Revised: 09/29/2005] [Accepted: 10/11/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To review the changing epidemiology of herpes simplex virus infection, emerging patterns of herpetic ocular disease, and the challenges and promise of herpes simplex virus vaccine therapy. DESIGN Perspective. METHODS Literature review. RESULTS An epidemic increase in genital herpes simplex type 2 infection is reflected in a 30% increase in HSV-2 antibodies in the United States since 1976. Approximately one in four people in the United States over age 30 is infected with HSV-2. Primary acquisition of herpes simplex type 1 is becoming progressively delayed in many industrialized countries, in contrast to developing nations where the virus is acquired early in life and is ubiquitous. Changes in sexual behavior among young adults have been associated with a recent increase in genital HSV-1 infection, resulting from oral-genital rather than genital-genital contact. Clinical trials of HSV vaccines using selected herpes simplex virus type 2 proteins mixed in adjuvant have shown limited efficacy in seronegative women, but not in men. CONCLUSIONS The recent epidemic of genital herpes simplex type 2 infection is likely to result in an increase in neonatal ocular herpes and in delayed cases of acute retinal necrosis syndrome. The increase in genital HSV-1 may lead to industry production of vaccines that contain components of both HSV-1 and HSV-2 targeted toward limiting genital disease and transmission. As newer herpes simplex vaccines become available, ophthalmologists must be vigilant that a boost in immunity against HSV does not have a paradoxical effect in exacerbating break-through cases that develop immune-mediated herpes simplex stromal keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay S Pepose
- Pepose Vision Institute, 16216 Baxter Road, Ste. 205, Chesterfield, MO 63107, USA.
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15
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Caselli E, Bracci A, Galvan M, Boni M, Rotola A, Bergamini C, Cermelli C, Dal Monte P, Gompels UA, Cassai E, Di Luca D. Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) U94/REP protein inhibits betaherpesvirus replication. Virology 2005; 346:402-14. [PMID: 16368124 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2005.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2005] [Revised: 11/09/2005] [Accepted: 11/15/2005] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) is the only human herpesvirus encoding U94/rep, homologue to the parvovirus non-structural gene rep68/78. Results to date suggest that HHV-6 U94/rep might regulate viral gene expression and have a role in viral latency. To determine the effect of U94/REP upon viral replication, the protein was produced. The purified U94/REP retained the characteristic immunological features. It was internalized and localized in the nucleus of human cells, showing marked inhibitory activity on the replication of HHV-6 (both variants A and B). The effect of U94/REP was dose-dependent and sensitive to treatment with single-stranded but not double-stranded DNA. U94/REP inhibited the replication of other betaherpesviruses, HHV-7 and human cytomegalovirus, but had no effect on herpes simplex virus. These results confirm the action of U94/rep latency gene in the regulation of HHV-6 replication with implications for co-reactivations and latency of human betaherpesviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Caselli
- Department of Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine, Section of Microbiology, University of Ferrara, Via Borsari 46, 44100 Ferrara, Italy
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Carey B, DeLay M, Strasser JE, Chalk C, Dudley-McClain K, Milligan GN, Brunner HI, Thornton S, Hirsch R. A soluble divalent class I MHC/IgG1 fusion protein activates CD8+ T cells in vivo. Clin Immunol 2005; 116:65-76. [PMID: 15925833 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2005.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2003] [Accepted: 02/22/2005] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
CD8+ T lymphocytes recognize tumor and viral antigens bound to class I major histocompatibility complexes (MHC). Tumors and viruses may evade detection by preventing antigen presentation. The present study was designed to determine whether a soluble divalent fusion protein, containing the extracellular domains of a class I MHC molecule fused to beta2-microglobulin and the constant domains of IgG1, could induce an immune response in vivo. Administration to mice of the fusion protein loaded with a tumor peptide induced peptide-specific T cell activation and retarded tumor growth. Administration of the fusion protein loaded with a glycoprotein B (gB) peptide derived from herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) induced gB-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes and protected mice from a lethal HSV-1 challenge. These data suggest that antigen-loaded MHC/IgG fusion proteins may enhance T cell immunity in conditions where antigen presentation is altered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenna Carey
- William S. Rowe Division of Rheumatology, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
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17
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Manservigi R, Boero A, Argnani R, Caselli E, Zucchini S, Miriagou V, Mavromara P, Cilli M, Grossi MP, Balboni PG, Cassai E. Immunotherapeutic activity of a recombinant combined gB-gD-gE vaccine against recurrent HSV-2 infections in a guinea pig model. Vaccine 2005; 23:865-72. [PMID: 15603886 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2004.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2004] [Accepted: 08/10/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The guinea pig model of recurrent genital herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection was used to test the immunotherapeutic activity of a glycoprotein subunit vaccine. Vaccine formulation consisted of three recombinant herpes simplex virus (HSV) glycoproteins, namely gB1s, gD2t and gE1t, plus aluminium hydroxide [Al(OH)3)] adjuvant. One month after viral challenge, infected animals were therapeutically immunised by seven subcutaneous injections of a low dose of antigens with a weekly interval for the first five and a fortnightly interval for the last two administrations. Results showed that the treatment was highly effective in ameliorating the recidivist pathology of animals, suggesting that this kind of vaccine formulation and administration may be helpful for therapeutic intervention in humans affected by recurrent herpes infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Manservigi
- Department of Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine, Section of Microbiology, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44100 Ferrara, Italy.
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18
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Caselli E, Boni M, Bracci A, Rotola A, Cermelli C, Castellazzi M, Di Luca D, Cassai E. Detection of antibodies directed against human herpesvirus 6 U94/REP in sera of patients affected by multiple sclerosis. J Clin Microbiol 2002; 40:4131-7. [PMID: 12409386 PMCID: PMC139661 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.40.11.4131-4137.2002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The association between human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) and multiple sclerosis (MS) is controversial. In fact, it is difficult to establish a causative role of HHV-6, due to the high prevalence of latently infected individuals in the healthy population. Therefore, the presence of virus sequences in tissue biopsy does not support a viral role, and serological assays do not show significant differences between MS patients and control populations. The only viral gene expressed during latency is U94/rep. Therefore, we have developed a serological assay for the detection of antibodies specifically directed against U94/REP protein. Different populations were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, including healthy controls, MS patients, and subjects with diseases unrelated to HHV-6 infection, including other neurological diseases. The results show statistically significant differences (P > 0.01) between MS patients and control groups, both in antibody prevalence (87 and 43.9%, respectively) and in geometric mean titer (1:515 and 1:190, respectively). The detection of antibodies specific for HHV-6 U94/REP shows that the immune system is exposed to this antigen during natural infection. The higher prevalence and higher titers of antibodies to U94/REP suggest that MS patients and control groups might experience different exposures to HHV-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Caselli
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Experimental and Diagnostic Medicine. Section of Neurology, Department of Medical Surgical, Communication and Behavioral Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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19
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Coberley SS, Condit RC, Herbst LH, Klein PA. Identification and expression of immunogenic proteins of a disease-associated marine turtle herpesvirus. J Virol 2002; 76:10553-8. [PMID: 12239336 PMCID: PMC136575 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.76.20.10553-10558.2002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Herpesviruses are associated with several diseases of marine turtles, including lung-eye-trachea disease (LETD) and fibropapillomatosis. Two approaches were used to identify immunodominant antigens of LETV, the LETD-associated herpesvirus. The first approach targeted glycoprotein B, which is known to be immunogenic and neutralizing in other species. The second strategy identified LETV proteins recognized on Western blots by antibodies in immune green turtle plasma. A 38-kDa protein was resolved by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, sequenced, and identified as a scaffolding protein encoded by the overlapping open reading frames of UL26 and UL26.5. Glycoprotein B and the scaffolding protein were cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. The expressed proteins were recognized on Western blots by antibodies in immune green turtle plasma. Phylogenetic studies based on UL26, DNA polymerase, and glycoprotein B revealed that LETV clusters with the alphaherpesviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadie S Coberley
- Interdisciplinary Program in Biomedical Science, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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