1
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Yang M, Hutchinson N, Ye N, Yin J, Guan M, Wang Z, Chen P, Yang S, Crane JD, Zhang K, He X, Li J. Engineered Bacillus subtilis as oral probiotics to enhance clearance of blood lactate. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.11.30.569300. [PMID: 38076834 PMCID: PMC10705430 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.30.569300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Elevated lactate concentrations are implicated in various acute and chronic diseases such as sepsis and mitochondrial dysfunction, respectively. Conversely, ineffective lactate clearance is associated with poor clinical prognoses and high mortality in these diseases. While several groups have proposed using small molecule inhibitors and enzyme replacement to reduce circulating lactate, there are few practical and effective ways to manage this condition. Recent evidence suggests that lactate is exchanged between systemic circulation and the gut, allowing bidirectional modulation between the gut microbiota and peripheral tissues. Inspired by these findings, this work seeks to engineer spore-forming probiotic B. subtilis strains to enable intestinal delivery of lactate oxidase as a therapeutic enzyme. After strain optimization, we showed that oral administration of engineered B. subtilis spores to the gut of mice reduced elevations in blood lactate in two different mouse models involving exogenous challenge or pharmacologic perturbation without disrupting gut microbiota composition, liver function, or immune homeostasis. Taken together, through the oral delivery of engineered probiotic spores to the gastrointestinal tract, our proof-of-concept study offers a practical strategy to aid in the management of disease states with elevated blood lactate and provides a new approach to 'knocking down' circulating metabolites to help understand their roles in host physiological and pathological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengdi Yang
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Noah Hutchinson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States
| | - Ningyuan Ye
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States
| | - Jianing Yin
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Ming Guan
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Zongqi Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States
| | - Peiru Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Shaobo Yang
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Justin D. Crane
- Internal Medicine Research Unit, Pfizer Inc., 1 Portland Street, Cambridge, MA 02139
| | - Ke Zhang
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Xuesong He
- Department of Microbiology, The Forsyth Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02142, United States
- Department of Oral Medicine, Infection and Immunity, Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, MA, 02115, United States
| | - Jiahe Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, United States
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2
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Ben Abderrazek R, Hamdi E, Piccirilli A, Dhaouadi S, Muyldermans S, Perilli M, Bouhaouala-Zahar B. Camel-Derived Nanobodies as Potent Inhibitors of New Delhi Metallo-β-Lactamase-1 Enzyme. Molecules 2024; 29:1431. [PMID: 38611711 PMCID: PMC11013165 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29071431] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The injudicious usage of antibiotics during infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria leads to the emergence of β-lactamases. Among them, the NDM-1 enzyme poses a serious threat to human health. Developing new antibiotics or inhibiting β-lactamases might become essential to reduce and prevent bacterial infections. Nanobodies (Nbs), the smallest antigen-binding single-domain fragments derived from Camelidae heavy-chain-only antibodies, targeting enzymes, are innovative alternatives to develop effective inhibitors. The biopanning of an immune VHH library after phage display has helped to retrieve recombinant antibody fragments with high inhibitory activity against recombinant-NDM-1 enzyme. Nb02NDM-1, Nb12NDM-1, and Nb17NDM-1 behaved as uncompetitive inhibitors against NDM-1 with Ki values in the nM range. Remarkably, IC50 values of 25.0 nM and 8.5 nM were noted for Nb02NDM-1 and Nb17NDM-1, respectively. The promising inhibition of NDM-1 by Nbs highlights their potential application in combating particular Gram-negative infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahma Ben Abderrazek
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules Venins et Applications Théranostiques, Institut Pasteur Tunis, 13 Place Pasteur, Tunisie Université Tunis El Manar, B.P N 93, Tunis 1068, Tunisia; (E.H.); (S.D.); (B.B.-Z.)
| | - Emna Hamdi
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules Venins et Applications Théranostiques, Institut Pasteur Tunis, 13 Place Pasteur, Tunisie Université Tunis El Manar, B.P N 93, Tunis 1068, Tunisia; (E.H.); (S.D.); (B.B.-Z.)
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche Applicate e Biotecnologiche, Università degli Studi dell’Aquila, Via Veteoio Coppito, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.P.); (M.P.)
| | - Alessandra Piccirilli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche Applicate e Biotecnologiche, Università degli Studi dell’Aquila, Via Veteoio Coppito, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.P.); (M.P.)
| | - Sayda Dhaouadi
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules Venins et Applications Théranostiques, Institut Pasteur Tunis, 13 Place Pasteur, Tunisie Université Tunis El Manar, B.P N 93, Tunis 1068, Tunisia; (E.H.); (S.D.); (B.B.-Z.)
| | - Serge Muyldermans
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleenlaan, 9, 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Mariagrazia Perilli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche Applicate e Biotecnologiche, Università degli Studi dell’Aquila, Via Veteoio Coppito, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (A.P.); (M.P.)
| | - Balkiss Bouhaouala-Zahar
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules Venins et Applications Théranostiques, Institut Pasteur Tunis, 13 Place Pasteur, Tunisie Université Tunis El Manar, B.P N 93, Tunis 1068, Tunisia; (E.H.); (S.D.); (B.B.-Z.)
- Faculté de Médecine de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, B.P N 93, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
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3
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Babamohamadi M, Mohammadi N, Faryadi E, Haddadi M, Merati A, Ghobadinezhad F, Amirian R, Izadi Z, Hadjati J. Anti-CTLA-4 nanobody as a promising approach in cancer immunotherapy. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:17. [PMID: 38191571 PMCID: PMC10774412 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06391-x] [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: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most common diseases and causes of death worldwide. Since common treatment approaches do not yield acceptable results in many patients, developing innovative strategies for effective treatment is necessary. Immunotherapy is one of the promising approaches that has been highly regarded for preventing tumor recurrence and new metastases. Meanwhile, inhibiting immune checkpoints is one of the most attractive methods of cancer immunotherapy. Cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein-4 (CTLA-4) is an essential immune molecule that plays a vital role in cell cycle modulation, regulation of T cell proliferation, and cytokine production. This molecule is classically expressed by stimulated T cells. Inhibition of overexpression of immune checkpoints such as CTLA-4 receptors has been confirmed as an effective strategy. In cancer immunotherapy, immune checkpoint-blocking drugs can be enhanced with nanobodies that target immune checkpoint molecules. Nanobodies are derived from the variable domain of heavy antibody chains. These small protein fragments have evolved entirely without a light chain and can be used as a powerful tool in imaging and treating diseases with their unique structure. They have a low molecular weight, which makes them smaller than conventional antibodies while still being able to bind to specific antigens. In addition to low molecular weight, specific binding to targets, resistance to temperature, pH, and enzymes, high ability to penetrate tumor tissues, and low toxicity make nanobodies an ideal approach to overcome the disadvantages of monoclonal antibody-based immunotherapy. In this article, while reviewing the cellular and molecular functions of CTLA-4, the structure and mechanisms of nanobodies' activity, and their delivery methods, we will explain the advantages and challenges of using nanobodies, emphasizing immunotherapy treatments based on anti-CTLA-4 nanobodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehregan Babamohamadi
- Department of Biology, School of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Innovation Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Nastaran Mohammadi
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Elham Faryadi
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Maryam Haddadi
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Merati
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Farbod Ghobadinezhad
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Roshanak Amirian
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Zhila Izadi
- USERN Office, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Jamshid Hadjati
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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4
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Schilling T, Ferrero-Bordera B, Neef J, Maaβ S, Becher D, van Dijl JM. Let There Be Light: Genome Reduction Enables Bacillus subtilis to Produce Disulfide-Bonded Gaussia Luciferase. ACS Synth Biol 2023; 12:3656-3668. [PMID: 38011677 PMCID: PMC10729301 DOI: 10.1021/acssynbio.3c00444] [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: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Bacillus subtilis is a major workhorse for enzyme production in industrially relevant quantities. Compared to mammalian-based expression systems, B. subtilis presents intrinsic advantages, such as high growth rates, high space-time yield, unique protein secretion capabilities, and low maintenance costs. However, B. subtilis shows clear limitations in the production of biopharmaceuticals, especially proteins from eukaryotic origin that contain multiple disulfide bonds. In the present study, we deployed genome minimization, signal peptide screening, and coexpression of recombinant thiol oxidases as strategies to improve the ability of B. subtilis to secrete proteins with multiple disulfide bonds. Different genome-reduced strains served as the chassis for expressing the model protein Gaussia Luciferase (GLuc), which contains five disulfide bonds. These chassis lack extracellular proteases, prophages, and key sporulation genes. Importantly, compared to the reference strain with a full-size genome, the best-performing genome-minimized strain achieved over 3000-fold increased secretion of active GLuc while growing to lower cell densities. Our results show that high-level GLuc secretion relates, at least in part, to the absence of major extracellular proteases. In addition, we show that the thiol-disulfide oxidoreductase requirements for disulfide bonding have changed upon genome reduction. Altogether, our results highlight genome-engineered Bacillus strains as promising expression platforms for proteins with multiple disulfide bonds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Schilling
- Department
of Medical Microbiology, University of Groningen,
University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, P.O. Box 30001, 9700RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Borja Ferrero-Bordera
- Institute
of Microbiology Department of Microbial Proteomics, University of Greifswald, D-17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Jolanda Neef
- Department
of Medical Microbiology, University of Groningen,
University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, P.O. Box 30001, 9700RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra Maaβ
- Institute
of Microbiology Department of Microbial Proteomics, University of Greifswald, D-17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Dörte Becher
- Institute
of Microbiology Department of Microbial Proteomics, University of Greifswald, D-17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Jan Maarten van Dijl
- Department
of Medical Microbiology, University of Groningen,
University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, P.O. Box 30001, 9700RB Groningen, The Netherlands
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5
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Guerrero M. GG. Sporulation, Structure Assembly, and Germination in the Soil Bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis: Survival and Success in the Environment and the Insect Host. MICROBIOLOGY RESEARCH 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/microbiolres14020035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a rod-shaped, Gram-positive soil bacterium that belongs to the phylum Firmicutes and the genus Bacillus. It is a spore-forming bacterium. During sporulation, it produces a wide range of crystalline proteins that are toxic to different orders of insects. Sporulation, structure assembly, and germination are essential stages in the cell cycle of B. thuringiensis. The majority of studies on these issues have focused on the model organism Bacillus subtilis, followed by Bacillus cereus and Bacillus anthracis. The machinery for sporulation and germination extrapolated to B. thuringiensis. However, in the light of recent findings concerning the role of the sporulation proteins (SPoVS), the germination receptors (Gr), and the cortical enzymes in Bt, the theory strengthened that conservation in sporulation, structure assembly, and germination programs drive the survival and success of B. thuringiensis in the environment and the insect host. In the present minireview, the latter pinpointed and reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria G. Guerrero M.
- Unidad Académica de Ciencias Biológicas, Laboratorio de Immunobiología, Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas, Av. Preparatoria S/N, Col. Agronomicas, Zacatecas 98066, Mexico
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6
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Tang C, Wang L, Zang L, Wang Q, Qi D, Dai Z. On-demand biomanufacturing through synthetic biology approach. Mater Today Bio 2022; 18:100518. [PMID: 36636637 PMCID: PMC9830231 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2022.100518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Biopharmaceuticals including protein therapeutics, engineered protein-based vaccines and monoclonal antibodies, are currently the mainstay products of the biotechnology industry. However, the need for specialized equipment and refrigeration during production and distribution poses challenges for the delivery of these technologies to the field and low-resource area. With the development of synthetic biology, multiple studies rewire the cell-free system or living cells to impact the portable, on-site and on-demand manufacturing of biomolecules. Here, we review these efforts and suggest future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenwang Tang
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage; National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Materials Synthetic Biology Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Lei Zang
- Materials Synthetic Biology Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Qing Wang
- Materials Synthetic Biology Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Dianpeng Qi
- MIIT Key Laboratory of Critical Materials Technology for New Energy Conversion and Storage; National and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Synthesis, Transformation and Separation of Extreme Environmental Nutrients, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150001, China,Corresponding author.
| | - Zhuojun Dai
- Materials Synthetic Biology Center, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China,Corresponding author.
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7
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Romo E, Torres M, Martin-Solano S. Current situation of snakebites envenomation in the Neotropics: Biotechnology, a versatile tool in the production of antivenoms. BIONATURA 2022. [DOI: 10.21931/rb/2022.07.04.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenomation is a neglected tropical disease that affects millions of people around the world with a great impact on health and the economy. Unfortunately, public health programs do not include this kind of disease as a priority in their social programs. Cases of snakebite envenomations in the Neotropics are inaccurate due to inadequate disease management from medical records to the choice of treatments. Victims of snakebite envenomation are primarily found in impoverished agricultural areas where remote conditions limit the availability of antivenom. Antivenom serum is the only Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment used up to date. However, it has several disadvantages in terms of safety and effectiveness. This review provides a comprehensive insight dealing with the current epidemiological status of snakebites in the Neotropics and technologies employed in antivenom production. Also, modern biotechnological tools such as transcriptomic, proteomic, immunogenic, high-density peptide microarray and epitope mapping are highlighted for producing new-generation antivenom sera. These results allow us to propose strategic solutions in the Public Health Sector for managing this disease.
Keywords: antivenom, biotechnology, neglected tropical disease, omics, recombinant antibody.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Romo
- Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y la Agricultura, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas-ESPE, Sangolquí, Ecuador
| | - Marbel Torres
- Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y la Agricultura, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas-ESPE, Sangolquí, Ecuador, Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Humana (GISAH), Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y la Agricultura, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas-ESPE, Immunology and Virology Laboratory, Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Center, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas, ESPE, Sangolquí, Ecuador
| | - Sarah Martin-Solano
- Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y la Agricultura, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas-ESPE, Sangolquí, Ecuador, Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Humana (GISAH), Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y la Agricultura, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas-ESPE, Grupo de Investigación en Biodiversidad, Zoonosis y Salud Pública, Universidad Central del Ecuador
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8
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Wade J, Rimbault C, Ali H, Ledsgaard L, Rivera-de-Torre E, Abou Hachem M, Boddum K, Mirza N, Bohn MF, Sakya SA, Ruso-Julve F, Andersen JT, Laustsen AH. Generation of Multivalent Nanobody-Based Proteins with Improved Neutralization of Long α-Neurotoxins from Elapid Snakes. Bioconjug Chem 2022; 33:1494-1504. [PMID: 35875886 PMCID: PMC9389527 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.2c00220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Recombinantly produced biotherapeutics hold promise for
improving
the current standard of care for snakebite envenoming over conventional
serotherapy. Nanobodies have performed well in the clinic, and in
the context of antivenom, they have shown the ability to neutralize
long α-neurotoxins in vivo. Here, we showcase
a protein engineering approach to increase the valence and hydrodynamic
size of neutralizing nanobodies raised against a long α-neurotoxin
(α-cobratoxin) from the venom of the monocled cobraNaja kaouthia. Based on the p53 tetramerization domain,
a panel of anti-α-cobratoxin nanobody-p53 fusion proteins, termed
Quads, were produced with different valences, inclusion or exclusion
of Fc regions for endosomal recycling purposes, hydrodynamic sizes,
and spatial arrangements, comprising up to 16 binding sites. Measurements
of binding affinity and stoichiometry showed that the nanobody binding
affinity was retained when incorporated into the Quad scaffold, and
all nanobody domains were accessible for toxin binding, subsequently
displaying increased blocking potency in vitro compared
to the monomeric format. Moreover, functional assessment using automated
patch-clamp assays demonstrated that the nanobody and Quads displayed
neutralizing effects against long α-neurotoxins from both N. kaouthia and the forest cobra N.
melanoleuca. This engineering approach offers a means
of altering the valence, endosomal recyclability, and hydrodynamic
size of existing nanobody-based therapeutics in a simple plug-and-play
fashion and can thus serve as a technology for researchers tailoring
therapeutic properties for improved neutralization of soluble targets
such as snake toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Wade
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Charlotte Rimbault
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Hanif Ali
- Quadrucept Bio Ltd., Kemp House, 152 City Road, London EC1V 2NX, United Kingdom
| | - Line Ledsgaard
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Esperanza Rivera-de-Torre
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Maher Abou Hachem
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Kim Boddum
- Sophion Bioscience, DK-2750 Ballerup, Denmark
| | - Nadia Mirza
- Fida Biosystems ApS, DK-2860 Søborg, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Markus-Frederik Bohn
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Siri A. Sakya
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, N-0372 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, N-0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Fulgencio Ruso-Julve
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, N-0372 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, N-0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Jan Terje Andersen
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, N-0372 Oslo, Norway
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, N-0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Andreas H. Laustsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens, Lyngby, Denmark
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9
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Mechanisms and Applications of Bacterial Sporulation and Germination in the Intestine. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063405. [PMID: 35328823 PMCID: PMC8953710 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have suggested a major role for endospore forming bacteria within the gut microbiota, not only as pathogens but also as commensal and beneficial members contributing to gut homeostasis. In this review the sporulation processes, spore properties, and germination processes will be explained within the scope of the human gut. Within the gut, spore-forming bacteria are known to interact with the host’s immune system, both in vegetative cell and spore form. Together with the resistant nature of the spore, these characteristics offer potential for spores’ use as delivery vehicles for therapeutics. In the last part of the review, the therapeutic potential of spores as probiotics, vaccine vehicles, and drug delivery systems will be discussed.
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Abstract
The highly transmissible severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has infected more than 253 million people, claiming ∼5.1 million lives to date. Although mandatory quarantines, lockdowns, and vaccinations help curb viral transmission, there is a pressing need for cost-effective systems to mitigate the viral spread. Here, we present a generic strategy for capturing SARS-CoV-2 through functionalized cellulose materials. Specifically, we developed a bifunctional fusion protein consisting of a cellulose-binding domain and a nanobody (Nb) targeting the receptor-binding domain of SARS-CoV-2. The immobilization of the fusion proteins on cellulose substrates enhanced the capture efficiency of Nbs against SARS-CoV-2 pseudoviruses of the wild type and the D614G variant, the latter of which has been shown to confer higher infectivity. Furthermore, the fusion protein was integrated into a customizable chromatography with highly porous cellulose to capture viruses from complex fluids in a continuous fashion. By capturing and containing viruses through the Nb-functionalized cellulose, our work may find utilities in virus sampling and filtration through the development of paper-based diagnostics, environmental tracking of viral spread, and reducing the viral load from infected individuals. IMPORTANCE The ongoing efforts to address the COVID-19 pandemic center around the development of diagnostics, preventative measures, and therapeutic strategies. In comparison to existing work, we have provided a complementary strategy to capture SARS-CoV-2 by functionalized cellulose materials through paper-based diagnostics as well as virus filtration in perishable samples. Specifically, we developed a bifunctional fusion protein consisting of both a cellulose-binding domain and a nanobody specific for the receptor-binding domain of SARS-CoV-2. As a proof of concept, the fusion protein-coated cellulose substrates exhibited enhanced capture efficiency against SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus of both the wild type and the D614G variant, the latter of which has been shown to confer higher infectivity. Furthermore, the fusion protein was integrated into a customizable chromatography for binding viruses from complex biological fluids in a highly continuous and cost-effective manner. Such antigen-specific capture can potentially immobilize viruses of interest for viral detection and removal, which contrasts with the common size- or affinity-based filtration devices that bind a broad range of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and cytokines present in blood (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04413955). Additionally, since our work focuses on capturing and concentrating viruses from surfaces and fluids as a means to improve detection, it can serve as an “add-on” technology to complement existing viral detection methods, many of which have been largely focusing on improving intrinsic sensitivities.
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Souza CCD, Guimarães JM, Pereira SDS, Mariúba LAM. The multifunctionality of expression systems in Bacillus subtilis: Emerging devices for the production of recombinant proteins. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2021; 246:2443-2453. [PMID: 34424091 PMCID: PMC8649419 DOI: 10.1177/15353702211030189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacillus subtilis is a successful host for producing recombinant proteins. Its GRAS (generally recognized as safe) status and its remarkable innate ability to absorb and incorporate exogenous DNA into its genome make this organism an ideal platform for the heterologous expression of bioactive substances. The factors that corroborate its value can be attributed to the scientific knowledge obtained from decades of study regarding its biology that has fostered the development of several genetic engineering strategies, such as the use of different plasmids, engineering of constitutive or double promoters, chemical inducers, systems of self-inducing expression with or without a secretion system that uses a signal peptide, and so on. Tools that enrich the technological arsenal of this expression platform improve the efficiency and reduce the costs of production of proteins of biotechnological importance. Therefore, this review aims to highlight the major advances involving recombinant expression systems developed in B. subtilis, thus sustaining the generation of knowledge and its application in future research. It was verified that this bacterium is a model in constant demand and studies of the expression of recombinant proteins on a large scale are increasing in number. As such, it represents a powerful bacterial host for academic research and industrial purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caio Coutinho de Souza
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia da Universidade Federal do Amazonas - UFAM, Manaus, AM 69067-005, Brazil
| | - Jander Matos Guimarães
- Centro Multiusuário de Análise de Fenômenos Biomédicos (CMABio) da Universidade do Estado do Amazonas (UEA), Manaus, AM 69065-00, Brazil
| | - Soraya Dos Santos Pereira
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ) Unidade de Rondônia, Porto Velho-RO 76812-245, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Experimental, Fundação Universidade Federal de Rondônia-PGBIOEXP/UNIR, Porto Velho-RO 76801-974, Brazil.,Instituto Leônidas e Maria Deane (ILMD), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Manaus, AM 69057-070, Brazil
| | - Luis André Morais Mariúba
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia da Universidade Federal do Amazonas - UFAM, Manaus, AM 69067-005, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, IOC, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil.,Instituto Leônidas e Maria Deane (ILMD), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Manaus, AM 69057-070, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação em Imunologia Básica e Aplicada, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Amazonas (UFAM), Manaus, AM 69067-00, Brazil
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Applications of Bacillus subtilis Spores in Biotechnology and Advanced Materials. Appl Environ Microbiol 2020; 86:AEM.01096-20. [PMID: 32631858 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01096-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The bacterium Bacillus subtilis has long been an important subject for basic studies. However, this organism has also had industrial applications due to its easy genetic manipulation, favorable culturing characteristics for large-scale fermentation, superior capacity for protein secretion, and generally recognized as safe (GRAS) status. In addition, as the metabolically dormant form of B. subtilis, its spores have attracted great interest due to their extreme resistance to many environmental stresses, which makes spores a novel platform for a variety of applications. In this review, we summarize both conventional and emerging applications of B. subtilis spores, with a focus on how their unique characteristics have led to innovative applications in many areas of technology, including generation of stable and recyclable enzymes, synthetic biology, drug delivery, and material sciences. Ultimately, this review hopes to inspire the scientific community to leverage interdisciplinary approaches using spores to address global concerns about food shortages, environmental protection, and health care.
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