1
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McEwan TBD, Sanderson-Smith ML, Sluyter R. Purinergic Signalling in Group A Streptococcus Pathogenesis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:872053. [PMID: 35422801 PMCID: PMC9002173 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.872053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- T B-D McEwan
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - M L Sanderson-Smith
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - R Sluyter
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Molecular Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
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2
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Mahmoud A, Toth I, Stephenson R. Developing an Effective Glycan‐Based Vaccine for
Streptococcus Pyogenes. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202115342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa Mahmoud
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences The University of Queensland St Lucia Australia
| | - Istvan Toth
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences The University of Queensland Woolloongabba Australia
- School of Pharmacy The Universitry of Queensland St Lucia Australia
- Institue for Molecular Biosciences The University of Queensland St Lucia Australia
| | - Rachel Stephenson
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences The University of Queensland St Lucia Australia
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3
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Mahmoud A, Toth I, Stephenson R. Developing an Effective Glycan-based Vaccine for Streptococcus Pyogenes. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 61:e202115342. [PMID: 34935243 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202115342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes is a primary infective agent that causes approximately 700 million human infections each year, resulting in more than 500,000 deaths. Carbohydrate-based vaccines are proven to be one of the most promising subunit vaccine candidates, as the bacterial glycan pattern(s) are different from mammalian cells and show increased pathogen serotype conservancy than the protein components. In this review we highlight reverse vaccinology for use in the development of subunit vaccines against S. pyogenes, and report reproducible methods of carbohydrate antigen production, in addition to the structure-immunogenicity correlation between group A carbohydrate epitopes and alternative vaccine antigen carrier systems. We also report recent advances used to overcome hurdles in carbohydrate-based vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa Mahmoud
- The University of Queensland - Saint Lucia Campus: The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, AUSTRALIA
| | - Istvan Toth
- The University of Queensland - Saint Lucia Campus: The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, AUSTRALIA
| | - Rachel Stephenson
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, 4068, Brisbane, AUSTRALIA
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4
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Gao NJ, Uchiyama S, Pill L, Dahesh S, Olson J, Bautista L, Maroju S, Berges A, Liu JZ, Zurich RH, van Sorge NM, Fairman J, Kapoor N, Nizet V. Site-Specific Conjugation of Cell Wall Polyrhamnose to Protein SpyAD Envisioning a Safe Universal Group A Streptococcal Vaccine. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021. [DOI: 10.1097/im9.0000000000000044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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5
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Sharma A, Sanduja P, Anand A, Mahajan P, Guzman CA, Yadav P, Awasthi A, Hanski E, Dua M, Johri AK. Advanced strategies for development of vaccines against human bacterial pathogens. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2021; 37:67. [PMID: 33748926 PMCID: PMC7982316 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-021-03021-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Infectious diseases are one of the main grounds of death and disabilities in human beings globally. Lack of effective treatment and immunization for many deadly infectious diseases and emerging drug resistance in pathogens underlines the need to either develop new vaccines or sufficiently improve the effectiveness of currently available drugs and vaccines. In this review, we discuss the application of advanced tools like bioinformatics, genomics, proteomics and associated techniques for a rational vaccine design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhinay Sharma
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067, India
- Department of Vaccinology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Inhoffenstraße 7, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Institute for Medical Research, Israel-Canada (IMRIC), Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 9112102, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Pooja Sanduja
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Aparna Anand
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Institute for Medical Research, Israel-Canada (IMRIC), Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 9112102, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Pooja Mahajan
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Carlos A Guzman
- Department of Vaccinology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Inhoffenstraße 7, 38124, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Puja Yadav
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendragarh, Harayana, India
| | - Amit Awasthi
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad-Gurgaon Expressway, PO box #04, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad, Haryana, 121001, India
| | - Emanuel Hanski
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Institute for Medical Research, Israel-Canada (IMRIC), Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 9112102, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Meenakshi Dua
- School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Atul Kumar Johri
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, 110067, India.
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6
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Sanduja P, Gupta M, Somani VK, Yadav V, Dua M, Hanski E, Sharma A, Bhatnagar R, Johri AK. Cross-serotype protection against group A Streptococcal infections induced by immunization with SPy_2191. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3545. [PMID: 32669564 PMCID: PMC7363907 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17299-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infection causes a range of diseases, but vaccine development is hampered by the high number of serotypes. Here, using reverse vaccinology the authors identify SPy_2191 as a cross-protective vaccine candidate. From 18 initially identified surface proteins, only SPy_2191 is conserved, surface-exposed and inhibits both GAS adhesion and invasion. SPy_2191 immunization in mice generates bactericidal antibodies resulting in opsonophagocytic killing of prevalent and invasive GAS serotypes of different geographical regions, including M1 and M49 (India), M3.1 (Israel), M1 (UK) and M1 (USA). Resident splenocytes show higher interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α secretion upon antigen re-stimulation, suggesting activation of cell-mediated immunity. SPy_2191 immunization significantly reduces streptococcal load in the organs and confers ~76-92% protection upon challenge with invasive GAS serotypes. Further, it significantly suppresses GAS pharyngeal colonization in mice mucosal infection model. Our findings suggest that SPy_2191 can act as a universal vaccine candidate against GAS infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Sanduja
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Manish Gupta
- BSL-3 Unit, Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Vikas Kumar Somani
- BSL-3 Unit, Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
- Division of Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Vikas Yadav
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Meenakshi Dua
- School of Environmental Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Emanuel Hanski
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Institute for Medical Research-Israel-Canada(IMRIC), Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Abhinay Sharma
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The Institute for Medical Research-Israel-Canada(IMRIC), Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | - Atul Kumar Johri
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, 110067, India.
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7
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Genome-Wide Screens Identify Group A Streptococcus Surface Proteins Promoting Female Genital Tract Colonization and Virulence. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2020; 190:862-873. [PMID: 32200972 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2019.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Group A streptococcus (GAS) is a major pathogen that impacts health and economic affairs worldwide. Although the oropharynx is the primary site of infection, GAS can colonize the female genital tract and cause severe diseases, such as puerperal sepsis, neonatal infections, and necrotizing myometritis. Our understanding of how GAS genes contribute to interaction with the primate female genital tract is limited by the lack of relevant animal models. Using two genome-wide transposon mutagenesis screens, we identified 69 GAS genes required for colonization of the primate vaginal mucosa in vivo and 96 genes required for infection of the uterine wall ex vivo. We discovered a common set of 39 genes important for GAS fitness in both environments. They include genes encoding transporters, surface proteins, transcriptional regulators, and metabolic pathways. Notably, the genes that encode the surface-exclusion protein (SpyAD) and the immunogenic secreted protein 2 (Isp2) were found to be crucial for GAS fitness in the female primate genital tract. Targeted gene deletion confirmed that isogenic mutant strains ΔspyAD and Δisp2 are significantly impaired in ability to colonize the primate genital tract and cause uterine wall pathologic findings. Our studies identified novel GAS genes that contribute to female reproductive tract interaction that warrant translational research investigation.
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8
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Abstract
Streptococcal pharyngitis (or strep throat) is a common childhood disease affecting millions of children each year, but it is one of the only childhood diseases for which a vaccine does not exist. While for decades the development of a vaccine has been the center of attention in many laboratories worldwide, with some successes, no corporate development has yet to be initiated. The reason for this probably lies in our inability to conclusively identify the streptococcal molecule or molecules responsible for the heart cross-reactive antibodies observed in the serum of rheumatic fever patients. Without this specific knowledge, any streptococcal vaccine antigen is suspect and thus not the target for a billion-dollar investment, despite the fact that the exact role of cross-reactive antibodies in rheumatic fever is still questionable. This article will describe the development of several approaches to protect against Streptococcus pyogenes infections over the past several decades.
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9
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Aranha MP, Penfound TA, Spencer JA, Agarwal R, Baudry J, Dale JB, Smith JC. Structure-based group A streptococcal vaccine design: Helical wheel homology predicts antibody cross-reactivity among streptococcal M protein-derived peptides. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:3826-3836. [PMID: 32029479 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.011258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Group A streptococcus (Strep A) surface M protein, an α-helical coiled-coil dimer, is a vaccine target and a major determinant of streptococcal virulence. The sequence-variable N-terminal region of the M protein defines the M type and also contains epitopes that promote opsonophagocytic killing of streptococci. Recent reports have reported considerable cross-reactivity among different M types, suggesting the prospect of identifying cross-protective epitopes that would constitute a broadly protective multivalent vaccine against Strep A isolates. Here, we have used a combination of immunological assays, structural biology, and cheminformatics to construct a recombinant M protein-based vaccine that included six Strep A M peptides that were predicted to elicit antisera that would cross-react with an additional 15 nonvaccine M types of Strep A. Rabbit antisera against this recombinant vaccine cross-reacted with 10 of the 15 nonvaccine M peptides. Two of the five nonvaccine M peptides that did not cross-react shared high sequence identity (≥50%) with the vaccine peptides, implying that high sequence identity alone was insufficient for cross-reactivity among the M peptides. Additional structural analyses revealed that the sequence identity at corresponding polar helical-wheel heptad sites between vaccine and nonvaccine peptides accurately distinguishes cross-reactive from non-cross-reactive peptides. On the basis of these observations, we developed a scoring algorithm based on the sequence identity at polar heptad sites. When applied to all epidemiologically important M types, this algorithm should enable the selection of a minimal number of M peptide-based vaccine candidates that elicit broadly protective immunity against Strep A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle P Aranha
- Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States .,University of Tennessee/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Center for Molecular Biophysics, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830, United States
| | - Thomas A Penfound
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Jay A Spencer
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, Alabama 35899, United States
| | - Rupesh Agarwal
- Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States.,Graduate School of Genome Science and Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Jerome Baudry
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, Alabama 35899, United States
| | - James B Dale
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, United States
| | - Jeremy C Smith
- Department of Biochemistry and Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States.,University of Tennessee/Oak Ridge National Laboratory Center for Molecular Biophysics, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37830, United States
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10
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A Multicomponent Vaccine Provides Immunity against Local and Systemic Infections by Group A Streptococcus across Serotypes. mBio 2019; 10:mBio.02600-19. [PMID: 31772056 PMCID: PMC6879722 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02600-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
GAS is among the most common human pathogens and causes a wide variety of diseases, likely more than any other microorganism. The diverse clinical manifestations of GAS may be attributable to its large repertoire of virulence factors that are selectively and synergistically involved in streptococcal pathogenesis. To date, GAS vaccines have not been successful due to multiple serotypes and postinfection sequelae associated with autoimmunity. In this study, five conserved virulence factors that are involved in GAS pathogenesis were used as a combined vaccine. Intranasal immunization with this vaccine induced humoral and cellular immune responses across GAS serotypes and protected against mucosal, systemic, and skin infections. The significance of this work is to demonstrate that the efficacy of GAS vaccines can be achieved by including multiple nonredundant critical virulence factors and inducing local and systemic immunity. The strategy also provides valuable insights for vaccine development against other pathogens. Group A streptococcus (GAS) species are responsible for a broad spectrum of human diseases, ranging from superficial to invasive infections, and are associated with autoimmune disorders. There is no commercial vaccine against GAS. The clinical manifestations of GAS infection may be attributable to the large repertoire of virulence factors used selectively in different types of GAS disease. Here, we selected five molecules, highly conserved among GAS serotypes, and involved in different pathogenic mechanisms, as a multicomponent vaccine, 5CP. Intranasal (i.n.) immunization with 5CP protected mice against both mucosal and systemic GAS infection across serotypes; the protection lasted at least 6 months. Immunization of mice with 5CP constrained skin lesion development and accelerated lesion recovery. Flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analyses revealed that 5CP induced Th17 and antibody responses locally and systemically; however, the Th17 response induced by 5CP resolved more quickly than that to GAS when challenge bacteria were cleared, suggesting that 5CP is less likely to cause autoimmune responses. These findings support that immunization through the i.n. route targeting multiple nonredundant virulence factors can induce immunity against different types of GAS disease and represents an alternative strategy for GAS vaccine development, with favorable efficacy, coverage, duration, and safety.
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11
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Azuar A, Jin W, Mukaida S, Hussein WM, Toth I, Skwarczynski M. Recent Advances in the Development of Peptide Vaccines and Their Delivery Systems Against Group A Streptococcus. Vaccines (Basel) 2019; 7:E58. [PMID: 31266253 PMCID: PMC6789462 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines7030058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infection can cause a variety of diseases in humans, ranging from common sore throats and skin infections, to more invasive diseases and life-threatening post-infectious diseases, such as rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease. Although research has been ongoing since 1923, vaccines against GAS are still not available to the public. Traditional approaches taken to develop vaccines for GAS failed due to poor efficacy and safety. Fortunately, headway has been made and modern subunit vaccines that administer minimal bacterial components provide an opportunity to finally overcome previous hurdles in GAS vaccine development. This review details the major antigens and strategies used for GAS vaccine development. The combination of antigen selection, peptide epitope modification and delivery systems have resulted in the discovery of promising peptide vaccines against GAS; these are currently in preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armira Azuar
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Wanli Jin
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Saori Mukaida
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Waleed M Hussein
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Helwan, Cairo 11795, Egypt
| | - Istvan Toth
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, Woolloongabba, The University of Queensland, QLD 4072, Australia
- Institute of Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Mariusz Skwarczynski
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
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12
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Jones S, Moreland NJ, Zancolli M, Raynes J, Loh JMS, Smeesters PR, Sriskandan S, Carapetis JR, Fraser JD, Goldblatt D. Development of an opsonophagocytic killing assay for group a streptococcus. Vaccine 2018; 36:3756-3763. [PMID: 29776751 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.05.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Group A Streptococcus (GAS) or Streptococcus pyogenes is responsible for an estimated 500,000 deaths worldwide each year. Protection against GAS infection is thought to be mediated by phagocytosis, enhanced by bacteria-specific antibody. There are no licenced GAS vaccines, despite many promising candidates in preclinical and early stage clinical development, the most advanced of which are based on the GAS M-protein. Vaccine progress has been hindered, in part, by the lack of a standardised functional assay suitable for vaccine evaluation. Current assays, developed over 50 years ago, rely on non-immune human whole blood as a source of neutrophils and complement. Variations in complement and neutrophil activity between donors result in variable data that is difficult to interpret. We have developed an opsonophagocytic killing assay (OPKA) for GAS that utilises dimethylformamide (DMF)-differentiated human promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL-60) as a source of neutrophils and baby rabbit complement, thus removing the major sources of variation in current assays. We have standardised the OPKA for several clinically relevant GAS strain types (emm1, emm6 and emm12) and have shown antibody-specific killing for each emm-type using M-protein specific rabbit antisera. Specificity was demonstrated by pre-incubation of the antisera with homologous M-protein antigens that blocked antibody-specific killing. Additional qualifications of the GAS OPKA, including the assessment of the accuracy, precision, linearity and the lower limit of quantification, were also performed. This GAS OPKA assay has the potential to provide a robust and reproducible platform to accelerate GAS vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Jones
- Immunobiology, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health Biomedical Research Centre, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom.
| | - Nicole J Moreland
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Marta Zancolli
- Immunobiology, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health Biomedical Research Centre, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
| | - Jeremy Raynes
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jacelyn M S Loh
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Pierre R Smeesters
- Molecular Bacteriology Laboratory, Universite ́ Libre de Bruxelles and Academic Children Hospital, Brussels, Belgium; Murdoch Children's Research Institute and University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Shiranee Sriskandan
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Commonwealth Building, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan R Carapetis
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia and Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - John D Fraser
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - David Goldblatt
- Immunobiology, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health Biomedical Research Centre, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom
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13
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Structure of ScpC, a virulence protease from Streptococcus pyogenes, reveals the functional domains and maturation mechanism. Biochem J 2018; 475:2847-2860. [DOI: 10.1042/bcj20180145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Revised: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Group A Streptococcus (GAS; Streptococcus pyogenes) causes a wide range of infections, including pharyngitis, impetigo, and necrotizing fasciitis, and results in over half a million deaths annually. GAS ScpC (SpyCEP), a 180-kDa surface-exposed, subtilisin-like serine protease, acts as an essential virulence factor that helps S. pyogenes evade the innate immune response by cleaving and inactivating C-X-C chemokines. ScpC is thus a key candidate for the development of a vaccine against GAS and other pathogenic streptococcal species. Here, we report the crystal structures of full-length ScpC wild-type, the inactive mutant, and the ScpC–AEBSF inhibitor complex. We show ScpC to be a multi-domain, modular protein consisting of nine structural domains, of which the first five constitute the PR + A region required for catalytic activity. The four unique C-terminal domains of this protein are similar to collagen-binding and pilin proteins, suggesting an additional role for ScpC as an adhesin that might mediate the attachment of S. pyogenes to various host tissues. The Cat domain of ScpC is similar to subtilisin-like proteases with significant difference to dictate its specificity toward C-X-C chemokines. We further show that ScpC does not undergo structural rearrangement upon maturation. In the ScpC–inhibitor complex, the bound inhibitor breaks the hydrogen bond between active-site residues, which is essential for catalysis. Guided by our structure, we designed various epitopes and raised antibodies capable of neutralizing ScpC activity. Collectively, our results demonstrate the structure, maturation process, inhibition, and substrate recognition of GAS ScpC, and reveal the presence of functional domains at the C-terminal region.
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14
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Ozberk V, Pandey M, Good MF. Contribution of cryptic epitopes in designing a group A streptococcal vaccine. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2018; 14:2034-2052. [PMID: 29873591 PMCID: PMC6150013 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2018.1462427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A successful vaccine needs to target multiple strains of an organism. Streptococcus pyogenes is an organism that utilizes antigenic strain variation as a successful defence mechanism to circumvent the host immune response. Despite numerous efforts, there is currently no vaccine available for this organism. Here we review and discuss the significant obstacles to vaccine development, with a focus on how cryptic epitopes may provide a strategy to circumvent the obstacles of antigenic variation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Ozberk
- a Griffith University, Institute for Glycomics , Gold Coast Campus, Queensland , Australia
| | - Manisha Pandey
- a Griffith University, Institute for Glycomics , Gold Coast Campus, Queensland , Australia
| | - Michael F Good
- a Griffith University, Institute for Glycomics , Gold Coast Campus, Queensland , Australia
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15
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WHO/IVI global stakeholder consultation on group A Streptococcus vaccine development: Report from a meeting held on 12–13 December 2016. Vaccine 2018; 36:3397-3405. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.02.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Revised: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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16
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Heinson AI, Gunawardana Y, Moesker B, Hume CCD, Vataga E, Hall Y, Stylianou E, McShane H, Williams A, Niranjan M, Woelk CH. Enhancing the Biological Relevance of Machine Learning Classifiers for Reverse Vaccinology. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18020312. [PMID: 28157153 PMCID: PMC5343848 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18020312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Reverse vaccinology (RV) is a bioinformatics approach that can predict antigens with protective potential from the protein coding genomes of bacterial pathogens for subunit vaccine design. RV has become firmly established following the development of the BEXSERO® vaccine against Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B. RV studies have begun to incorporate machine learning (ML) techniques to distinguish bacterial protective antigens (BPAs) from non-BPAs. This research contributes significantly to the RV field by using permutation analysis to demonstrate that a signal for protective antigens can be curated from published data. Furthermore, the effects of the following on an ML approach to RV were also assessed: nested cross-validation, balancing selection of non-BPAs for subcellular localization, increasing the training data, and incorporating greater numbers of protein annotation tools for feature generation. These enhancements yielded a support vector machine (SVM) classifier that could discriminate BPAs (n = 200) from non-BPAs (n = 200) with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.787. In addition, hierarchical clustering of BPAs revealed that intracellular BPAs clustered separately from extracellular BPAs. However, no immediate benefit was derived when training SVM classifiers on data sets exclusively containing intra- or extracellular BPAs. In conclusion, this work demonstrates that ML classifiers have great utility in RV approaches and will lead to new subunit vaccines in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley I Heinson
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | | | - Bastiaan Moesker
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Carmen C Denman Hume
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), Department of Pathogen Molecular BiologyLondon WC1E 7HT, UK.
| | - Elena Vataga
- Solutions, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Yper Hall
- Public Health England, National Infection Service, Porton Down Salisbury, SP4 0JG, UK.
| | - Elena Stylianou
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK.
| | - Helen McShane
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK.
| | - Ann Williams
- Public Health England, National Infection Service, Porton Down Salisbury, SP4 0JG, UK.
| | - Mahesan Niranjan
- Department of Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
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A Two-Component Regulatory System Impacts Extracellular Membrane-Derived Vesicle Production in Group A Streptococcus. mBio 2016; 7:mBio.00207-16. [PMID: 27803183 PMCID: PMC5090034 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00207-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Export of macromolecules via extracellular membrane-derived vesicles (MVs) plays an important role in the biology of Gram-negative bacteria. Gram-positive bacteria have also recently been reported to produce MVs; however, the composition and mechanisms governing vesiculogenesis in Gram-positive bacteria remain undefined. Here, we describe MV production in the Gram-positive human pathogen group A streptococcus (GAS), the etiological agent of necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. M1 serotype GAS isolates in culture exhibit MV structures both on the cell wall surface and in the near vicinity of bacterial cells. A comprehensive analysis of MV proteins identified both virulence-associated protein substrates of the general secretory pathway in addition to "anchorless surface proteins." Characteristic differences in the contents, distributions, and fatty acid compositions of specific lipids between MVs and GAS cell membrane were also observed. Furthermore, deep RNA sequencing of vesicular RNAs revealed that GAS MVs contained differentially abundant RNA species relative to bacterial cellular RNA. MV production by GAS strains varied in a manner dependent on an intact two-component system, CovRS, with MV production negatively regulated by the system. Modulation of MV production through CovRS was found to be independent of both GAS cysteine protease SpeB and capsule biosynthesis. Our data provide an explanation for GAS secretion of macromolecules, including RNAs, lipids, and proteins, and illustrate a regulatory mechanism coordinating this secretory response. IMPORTANCE Group A streptococcus (GAS) is a Gram-positive bacterial pathogen responsible for more than 500,000 deaths annually. Establishment of GAS infection is dependent on a suite of proteins exported via the general secretory pathway. Here, we show that GAS naturally produces extracellular vesicles with a unique lipid composition that are laden with proteins and RNAs. Interestingly, both virulence-associated proteins and RNA species were found to be differentially abundant in vesicles relative to the bacteria. Furthermore, we show that genetic disruption of the virulence-associated two-component regulator CovRS leads to an increase in vesicle production. This study comprehensively describes the protein, RNA, and lipid composition of GAS-secreted MVs and alludes to a regulatory system impacting this process.
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Excler JL, Kim JH. Accelerating the development of a group A Streptococcus vaccine: an urgent public health need. Clin Exp Vaccine Res 2016; 5:101-7. [PMID: 27489799 PMCID: PMC4969273 DOI: 10.7774/cevr.2016.5.2.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Revised: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections cause substantial worldwide morbidity and mortality, mostly associated with suppurative complications such as pharyngitis, impetigo, and non-suppurative immune syndromes such as acute rheumatic fever, rheumatic heart disease, and acute post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Deaths occur mostly in children, adolescents, and young adults in particular pregnant women in low- and middle-income countries. GAS strains are highly variable, and a GAS vaccine would need to overcome the issue of multiple strains. Several approaches have been used multivalent vaccines using N-terminal polypeptides of different M protein; conserved M protein vaccines with antigens from the conserved C-repeat portion of the M protein; incorporation selected T- and B-cell epitopes from the C-repeat region in a synthetic polypeptide or shorter single minimal B-cell epitopes from this same region; and non-M protein approaches utilizing highly conserved motives of streptococcal C5a peptidase, GAS carbohydrate and streptococcal fibronectin-binding proteins. A GAS vaccine represents urgent need for this neglected disease and should therefore deserve the greatest attention of international organizations, donors, and vaccine manufacturers.
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20
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Status of research and development of vaccines for Streptococcus pyogenes. Vaccine 2016; 34:2953-2958. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.03.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Identifying protective Streptococcus pyogenes vaccine antigens recognized by both B and T cells in human adults and children. Sci Rep 2016; 6:22030. [PMID: 26911649 PMCID: PMC4766568 DOI: 10.1038/srep22030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
No commercial vaccine exists against Group A streptococci (GAS; Streptococcus pyogenes) and only little is known about anti-GAS protective immunity. In our effort to discover new protective vaccine candidates, we selected 21 antigens based on an in silico evaluation. These were all well-conserved among different GAS strains, upregulated in host-pathogen interaction studies, and predicted to be extracellular or associated with the surface of the bacteria. The antigens were tested for both antibody recognition and T cell responses in human adults and children. The antigenicity of a selected group of antigens was further validated using a high-density peptide array technology that also identified the linear epitopes. Based on immunological recognition, four targets were selected and tested for protective capabilities in an experimental GAS infection model in mice. Shown for the first time, three of these targets (spy0469, spy1228 and spy1801) conferred significant protection whereas one (spy1643) did not.
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Development of a multicomponent vaccine for Streptococcus pyogenes based on the antigenic targets of IVIG. J Infect 2016; 72:450-9. [PMID: 26880087 PMCID: PMC4796040 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2016.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2015] [Revised: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Despite over a century of research and the careful scrutiny of many promising targets, there is currently no vaccine available for the prevention of Streptococcus pyogenes infection. Through analysis of the protective, anti-streptococcal components of pooled human immunoglobulin, we previously identified ten highly conserved and invariant S. pyogenes antigens that contribute to anti-streptococcal immunity in the adult population. We sought to emulate population immunity to S. pyogenes through a process of active vaccination, using the antigens targeted by pooled human immunoglobulin. Methods Seven targets were produced recombinantly and mixed to form a multicomponent vaccine (Spy7). Vaccinated mice were challenged with S. pyogenes isolates representing four globally relevant serotypes (M1, M3, M12 and M89) using an established model of invasive disease. Results Vaccination with Spy7 stimulated the production of anti-streptococcal antibodies, and limited systemic dissemination of M1 and M3 S. pyogenes from an intramuscular infection focus. Vaccination additionally attenuated disease severity due to M1 S. pyogenes as evidenced by reduction in weight loss, and modulated cytokine release. Conclusion Spy7 vaccination successfully stimulated the generation of protective anti-streptococcal immunity in vivo. Identification of reactive antigens using pooled human immunoglobulin may represent a novel route to vaccine discovery for extracellular bacteria. Targets of population level immunity to Streptococcus pyogenes can be identified using pooled IVIG. Seven conserved targets were combined to form a new vaccine (Spy7). Vaccine antigen components were individually immunogenic. Vaccination with Spy7 reduced dissemination of invasive M1 and M3 S. pyogenes. The immuno-proteomic approach to vaccine discovery may be applicable to other pathogens.
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SepM, a Streptococcal Protease Involved in Quorum Sensing, Displays Strict Substrate Specificity. J Bacteriol 2015; 198:436-47. [PMID: 26553848 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00708-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 11/01/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Streptococcus mutans, a causative agent of dental caries, relies on multiple quorum-sensing (QS) pathways that coordinate the expression of factors needed for colonization in the oral cavity. S. mutans uses small peptides as QS signaling molecules that typically are secreted into the outside milieu. Competence-stimulating peptide (CSP) is one such QS signaling molecule that functions through the ComDE two-component signal transduction pathway. CSP is secreted through NlmTE, a dedicated ABC transporter that cleaves off the N-terminal leader peptide to generate a mature peptide that is 21 residues long (CSP-21). We recently identified a surface-localized protease, SepM, which further cleaves the CSP-21 peptide at the C-terminal end and removes the last 3 residues to generate CSP-18. CSP-18 is the active QS molecule that interacts with the ComD sensor kinase to activate the QS pathway. In this study, we show that SepM specifically cleaves CSP-21 between the Ala18 and Leu19 residues. We also show that SepM recognizes only Ala at position 18 and Leu at position 19, although some CSP-18 variants with a substitution at position 18 can function equally as well as the QS peptide. Furthermore, we demonstrate that SepM homologs from other streptococci are capable of processing CSP-21 to generate functional CSP-18. IMPORTANCE SepM is a membrane-associated streptococcal protease that processes competence-stimulating peptide (CSP) to generate an active quorum-sensing molecule in S. mutans. SepM belongs to the S16 family of serine proteases, and in this study, we found that SepM behaves as an endopeptidase. SepM displays strict substrate specificity and cleaves the peptide bond between the Ala and Leu residues. This is the first report of an endopeptidase that specifically cleaves these two residues.
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Reglinski M, Gierula M, Lynskey NN, Edwards RJ, Sriskandan S. Identification of the Streptococcus pyogenes surface antigens recognised by pooled human immunoglobulin. Sci Rep 2015; 5:15825. [PMID: 26508447 PMCID: PMC4623672 DOI: 10.1038/srep15825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunity to common bacteria requires the generation of antibodies that promote opsonophagocytosis and neutralise toxins. Pooled human immunoglobulin is widely advocated as an adjunctive treatment for clinical Streptococcus pyogenes infection however, the protein targets of the reagent remain ill defined. Affinity purification of the anti-streptococcal antibodies present within pooled immunoglobulin resulted in the generation of an IgG preparation that promoted opsonophagocytic killing of S. pyogenes in vitro and provided passive immunity in vivo. Isolation of the streptococcal surface proteins recognised by pooled human immunoglobulin permitted identification and ranking of 94 protein antigens, ten of which were reproducibly identified across four contemporary invasive S. pyogenes serotypes (M1, M3, M12 and M89). The data provide novel insight into the action of pooled human immunoglobulin during invasive S. pyogenes infection, and demonstrate a potential route to enhance the efficacy of antibody based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Reglinski
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Magdalena Gierula
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola N Lynskey
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Robert J Edwards
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Shiranee Sriskandan
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, United Kingdom
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Good MF, Pandey M, Batzloff MR, Tyrrell GJ. Strategic development of the conserved region of the M protein and other candidates as vaccines to prevent infection with group A streptococci. Expert Rev Vaccines 2015; 14:1459-70. [DOI: 10.1586/14760584.2015.1081817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Dale JB, Niedermeyer SE, Agbaosi T, Hysmith ND, Penfound TA, Hohn CM, Pullen M, Bright MI, Murrell DS, Shenep LE, Courtney HS. Protective immunogenicity of group A streptococcal M-related proteins. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2015; 22:344-50. [PMID: 25630406 PMCID: PMC4340887 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.00795-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 01/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Many previous studies have focused on the surface M proteins of group A streptococci (GAS) as virulence determinants and protective antigens. However, the majority of GAS isolates express M-related protein (Mrp) in addition to M protein, and both have been shown to be required for optimal virulence. In the current study, we evaluated the protective immunogenicity of Mrp to determine its potential as a vaccine component that may broaden the coverage of M protein-based vaccines. Sequence analyses of 33 mrp genes indicated that there are three families of structurally related Mrps (MrpI, MrpII, and MrpIII). N-terminal peptides of Mrps were cloned, expressed, and purified from M type 2 (M2) (MrpI), M4 (MrpII), and M49 (MrpIII) GAS. Rabbit antisera against the Mrps reacted at high titers with the homologous Mrp, as determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and promoted bactericidal activity against GAS emm types expressing Mrps within the same family. Mice passively immunized with rabbit antisera against MrpII were protected against challenge infections with M28 GAS. Assays for Mrp antibodies in serum samples from 281 pediatric subjects aged 2 to 16 indicated that the Mrp immune response correlated with increasing age of the subjects. Affinity-purified human Mrp antibodies promoted bactericidal activity against a number of GAS representing different emm types that expressed an Mrp within the same family but showed no activity against emm types expressing an Mrp from a different family. Our results indicate that Mrps have semiconserved N-terminal sequences that contain bactericidal epitopes which are immunogenic in humans. These findings may have direct implications for the development of GAS vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- James B Dale
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry, Memphis, Tennessee, USA Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Shannon E Niedermeyer
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Tina Agbaosi
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Nicholas D Hysmith
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Thomas A Penfound
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Claudia M Hohn
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Matthew Pullen
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Michael I Bright
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Daniel S Murrell
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Lori E Shenep
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Harry S Courtney
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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Abstract
Vaccination has a proven record as one of the most effective medical approaches to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Traditional vaccine approaches involve the administration of whole killed or weakened microorganisms to stimulate protective immune responses. Such approaches deliver many microbial components, some of which contribute to protective immunity, and assist in guiding the type of immune response that is elicited. Despite their impeccable record, these approaches have failed to yield vaccines for many important infectious organisms. This has prompted a move towards more defined vaccines ('subunit vaccines'), where individual protective components are administered. This unit provides an overview of the components that are used for the development of modern vaccines including: an introduction to different vaccine types (whole organism, protein/peptide, polysaccharide, conjugate, and DNA vaccines); techniques for identifying subunit antigens; vaccine delivery systems; and immunostimulatory agents ('adjuvants'), which are fundamental for the development of effective subunit vaccines.
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Gupta VK, Sekhar S, Dhanda V, Toor D, Kumar R, Chakraborti A. Immune response against M protein-conserved region peptides from prevalent group A Streptococcus in a North Indian population. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2014; 49:352-8. [PMID: 25087198 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2014.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Revised: 05/05/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Group A streptococci (GAS) cause infections with a high prevalence in most developing countries. A GAS vaccine under trial that is based on the amino-terminus of the M protein provides type-specific immunity, and hence seems ineffective in India because of heterogeneous emm types. However, the conserved C-terminal region of the M protein protects against multiple serotypes. In this paper, the immune response generated against the conserved C-repeat region of the M protein was checked in an Indian population to establish their vaccine candidature. METHODS When screened for GAS, patients with pharyngitis, rheumatic fever/rheumatic heart disease (RF/RHD), and invasive disease showed heterogeneous emm types, out of which five prevalent types (1-2, 11, 49, 75 and 112) were selected for the study. The C-terminal region of their M proteins showed conserved C1-, C2-, and C3-repeats. The C1-repeat was more diverse and had two different J14-like sequences. Peptides to these C-terminal regions (J14.1 and J14-R6) were designed. Antibodies against these peptides were analyzed using the sera of 130 GAS-infected volunteers. RESULTS Serum antibodies were significantly higher in patients with acute rheumatic fever, RHD, and invasive disease than in patients with pharyngitis or the healthy controls. The serum antibodies to these peptides was higher in teenagers and adults than in children. CONCLUSION Results showed an association between streptococcal disease progression and the age-related development of immunity to the conserved regions. Hence, these peptides could be considered protective in impeding streptococcal infections worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun K Gupta
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sasank Sekhar
- School of Public Health, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Vanita Dhanda
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology, Chandigarh, India
| | - Devinder Toor
- School of Public Health, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar
- School of Public Health, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
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Gallotta M, Gancitano G, Pietrocola G, Mora M, Pezzicoli A, Tuscano G, Chiarot E, Nardi-Dei V, Taddei AR, Rindi S, Speziale P, Soriani M, Grandi G, Margarit I, Bensi G. SpyAD, a moonlighting protein of group A Streptococcus contributing to bacterial division and host cell adhesion. Infect Immun 2014; 82:2890-901. [PMID: 24778116 PMCID: PMC4097626 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00064-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Group A streptococcus (GAS) is a human pathogen causing a wide repertoire of mild and severe diseases for which no vaccine is yet available. We recently reported the identification of three protein antigens that in combination conferred wide protection against GAS infection in mice. Here we focused our attention on the characterization of one of these three antigens, Spy0269, a highly conserved, surface-exposed, and immunogenic protein of unknown function. Deletion of the spy0269 gene in a GAS M1 isolate resulted in very long bacterial chains, which is indicative of an impaired capacity of the knockout mutant to properly divide. Confocal microscopy and immunoprecipitation experiments demonstrated that the protein was mainly localized at the cell septum and could interact in vitro with the cell division protein FtsZ, leading us to hypothesize that Spy0269 is a member of the GAS divisome machinery. Predicted structural domains and sequence homologies with known streptococcal adhesins suggested that this antigen could also play a role in mediating GAS interaction with host cells. This hypothesis was confirmed by showing that recombinant Spy0269 could bind to mammalian epithelial cells in vitro and that Lactococcus lactis expressing Spy0269 on its cell surface could adhere to mammalian cells in vitro and to mice nasal mucosa in vivo. On the basis of these data, we believe that Spy0269 is involved both in bacterial cell division and in adhesion to host cells and we propose to rename this multifunctional moonlighting protein as SpyAD (Streptococcus pyogenes Adhesion and Division protein).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Giampiero Pietrocola
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Anna Rita Taddei
- Centre for High Instruments, Electron Microscopy Section, University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Simonetta Rindi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Pietro Speziale
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | - Guido Grandi
- Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics Srl, Siena, Italy
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Moreland NJ, Waddington CS, Williamson DA, Sriskandan S, Smeesters PR, Proft T, Steer AC, Walker MJ, Baker EN, Baker MG, Lennon D, Dunbar R, Carapetis J, Fraser JD. Working towards a Group A Streptococcal vaccine: Report of a collaborative Trans-Tasman workshop. Vaccine 2014; 32:3713-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2014.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Disease manifestations and pathogenic mechanisms of Group A Streptococcus. Clin Microbiol Rev 2014. [PMID: 24696436 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00101-13)] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as group A Streptococcus (GAS), causes mild human infections such as pharyngitis and impetigo and serious infections such as necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. Furthermore, repeated GAS infections may trigger autoimmune diseases, including acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis, acute rheumatic fever, and rheumatic heart disease. Combined, these diseases account for over half a million deaths per year globally. Genomic and molecular analyses have now characterized a large number of GAS virulence determinants, many of which exhibit overlap and redundancy in the processes of adhesion and colonization, innate immune resistance, and the capacity to facilitate tissue barrier degradation and spread within the human host. This improved understanding of the contribution of individual virulence determinants to the disease process has led to the formulation of models of GAS disease progression, which may lead to better treatment and intervention strategies. While GAS remains sensitive to all penicillins and cephalosporins, rising resistance to other antibiotics used in disease treatment is an increasing worldwide concern. Several GAS vaccine formulations that elicit protective immunity in animal models have shown promise in nonhuman primate and early-stage human trials. The development of a safe and efficacious commercial human vaccine for the prophylaxis of GAS disease remains a high priority.
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32
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Walker MJ, Barnett TC, McArthur JD, Cole JN, Gillen CM, Henningham A, Sriprakash KS, Sanderson-Smith ML, Nizet V. Disease manifestations and pathogenic mechanisms of Group A Streptococcus. Clin Microbiol Rev 2014; 27:264-301. [PMID: 24696436 PMCID: PMC3993104 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00101-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 545] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as group A Streptococcus (GAS), causes mild human infections such as pharyngitis and impetigo and serious infections such as necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. Furthermore, repeated GAS infections may trigger autoimmune diseases, including acute poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis, acute rheumatic fever, and rheumatic heart disease. Combined, these diseases account for over half a million deaths per year globally. Genomic and molecular analyses have now characterized a large number of GAS virulence determinants, many of which exhibit overlap and redundancy in the processes of adhesion and colonization, innate immune resistance, and the capacity to facilitate tissue barrier degradation and spread within the human host. This improved understanding of the contribution of individual virulence determinants to the disease process has led to the formulation of models of GAS disease progression, which may lead to better treatment and intervention strategies. While GAS remains sensitive to all penicillins and cephalosporins, rising resistance to other antibiotics used in disease treatment is an increasing worldwide concern. Several GAS vaccine formulations that elicit protective immunity in animal models have shown promise in nonhuman primate and early-stage human trials. The development of a safe and efficacious commercial human vaccine for the prophylaxis of GAS disease remains a high priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J. Walker
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences and the Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Timothy C. Barnett
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences and the Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jason D. McArthur
- School of Biological Sciences and Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Jason N. Cole
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences and the Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Department of Pediatrics and Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Christine M. Gillen
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences and the Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Anna Henningham
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences and the Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Department of Pediatrics and Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - K. S. Sriprakash
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Martina L. Sanderson-Smith
- School of Biological Sciences and Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Victor Nizet
- Department of Pediatrics and Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Rady Children's Hospital, San Diego, California, USA
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Alam FM, Bateman C, Turner CE, Wiles S, Sriskandan S. Non-invasive monitoring of Streptococcus pyogenes vaccine efficacy using biophotonic imaging. PLoS One 2013; 8:e82123. [PMID: 24278474 PMCID: PMC3835743 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0082123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2013] [Accepted: 10/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes infection of the nasopharynx represents a key step in the pathogenic cycle of this organism and a major focus for vaccine development, requiring robust models to facilitate the screening of potentially protective antigens. One antigen that may be an important target for vaccination is the chemokine protease, SpyCEP, which is cell surface-associated and plays a role in pathogenesis. Biophotonic imaging (BPI) can non-invasively characterize the spatial location and abundance of bioluminescent bacteria in vivo. We have developed a bioluminescent derivative of a pharyngeal S. pyogenes strain by transformation of an emm75 clinical isolate with the luxABCDE operon. Evaluation of isogenic recombinant strains in vitro and in vivo confirmed that bioluminescence conferred a growth deficit that manifests as a fitness cost during infection. Notwithstanding this, bioluminescence expression permitted non-invasive longitudinal quantitation of S. pyogenes within the murine nasopharynx albeit with a detection limit corresponding to approximately 105 bacterial colony forming units (CFU) in this region. Vaccination of mice with heat killed streptococci, or with SpyCEP led to a specific IgG response in the serum. BPI demonstrated that both vaccine candidates reduced S. pyogenes bioluminescence emission over the course of nasopharyngeal infection. The work suggests the potential for BPI to be used in the non-invasive longitudinal evaluation of potential S. pyogenes vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faraz M. Alam
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Colin Bateman
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Claire E. Turner
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Siouxsie Wiles
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- * E-mail: (SS); (SW)
| | - Shiranee Sriskandan
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (SS); (SW)
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Arpaci T, Ugurluer G, Akbas T, Arpaci RB, Serin M. Imaging of the skeletal muscle metastases. EUROPEAN REVIEW FOR MEDICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2013. [PMID: 23280019 PMCID: PMC7163697 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Copyright 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc., A Wiley CompanyThis article is being made freely available through PubMed Central as part of the COVID-19 public health emergency response. It can be used for unrestricted research re-use and analysis in any form or by any means with acknowledgement of the original source, for the duration of the public health emergency. Omics technologies include genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and immunomics. These technologies have been used in vaccine research, which can be summarized using the term “vaccinomics.” These omics technologies combined with advanced bioinformatics analysis form the core of “systems vaccinology.” Omics technologies provide powerful methods in vaccine target identification. The genomics‐based reverse vaccinology starts with predicting vaccine protein candidates through in silico bioinformatics analysis of genome sequences. The VIOLIN Vaxign vaccine design program (http://www.violinet.org/vaxign) is the first web‐based vaccine target prediction software based on the reverse vaccinology strategy. Systematic transcriptomics and proteomics analyses facilitate rational vaccine target identification by detesting genome‐wide gene expression profiles. Immunomics is the study of the set of antigens recognized by host immune systems and has also been used for efficient vaccine target prediction. With the large amount of omics data available, it is necessary to integrate various vaccine data using ontologies, including the Gene Ontology (GO) and Vaccine Ontology (VO), for more efficient vaccine target prediction and assessment. All these omics technologies combined with advanced bioinformatics analysis methods for a systems biology‐based vaccine target prediction strategy. This article reviews the various omics technologies and how they can be used in vaccine target identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Arpaci
- Department of Radiology, Acibadem Adana Hospital, Adana, Turkey.
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Smidt M, Bättig P, Verhaegh SJC, Niebisch A, Hanner M, Selak S, Schüler W, Morfeldt E, Hellberg C, Nagy E, Lundberg U, Hays JP, Meinke A, Henriques-Normark B. Comprehensive antigen screening identifies Moraxella catarrhalis proteins that induce protection in a mouse pulmonary clearance model. PLoS One 2013; 8:e64422. [PMID: 23671716 PMCID: PMC3650003 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0064422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2012] [Accepted: 04/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Moraxella catarrhalis is one of the three most common causative bacterial pathogens of otitis media, however no effective vaccine against M. catarrhalis has been developed so far. To identify M. catarrhalis vaccine candidate antigens, we used carefully selected sera from children with otitis media and healthy individuals to screen small-fragment genomic libraries that are expressed to display frame-selected peptides on a bacterial cell surface. This ANTIGENome technology led to the identification of 214 antigens, 23 of which were selected by in vitro or in vivo studies for additional characterization. Eight of the 23 candidates were tested in a Moraxella mouse pulmonary clearance model, and 3 of these antigens induced significantly faster bacterial clearance compared to adjuvant or to the previously characterized antigen OmpCD. The most significant protection data were obtained with the antigen MCR_1416 (Msp22), which was further investigated for its biological function by in vitro studies suggesting that Msp22 is a heme binding protein. This study comprises one of the most exhaustive studies to identify potential vaccine candidate antigens against the bacterial pathogen M. catarrhalis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick Bättig
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Suzanne J. C. Verhaegh
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Axel Niebisch
- Intercell AG, Campus Vienna Biocenter 3, Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Hanner
- Intercell AG, Campus Vienna Biocenter 3, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sanja Selak
- Intercell AG, Campus Vienna Biocenter 3, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Eva Morfeldt
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christel Hellberg
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eszter Nagy
- Intercell AG, Campus Vienna Biocenter 3, Vienna, Austria
| | - Urban Lundberg
- Intercell AG, Campus Vienna Biocenter 3, Vienna, Austria
| | - John P. Hays
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andreas Meinke
- Intercell AG, Campus Vienna Biocenter 3, Vienna, Austria
- * E-mail:
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Dale JB, Fischetti VA, Carapetis JR, Steer AC, Sow S, Kumar R, Mayosi BM, Rubin FA, Mulholland K, Hombach JM, Schödel F, Henao-Restrepo AM. Group A streptococcal vaccines: Paving a path for accelerated development. Vaccine 2013; 31 Suppl 2:B216-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2012.09.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2012] [Revised: 09/10/2012] [Accepted: 09/18/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Kotloff KL. Streptococcus group A vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-1-4557-0090-5.00061-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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Prachi P, Biagini M, Bagnoli F. Vaccinology Is Turning into an Omics-Based Science. Drug Dev Res 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Prachi Prachi
- Novartis Vaccines; Research Center; via Fiorentina 1; 53100; Siena; Italy
| | | | - Fabio Bagnoli
- Novartis Vaccines; Research Center; via Fiorentina 1; 53100; Siena; Italy
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An extracelluar protease, SepM, generates functional competence-stimulating peptide in Streptococcus mutans UA159. J Bacteriol 2012; 194:5886-96. [PMID: 22923597 DOI: 10.1128/jb.01381-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-cell communication in Gram-positive bacteria often depends on the production of extracellular peptides. The cariogenic bacterium Streptococcus mutans employs so-called competence-stimulating peptide (CSP) to stimulate mutacin (bacteriocin) production and competence development through the activation of the ComDE two-component pathway. In S. mutans, CSP is secreted as a 21-residue peptide; however, mass spectrometric analysis of culture supernatant indicates the presence of an 18-residue proteolytically cleaved species. In this study, using a transposon mutagenesis screening, we identified a cell surface protease that is involved in the processing of 21-residue CSP to generate the 18-residue CSP. We named this protease SepM for streptococcal extracellular protease required for mutacin production. We showed that the truncated 18-residue peptide is the biologically active form and that the specific postexport cleavage is a prerequisite to activate the ComDE two-component signal transduction pathway. We also showed that the CSP and the mutacins are exported outside the cell by the same ABC transporter, NlmTE. Our study further confirmed that the ComDE two-component system is absolutely necessary for mutacin production in S. mutans.
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Streptococcus pyogenes SpyCEP influences host-pathogen interactions during infection in a murine air pouch model. PLoS One 2012; 7:e40411. [PMID: 22848376 PMCID: PMC3407228 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0040411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2012] [Accepted: 06/06/2012] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Streptococcus pyogenes is a major human pathogen worldwide, responsible for both local and systemic infections. These bacteria express the subtilisin-like protease SpyCEP which cleaves human IL-8 and related chemokines. We show that localization of SpyCEP is growth-phase and strain dependent. Significant shedding was observed only in a strain naturally overexpressing SpyCEP, and shedding was not dependent on SpyCEP autoproteolytic activity. Surface-bound SpyCEP in two different strains was capable of cleaving IL-8. To investigate SpyCEP action in vivo, we adapted the mouse air pouch model of infection for parallel quantification of bacterial growth, host immune cell recruitment and chemokine levels in situ. In response to infection, the predominant cells recruited were neutrophils, monocytes and eosinophils. Concomitantly, the chemokines KC, LIX, and MIP-2 in situ were drastically increased in mice infected with the SpyCEP knockout strain, and growth of this mutant strain was reduced compared to the wild type. SpyCEP has been described as a potential vaccine candidate against S. pyogenes, and we showed that surface-associated SpyCEP was recognized by specific antibodies. In vitro, such antibodies also counteracted the inhibitory effects of SpyCEP on chemokine mediated PMN recruitment. Thus, α-SpyCEP antibodies may benefit the host both directly by enabling opsonophagocytosis, and indirectly, by neutralizing an important virulence factor. The animal model we employed shows promise for broad application in the study of bacterial pathogenesis.
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Bensi G, Mora M, Tuscano G, Biagini M, Chiarot E, Bombaci M, Capo S, Falugi F, Manetti AGO, Donato P, Swennen E, Gallotta M, Garibaldi M, Pinto V, Chiappini N, Musser JM, Janulczyk R, Mariani M, Scarselli M, Telford JL, Grifantini R, Norais N, Margarit I, Grandi G. Multi high-throughput approach for highly selective identification of vaccine candidates: the Group A Streptococcus case. Mol Cell Proteomics 2012; 11:M111.015693. [PMID: 22286755 PMCID: PMC3433891 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m111.015693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2011] [Revised: 01/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We propose an experimental strategy for highly accurate selection of candidates for bacterial vaccines without using in vitro and/or in vivo protection assays. Starting from the observation that efficacious vaccines are constituted by conserved, surface-associated and/or secreted components, the strategy contemplates the parallel application of three high throughput technologies, i.e. mass spectrometry-based proteomics, protein array, and flow-cytometry analysis, to identify this category of proteins, and is based on the assumption that the antigens identified by all three technologies are the protective ones. When we tested this strategy for Group A Streptococcus, we selected a total of 40 proteins, of which only six identified by all three approaches. When the 40 proteins were tested in a mouse model, only six were found to be protective and five of these belonged to the group of antigens in common to the three technologies. Finally, a combination of three protective antigens conferred broad protection against a panel of four different Group A Streptococcus strains. This approach may find general application as an accelerated and highly accurate path to bacterial vaccine discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuliano Bensi
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Marirosa Mora
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Giovanna Tuscano
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Biagini
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Emiliano Chiarot
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Mauro Bombaci
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Sabrina Capo
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Fabiana Falugi
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Andrea G. O. Manetti
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Paolo Donato
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Erwin Swennen
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Marilena Gallotta
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Manuela Garibaldi
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Vittoria Pinto
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Nico Chiappini
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - James M. Musser
- §Center for Molecular and Translational Human Infectious Diseases Research, The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Robert Janulczyk
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Massimo Mariani
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Maria Scarselli
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - John L. Telford
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Renata Grifantini
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Nathalie Norais
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Immaculada Margarit
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Guido Grandi
- From the ‡Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100, Siena, Italy
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Henningham A, Gillen CM, Walker MJ. Group a streptococcal vaccine candidates: potential for the development of a human vaccine. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2012; 368:207-42. [PMID: 23250780 DOI: 10.1007/82_2012_284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Currently there is no commercial Group A Streptococcus (GAS; S. pyogenes) vaccine available. The development of safe GAS vaccines is challenging, researchers are confronted with obstacles such as the occurrence of many unique serotypes (there are greater than 150 M types), antigenic variation within the same serotype, large variations in the geographical distribution of serotypes, and the production of antibodies cross-reactive with human tissue which can lead to host auto-immune disease. Cell wall anchored, cell membrane associated, secreted and anchorless proteins have all been targeted as GAS vaccine candidates. As GAS is an exclusively human pathogen, the quest for an efficacious vaccine is further complicated by the lack of an animal model which mimics human disease and can be consistently and reproducibly colonized by multiple GAS strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Henningham
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences and Australian Infectious Disease Research Centre, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
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Xu W, Huang M, Zhang Y, Yi X, Dong W, Gao X, Jia C. Novel surface display system for heterogonous proteins on Lactobacillus plantarum. Lett Appl Microbiol 2011; 53:641-8. [PMID: 21967414 DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-765x.2011.03160.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To establish a novel cell surface display system that would enable the display of target proteins on Lactobacillus plantarum. METHODS AND RESULTS BlastP analysis of the amino acids sequence data revealed that the N-terminus of the putative muropeptidase MurO from L. plantarum contained two putative lysin motif (LysM) repeat regions, implying that the MurO was involved in bacterial cell wall binding. To investigate the potential of MurO for surface display, green fluorescent protein (GFP) was fused to MurO at its C-terminus and the resulting fusion protein was expressed in Escherichia coli. After being mixed with L. plantarum cells in vitro, GFP was successfully displayed on the surfaces of L. plantarum cells. Increases in the fluorescence intensities of chemically pretreated L. plantarum cells compared to those of nonpretreated cells suggested that the peptidoglycan was the binding ligand for MurO. SDS sensitivity assay showed that the GFP fluorescence intensity was reduced after being treated with SDS. To demonstrate the applicability of the MurO-mediated surface display system, β-galactosidase from Bifidobacterium bifidium, in place of GFP, was functionally displayed on the surface of L. plantarum cells via MurO. CONCLUSIONS The MurO was a novel anchor protein for constructing a surface display system for L. plantarum. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF STUDY The success in surface display of GFP and β-galactosidase opened up the feasibility of employing the cell wall anchor of MurO for surface display in L. plantarum.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Xu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Agricultural, Beijing, China
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Bagnoli F, Baudner B, Mishra RPN, Bartolini E, Fiaschi L, Mariotti P, Nardi-Dei V, Boucher P, Rappuoli R. Designing the next generation of vaccines for global public health. OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2011; 15:545-66. [PMID: 21682594 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2010.0127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Vaccine research and development are experiencing a renaissance of interest from the global scientific community. There are four major reasons for this: (1) the lack of efficacious treatment for many devastating infections; (2) the emergence of multidrug resistant bacteria; (3) the need for improving the safety of the more traditional licensed vaccines; and finally, (4) the great promise for innovative vaccine design and research with convergence of omics sciences, such as genomics, proteomics, immunomics, and vaccinology. Our first project based on omics was initiated in 2000 and was termed reverse vaccinology. At that time, antigen identification was mainly based on bioinformatic analysis of a singular genome. Since then, omics-guided approaches have been applied to its full potential in several proof-of-concept studies in the industry, with the first reverse vaccinology-derived vaccine now in late stage clinical trials and several vaccines developed by omics in preclinical studies. In the meantime, vaccine discovery and development has been further improved with the support of proteomics, functional genomics, comparative genomics, structural biology, and most recently vaccinomics. We illustrate in this review how omics biotechnologies and integrative biology are expected to accelerate the identification of vaccine candidates against difficult pathogens for which traditional vaccine development has thus far been failing, and how research will provide safer vaccines and improved formulations for immunocompromised patients in the near future. Finally, we present a discussion to situate omics-guided rational vaccine design in the broader context of global public health and how it can benefit citizens in both developed and developing countries.
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Shelburne SA, Sahasrobhajane P, Suber B, Keith DB, Davenport MT, Horstmann N, Kumaraswami M, Olsen RJ, Brennan RG, Musser JM. Niche-specific contribution to streptococcal virulence of a MalR-regulated carbohydrate binding protein. Mol Microbiol 2011; 81:500-14. [PMID: 21645132 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2958.2011.07708.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Low G+C Gram-positive bacteria typically contain multiple LacI/GalR regulator family members, which often have highly similar amino-terminal DNA binding domains, suggesting significant overlap in target DNA sequences. The LacI/GalR family regulator catabolite control protein A (CcpA) is a global regulator of the Group A Streptococcus (GAS) transcriptome and contributes to GAS virulence in diverse infection sites. Herein, we studied the role of the maltose repressor (MalR), another LacI/GalR family member, in GAS global gene expression and virulence. MalR inactivation reduced GAS colonization of the mouse oropharynx but did not detrimentally affect invasive infection. The MalR transcriptome was limited to only 25 genes, and a highly conserved MalR DNA-binding sequence was identified. Variation of the MalR binding sequence significantly reduced MalR binding in vitro. In contrast, CcpA bound to the same DNA sequences as MalR but tolerated variation in the promoter sequences with minimal change in binding affinity. Inactivation of pulA, a MalR regulated gene which encodes a cell surface carbohydrate binding protein, significantly reduced GAS human epithelial cell adhesion and mouse oropharyngeal colonization but did not affect GAS invasive disease. These data delineate a molecular mechanism by which hierarchical regulation of carbon source utilization influences bacterial pathogenesis in a site-specific fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A Shelburne
- Department of Infectious Diseases, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Approach to discover T- and B-cell antigens of intracellular pathogens applied to the design of Chlamydia trachomatis vaccines. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2011; 108:9969-74. [PMID: 21628568 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1101756108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural immunity against obligate and/or facultative intracellular pathogens is usually mediated by both humoral and cellular immunity. The identification of those antigens stimulating both arms of the immune system is instrumental for vaccine discovery. Although high-throughput technologies have been applied for the discovery of antibody-inducing antigens, few examples of their application for T-cell antigens have been reported. We describe how the compilation of the immunome, here defined as the pool of immunogenic antigens inducing T- and B-cell responses in vivo, can lead to vaccine candidates against Chlamydia trachomatis. We selected 120 C. trachomatis proteins and assessed their immunogenicity using two parallel high-throughput approaches. Protein arrays were generated and screened with sera from C. trachomatis-infected patients to identify antibody-inducing antigens. Splenocytes from C. trachomatis-infected mice were stimulated with 79 proteins, and the frequency of antigen-specific CD4(+)/IFN-γ(+) T cells was analyzed by flow cytometry. We identified 21 antibody-inducing antigens, 16 CD4(+)/IFN-γ(+)-inducing antigens, and five antigens eliciting both types of responses. Assessment of their protective activity in a mouse model of Chlamydia muridarum lung infection led to the identification of seven antigens conferring partial protection when administered with LTK63/CpG adjuvant. Protection was largely the result of cellular immunity as assessed by CD4(+) T-cell depletion. The seven antigens provided robust additive protection when combined in four-antigen combinations. This study paves the way for the development of an effective anti-Chlamydia vaccine and provides a general approach for the discovery of vaccines against other intracellular pathogens.
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Fighting bacterial infections—Future treatment options. Drug Resist Updat 2011; 14:125-39. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2011.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2011] [Revised: 01/31/2011] [Accepted: 01/31/2011] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Meinke AL, Senn BM, Visram Z, Henics TZ, Minh DB, Schüler W, Neubauer C, Gelbmann D, Noiges B, Sinzinger J, Hanner M, Dewasthaly S, Lundberg U, Hordnes K, Masoud H, Sevelda P, von Gabain A, Nagy E. Immunological fingerprinting of group B streptococci: From circulating human antibodies to protective antigens. Vaccine 2010; 28:6997-7008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2010.08.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2010] [Revised: 08/03/2010] [Accepted: 08/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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