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Zhang C, Wang Y, Peng J, Wen X, Zhang Y, Li K, Du H, Hu X. Decoding trends in mRNA vaccine research: A comprehensive bibliometric study. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2355037. [PMID: 38813652 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2355037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, infectious diseases like COVID-19 have had profound global socio-economic impacts. mRNA vaccines have gained prominence due to their rapid development, industrial adaptability, simplicity, and responsiveness to new variants. Notably, the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine recognized significant contributions to mRNA vaccine research. METHODS Our study employed a comprehensive bibliometric analysis using the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database, encompassing 5,512 papers on mRNA vaccines from 2003 to 2023. We generated cooperation maps, co-citation analyses, and keyword clustering to evaluate the field's developmental history and achievements. RESULTS The analysis yielded knowledge maps highlighting countries/institutions, influential authors, frequently published and highly cited journals, and seminal references. Ongoing research hotspots encompass immune responses, stability enhancement, applications in cancer prevention and treatment, and combating infectious diseases using mRNA technology. CONCLUSIONS mRNA vaccines represent a transformative development in infectious disease prevention. This study provides insights into the field's growth and identifies key research priorities, facilitating advancements in vaccine technology and addressing future challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaobin Zhang
- Southwest Eye Hospital, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Yuhang Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianding Peng
- School of Basic Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaotian Wen
- School of Basic Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Youwen Zhang
- School of Law, City University of Hongkong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kejun Li
- Department of Library, Chongqing Vocational Institute of Engineering, Chongqing, China
| | - Hanjian Du
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chongqing Research Center for Glioma Precision Medicine, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaofei Hu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
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Clark NE, Schraut MR, Winters RA, Kearns K, Scanlon TC. An immuno-northern technique to measure the size of dsRNA byproducts in in vitro transcribed RNA. Electrophoresis 2024. [PMID: 38785136 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202400036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Double-stranded RNA is an immunogenic byproduct present in RNA synthesized with in vitro transcription. dsRNA byproducts engage virus-sensing innate immunity receptors and cause inflammation. Removing dsRNA from in vitro transcribed messenger RNA (mRNA) reduces immunogenicity and improves protein translation. Levels of dsRNA are typically 0.1%-0.5% of total transcribed RNA. Because they form such a minor fraction of the total RNA in transcription reactions, it is difficult to confidently identify discrete bands on agarose gels that correspond to the dsRNA byproducts. Thus, the sizes of dsRNA byproducts are largely unknown. Total levels of dsRNA are typically assayed with dsRNA-specific antibodies in ELISA and immuno dot-blot assays. Here we report a dsRNA-specific immuno-northern blot technique that provides a clear picture of the dsRNA size distributions in transcribed RNA. This technique could complement existing dsRNA analytical methods in studies of dsRNA byproduct synthesis, dsRNA removal, and characterization of therapeutic RNA drug substances.
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Sheikhlary S, Lopez DH, Moghimi S, Sun B. Recent Findings on Therapeutic Cancer Vaccines: An Updated Review. Biomolecules 2024; 14:503. [PMID: 38672519 PMCID: PMC11048403 DOI: 10.3390/biom14040503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer remains one of the global leading causes of death and various vaccines have been developed over the years against it, including cell-based, nucleic acid-based, and viral-based cancer vaccines. Although many vaccines have been effective in in vivo and clinical studies and some have been FDA-approved, there are major limitations to overcome: (1) developing one universal vaccine for a specific cancer is difficult, as tumors with different antigens are different for different individuals, (2) the tumor antigens may be similar to the body's own antigens, and (3) there is the possibility of cancer recurrence. Therefore, developing personalized cancer vaccines with the ability to distinguish between the tumor and the body's antigens is indispensable. This paper provides a comprehensive review of different types of cancer vaccines and highlights important factors necessary for developing efficient cancer vaccines. Moreover, the application of other technologies in cancer therapy is discussed. Finally, several insights and conclusions are presented, such as the possibility of using cold plasma and cancer stem cells in developing future cancer vaccines, to tackle the major limitations in the cancer vaccine developmental process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Sheikhlary
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - David Humberto Lopez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (D.H.L.); (S.M.)
| | - Sophia Moghimi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (D.H.L.); (S.M.)
| | - Bo Sun
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (D.H.L.); (S.M.)
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Oliveira Correa JD, Chies JAB. The COVID-19 Pandemic Affected Hepatitis C Virus Circulation and Genotypic Frequencies-Implications for Hepatitis C Prevention, Treatment and Research. EPIDEMIOLOGIA 2024; 5:160-166. [PMID: 38651388 PMCID: PMC11036259 DOI: 10.3390/epidemiologia5020011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C is regarded as a global health issue caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. HCV is targeted for elimination by 2030 as a global public health goal. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed human circulation and prevented access to diagnostics and treatment to many other diseases, including hepatitis C. COVID-19 impacted HCV global elimination efforts with implications not fully comprehended yet. The high genetic variability in HCV makes the development of vaccines and pan-genotypic drug therapies a difficult task. Changes in the dynamics of HCV impose new challenges for public health and opportunities for future research. Meta-analysis, the follow up of new cases and sampling of HCV patients compared with previously available data are options for investigating the possible changes. The determination of HCV genotypes and subtypes is important for understanding viral dynamics and treatment; therefore, the changes in genotype and subtype prevalences can directly affect such processes. Recent results in the literature already suggest changes in HCV dynamics during the COVID-19 pandemic, both considering viral circulation and differential genotypic frequencies in distinct geographic areas. In this context, we propose a further examination of these trends using different approaches to provide support for the hypothesis that the COVID-19 pandemic affected HCV circulation, since these findings would have important implications for hepatitis C prevention, treatment and research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José Artur Bogo Chies
- Post-Graduation Program in Genetics and Molecular Biology, Biosciences Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves, 9500, Campus do Vale Prédio 43323, Porto Alegre 91501-970, Brazil;
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Wang W, Li J, Liang Y, Gong W. Editorial: Immunological aspects of emerging and re-emerging zoonoses. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1392382. [PMID: 38510255 PMCID: PMC10951716 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1392382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory on Parasitic Disease Prevention and Control, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasites and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jingxin Li
- Jiangsu Provincial Medical Innovation Center, National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Enteric Pathogenic Microbiology, Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuejin Liang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Wenping Gong
- Senior Department of Tuberculosis, the Eighth Medical Center of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Chen P, Wei Y, Sun T, Lin J, Zhang K. Enabling safer, more potent oligonucleotide therapeutics with bottlebrush polymer conjugates. J Control Release 2024; 366:44-51. [PMID: 38145661 PMCID: PMC10922259 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Oligonucleotide therapeutics have the unique ability to address traditionally undruggable targets through various target engagement pathways. However, despite advances in chemically modified oligonucleotides and carrier-assisted delivery systems such as lipid nanoparticles and protein/peptide conjugates, the development of oligonucleotide drugs is still plagued with lackluster potency, narrow therapeutic window, poor delivery to non-liver target sites, and/or high potential for toxicity and unwanted immune system activation. In this perspective, we discuss an unconventional delivery solution based upon bottlebrush polymers, which overcomes many key challenges in oligonucleotide drug development. We address the molecular basis of the polymer's ability to enhance tissue bioavailability and drug potency, reduce side effects, and suppress anti-carrier immunity. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of the technology in advancing oligonucleotide-based therapies for non-liver targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiru Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Yun Wei
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Tingyu Sun
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jiachen Lin
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ke Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Wang H, Wang S, Fang R, Li X, Xing J, Li Z, Song N. Enhancing TB Vaccine Efficacy: Current Progress on Vaccines, Adjuvants and Immunization Strategies. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 12:38. [PMID: 38250851 PMCID: PMC10820143 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12010038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global infectious disease primarily transmitted via respiratory tract infection. Presently, vaccination stands as the primary method for TB prevention, predominantly reliant on the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine. Although it is effective in preventing disseminated diseases in children, its impact on adults is limited. To broaden vaccine protection, efforts are underway to accelerate the development of new TB vaccines. However, challenges arise due to the limited immunogenicity and safety of these vaccines, necessitating adjuvants to bolster their ability to elicit a robust immune response for improved and safer immunization. These adjuvants function by augmenting cellular and humoral immunity against M. tuberculosis antigens via different delivery systems, ultimately enhancing vaccine efficacy. Therefore, this paper reviews and summarizes the current research progress on M. tuberculosis vaccines and their associated adjuvants, aiming to provide a valuable reference for the development of novel TB vaccines and the screening of adjuvants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- Weifang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Tract Pathogens and Drug Therapy, School of Life Science and Technology, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China; (H.W.); (S.W.); (R.F.); (X.L.); (J.X.)
| | - Shuxian Wang
- Weifang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Tract Pathogens and Drug Therapy, School of Life Science and Technology, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China; (H.W.); (S.W.); (R.F.); (X.L.); (J.X.)
| | - Ren Fang
- Weifang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Tract Pathogens and Drug Therapy, School of Life Science and Technology, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China; (H.W.); (S.W.); (R.F.); (X.L.); (J.X.)
| | - Xiaotian Li
- Weifang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Tract Pathogens and Drug Therapy, School of Life Science and Technology, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China; (H.W.); (S.W.); (R.F.); (X.L.); (J.X.)
| | - Jiayin Xing
- Weifang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Tract Pathogens and Drug Therapy, School of Life Science and Technology, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China; (H.W.); (S.W.); (R.F.); (X.L.); (J.X.)
| | - Zhaoli Li
- SAFE Pharmaceutical Technology Co., Ltd., Beijing 100000, China
| | - Ningning Song
- Weifang Key Laboratory of Respiratory Tract Pathogens and Drug Therapy, School of Life Science and Technology, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang 261053, China; (H.W.); (S.W.); (R.F.); (X.L.); (J.X.)
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Granese R, Incognito GG, Gulino FA, Casiraro G, Porcaro P, Alibrandi A, Martinelli C, Ercoli A. Effects of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination on Menstrual Cycle: An Italian Survey-Based Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7699. [PMID: 38137768 PMCID: PMC10744112 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12247699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 has played a critical role in controlling the spread of the pandemic. The main side effects of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination include fever and fatigue; however, the potential impacts on menstrual cycles are to be determined. Given the limited number of studies suggesting menstrual changes post vaccination, this study investigates the correlation between COVID-19 vaccines and menstrual cycle changes in fertile-aged Italian women. A questionnaire was distributed from 1 October to 31 November 2022, focusing on menstrual rhythm and flow changes post vaccination. The analysis involved 471 participants. The study observed a shift from a regular to an irregular menstrual rhythm (p < 0.001), and changes in menstrual duration (p = 0.008 and p < 0.001 for first and second doses, respectively) and flow volume (p < 0.001). Most patients with irregular rhythms were vaccinated in the proliferative phase of their cycle. Within six months post vaccination, 74.2% of women with irregular post-vaccination rhythms reported a return to normality. These findings indicate primarily transient menstrual changes following mRNA COVID-19 vaccination, suggesting the vaccines' safety for women of reproductive age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Granese
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, “G. Martino” University Hospital, 98100 Messina, Italy
| | - Giosuè Giordano Incognito
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy;
| | - Ferdinando Antonio Gulino
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology of Adults and Developmental Age, “G. Martino” University Hospital, 98100 Messina, Italy; (F.A.G.); (G.C.); (C.M.); (A.E.)
| | - Giorgia Casiraro
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology of Adults and Developmental Age, “G. Martino” University Hospital, 98100 Messina, Italy; (F.A.G.); (G.C.); (C.M.); (A.E.)
| | - Paola Porcaro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Santa Maria Ungheretti” Hospital, 89024 Polistena, Italy;
| | - Angela Alibrandi
- Unit of Statistical and Mathematical Sciences, Department of Economics, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy;
| | - Canio Martinelli
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology of Adults and Developmental Age, “G. Martino” University Hospital, 98100 Messina, Italy; (F.A.G.); (G.C.); (C.M.); (A.E.)
| | - Alfredo Ercoli
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology of Adults and Developmental Age, “G. Martino” University Hospital, 98100 Messina, Italy; (F.A.G.); (G.C.); (C.M.); (A.E.)
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Kanauchi O, Low ZX, Jounai K, Tsuji R, AbuBakar S. Overview of anti-viral effects of probiotics via immune cells in pre-, mid- and post-SARS-CoV2 era. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1280680. [PMID: 38116008 PMCID: PMC10728489 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1280680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 outbreak has caused significant global changes and increased public awareness of SARS-CoV-2. Substantial progress in developing vaccines, enhancing sanitation practices, and implementing various measures to combat the virus, including the utilization of probiotics has been made. This comprehensive review examined the medical impact of clinically proven probiotics on infectious diseases, considering three crucial time periods: before (pre-), during (mid-), and after (post-) COVID-19 pandemic era. This review also showed a perspective on the use of probiotics to stimulate the innate immune system and prevent infectious diseases. In pre-COVID-19 era, several probiotic strains were found to be clinically effective in addressing gastrointestinal infectious diseases, the common cold and flu. However, the mechanism by which probiotics exerted their antiviral effects remained relatively unclear during that period. Nevertheless, probiotics, Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma (LC-Plasma), and others have gained attention for their unique ability to modulate the immune system and demonstrate antiviral properties. While some probiotics have shown promise in alleviating gastrointestinal symptoms linked to COVID-19, their direct effectiveness in treating or preventing COVID-19 progression has not yet been conclusively established. As we transition into the post-COVID-19 era, the relationship between COVID-19 and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), a vital component of the innate immune system, has been gradually elucidated. These findings are now being applied in developing novel vaccines and treatments involving interferons and in immune activation research using probiotics as adjuvants, comparable to CpG-DNA through TLR9. The role of the local innate immune system, including pDCs, as the first line of defense against viral infections has gained increasing interest. Moving forward, insight of the immune system and the crosstalk between probiotics and the innate immune system is expected to highlight the role of probiotics in adjunctive immunoregulatory therapy. In combination with drug treatments, probiotics may play a more substantial role in enhancing immune responses. The immunoregulatory approach using probiotics such as LC-Plasma, which can induce anti-infectious factors such as interferons, holds promise as a viable therapeutic and prophylactic option against viral infectious diseases due to their good safety profile and protective efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osamu Kanauchi
- Tropical Infectious Disease Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Institute for Advanced Studies, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Institute of Health Sciences, Kirin Holdings Co., Ltd., Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Zhao Xuan Low
- Tropical Infectious Disease Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Institute for Advanced Studies, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kenta Jounai
- Institute of Health Sciences, Kirin Holdings Co., Ltd., Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Ryohei Tsuji
- Institute of Health Sciences, Kirin Holdings Co., Ltd., Fujisawa, Japan
| | - Sazaly AbuBakar
- Tropical Infectious Disease Research and Education Centre (TIDREC), Institute for Advanced Studies, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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