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Wu Y, Zhu M, Sun B, Chen Y, Huang Y, Gai J, Li G, Li Y, Wan Y, Ma L. A humanized trivalent Nectin-4-targeting nanobody drug conjugate displays potent antitumor activity in gastric cancer. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:256. [PMID: 38755613 PMCID: PMC11097425 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02521-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer represents a highly lethal malignancy with an elevated mortality rate among cancer patients, coupled with a suboptimal postoperative survival prognosis. Nectin-4, an overexpressed oncological target for various cancers, has been exploited to create antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) to treat solid tumors. However, there is limited research on Nectin-4 ADCs specifically for gastric cancer, and conventional immunoglobulin G (IgG)-based ADCs frequently encounter binding site barriers. Based on the excellent tumor penetration capabilities inherent in nanobodies (Nbs), we developed Nectin-4-targeting Nb drug conjugates (NDCs) for the treatment of gastric cancer. RESULTS An immunized phage display library was established and employed for the selection of Nectin-4-specific Nbs using phage display technology. Subsequently, these Nbs were engineered into homodimers to enhance Nb affinity. To prolong in vivo half-life and reduce immunogenicity, we fused an Nb targeting human serum albumin (HSA), resulting in the development of trivalent humanized Nbs. Further, we site-specifically conjugated a monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) at the C-terminus of the trivalent Nbs, creating Nectin-4 NDC (huNb26/Nb26-Nbh-MMAE) with a drug-to-antibody ratio (DAR) of 1. Nectin-4 NDC demonstrated excellent in vitro cell-binding activities and cytotoxic efficacy against cells with high Nectin-4 expression. Subsequent administration of Nectin-4 NDC to mice bearing NCI-N87 human gastric cancer xenografts demonstrated rapid tissue penetration and high tumor uptake through in vivo imaging. Moreover, Nectin-4 NDC exhibited noteworthy dose-dependent anti-tumor efficacy in in vivo studies. CONCLUSION We have engineered a Nectin-4 NDC with elevated affinity and effective tumor uptake, further establishing its potential as a therapeutic agent for gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wu
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Zhu
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Baihe Sun
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongting Chen
- Graduate School of Xinxiang Medical University, Henan, China
| | - Yuping Huang
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Junwei Gai
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Guanghui Li
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Yanfei Li
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China.
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yakun Wan
- Shanghai Novamab Biopharmaceuticals Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China.
| | - Linlin Ma
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, China.
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China.
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Mullin M, McClory J, Haynes W, Grace J, Robertson N, van Heeke G. Applications and challenges in designing VHH-based bispecific antibodies: leveraging machine learning solutions. MAbs 2024; 16:2341443. [PMID: 38666503 PMCID: PMC11057648 DOI: 10.1080/19420862.2024.2341443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of bispecific antibodies that bind at least two different targets relies on bringing together multiple binding domains with different binding properties and biophysical characteristics to produce a drug-like therapeutic. These building blocks play an important role in the overall quality of the molecule and can influence many important aspects from potency and specificity to stability and half-life. Single-domain antibodies, particularly camelid-derived variable heavy domain of heavy chain (VHH) antibodies, are becoming an increasingly popular choice for bispecific construction due to their single-domain modularity, favorable biophysical properties, and potential to work in multiple antibody formats. Here, we review the use of VHH domains as building blocks in the construction of multispecific antibodies and the challenges in creating optimized molecules. In addition to exploring traditional approaches to VHH development, we review the integration of machine learning techniques at various stages of the process. Specifically, the utilization of machine learning for structural prediction, lead identification, lead optimization, and humanization of VHH antibodies.
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Alonso Villela SM, Kraïem-Ghezal H, Bouhaouala-Zahar B, Bideaux C, Aceves Lara CA, Fillaudeau L. Production of recombinant scorpion antivenoms in E. coli: current state and perspectives. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s00253-023-12578-1. [PMID: 37199752 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12578-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Scorpion envenomation is a serious health problem in tropical and subtropical zones. The access to scorpion antivenom is sometimes limited in availability and specificity. The classical production process is cumbersome, from the hyper-immunization of the horses to the IgG digestion and purification of the F(ab)'2 antibody fragments. The production of recombinant antibody fragments in Escherichia coli is a popular trend due to the ability of this microbial host to produce correctly folded proteins. Small recombinant antibody fragments, such as single-chain variable fragments (scFv) and nanobodies (VHH), have been constructed to recognize and neutralize the neurotoxins responsible for the envenomation symptoms in humans. They are the focus of interest of the most recent studies and are proposed as potentially new generation of pharmaceuticals for their use in immunotherapy against scorpion stings of the Buthidae family. This literature review comprises the current status on the scorpion antivenom market and the analyses of cross-reactivity of commercial scorpion anti-serum against non-specific scorpion venoms. Recent studies on the production of new recombinant scFv and nanobodies will be presented, with a focus on the Androctonus and Centruroides scorpion species. Protein engineering-based technology could be the key to obtaining the next generation of therapeutics capable of neutralizing and cross-reacting against several types of scorpion venoms. KEY POINTS: • Commercial antivenoms consist of predominantly purified equine F(ab)'2fragments. • Nanobody-based antivenom can neutralize Androctonus venoms and have a low immunogenicity. • Affinity maturation and directed evolution are used to obtain potent scFv families against Centruroides scorpions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hazar Kraïem-Ghezal
- Laboratoire Des Venins Et Molécules Thérapeutiques, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université de Tunis El Manar, 13 Place Pasteur BP74, 1002, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Balkiss Bouhaouala-Zahar
- Laboratoire Des Venins Et Molécules Thérapeutiques, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université de Tunis El Manar, 13 Place Pasteur BP74, 1002, Tunis, Tunisia.
- Faculté de Médecine de Tunis, Université de Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - Carine Bideaux
- TBI, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Luc Fillaudeau
- TBI, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, INSA, Toulouse, France
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4
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Jin BK, Odongo S, Radwanska M, Magez S. NANOBODIES®: A Review of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:5994. [PMID: 36983063 PMCID: PMC10057852 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
NANOBODY® (a registered trademark of Ablynx N.V) molecules (Nbs), also referred to as single domain-based VHHs, are antibody fragments derived from heavy-chain only IgG antibodies found in the Camelidae family. Due to their small size, simple structure, high antigen binding affinity, and remarkable stability in extreme conditions, nanobodies possess the potential to overcome several of the limitations of conventional monoclonal antibodies. For many years, nanobodies have been of great interest in a wide variety of research fields, particularly in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. This culminated in the approval of the world's first nanobody based drug (Caplacizumab) in 2018 with others following soon thereafter. This review will provide an overview, with examples, of (i) the structure and advantages of nanobodies compared to conventional monoclonal antibodies, (ii) methods used to generate and produce antigen-specific nanobodies, (iii) applications for diagnostics, and (iv) ongoing clinical trials for nanobody therapeutics as well as promising candidates for clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo-kyung Jin
- Laboratory for Biomedical Research, Ghent University Global Campus, Incheon 21985, Republic of Korea
| | - Steven Odongo
- Laboratory for Biomedical Research, Ghent University Global Campus, Incheon 21985, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biotechnical and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
- Center for Biosecurity and Global Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, Kampala 7062, Uganda
| | - Magdalena Radwanska
- Laboratory for Biomedical Research, Ghent University Global Campus, Incheon 21985, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, B-9052 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stefan Magez
- Laboratory for Biomedical Research, Ghent University Global Campus, Incheon 21985, Republic of Korea
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Ben Abderrazek R, Ksouri A, Idoudi F, Dhaouadi S, Hamdi E, Vincke C, Farah A, Benlasfar Z, Majdoub H, El Ayeb M, Muyldermans S, Bouhaouala-Zahar B. Neutralizing Dromedary-Derived Nanobodies Against BotI-Like Toxin From the Most Hazardous Scorpion Venom in the Middle East and North Africa Region. Front Immunol 2022; 13:863012. [PMID: 35514999 PMCID: PMC9063451 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.863012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Scorpion envenoming is a severe health problem in many regions causing significant clinical toxic effects and fatalities. In the Middle East/North Africa (MENA) region, Buthidae scorpion stings are responsible for devastating toxic outcomes in human. The only available specific immunotherapeutic treatment is based on IgG fragments of animal origin. To overcome the limitations of classical immunotherapy, we have demonstrated the in vivo efficacy of NbF12-10 bispecific nanobody at preclinical level. Nanobodies were developed against BotI analogues belonging to a distinct structural and antigenic group of scorpion toxins, occurring in the MENA region. From Buthus occitanus tunetanus venom, BotI-like toxin was purified. The 41 N-terminal amino acid residues were sequenced, and the LD50 was estimated at 40 ng/mouse. The BotI-like toxin was used for dromedary immunization. An immune VHH library was constructed, and after screening, two nanobodies were selected with nanomolar and sub-nanomolar affinity and recognizing an overlapping epitope. NbBotI-01 was able to neutralize 50% of the lethal effect of 13 LD50 BotI-like toxins in mice when injected by i.c.v route, whereas NbBotI-17 neutralized 50% of the lethal effect of 7 LD50. Interestingly, NbBotI-01 completely reduced the lethal effect of the 2 LD50 of BotG50 when injected at 1:4 molar ratio excess. More interestingly, an equimolar mixture of NbBotI-01 with NbF12-10 neutralized completely the lethal effect of 7 and 5 LD50 of BotG50 or AahG50, at 1:4 and 1:2 molar ratio, respectively. Hence, NbBotI-01 and NbF12-10 display synergic effects, leading to a novel therapeutic candidate for treating Buthus occitanus scorpion stings in the MENA region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahma Ben Abderrazek
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, Venins et Applications Théranostiques, Institut Pasteur Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ayoub Ksouri
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, Venins et Applications Théranostiques, Institut Pasteur Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Faten Idoudi
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, Venins et Applications Théranostiques, Institut Pasteur Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Sayda Dhaouadi
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, Venins et Applications Théranostiques, Institut Pasteur Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Emna Hamdi
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, Venins et Applications Théranostiques, Institut Pasteur Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Cécile Vincke
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,Myeloid Cell Immunology Lab, Vlaams Interuniversitair Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB) Center for Inflammation Research, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Azer Farah
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Zakaria Benlasfar
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, Venins et Applications Théranostiques, Institut Pasteur Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Hafedh Majdoub
- Unité des Services Communs de Recherche (USCR) Séquenceur de Protéines, Faculté des Sciences de Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed El Ayeb
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, Venins et Applications Théranostiques, Institut Pasteur Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Serge Muyldermans
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Balkiss Bouhaouala-Zahar
- Laboratoire des Biomolécules, Venins et Applications Théranostiques, Institut Pasteur Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia.,Unité des Services Communs de Recherche (USCR) Séquenceur de Protéines, Faculté des Sciences de Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia.,Faculté de Médecine de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
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Asaadi Y, Jouneghani FF, Janani S, Rahbarizadeh F. A comprehensive comparison between camelid nanobodies and single chain variable fragments. Biomark Res 2021; 9:87. [PMID: 34863296 PMCID: PMC8642758 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-021-00332-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
By the emergence of recombinant DNA technology, many antibody fragments have been developed devoid of undesired properties of natural immunoglobulins. Among them, camelid heavy-chain variable domains (VHHs) and single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) are the most favored ones. While scFv is used widely in various applications, camelid antibodies (VHHs) can serve as an alternative because of their superior chemical and physical properties such as higher solubility, stability, smaller size, and lower production cost. Here, these two counterparts are compared in structure and properties to identify which one is more suitable for each of their various therapeutic, diagnosis, and research applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasaman Asaadi
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Fazlollahi Jouneghani
- Department of Cell & Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Janani
- Department of Cell & Molecular Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Rahbarizadeh
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
- Research and Development Center of Biotechnology, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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Fernández-Taboada G, Riaño-Umbarila L, Olvera-Rodríguez A, Gómez-Ramírez IV, Losoya-Uribe LF, Becerril B. The venom of the scorpion Centruroides limpidus, which causes the highest number of stings in Mexico, is neutralized by two recombinant antibody fragments. Mol Immunol 2021; 137:247-255. [PMID: 34298407 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2021.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Phage display and directed evolution have made it possible to generate recombinant antibodies in the format of single chain variable fragments (scFvs) capable of neutralizing different toxins and venoms of Mexican scorpions. Despite having managed to neutralize a significant number of venoms, some others have not yet been completely neutralized, due to the diversity of the toxic components present in them. An example is the venom of the scorpion Centruroides limpidus, which contains three toxins of medical importance, called Cll1, Cll2 and Cl13. The first two are neutralized by scFv 10FG2, while Cl13, due to its sequence divergence, was not even recognized. For this reason, the aim of the present work was the generation of a new scFv capable of neutralizing Cl13 toxin and thereby helping to neutralize the whole venom of this scorpion. By hybridoma technology, a monoclonal antibody (mAb B7) was generated, which was able to recognize and partially neutralize Cl13 toxin. From mAb B7, its scFv format was obtained, named scFv B7 and subjected to three cycles of directed evolution. At the end of these processes, scFv 11F which neutralized Cl13 toxin was obtained. This scFv, administered in conjunction with scFv 10FG2, allowed to fully neutralize the whole venom of Centruroides limpidus scorpion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Fernández-Taboada
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62250, Mexico.
| | - Lidia Riaño-Umbarila
- Cátedra CONACYT, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62250, Mexico.
| | - Alejandro Olvera-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62250, Mexico.
| | - Ilse Viridiana Gómez-Ramírez
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62250, Mexico.
| | - Luis Fernando Losoya-Uribe
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62250, Mexico.
| | - Baltazar Becerril
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62250, Mexico.
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Rossotti MA, Bélanger K, Henry KA, Tanha J. Immunogenicity and humanization of single‐domain antibodies. FEBS J 2021; 289:4304-4327. [DOI: 10.1111/febs.15809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Martin A. Rossotti
- Life Sciences Division Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre National Research Council Canada Ottawa Canada
| | - Kasandra Bélanger
- Life Sciences Division Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre National Research Council Canada Ottawa Canada
| | - Kevin A. Henry
- Life Sciences Division Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre National Research Council Canada Ottawa Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa Canada
| | - Jamshid Tanha
- Life Sciences Division Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre National Research Council Canada Ottawa Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology Faculty of Medicine University of Ottawa Canada
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Soleimani Moez A, H Sajedi R, Pooshang Bagheri K, Sabatier JM, Shahbazzadeh D. Novel Mutant Phospholipase D from Hemiscorpius lepturus Acts as A Highly Immunogen in BALB/c Mice Against the Lethality of Scorpion Venom. Molecules 2020; 25:E1673. [PMID: 32260428 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25071673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemiscorpius lepturus (H. lepturus) which belongs to the Scorpionidae family, is the deadliest scorpion in Iran. It causes pathological manifestations like dermonecrosis, hemolysis, renal failure, necrotic ulcers, and in some cases, even death. The venom of this scorpion is well-known for its cytotoxic effects in comparison with the other venomous scorpions which show significant neurotoxic effects. Due to the painless nature of the sting of this scorpion, the clinical symptoms occur in victims 24 to 72 h post-sting. In our previous studies during the last decade, we demonstrated that the medical complications are attributable to the presence of phospholipase D (PLD) as a major toxin in the venom. With the purpose of designing and constructing a vaccine against H. lepturus for humans, animal model experiments were performed. To achieve this goal, non-toxic PLD was developed by mutation of two critical catalytic residues-His12 and His48-into alanines and the product was then denominated mut-rPLD1. The in-vivo tests showed that the mice immunized with interval doses of 10 µg of mut-rPLD1, were completely protected against 10× the LD100 of the venom. In conclusion, this mutant may be an effective vaccine candidate against scorpion envenomation by H. lepturus in future clinical studies.
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Martin-Eauclaire MF, Adi-Bessalem S, Hammoudi-Triki D, Laraba-Djebari F, Bougis PE. Serotherapy against Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel-Targeting αToxins from Androctonus Scorpion Venom. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11020063. [PMID: 30678116 PMCID: PMC6410273 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11020063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Because of their venom lethality towards mammals, scorpions of the Androctonus genus are considered a critical threat to human health in North Africa. Several decades of exploration have led to a comprehensive inventory of their venom components at chemical, pharmacological, and immunological levels. Typically, these venoms contain selective and high affinity ligands for the voltage-gated sodium (Nav) and potassium (Kv) channels that dictate cellular excitability. In the well-studied Androctonus australis and Androctonus mauretanicus venoms, almost all the lethality in mammals is due to the so-called α-toxins. These peptides commonly delay the fast inactivation process of Nav channels, which leads to increased sodium entry and a subsequent cell membrane depolarization. Markedly, their neutralization by specific antisera has been shown to completely inhibit the venom’s lethal activity, because they are not only the most abundant venom peptide but also the most fatal. However, the structural and antigenic polymorphisms in the α-toxin family pose challenges to the design of efficient serotherapies. In this review, we discuss past and present accomplishments to improve serotherapy against Androctonus scorpion stings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sonia Adi-Bessalem
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, USTHB, BP 32, El-Alia Bab Ezzouar, 16111 Algiers, Algeria.
| | - Djelila Hammoudi-Triki
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, USTHB, BP 32, El-Alia Bab Ezzouar, 16111 Algiers, Algeria.
| | - Fatima Laraba-Djebari
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, USTHB, BP 32, El-Alia Bab Ezzouar, 16111 Algiers, Algeria.
| | - Pierre E Bougis
- Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience, CNRS, Aix Marseille Univ, UMR 7291, 13003 Marseille, France.
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Alirahimi E, Kazemi-Lomedasht F, Shahbazzadeh D, Habibi-Anbouhi M, Hosseininejad Chafi M, Sotoudeh N, Ghaderi H, Muyldermans S, Behdani M. Nanobodies as novel therapeutic agents in envenomation. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2018; 1862:2955-65. [PMID: 30309831 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2018.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An effective therapy against envenoming should be a priority in view of the high number scorpion stings and snakebites. Serum therapy is still widely applied to treat the envenomation victims; however this approach suffers from several shortcomings. The employment of monoclonal antibodies might be an outcome as these molecules are at the core of a variety of applications from protein structure determination to cancer treatment. The progress of activities in the twilight zone between genetic and antibody engineering have led to the development of a unique class of antibody fragments. These molecules possess several benefits and lack many possible disadvantages over classical antibodies. Within recombinant antibody formats, nanobodies or single domain antigen binding fragments derived from heavy chain only antibodies in camelids occupy a privileged position. SCOPE OF REVIEW In this paper we will briefly review the common methods of envenomation treatment and focus on details of various in vivo research activities that investigate the performance of recombinant, monoclonal nanobodies in venom neutralization. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS Nanobodies bind to their cognate target with high specificity and affinity, they can be produced in large quantities from microbial expression systems and are very robust even when challenged with harsh environmental conditions. Upon administering, they rapidly distribute throughout the body and seem to be well tolerated in humans posing low immunogenicity. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE Scorpion and snake envenomation is a major issue in developing countries and nanobodies as a venom-neutralizing agent can be considered as a valuable and promising candidate in envenomation therapy.
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Ksouri A, Ghedira K, Ben Abderrazek R, Shankar BG, Benkahla A, Bishop OT, Bouhaouala-Zahar B. Homology modeling and docking of AahII-Nanobody complexes reveal the epitope binding site on AahII scorpion toxin. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2018; 496:1025-1032. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2018.01.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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13
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Liu JL, Shriver-Lake LC, Anderson GP, Zabetakis D, Goldman ER. Selection, characterization, and thermal stabilization of llama single domain antibodies towards Ebola virus glycoprotein. Microb Cell Fact 2017; 16:223. [PMID: 29233140 PMCID: PMC5726015 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-017-0837-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A key advantage of recombinant antibody technology is the ability to optimize and tailor reagents. Single domain antibodies (sdAbs), the recombinantly produced variable domains derived from camelid and shark heavy chain antibodies, provide advantages of stability and solubility and can be further engineered to enhance their properties. In this study, we generated sdAbs specific for Ebola virus envelope glycoprotein (GP) and increased their stability to expand their utility for use in austere locals. Ebola virus is extremely virulent and causes fatal hemorrhagic fever in ~ 50 percent of the cases. The viral GP binds to host cell receptors to facilitate viral entry and thus plays a critical role in pathogenicity. Results An immune phage display library containing more than 107 unique clones was developed from a llama immunized with a combination of killed Ebola virus and recombinantly produced GP. We panned the library to obtain GP binding sdAbs and isolated sdAbs from 5 distinct sequence families. Three GP binders with dissociation constants ranging from ~ 2 to 20 nM, and melting temperatures from ~ 57 to 72 °C were selected for protein engineering in order to increase their stability through a combination of consensus sequence mutagenesis and the addition of a non-canonical disulfide bond. These changes served to increase the melting temperatures of the sdAbs by 15–17 °C. In addition, fusion of a short positively charged tail to the C-terminus which provided ideal sites for the chemical modification of these sdAbs resulted in improved limits of detection of GP and Ebola virus like particles while serving as tracer antibodies. Conclusions SdAbs specific for Ebola GP were selected and their stability and functionality were improved utilizing protein engineering. Thermal stability of antibody reagents may be of particular importance when operating in austere locations that lack reliable refrigeration. Future efforts can evaluate the potential of these isolated sdAbs as candidates for diagnostic or therapeutic applications for Ebola. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12934-017-0837-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinny L Liu
- US Naval Research Laboratory, Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, 4555 Overlook Ave SW, Washington, DC, 20375, USA
| | - Lisa C Shriver-Lake
- US Naval Research Laboratory, Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, 4555 Overlook Ave SW, Washington, DC, 20375, USA
| | - George P Anderson
- US Naval Research Laboratory, Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, 4555 Overlook Ave SW, Washington, DC, 20375, USA
| | - Dan Zabetakis
- US Naval Research Laboratory, Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, 4555 Overlook Ave SW, Washington, DC, 20375, USA
| | - Ellen R Goldman
- US Naval Research Laboratory, Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, 4555 Overlook Ave SW, Washington, DC, 20375, USA.
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14
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Mostafazadeh B, Gorbani A, Mogaddaspour M, Khoddami Vishteh HR. The effect of plasmapheresis on treating disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) caused by a Hemiscorpius lepturus (Gadim) sting. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2017; 55:902-907. [DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2017.1324164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Babak Mostafazadeh
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Gorbani
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mitra Mogaddaspour
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Torabi E, Behdani M, Chafi MH, Moazzami R, Sabatier JM, Khalaj V, Shahbazzadeh D, Bagheri KP. Characteristics and Lethality of a Novel Recombinant Dermonecrotic Venom Phospholipase D from Hemiscorpius lepturus. Toxins (Basel) 2017; 9:E102. [PMID: 28335389 DOI: 10.3390/toxins9030102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemoscorpius lepturus is the most medically important scorpion in Iran. The clinical signs of H. lepturus envenomation are remarkably similar to those reported for brown spiders, including dermonecrosis, hematuria, renal failure and even death. The lethality and toxicity of brown spiders’ venom have been attributed to its phospholipase D activity. This study aims to identify a phospholipase D with possible lethality and dermonecrotic activity in H. lepturus venom. In this study, a cDNA library of the venom glands was generated by Illumina RNA sequencing. Phospholipase D (PLD) from H. lepturus was characterized according to its significant similarity with PLDs from brown spiders. The main chain designated as Hl-RecPLD1 (the first recombinant isoform of H. lepturus PLD) was cloned, expressed and purified. Sphingomyelinase, dermonecrotic and lethal activities were examined. Hl-PLD1 showed remarkable sequence similarity and structural homology with PLDs of brown spiders. The conformation of Hl-PLD1 was predicted as a “TIM beta/alpha-barrel”. The lethal dose 50 (LD50) and dermonecrotic activities of Hl-RecPLD1 were determined as 3.1 µg/mouse and 0.7 cm2 at 1 µg respectively. It is the first report indicating that a similar molecular evolutionary mechanism has occurred in both American brown spiders and this Iranian scorpion. In conclusion, Hl-RecPLD1 is a highly active phospholipase D, which would be considered as the lethal dermonecrotic toxin in H. lepturus venom.
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16
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Abstract
Clostridium difficile continues to be one of the most prevalent hospital-acquired bacterial infections in the developed world, despite the recent introduction of a novel and effective antibiotic agent (fidaxomicin). Alternative approaches under investigation to combat the anaerobic Gram-positive bacteria include fecal transplantation therapy, vaccines, and antibody-based immunotherapies. In this review, we catalog the recent advances in antibody-based approaches under development and in the clinic for the treatment of C. difficile infection. By and large, inhibitory antibodies that recognize the primary C. difficile virulence factors, toxin A and toxin B, are the most popular passive immunotherapies under investigation. We provide a detailed summary of the toxin epitopes recognized by various antitoxin antibodies and discuss general trends on toxin inhibition efficacy. In addition, antibodies to other C. difficile targets, such as surface-layer proteins, binary toxin, motility factors, and adherence and colonization factors, are introduced in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg Hussack
- Human Health Therapeutics Portfolio, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa
| | - Jamshid Tanha
- Human Health Therapeutics Portfolio, National Research Council Canada, Ottawa; School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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17
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Carmo AO, Chatzaki M, Horta CCR, Magalhães BF, Oliveira-Mendes BBR, Chávez-Olórtegui C, Kalapothakis E. Evolution of alternative methodologies of scorpion antivenoms production. Toxicon 2015; 97:64-74. [PMID: 25701676 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2015.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2014] [Revised: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Scorpionism represents a serious public health problem resulting in the death of children and debilitated individuals. Scorpion sting treatment employs various strategies including the use of specific medicines such as antiserum, especially for patients with severe symptoms. In 1909 Charles Todd described the production of an antiserum against the venom of the scorpion Buthus quinquestriatus. Based on Todd's work, researchers worldwide began producing antiserum using the same approach i.e., immunization of horses with crude venom as antigen. Despite achieving satisfactory results using this approach, researchers in this field have developed alternative approaches for the production of scorpion antivenom serum. In this review, we describe the work published by experts in toxinology to the development of scorpion venom antiserum. Methods and results describing the use of specific antigens, detoxified venom or toxins, purified toxins and or venom fractions, native toxoids, recombinant toxins, synthetic peptides, monoclonal and recombinant antibodies, and alternative animal models are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- A O Carmo
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - M Chatzaki
- Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, University Campus, 69100 Komotini, Greece.
| | - C C R Horta
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - B F Magalhães
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - B B R Oliveira-Mendes
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - C Chávez-Olórtegui
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - E Kalapothakis
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.
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18
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Alvarenga LM, Zahid M, di Tommaso A, Juste MO, Aubrey N, Billiald P, Muzard J. Engineering venom's toxin-neutralizing antibody fragments and its therapeutic potential. Toxins (Basel) 2014; 6:2541-67. [PMID: 25153256 DOI: 10.3390/toxins6082541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Revised: 07/16/2014] [Accepted: 08/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Serum therapy remains the only specific treatment against envenoming, but anti-venoms are still prepared by fragmentation of polyclonal antibodies isolated from hyper-immunized horse serum. Most of these anti-venoms are considered to be efficient, but their production is tedious, and their use may be associated with adverse effects. Recombinant antibodies and smaller functional units are now emerging as credible alternatives and constitute a source of still unexploited biomolecules capable of neutralizing venoms. This review will be a walk through the technologies that have recently been applied leading to novel antibody formats with better properties in terms of homogeneity, specific activity and possible safety.
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19
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Gad W, Ben-Abderrazek R, Wahni K, Vertommen D, Muyldermans S, Bouhaouala-Zahar B, Messens J. Wheat germ in vitro translation to produce one of the most toxic sodium channel specific toxins. Biosci Rep 2014; 34:e00122. [PMID: 24924257 DOI: 10.1042/BSR20140050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Envenoming following scorpion sting is a common emergency in many parts of the world. During scorpion envenoming, highly toxic small polypeptides of the venom diffuse rapidly within the victim causing serious medical problems. The exploration of toxin structure-function relationship would benefit from the generation of soluble recombinant scorpion toxins in Escherichia coli. We developed an in vitro wheat germ translation system for the expression of the highly toxic Aah (Androctonus australis hector)II protein that requires the proper formation of four disulphide bonds. Soluble, recombinant N-terminal GST (glutathione S-transferase)-tagged AahII toxin is obtained in this in vitro translation system. After proteolytic removal of the GST-tag, purified rAahII (recombinant AahII) toxin, which contains two extra amino acids at its N terminal relative to the native AahII, is highly toxic after i.c.v. (intracerebroventricular) injection in Swiss mice. An LD50 (median lethal dose)-value of 10 ng (or 1.33 pmol), close to that of the native toxin (LD50 of 3 ng) indicates that the wheat germ in vitro translation system produces properly folded and biological active rAahII. In addition, NbAahII10 (Androctonus australis hector nanobody 10), a camel single domain antibody fragment, raised against the native AahII toxin, recognizes its cognate conformational epitope on the recombinant toxin and neutralizes the toxicity of purified rAahII upon injection in mice. A wheat germ embryo derived cell-free translation system expresses a biologically active, highly toxic scorpion venom protein that is fully neutralized by a camel single domain antibody fragment raised against the native scorpion toxin.
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20
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Yardehnavi N, Behdani M, Bagheri KP, Mahmoodzadeh A, Khanahmad H, Shahbazzadeh D, Habibi-Anbouhi M, Hassanzadeh Ghassabeh G, Muyldermans S. A camelid antibody candidate for development of a therapeutic agent against Hemiscorpius lepturus envenomation. FASEB J 2014; 28:4004-14. [PMID: 24891523 DOI: 10.1096/fj.13-247478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 05/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Hemiscorpius lepturus scorpionism poses one of the most dangerous health problems in many parts of the world. The common therapy consists of using antivenom antibody fragments derived from a polyclonal immune response raised in horses. However, this immunotherapy creates serious side effects, including anaphylactic shock sometimes even leading to death. Thus, many efforts have been made to introduce new replacement therapeutics that cause less adverse reactions. One of the most attractive approaches to replacing the available therapy is offered by single-domain antibody fragments, or nanobodies (Nbs). We immunized dromedaries with H. lepturus toxin and identified a functional recombinant Nb (referred to as F7Nb) against heminecrolysin (HNc), the major known hemolytic and dermonecrotic fraction of H. lepturus venom. This Nb was retrieved from the immune library by phage display selection. The in vitro neutralization tests indicated that 17.5 nmol of the F7Nb can inhibit 45% of the hemolytic activity of 1 EC100 (7.5 μg/ml) of HNc. The in vivo neutralization tests demonstrated that F7Nb had good antihemolytic and antidermonecrotic effects against HNc in all tested mice. Surprisingly, F7Nb (8.75 nmol) neutralized 1 LD100 of HNc (10 μg) via an intracerebroventricular route or 1 LD100 (80 μg) via a subcutaneous route. All of the control mice died. Hence, this Nb is a potential leading novel candidate for treating H. lepturus scorpionism in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najmeh Yardehnavi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, and
| | - Mahdi Behdani
- Biotechnology Research Center, Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, and
| | | | - Amir Mahmoodzadeh
- Biotechnology Research Center, Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, and
| | - Hossein Khanahmad
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Delavar Shahbazzadeh
- Biotechnology Research Center, Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, and
| | | | - Gholamreza Hassanzadeh Ghassabeh
- Nanobody Service Facility (NSF) and Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Serge Muyldermans
- Structural Biology Research Center, Vlaams Institutuut vor Biotechnologie (VIB), Brussels, Belgium; and Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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21
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Unciti-broceta JD, Del Castillo T, Soriano M, Magez S, Garcia-salcedo JA. Novel therapy based on camelid nanobodies. Ther Deliv 2013; 4:1321-36. [DOI: 10.4155/tde.13.87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanobodies (Nbs) are small antibody fragments derived from camelid heavy chain antibodies through recombinant gene technology. Their exceptional physicochemical properties, possibility of humanization and unique antigen recognition properties make them excellent candidates for targeted delivery of biologically active components. Several different therapeutic approaches based on the novel camelid Nbs have been developed to treat a wide range of diseases ranging from immune, bone, blood and neurological disorders; infectious diseases and cancer. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the use of camelid-derived Nbs as novel therapeutic agents against multiple diseases.
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22
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Abstract
Sera of camelids contain both conventional heterotetrameric antibodies and unique functional heavy (H)-chain antibodies (HCAbs). The H chain of these homodimeric antibodies consists of one antigen-binding domain, the VHH, and two constant domains. HCAbs fail to incorporate light (L) chains owing to the deletion of the first constant domain and a reshaped surface at the VHH side, which normally associates with L chains in conventional antibodies. The genetic elements composing HCAbs have been identified, but the in vivo generation of these antibodies from their dedicated genes into antigen-specific and affinity-matured bona fide antibodies remains largely underinvestigated. However, the facile identification of antigen-specific VHHs and their beneficial biochemical and economic properties (size, affinity, specificity, stability, production cost) supported by multiple crystal structures have encouraged antibody engineering of these single-domain antibodies for use as a research tool and in biotechnology and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge Muyldermans
- Research Group Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium.
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23
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Pellis M, Pardon E, Zolghadr K, Rothbauer U, Vincke C, Kinne J, Dierynck I, Hertogs K, Leonhardt H, Messens J, Muyldermans S, Conrath K. A bacterial-two-hybrid selection system for one-step isolation of intracellularly functional Nanobodies. Arch Biochem Biophys 2012; 526:114-23. [PMID: 22583807 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2012.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2012] [Revised: 04/24/2012] [Accepted: 04/26/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Camel single-domain antibody fragments or Nanobodies, are practical in a wide range of applications. Their unique biochemical and biophysical properties permit an intracellular expression and antigen targeting. The availability of an efficient intracellular selection step would immediately identify the best intracellularly performing functional antibody fragments. Therefore, we assessed a bacterial-two-hybrid system to retrieve such Nanobodies. With GFP as an antigen we demonstrate that antigen-specific Nanobodies of sub-micromolar affinity and stability above 30 kJ/mol, at a titer of 10(-4) can be retrieved in a single-step selection. This was further proven practically by the successful recovery from an 'immune' library of multiple stable, antigen-specific Nanobodies of good affinity for HIV-1 integrase or nucleoside hydrolase. The sequence diversity, intrinsic domain stability, antigen-specificity and affinity of these binders compare favorably to those that were retrieved in parallel by phage display pannings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mireille Pellis
- Laboratory Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, B-1050 Brussel, Belgium
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24
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Fabrichny IP, Mondielli G, Conrod S, Martin-Eauclaire MF, Bourne Y, Marchot P. Structural insights into antibody sequestering and neutralizing of Na+ channel α-type modulator from old world scorpion venom. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:14136-48. [PMID: 22371498 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.315382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The Old World scorpion Androctonus australis hector (Aah) produces one of the most lethal venoms for humans. Peptidic α-toxins AahI to AahIV are responsible for its potency, with AahII accounting for half of it. All four toxins are high affinity blockers of the fast inactivation phase of mammalian voltage-activated Na(+) channels. However, the high antigenic polymorphism of α-toxins prevents production of a polyvalent neutralizing antiserum, whereas the determinants dictating their trapping by neutralizing antibodies remain elusive. From an anti-AahII mAb, we generated an antigen binding fragment (Fab) with high affinity and selectivity for AahII and solved a 2.3 Å-resolution crystal structure of the complex. Sequestering of the C-terminal region of the bound toxin within a groove formed by the Fab combining loops is associated with a toxin orientation and main and side chain conformations that dictate the AahII antigenic specificity and efficient neutralization. From an anti-AahI mAb, we also preformed and crystallized a high affinity AahI-Fab complex. The 1.6 Å-resolution structure solved revealed a Fab molecule devoid of a bound AahI and with combining loops involved in packing interactions, denoting expulsion of the bound antigen upon crystal formation. Comparative analysis of the groove-like combining site of the toxin-bound anti-AahII Fab and planar combining surface of the unbound anti-AahI Fab along with complementary data from a flexible docking approach suggests occurrence of distinctive trapping orientations for the two toxins relative to their respective Fab. This study provides complementary templates for designing new molecules aimed at capturing Aah α-toxins and suitable for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor P Fabrichny
- Faculté de Médecine Secteur Nord, Centre de Recherche en Neurobiologie-Neurophysiologie de Marseille, CRN2M, CNRS/Aix-Marseille Université UMR-6231, Institut Fédératif de Recherche Jean Roche, CS80011, F-13344 Marseille cedex 15, France
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Quintero-Hernández V, Del Pozo-Yauner L, Pedraza-Escalona M, Juárez-González VR, Alcántara-Recillas I, Possani LD, Becerril B. Evaluation of three different formats of a neutralizing single chain human antibody against toxin Cn2: neutralization capacity versus thermodynamic stability. Immunol Lett 2012; 143:152-60. [PMID: 22306104 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2012.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2011] [Revised: 01/18/2012] [Accepted: 01/20/2012] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The single-chain antibody fragment (scFv) 6009F, obtained by directed evolution, neutralizes the effects of the Cn2 toxin, which is the major toxic component of Centruroides noxius scorpion venom. In this work we compared the neutralization capacity and the thermodynamic stability of scFv 6009F with those of two other derived formats: Fab 6009F and diabody 6009F. Additionally, the affinity constants to Cn2 toxin of the three recombinant antibody fragments were determined by means of BIAcore. We found a correlation between the thermodynamic stability of these antibody fragments with their neutralization capacity. The order of thermodynamic stability determined was Fab≫scFv>diabody. The Fab and scFv were capable of neutralizing the toxic effects of Cn2 and whole venom but the diabody was unable to fully neutralize intoxication. In silico analysis of the diabody format indicates that the reduction of stability and neutralization capacity could be explained by a less cooperative interface between the heavy and the light variable domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Quintero-Hernández
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, Mexico
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