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Sadeghi L, Bolhassani A, Mohit E, Baesi K, Aghasadeghi MR, Milani A, Agi E. Engineered ClearColi™-derived outer membrane vesicles as functional carriers for development of HIV-1 therapeutic vaccine candidate. Microb Pathog 2024; 193:106749. [PMID: 38879140 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106749] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Bacteria-derived outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) can be engineered to incorporate foreign antigens. This study explored the potential of ClearColi™-derived OMVs as a natural adjuvant and a carrier (recombinant OMVs or rOMVs) for development of an innovative therapeutic vaccine candidate harboring HIV-1 Nef and Nef-Tat antigens. Herein, the rOMVs containing CytolysinA (ClyA)-Nef and ClyA-Nef-Tat fusion proteins were isolated from ClearColi™ strain. The presence of Nef and Nef-Tat proteins on their surface (rOMVNef and rOMVNef-Tat) was confirmed by western blotting after proteinase K treatment. Immune responses induced by Nef and Nef-Tat proteins emulsified with Montanide® ISA720 or mixed with OMVs, and also rOMVNef and rOMVNef-Tat were investigated in BALB/c mice. Additionally, the potency of splenocytes exposed to single-cycle replicable (SCR) HIV-1 virions was assessed for the secretion of cytokines in vitro. Our findings showed that the rOMVs as an antigen carrier (rOMVNef and rOMVNef-Tat) induced higher levels of IgG2a, IFN-γ and granzyme B compared to OMVs as an adjuvant (Nef + OMV and Nef-Tat + OMV), and also Montanide® ISA720 (Nef + Montanide and Nef-Tat + Montanide). Moreover, IFN-γ level in splenocytes isolated from mice immunized with rOMVNef-Tat was higher than other regimens after exposure to SCR virions. Generally, ClearColi™-derived rOMVs can serve as potent carriers for developing effective vaccines against HIV-1 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Sadeghi
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Bolhassani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Elham Mohit
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Protein Technology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Kazem Baesi
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Alireza Milani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elnaz Agi
- Iranian Comprehensive Hemophilia Care Center, Tehran, Iran
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Cafaro A, Schietroma I, Sernicola L, Belli R, Campagna M, Mancini F, Farcomeni S, Pavone-Cossut MR, Borsetti A, Monini P, Ensoli B. Role of HIV-1 Tat Protein Interactions with Host Receptors in HIV Infection and Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1704. [PMID: 38338977 PMCID: PMC10855115 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031704] [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: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Each time the virus starts a new round of expression/replication, even under effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), the transactivator of viral transcription Tat is one of the first HIV-1 protein to be produced, as it is strictly required for HIV replication and spreading. At this stage, most of the Tat protein exits infected cells, accumulates in the extracellular matrix and exerts profound effects on both the virus and neighbor cells, mostly of the innate and adaptive immune systems. Through these effects, extracellular Tat contributes to the acquisition of infection, spreading and progression to AIDS in untreated patients, or to non-AIDS co-morbidities in ART-treated individuals, who experience inflammation and immune activation despite virus suppression. Here, we review the role of extracellular Tat in both the virus life cycle and on cells of the innate and adaptive immune system, and we provide epidemiological and experimental evidence of the importance of targeting Tat to block residual HIV expression and replication. Finally, we briefly review vaccine studies showing that a therapeutic Tat vaccine intensifies ART, while its inclusion in a preventative vaccine may blunt escape from neutralizing antibodies and block early events in HIV acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurelio Cafaro
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (I.S.); (L.S.); (R.B.); (M.C.); (F.M.); (S.F.); (M.R.P.-C.); (A.B.); (P.M.)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Barbara Ensoli
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (I.S.); (L.S.); (R.B.); (M.C.); (F.M.); (S.F.); (M.R.P.-C.); (A.B.); (P.M.)
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3
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Sadeghi L, Bolhassani A, Mohit E, Baesi K, Aghasadeghi MR. Heterologous DNA Prime/Protein Boost Immunization Targeting Nef-Tat Fusion Antigen Induces Potent T-cell Activity and in vitro Anti-SCR HIV-1 Effects. Curr HIV Res 2024; 22:109-119. [PMID: 38712371 DOI: 10.2174/011570162x297602240430142231] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heterologous combinations in vaccine design are an effective approach to promote T cell activity and antiviral effects. The goal of this study was to compare the homologous and heterologous regimens targeting the Nef-Tat fusion antigen to develop a human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) therapeutic vaccine candidate. METHODS At first, the DNA and protein constructs harboring HIV-1 Nef and the first exon of Tat as linked form (pcDNA-nef-tat and Nef-Tat protein) were prepared in large scale and high purity. The generation of the Nef-Tat protein was performed in the E. coli expression system using an IPTG inducer. Then, we evaluated and compared immune responses of homologous DNA prime/ DNA boost, homologous protein prime/ protein boost, and heterologous DNA prime/protein boost regimens in BALB/c mice. Finally, the ability of mice splenocytes to secret cytokines after exposure to single-cycle replicable (SCR) HIV-1 was compared between immunized and control groups in vitro. RESULTS The nef-tat gene was successfully subcloned in eukaryotic pcDNA3.1 (-) and prokaryotic pET-24a (+) expression vectors. The recombinant Nef-Tat protein was generated in the E. coli Rosetta strain under optimized conditions as a clear band of ~ 35 kDa detected on SDS-PAGE. Moreover, transfection of pcDNA-nef-tat into HEK-293T cells was successfully performed using Lipofectamine 2000, as confirmed by western blotting. The immunization studies showed that heterologous DNA prime/protein boost regimen could significantly elicit the highest levels of Ig- G2a, IFN-γ, and Granzyme B in mice as compared to homologous DNA/DNA and protein/protein regimens. Moreover, the secretion of IFN-γ was higher in DNA/protein regimens than in DNA/DNA and protein/protein regimens after exposure of mice splenocytes to SCR HIV-1 in vitro. CONCLUSION The chimeric HIV-1 Nef-Tat antigen was highly immunogenic, especially when applied in a heterologous prime/ boost regimen. This regimen could direct immune response toward cellular immunity (Th1 and CTL activity) and increase IFN-γ secretion after virus exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Sadeghi
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Bolhassani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Mohit
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Protein Technology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kazem Baesi
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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4
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T-cell evasion and invasion during HIV-1 infection: The role of HIV-1 Tat protein. Cell Immunol 2022; 377:104554. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2022.104554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Ensoli B, Moretti S, Borsetti A, Maggiorella MT, Buttò S, Picconi O, Tripiciano A, Sgadari C, Monini P, Cafaro A. New insights into pathogenesis point to HIV-1 Tat as a key vaccine target. Arch Virol 2021; 166:2955-2974. [PMID: 34390393 PMCID: PMC8363864 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-021-05158-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite over 30 years of enormous effort and progress in the field, no preventative and/or therapeutic vaccines against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are available. Here, we briefly summarize the vaccine strategies and vaccine candidates that in recent years advanced to efficacy trials with mostly unsatisfactory results. Next, we discuss a novel and somewhat contrarian approach based on biological and epidemiological evidence, which led us to choose the HIV protein Tat for the development of preventive and therapeutic HIV vaccines. Toward this goal, we review here the role of Tat in the virus life cycle as well as experimental and epidemiological evidence supporting its key role in the natural history of HIV infection and comorbidities. We then discuss the preclinical and clinical development of a Tat therapeutic vaccine, which, by improving the functionality and homeostasis of the immune system and by reducing the viral reservoir in virologically suppressed vaccinees, helps to establish key determinants for intensification of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) and a functional cure. Future developments and potential applications of the Tat therapeutic vaccine are also discussed, as well as the rationale for its use in preventative strategies. We hope this contribution will lead to a reconsideration of the current paradigms for the development of HIV/AIDS vaccines, with a focus on targeting of viral proteins with key roles in HIV pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Ensoli
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Sonia Moretti
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Borsetti
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Maggiorella
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Buttò
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Orietta Picconi
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Tripiciano
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Sgadari
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Monini
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Aurelio Cafaro
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
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Mousavi T, Valadan R, Rafiei A, Abbasi A, Haghshenas MR. A novel recombinant protein vaccine containing the different E7 proteins of the HPV16, 18, 6, 11 E7 linked to the HIV-1 Tat (47-57) improve cytotoxic immune responses. Biotechnol Lett 2021; 43:1933-1944. [PMID: 34313864 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-021-03166-2] [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: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Human papillomavirus infection (HPV) is the most common viral infection which is causes of cervical, penal, vulvar, anal and, oropharyngeal cancer. E7 protein of HPV is a suitable target for induction of T cell responses and controlling HPV-related cancer. The aim of the current study was to designed and evaluated a novel fusion protein containing the different E7 proteins of the HPV 16, 18, 6 and 11, linked to the cell-penetrating peptide HIV-1 Tat 49-57, in order to improve cytotoxic immune responses in in-vitro and in-vivo. RESULTS In this study whole sequence of HPV16,18,6,11 E7-Tat (47-57) and HPV16,18,6,11 E7 cloned into the vector and expressed in E. coli (BL21). The purified protein was confirmed by SDS page and western blotting and then injected into the C57BL/6 mice. The efficiency of the fusion protein vaccine was assessed by antibody response assay, cytokine assay (IL-4 and IFN-γ), CD + 8 cytotoxicity assay and tumor challenge experiment. Result showed that fusion proteins containing Adjuvant (IFA,CFA) could express higher titer of antibody. Also, we showed that vaccination with E7-Tat and, E7-Tat-ADJ induced high frequencies of E7-specific CD8 + T cells and CD107a expression as well as IFN-γ level and enhanced long-term survival in the therapeutic animal models. CONCLUSION Our finding suggested that this novel fusion protein vaccine was able to induce therapeutic efficacy and immunogenicity by improving CD8 + T cell in TC-1 tumor bearing mice; so this vaccine may be appreciated for research against HPV and tumor immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahoora Mousavi
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center (MCBRC), Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center (MCBRC), Hemoglobinopathy Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Reza Valadan
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center (MCBRC), Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Alireza Rafiei
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center (MCBRC), Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ali Abbasi
- Department of Community Medicine, Sari Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sari, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Haghshenas
- Department of Microbiology, Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
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7
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HIV-1 Tat Protein Enters Dysfunctional Endothelial Cells via Integrins and Renders Them Permissive to Virus Replication. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010317. [PMID: 33396807 PMCID: PMC7796023 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous work has shown that the Tat protein of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-1 is released by acutely infected cells in a biologically active form and enters dendritic cells upon the binding of its arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) domain to the α5β1, αvβ3, and αvβ5 integrins. The up-regulation/activation of these integrins occurs in endothelial cells exposed to inflammatory cytokines that are increased in HIV-infected individuals, leading to endothelial cell dysfunction. Here, we show that inflammatory cytokine-activated endothelial cells selectively bind and rapidly take up nano-micromolar concentrations of Tat, as determined by flow cytometry. Protein oxidation and low temperatures reduce Tat entry, suggesting a conformation- and energy-dependent process. Consistently, Tat entry is competed out by RGD-Tat peptides or integrin natural ligands, and it is blocked by anti-α5β1, -αvβ3, and -αvβ5 antibodies. Moreover, modelling–docking calculations identify a low-energy Tat-αvβ3 integrin complex in which Tat makes contacts with both the αv and β3 chains. It is noteworthy that internalized Tat induces HIV replication in inflammatory cytokine-treated, but not untreated, endothelial cells. Thus, endothelial cell dysfunction driven by inflammatory cytokines renders the vascular system a target of Tat, which makes endothelial cells permissive to HIV replication, adding a further layer of complexity to functionally cure and/or eradicate HIV infection.
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8
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Falahati Z, Mahdavi A, Hassani L. Physicochemical studies on the structural stability of the HIV-1 vaccine candidate recombinant Tat protein. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 164:403-414. [PMID: 32693138 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.07.141] [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: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
HIV-1 transactivator of transcription protein is one of the most promising AIDS vaccine candidates and plays central roles in the virus life cycle and pathogenesis. Understanding structural properties of vaccine candidate antigens leads to rational design of vaccines which improves their presentation to immune system and facilitates their manufacturing and storage. This study aims to investigate structural properties and stability of one variant of HIV-1 Tat recombinant protein using different spectroscopic, electrophoretic, and microscopic methods. Therefore, after the gene transformation, protein expression was optimized in E. coli cells and the C-terminal His6-tagged protein was purified using Ni-NTA resin. The structural stability of the pure protein was then investigated under different conditions including pH, Zn2+ ions, thermal and chemical stress. Acidic and alkaline pHs affects spectroscopic properties of the vaccine in different ways. The structure unfolding experiment shows relatively poor stability of the zinc-free protein sample compared to the ion-containing one. According to the quenching experiment and also thermal stability study results, the protein has attained more structural compactness in the presence of Zn2+. Secondary structure of the protein is mainly disordered and didn't significantly affect under various conditions. Finally, different degrees of oligomerization and aggregation were found under physiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Falahati
- Department of Biological Sciences, Institute for Advanced Studies in Basic Sciences (IASBS), Gavazang, P.O. Box 451951159, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Atiyeh Mahdavi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Institute for Advanced Studies in Basic Sciences (IASBS), Gavazang, P.O. Box 451951159, Zanjan, Iran.
| | - Leila Hassani
- Department of Biological Sciences, Institute for Advanced Studies in Basic Sciences (IASBS), Gavazang, P.O. Box 451951159, Zanjan, Iran
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9
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Moretti S, Cafaro A, Tripiciano A, Picconi O, Buttò S, Ensoli F, Sgadari C, Monini P, Ensoli B. HIV therapeutic vaccines aimed at intensifying combination antiretroviral therapy. Expert Rev Vaccines 2020; 19:71-84. [PMID: 31957513 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2020.1712199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Although successful at suppressing HIV replication, combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) only partially restores immune functions and fails to reduce the latent HIV reservoir, thus requiring novel interventions for its intensification.Areas covered: Here are reviewed therapeutic vaccine candidates that are being developed to this goal. Among them, the Tat vaccine has been shown to promote immune restoration, including CD4+ T-cell recovery in low immunological responders, and to reduce the virus reservoirs well beyond what achieved with long-term suppressive cART.Expert opinion: The authors propose the Tat vaccine as a promising vaccine candidate for cART intensification toward HIV reservoirs depletion, functional cure, and eradication strategies, suggesting that targeting a key protein in the virus life cycle is pivotal to success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Moretti
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Aurelio Cafaro
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Orietta Picconi
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Buttò
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Ensoli
- Pathology and Microbiology, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Sgadari
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Monini
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Ensoli
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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10
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Cafaro A, Tripiciano A, Picconi O, Sgadari C, Moretti S, Buttò S, Monini P, Ensoli B. Anti-Tat Immunity in HIV-1 Infection: Effects of Naturally Occurring and Vaccine-Induced Antibodies Against Tat on the Course of the Disease. Vaccines (Basel) 2019; 7:vaccines7030099. [PMID: 31454973 PMCID: PMC6789840 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines7030099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
HIV-1 Tat is an essential protein in the virus life cycle, which is required for virus gene expression and replication. Most Tat that is produced during infection is released extracellularly and it plays a key role in HIV pathogenesis, including residual disease upon combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). Here, we review epidemiological and experimental evidence showing that antibodies against HIV-1 Tat, infrequently occurring in natural infection, play a protective role against disease progression, and that vaccine targeting Tat can intensify cART. In fact, Tat vaccination of subjects on suppressive cART in Italy and South Africa promoted immune restoration, including CD4+ T-cell increase in low immunological responders, and a reduction of proviral DNA even after six years of cART, when both CD4+ T-cell gain and DNA decay have reached a plateau. Of note, DNA decay was predicted by the neutralization of Tat-mediated entry of Env into dendritic cells by anti-Tat antibodies, which were cross-clade binding and neutralizing. Anti-Tat cellular immunity also contributed to the DNA decay. Based on these data, we propose the Tat therapeutic vaccine as a pathogenesis-driven intervention that effectively intensifies cART and it may lead to a functional cure, providing new perspectives and opportunities also for prevention and virus eradication strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurelio Cafaro
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Antonella Tripiciano
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Orietta Picconi
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Cecilia Sgadari
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Sonia Moretti
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Stefano Buttò
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Paolo Monini
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Barbara Ensoli
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome 00161, Italy.
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11
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Sgadari C, Monini P, Tripiciano A, Picconi O, Casabianca A, Orlandi C, Moretti S, Francavilla V, Arancio A, Paniccia G, Campagna M, Bellino S, Meschiari M, Nozza S, Sighinolfi L, Latini A, Muscatello A, Saracino A, Di Pietro M, Galli M, Cafaro A, Magnani M, Ensoli F, Ensoli B. Continued Decay of HIV Proviral DNA Upon Vaccination With HIV-1 Tat of Subjects on Long-Term ART: An 8-Year Follow-Up Study. Front Immunol 2019; 10:233. [PMID: 30815001 PMCID: PMC6381398 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Tat, a key HIV virulence protein, has been targeted for the development of a therapeutic vaccine aimed at cART intensification. Results from phase II clinical trials in Italy (ISS T-002) and South Africa (ISS T-003) indicated that Tat vaccination promotes increases of CD4+ T-cells and return to immune homeostasis while reducing the virus reservoir in chronically cART-treated patients. Here we present data of 92 vaccinees (59% of total vaccinees) enrolled in the ISS T-002 8-year extended follow-up study (ISS T-002 EF-UP, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02118168). Results: Anti-Tat antibodies (Abs) induced upon vaccination persisted for the entire follow-up in 34/92 (37%) vaccinees, particularly when all 3 Ab classes (A/G/M) were present (66% of vaccinees), as most frequently observed with Tat 30 μg regimens. CD4+ T cells increased above study-entry levels reaching a stable plateau at year 5 post-vaccination, with the highest increase (165 cells/μL) in the Tat 30 μg, 3 × regimen. CD4+ T-cell increase occurred even in subjects with CD4+ nadir ≤ 250 cells/uL and in poor immunological responders and was associated with a concomitant increase of the CD4+/CD8+ T-cell ratio, a prognostic marker of morbidity/mortality inversely related to HIV reservoir size. Proviral DNA load decreased over time, with a half-life of 2 years and an estimated 90% reduction at year 8 in the Tat 30 μg, 3 × group. In multivariate analysis the kinetic and amplitude of both CD4+ T-cell increase and proviral DNA reduction were fastest and highest in subjects with all 3 anti-Tat Ab classes and in the 30 μg, 3 × group, irrespective of drug regimens (NNRTI/NRTI vs. PI). HIV proviral DNA changes from baseline were inversely related to CD4+/CD8+ T-cell ratio and CD4+ T-cell changes, and directly related to the changes of CD8+ T cells. Further, HIV DNA decay kinetics were inversely related to the frequency and levels of intermittent viremia. Finally, Tat vaccination was similarly effective irrespective of the individual immunological status or HIV reservoir size at study entry. Conclusions: Tat immunization induces progressive immune restoration and reduction of virus reservoirs above levels reached with long-term cART, and may represent an optimal vaccine candidate for cART intensification toward HIV reservoirs depletion, functional cure, and eradication strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Sgadari
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Monini
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Orietta Picconi
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Casabianca
- Department of Biomolecular Science, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| | - Chiara Orlandi
- Department of Biomolecular Science, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| | - Sonia Moretti
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Angela Arancio
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Paniccia
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Campagna
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Bellino
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Marianna Meschiari
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University Policlinic of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Silvia Nozza
- Division of Infectious Diseases, San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Sighinolfi
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandra Latini
- Unit of Dermatology and Sexually Transmitted Diseases, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Muscatello
- Infectious Diseases Unit, IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico Foundation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Annalisa Saracino
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Bari, Policlinic Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - Massimo Di Pietro
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Santa Maria Annunziata Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Massimo Galli
- Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, L. Sacco Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Aurelio Cafaro
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Magnani
- Department of Biomolecular Science, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Ensoli
- Pathology and Microbiology, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Ensoli
- National HIV/AIDS Research Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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12
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The HIV-1 Tat protein affects human CD4+ T-cell programing and activation, and favors the differentiation of naïve CD4+ T cells. AIDS 2018; 32:575-581. [PMID: 29280760 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000001734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE HIV infection is characterized by several immune dysfunctions, such as chronic activation of the immune system, premature aging and loss of CD4 T cells, in particular within the naïve compartment. The Tat protein of HIV is released extracellularly and enters neighboring cells affecting their functionality, for instance impacting on CD8 T-cell programs and activity. As the presence and/or induction of anti-Tat immune responses is associated with reduced T-cell dysfunction and CD4 T-cell loss, we investigated whether Tat impacts human resting or activated CD4 T cells. METHODS Purified CD4 T cells were activated by T cell receptor engagement in the presence or absence of Tat. Cytokine production, surface phenotype and expression of transcription factors important for T-cell programing were measured. Purified naïve CD4 T cells were cultured in nonpolarizing conditions in the presence or absence of Tat and their proliferation and differentiation was evaluated. RESULTS Tat favors the secretion of IL2, IFNγ and TNFα in CD4 T cells, as well as the upregulation of T-bet and Eomes expression. Naïve CD4 T cells cultured in the presence of Tat showed enhanced expansion and differentiation toward memory phenotype, showing in particular recruitment into the effector memory T-cell pool. CONCLUSION Tat affects the programing and functionality of CD4 T lymphocytes favoring the differentiation of naïve CD4 T cells.
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13
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Zhou SJ, Wei J, Su S, Chen FJ, Qiu YD, Liu BR. Strategies for Bispecific Single Chain Antibody in Cancer Immunotherapy. J Cancer 2017; 8:3689-3696. [PMID: 29151956 PMCID: PMC5688922 DOI: 10.7150/jca.19501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic engineering has resulted in more than 50 recombinant bispecific antibody formats over the past two decades. Bispecific scFv antibodies represent a successful and promising immunotherapy platform that retargets cytotoxic T cells to tumor cells, with one scFv directed to tumor-associated antigens and the other to T cells. Based on this antibody construct, strategies for both specific tumor targeting and T cell activation are reviewed here. Three distinct types of tumor antigens are considered to optimize specificity and safety in bispecific scFv based treatment: cancer-testis antigens, neo-antigens and virus-associated antigens. In terms of T cell activation, although CD3 has been widely applied in bispecific scFvs being developed, CD28 and CD137 among co-stimulatory signals are also ideal candidates to be evaluated. Besides, LIGHT and HIV-Tat101 have drawn much attention as their potential roles in modulating antitumor responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Juan Zhou
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jia Wei
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shu Su
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fang-Jun Chen
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu-Dong Qiu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bao-Rui Liu
- The Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University & Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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14
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Ganief T, Gqamana P, Garnett S, Hoare J, Stein DJ, Joska J, Soares N, Blackburn JM. Quantitative proteomic analysis of HIV-1 Tat-induced dysregulation in SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Proteomics 2017; 17. [PMID: 28101920 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201600236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Despite affecting up to 70% of HIV-positive patients and being the leading cause of dementia in patients under 40 years, the molecular mechanisms involved in the onset of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) are not well understood. To address this, we performed SILAC-based quantitative proteomic analysis on HIV-Tat treated SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Isolated protein was fractionated by SDS-PAGE and analyzed by nLC-MS/MS on an Orbitrap Velos. Using MaxQuant, we identified and quantified 3077 unique protein groups, of which 407 were differentially regulated. After applying an additional standard deviation-based cutoff, 29 of these were identified as highly significantly and stably dysregulated. GO term analysis shows dysregulation in both protein translation machinery as well as cytoskeletal regulation that have both been implicated in other dementias. In addition, several key cytoskeletal regulatory proteins such as ARHGEF17, the Rho GTPase, SHROOM3, and CMRP1 are downregulated. Together, these data demonstrate that HIV-Tat can dysregulate neuronal cytoskeletal regulatory proteins that could lead to the major HAND clinical manifestation-synapse loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tariq Ganief
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Putuma Gqamana
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Shaun Garnett
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jackie Hoare
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Dan J Stein
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, South Africa.,MRC Unit on Anxiety and Stress Disorders, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - John Joska
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nelson Soares
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jonathan M Blackburn
- Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Town, South Africa.,Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, South Africa
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15
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Tomusange K, Wijesundara D, Gummow J, Wesselingh S, Suhrbier A, Gowans EJ, Grubor-Bauk B. Mucosal vaccination with a live recombinant rhinovirus followed by intradermal DNA administration elicits potent and protective HIV-specific immune responses. Sci Rep 2016; 6:36658. [PMID: 27853256 PMCID: PMC5113119 DOI: 10.1038/srep36658] [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: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucosal immunity is deemed crucial to control sexual transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Herein we report the efficacy of a mucosal HIV vaccine strategy comprising intranasal (IN) vaccination with a cocktail of live recombinant human rhinoviruses (HRVs) encoding overlapping fragments of HIV Gag and full length Tat (rHRV-Gag/Tat) followed by intradermal (ID) vaccination with DNA vaccines encoding HIV Gag and Tat (pVAX-Gag-Tat). This heterologous prime-boost strategy will be referred to hereafter as rHRV-DNA. As a control, IN vaccination with wild type (wt)-HRV-A1 followed by a single ID dose of pVAX (wt-HRV-A1/pVAX vaccination) was included. rHRV-DNA vaccination elicited superior multi-functional CD8+T cell responses in lymphocytes harvested from mesenteric lymph nodes and spleens, and higher titres of Tat-specific antibodies in blood and vaginal lavages, and reduced the viral load more effectively after challenge with EcoHIV, a murine HIV challenge model, in peritoneal macrophages, splenocytes and blood compared compared with wt-HRV-A1/pVAX vaccination or administration of 3 ID doses of pVAX-Gag-Tat (3X pVAX-Gag-Tat vaccination). These data provide the first evidence that a rHRV-DNA vaccination regimen can induce HIV-specific immune responses in the gut, vaginal mucosa and systemically, and supports further testing of this regimen in the development of an effective mucosally-targeted HIV-1 vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khamis Tomusange
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Danushka Wijesundara
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jason Gummow
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Steve Wesselingh
- South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Andreas Suhrbier
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Eric J Gowans
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Branka Grubor-Bauk
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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16
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Cafaro A, Piccaro G, Altavilla G, Gigantino V, Matarese G, Olivieri E, Ferrantelli F, Ensoli B, Palma C. HIV-1 Tat protein vaccination in mice infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis is safe, immunogenic and reduces bacterial lung pathology. BMC Infect Dis 2016; 16:442. [PMID: 27549342 PMCID: PMC4994248 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-016-1724-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The therapeutic HIV-1 Tat protein vaccine is in advanced clinical development. Tuberculosis, the main AIDS co-infection, is highly endemic in areas where AIDS prevention through vaccination is needed. However, safety and immunogenicity of Tat vaccination in the course of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection is still unknown and it prevents the possibility to administer the vaccine to Mtb-infected individuals. We addressed the interplay and effects of Tat vaccination on Mtb infection in immunocompetent mice. Methods C57BL/6 mice were vaccinated or not with Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG), the current tuberculosis vaccine, and after 5 weeks were infected with Mtb by intravenous route. The Tat protein was injected intradermally at 1, 2 and 4 weeks after Mtb challenge. Eight weeks after Mtb infection, all mice were sacrificed, and both the degree of pathology and immune responses to Mtb and Tat were evaluated. As additional control, some mice were either vaccinated or not with BCG, were not challenged with Mtb, but received the Tat protein. Statistical significances were evaluated by one-way or two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s multiple comparisons post-test. Results In the lungs of Mtb-infected mice, Tat-vaccine did not favour Mtb replication and indeed reduced both area of cellular infiltration and protein levels of Interferon-γ, Chemokine (C-C motif) ligand-4 and Interleukin-1β, pathological events triggered by Mtb-infection. Moreover, the protection against Mtb infection conferred by BCG remained good after Tat protein treatment. In spleen cells of Mtb-infected mice, Tat vaccination enhanced Mtb-specific Interferon-γ and Interleukin-17 responses, which may have a protective role. Of note, Mtb infection reduced, but did not suppress, the development of anti-Tat antibodies, required for Tat vaccine efficacy and the titer of anti-Tat IgG was potentiated by BCG vaccination in Mtb-free mice. In general, Tat treatment was well tolerated in both Mtb-infected and Mtb-free mice. Conclusions Tat protein vaccine, administered in Mtb-infected mice with a protocol resembling that used in the clinical trials, was safe, immunogenic, limited the lung Mtb-associated immunopathology and did not abrogate the protective efficacy of BCG. These data provide preliminary evidence for a safe use of Tat vaccine in people vaccinated with BCG and/or suffering from tuberculosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurelio Cafaro
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, Rome, 299 00161, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Piccaro
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immune-mediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, Rome, 299 00161, Italy
| | | | - Vincenzo Gigantino
- Istituto di Endocrinologia e Oncologia Sperimentale, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (IEOS-CNR) c/o Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Dipartimento di Patologia Fondazione G. Pascale IRCCS, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Matarese
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Salerno, Salerno, Italy.,MultiMedica IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Erika Olivieri
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, Rome, 299 00161, Italy
| | - Flavia Ferrantelli
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, Rome, 299 00161, Italy
| | - Barbara Ensoli
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, Rome, 299 00161, Italy
| | - Carla Palma
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immune-mediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, Rome, 299 00161, Italy.
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17
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Barillari G, Palladino C, Bacigalupo I, Leone P, Falchi M, Ensoli B. Entrance of the Tat protein of HIV-1 into human uterine cervical carcinoma cells causes upregulation of HPV-E6 expression and a decrease in p53 protein levels. Oncol Lett 2016; 12:2389-2394. [PMID: 27698804 PMCID: PMC5038842 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2016.4921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The infection of uterine cervical epithelial cells by oncogenic, high-risk human papilloma viruses (HR-HPVs) may lead to the development of cervical carcinoma. Of note, the incidence of this tumor is significantly increased in women infected by both HR-HPV and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1. In this regard, previous studies have linked the HIV-1 Tat protein, a trans-activator of viral gene expression, to the pathogenesis of HIV-associated malignancies. In particular, it has been shown that upon its release by acutely infected cells, Tat protein can enter human cells, thus modifying their phenotype. Based on these findings, the present study evaluated whether extracellular Tat protein could be taken up by human uterine cervical carcinoma cells, and whether this could affect the expression of HPV (E6 or E7) or cellular (p16 or p53) molecules, which are key to cervical carcinoma development or progression. The results indicated that extracellular, biologically active HIV-1 Tat protein is taken up by human uterine cervical carcinoma cells, and that this is followed by an increase in the expression of the E6 protein of HPV, and by a reduction in the protein levels of the cellular oncosuppressor p53. Since p53 loss is associated with cell dedifferentiation and immortalization, these findings suggest a possible link between extracellular Tat protein and the high incidence and clinical aggressiveness of uterine cervical carcinoma observed in HIV/HPV doubly infected women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Barillari
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University 'Tor Vergata', I-00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Clelia Palladino
- National AIDS Center, National Institute of Health, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Bacigalupo
- National AIDS Center, National Institute of Health, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Leone
- National AIDS Center, National Institute of Health, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Falchi
- National AIDS Center, National Institute of Health, I-00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Ensoli
- National AIDS Center, National Institute of Health, I-00161 Rome, Italy
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18
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Ensoli B, Nchabeleng M, Ensoli F, Tripiciano A, Bellino S, Picconi O, Sgadari C, Longo O, Tavoschi L, Joffe D, Cafaro A, Francavilla V, Moretti S, Pavone Cossut MR, Collacchi B, Arancio A, Paniccia G, Casabianca A, Magnani M, Buttò S, Levendal E, Ndimande JV, Asia B, Pillay Y, Garaci E, Monini P. HIV-Tat immunization induces cross-clade neutralizing antibodies and CD4(+) T cell increases in antiretroviral-treated South African volunteers: a randomized phase II clinical trial. Retrovirology 2016; 13:34. [PMID: 27277839 PMCID: PMC4899930 DOI: 10.1186/s12977-016-0261-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) has saved millions of lives, it is incapable of full immune reconstitution and virus eradication. The transactivator of transcription (Tat) protein is a key human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) virulence factor required for virus replication and transmission. Tat is expressed and released extracellularly by infected cells also under cART and in this form induces immune dysregulation, and promotes virus reactivation, entry and spreading. Of note, anti-Tat antibodies are rare in natural infection and, when present, correlate with asymptomatic state and reduced disease progression. This suggested that induction of anti-Tat antibodies represents a pathogenesis-driven intervention to block progression and to intensify cART. Indeed Tat-based vaccination was safe, immunogenic and capable of immune restoration in an open-label, randomized phase II clinical trial conducted in 168 cART-treated volunteers in Italy. To assess whether B-clade Tat immunization would be effective also in patients with different genetic background and infecting virus, a phase II trial was conducted in South Africa. METHODS The ISS T-003 was a 48-week randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial to evaluate immunogenicity (primary endpoint) and safety (secondary endpoint) of B-clade Tat (30 μg) given intradermally, three times at 4-week intervals, in 200 HIV-infected adults on effective cART (randomised 1:1) with CD4(+) T-cell counts ≥200 cells/µL. Study outcomes also included cross-clade anti-Tat antibodies, neutralization, CD4(+) T-cell counts and therapy compliance. RESULTS Immunization was safe and well-tolerated and induced durable, high titers anti-Tat B-clade antibodies in 97 % vaccinees. Anti-Tat antibodies were cross-clade (all vaccinees tested) and neutralized Tat-mediated entry of oligomeric B-clade and C-clade envelope in dendritic cells (24 participants tested). Anti-Tat antibody titers correlated positively with neutralization. Tat vaccination increased CD4(+) T-cell numbers (all participants tested), particularly when baseline levels were still low after years of therapy, and this had a positive correlation with HIV neutralization. Finally, in cART non-compliant patients (24 participants), vaccination contained viral load rebound and maintained CD4(+) T-cell numbers over study entry levels as compared to placebo. CONCLUSIONS The data indicate that Tat vaccination can restore the immune system and induces cross-clade neutralizing anti-Tat antibodies in patients with different genetic backgrounds and infecting viruses, supporting the conduct of phase III studies in South Africa. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01513135, 01/23/2012.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Ensoli
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| | | | - Fabrizio Ensoli
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology and Microbiology, San Gallicano Institute, Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Tripiciano
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.,Laboratory of Clinical Pathology and Microbiology, San Gallicano Institute, Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Bellino
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.,National Center for Epidemiology, Surveillance and Health Promotion, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Orietta Picconi
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Sgadari
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Olimpia Longo
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.,Italian Medicines Agency, Rome, Italy
| | - Lara Tavoschi
- Head Office, National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Cape Town, South Africa.,European Center for Disease Prevention and Control, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Daniel Joffe
- Head Office, National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Aurelio Cafaro
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Francavilla
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.,Laboratory of Clinical Pathology and Microbiology, San Gallicano Institute, Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri, Rome, Italy
| | - Sonia Moretti
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Angela Arancio
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.,Laboratory of Clinical Pathology and Microbiology, San Gallicano Institute, Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Paniccia
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.,Laboratory of Clinical Pathology and Microbiology, San Gallicano Institute, Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Casabianca
- Department of Biomolecular Science, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| | - Mauro Magnani
- Department of Biomolecular Science, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| | - Stefano Buttò
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Elise Levendal
- South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa.,Health Systems Trust, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Bennett Asia
- National Department of Health, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Yogan Pillay
- National Department of Health, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Enrico Garaci
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.,University of Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Monini
- Head Office, National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Cape Town, South Africa
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Wijkhuisen A, Savatier A, Cordeiro N, Léonetti M. Production of antigen-specific human IgGs by in vitro immunization. BMC Biotechnol 2016; 16:22. [PMID: 26911296 PMCID: PMC4765159 DOI: 10.1186/s12896-016-0253-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We previously developed in vitro immunization based on a fusion protein containing the transcriptional transactivator (Tat) of human immunodeficiency virus and a double domain, called ZZ, derived from protein A of Staphylococcus aureus. In this approach, naïve human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) trigger a specific IgM antibody (Ab) response in the presence of ZZTat. In the present study, we attempted to raise a specific IgG Ab response. Results We found that PBMCs incubated with ZZTat and a mixture containing anti-CD40, IL4 and IL21 secrete anti-Tat IgG Abs in their supernatants, indicating that the cytokine cocktail provides an isotypic switch. Then, we deciphered the Tat determinant involved in the phenomenon and found that it is located in the region 22–57 and that, within this region, the cysteine-rich domain and the basic residues play a crucial role. Finally, we prepared a fusion protein containing a fragment derived from the NY-ESO-1 cancer/testis antigen (Ag) and showed that PBMCs incubated with ZZfNY-ESO-1Tat trigger a specific anti-fNY-ESO-1 IgG Ab response, which demonstrates the possibility of transferring immunizing ability to an Ag unrelated to Tat. Conclusion Our ZZTat-based in vitro immunization approach that offers the possibility to raise an IgG Ab response against NY-ESO-1 might represent a valuable first stage for the generation of fully human IgG specific Abs.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Wijkhuisen
- University of Paris Diderot, Paris, France. .,CEA, Institut de Biologie et de Technologie de Saclay (iBiTec-S), Service de Pharmacologie et d'Immunoanalyse (SPI), 91191, Gif sur Yvette, France.
| | - A Savatier
- CEA, Institut de Biologie et de Technologie de Saclay (iBiTec-S), Service de Pharmacologie et d'Immunoanalyse (SPI), 91191, Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - N Cordeiro
- CEA, Institut de Biologie et de Technologie de Saclay (iBiTec-S), Service de Pharmacologie et d'Immunoanalyse (SPI), 91191, Gif sur Yvette, France
| | - M Léonetti
- CEA, Institut de Biologie et de Technologie de Saclay (iBiTec-S), Service de Pharmacologie et d'Immunoanalyse (SPI), 91191, Gif sur Yvette, France
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20
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Cafaro A, Tripiciano A, Sgadari C, Bellino S, Picconi O, Longo O, Francavilla V, Buttò S, Titti F, Monini P, Ensoli F, Ensoli B. Development of a novel AIDS vaccine: the HIV-1 transactivator of transcription protein vaccine. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2015; 15 Suppl 1:S13-29. [PMID: 26096836 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2015.1021328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Classical approaches aimed at targeting the HIV-1 envelope as well as other structural viral proteins have largely failed. The HIV-1 transactivator of transcription (Tat) is a key HIV virulence factor, which plays pivotal roles in virus gene expression, replication, transmission and disease progression. Notably, anti-Tat Abs are uncommon in natural infection and, when present, correlate with the asymptomatic state and lead to lower or no disease progression. Hence, targeting Tat represents a pathogenesis-driven intervention. AREAS COVERED Here, we review the rationale and the translational development of a therapeutic vaccine targeting the Tat protein. Preclinical and Phase I studies, Phase II trials with Tat in anti-Tat Ab-negative, virologically suppressed highly active antiretroviral therapy-treated subjects in Italy and South Africa were conducted. The results indicate that Tat-induced immune responses are necessary to restore immune homeostasis, to block the replenishment and to reduce the size of the viral reservoir. Additionally, they may help in establishing key parameters for highly active antiretroviral therapy intensification and a functional cure. EXPERT OPINION We propose the therapeutic setting as the most feasible to speed up the testing and comparison of preventative vaccine candidates, as the distinction lies in the use of the vaccine in uninfected versus infected subjects and not in the vaccine formulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurelio Cafaro
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National AIDS Center , Rome , Italy
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21
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Ensoli F, Cafaro A, Casabianca A, Tripiciano A, Bellino S, Longo O, Francavilla V, Picconi O, Sgadari C, Moretti S, Cossut MRP, Arancio A, Orlandi C, Sernicola L, Maggiorella MT, Paniccia G, Mussini C, Lazzarin A, Sighinolfi L, Palamara G, Gori A, Angarano G, Di Pietro M, Galli M, Mercurio VS, Castelli F, Di Perri G, Monini P, Magnani M, Garaci E, Ensoli B. HIV-1 Tat immunization restores immune homeostasis and attacks the HAART-resistant blood HIV DNA: results of a randomized phase II exploratory clinical trial. Retrovirology 2015; 12:33. [PMID: 25924841 PMCID: PMC4414440 DOI: 10.1186/s12977-015-0151-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 02/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The phase II multicenter, randomized, open label, therapeutic trial (ISS T-002, Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00751595) was aimed at evaluating the immunogenicity and the safety of the biologically active HIV-1 Tat protein administered at 7.5 or 30 μg, given 3 or 5 times monthly, and at exploring immunological and virological disease biomarkers. The study duration was 48 weeks, however, vaccinees were followed until the last enrolled subject reached the 48 weeks. Reported are final data up to 144 weeks of follow-up. The ISS T-002 trial was conducted in 11 clinical centers in Italy on 168 HIV positive subjects under Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART), anti-Tat Antibody (Ab) negative at baseline, with plasma viremia <50 copies/mL in the last 6 months prior to enrollment, and CD4(+) T-cell number ≥200 cells/μL. Subjects from a parallel observational study (ISS OBS T-002, Clinicaltrials.gov NCT0102455) enrolled at the same clinical sites with the same criteria constituted an external reference group to explore biomarkers of disease. RESULTS The vaccine was safe and well tolerated and induced anti-Tat Abs in most patients (79%), with the highest frequency and durability in the Tat 30 μg groups (89%) particularly when given 3 times (92%). Vaccination promoted a durable and significant restoration of T, B, natural killer (NK) cells, and CD4(+) and CD8(+) central memory subsets. Moreover, a significant reduction of blood proviral DNA was seen after week 72, particularly under PI-based regimens and with Tat 30 μg given 3 times (30 μg, 3x), reaching a predicted 70% decay after 3 years from vaccination with a half-life of 88 weeks. This decay was significantly associated with anti-Tat IgM and IgG Abs and neutralization of Tat-mediated entry of oligomeric Env in dendritic cells, which predicted HIV-1 DNA decay. Finally, the 30 μg, 3x group was the only one showing significant increases of NK cells and CD38(+)HLA-DR(+)/CD8(+) T cells, a phenotype associated with increased killing activity in elite controllers. CONCLUSIONS Anti-Tat immune responses are needed to restore immune homeostasis and effective anti-viral responses capable of attacking the virus reservoir. Thus, Tat immunization represents a promising pathogenesis-driven intervention to intensify HAART efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Ensoli
- Pathology and Microbiology, San Gallicano Institute, Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri, Rome, Italy.
| | - Aurelio Cafaro
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Anna Casabianca
- Department of Biomolecular Science, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy.
| | - Antonella Tripiciano
- Pathology and Microbiology, San Gallicano Institute, Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri, Rome, Italy. .,National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Stefania Bellino
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Olimpia Longo
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Vittorio Francavilla
- Pathology and Microbiology, San Gallicano Institute, Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri, Rome, Italy. .,National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Orietta Picconi
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Cecilia Sgadari
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Sonia Moretti
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Maria R Pavone Cossut
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Angela Arancio
- Pathology and Microbiology, San Gallicano Institute, Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri, Rome, Italy. .,National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Chiara Orlandi
- Department of Biomolecular Science, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy.
| | - Leonardo Sernicola
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Maria T Maggiorella
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Paniccia
- Pathology and Microbiology, San Gallicano Institute, Istituti Fisioterapici Ospitalieri, Rome, Italy. .,National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Cristina Mussini
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University Policlinic of Modena, Modena, Italy.
| | - Adriano Lazzarin
- Division of Infectious Diseases, S. Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy.
| | - Laura Sighinolfi
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Guido Palamara
- Department of Infectious Dermatology, San Gallicano Hospital, Rome, Italy.
| | - Andrea Gori
- Division of Infectious Diseases, San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy.
| | - Gioacchino Angarano
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Bari, Policlinic Hospital, Bari, Italy.
| | - Massimo Di Pietro
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, S.M. Annunziata Hospital, Florence, Italy.
| | - Massimo Galli
- Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, L. Sacco Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Vito S Mercurio
- Department of Infectious Diseases, S. Maria Goretti Hospital, Latina, Italy.
| | - Francesco Castelli
- Division of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Spedali Civili, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Di Perri
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, Turin, Italy.
| | - Paolo Monini
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
| | - Mauro Magnani
- Department of Biomolecular Science, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy.
| | - Enrico Garaci
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy, present address University of Tor Vergata, Rome, 00173, Italy.
| | - Barbara Ensoli
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, 00161, Italy.
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Araínga M, Guo D, Wiederin J, Ciborowski P, McMillan J, Gendelman HE. Opposing regulation of endolysosomal pathways by long-acting nanoformulated antiretroviral therapy and HIV-1 in human macrophages. Retrovirology 2015; 12:5. [PMID: 25608975 PMCID: PMC4307176 DOI: 10.1186/s12977-014-0133-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-acting nanoformulated antiretroviral therapy (nanoART) is designed to improve patient regimen adherence, reduce systemic drug toxicities, and facilitate clearance of human immunodeficiency virus type one (HIV-1) infection. While nanoART establishes drug depots within recycling and late monocyte-macrophage endosomes, whether or not this provides a strategic advantage towards viral elimination has not been elucidated. RESULTS We applied quantitative SWATH-MS proteomics and cell profiling to nanoparticle atazanavir (nanoATV)-treated and HIV-1 infected human monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM). Native ATV and uninfected cells served as controls. Both HIV-1 and nanoATV engaged endolysosomal trafficking for assembly and depot formation, respectively. Notably, the pathways were deregulated in opposing manners by the virus and the nanoATV, likely by viral clearance. Paired-sample z-scores, of the proteomic data sets, showed up- and down- regulation of Rab-linked endolysosomal proteins. NanoART and native ATV treated uninfected cells showed limited effects. The data was confirmed by Western blot. DAVID and KEGG bioinformatics analyses of proteomic data showed relationships between secretory, mobility and phagocytic cell functions and virus and particle trafficking. CONCLUSIONS We posit that modulation of endolysosomal pathways by antiretroviral nanoparticles provides a strategic path to combat HIV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariluz Araínga
- />Departments of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985880 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5880 USA
| | - Dongwei Guo
- />Departments of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985880 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5880 USA
- />Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5880 USA
| | - Jayme Wiederin
- />Departments of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985880 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5880 USA
| | - Pawel Ciborowski
- />Departments of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985880 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5880 USA
| | - JoEllyn McMillan
- />Departments of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985880 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5880 USA
| | - Howard E Gendelman
- />Departments of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985880 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5880 USA
- />Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5880 USA
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Surface-bound Tat inhibits antigen-specific CD8+ T-cell activation in an integrin-dependent manner. AIDS 2014; 28:2189-200. [PMID: 25313583 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000000389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The identification of still unrevealed mechanisms affecting the anti-HIV CD8 T-cell response in HIV-1 infection. DESIGN Starting from the observation that anti-Tat immunization is associated with improved CD8 T-cell immunity, we developed both in-vitro and ex-vivo assays to characterize the effects of extra-cellular Tat on the adaptive CD8 T-cell response. METHODS The effects of Tat on CD8 T-cell activation were assayed using CD8 T-cell clones specific for either cellular (MART-1) or viral (HIV-1 Nef) antigens, and HIV-1 Gag-specific CD8 T cells from HIV-1 patients. RESULTS The interaction between CD8 T lymphocytes and immobilized Tat, but not its soluble form, inhibits peptide-specific CD8 T-lymphocyte activation. The inhibition does not depend on Tat trans-activation activity, but on the interaction of the Tat RGD domain with α5β1 and αvβ3 integrins. Impaired CD8 T-cell activation was also observed in cocultures of CD8 T cells with HIV-1-infected cells. Anti-Tat Abs abrogate the inhibitory effect, consistently with the evidence that extracellular Tat accumulates on the cell membrane of virus-producing cells. The Tat-induced inhibition of cell activation associates with increased apoptosis of CD8 T cells. Finally, the inhibition of cell activation also takes place in Gag-specific CD8 T lymphocytes from HIV-1-infected patients. CONCLUSION Our results support the idea that CD8 T-cell apoptosis induced by surface-bound extracellular Tat can contribute to the dysregulation of the CD8 T-cell adaptive response against HIV as well as other pathogens present in AIDS patients.
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HIV-1 Tat affects the programming and functionality of human CD8⁺ T cells by modulating the expression of T-box transcription factors. AIDS 2014; 28:1729-38. [PMID: 24841128 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000000315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE HIV infection is characterized by several immune dysfunctions of both CD8⁺ and CD4⁺ T cells as hyperactivation, impairment of functionality and expansion of memory T cells. CD8⁺ T-cell dysfunctions have been associated with increased expression of T-bet, Eomesdermin and pro-inflammatory cytokines, and with down-regulation of CD127. The HIV-1 trans-activator of transcription (Tat) protein, which is released by infected cells and detected in tissues of HIV-positive individuals, is known to contribute to the dysregulation of CD4⁺ T cells; however, its effects on CD8⁺ T cells have not been investigated. Thus, in this study, we sought to address whether Tat may affect CD8⁺ T-cell functionality and programming. METHODS CD8⁺ T cells were activated by T-cell receptor engagement in the presence or absence of Tat. Cytokine production, killing capacity, surface phenotype and expression of transcription factors important for T-cell programming were evaluated. RESULTS Tat favors the secretion of interleukin-2, interferon-γ and granzyme B in CD8⁺ T cells. Behind this functional modulation we observed that Tat increases the expression of T-bet, Eomesdermin, Blimp-1, Bcl-6 and Bcl-2 in activated but not in unstimulated CD8⁺ T lymphocytes. This effect is associated with the down-regulation of CD127 and the up-regulation of CD27. CONCLUSION Tat deeply alters the programming and functionality of CD8⁺ T lymphocytes.
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Sicurella M, Nicoli F, Gallerani E, Volpi I, Berto E, Finessi V, Destro F, Manservigi R, Cafaro A, Ensoli B, Caputo A, Gavioli R, Marconi PC. An attenuated herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1) encoding the HIV-1 Tat protein protects mice from a deadly mucosal HSV1 challenge. PLoS One 2014; 9:e100844. [PMID: 25033084 PMCID: PMC4102458 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2013] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV1 and HSV2) are common infectious agents in both industrialized and developing countries. They cause recurrent asymptomatic and/or symptomatic infections, and life-threatening diseases and death in newborns and immunocompromised patients. Current treatment for HSV relies on antiviral medications, which can halt the symptomatic diseases but cannot prevent the shedding that occurs in asymptomatic patients or, consequently, the spread of the viruses. Therefore, prevention rather than treatment of HSV infections has long been an area of intense research, but thus far effective anti-HSV vaccines still remain elusive. One of the key hurdles to overcome in anti-HSV vaccine development is the identification and effective use of strategies that promote the emergence of Th1-type immune responses against a wide range of epitopes involved in the control of viral replication. Since the HIV1 Tat protein has several immunomodulatory activities and increases CTL recognition of dominant and subdominant epitopes of heterologous antigens, we generated and assayed a recombinant attenuated replication-competent HSV1 vector containing the tat gene (HSV1-Tat). In this proof-of-concept study we show that immunization with this vector conferred protection in 100% of mice challenged intravaginally with a lethal dose of wild-type HSV1. We demonstrate that the presence of Tat within the recombinant virus increased and broadened Th1-like and CTL responses against HSV-derived T-cell epitopes and elicited in most immunized mice detectable IgG responses. In sharp contrast, a similarly attenuated HSV1 recombinant vector without Tat (HSV1-LacZ), induced low and different T cell responses, no measurable antibody responses and did not protect mice against the wild-type HSV1 challenge. These findings strongly suggest that recombinant HSV1 vectors expressing Tat merit further investigation for their potential to prevent and/or contain HSV1 infection and dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariaconcetta Sicurella
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Applied Microbiology and Pathology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Francesco Nicoli
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Eleonora Gallerani
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Volpi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Applied Microbiology and Pathology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Elena Berto
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Applied Microbiology and Pathology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Finessi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Federica Destro
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Roberto Manservigi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Applied Microbiology and Pathology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Aurelio Cafaro
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Ensoli
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Caputo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Riccardo Gavioli
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Peggy C. Marconi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Section of Applied Microbiology and Pathology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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HIV-1 Tat protein induces PD-L1 (B7-H1) expression on dendritic cells through tumor necrosis factor alpha- and toll-like receptor 4-mediated mechanisms. J Virol 2014; 88:6672-89. [PMID: 24696476 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00825-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Chronic human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection is associated with induction of T-cell coinhibitory pathways. However, the mechanisms by which HIV-1 induces upregulation of coinhibitory molecules remain to be fully elucidated. The aim of the present study was to determine whether and how HIV-1 Tat protein, an immunosuppressive viral factor, induces the PD-1/PD-L1 coinhibitory pathway on human dendritic cells (DCs). We found that treatment of DCs with whole HIV-1 Tat protein significantly upregulated the level of expression of PD-L1. This PD-L1 upregulation was observed in monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MoDCs) obtained from either uninfected or HIV-1-infected patients as well as in primary myeloid DCs from HIV-negative donors. In contrast, no effect on the expression of PD-L2 or PD-1 molecules was detected. The induction of PD-L1 on MoDCs by HIV-1 Tat (i) occurred in dose- and time-dependent manners, (ii) was mediated by the N-terminal 1-45 fragment of Tat, (iii) did not require direct cell-cell contact but appeared rather to be mediated by soluble factor(s), (iv) was abrogated following neutralization of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) or blocking of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), (v) was absent in TLR4-knockoout (KO) mice but could be restored following incubation with Tat-conditioned medium from wild-type DCs, (vi) impaired the capacity of MoDCs to functionally stimulate T cells, and (vii) was not reversed functionally following PD-1/PD-L1 pathway blockade, suggesting the implication of other Tat-mediated coinhibitory pathways. Our results demonstrate that HIV-1 Tat protein upregulates PD-L1 expression on MoDCs through TNF-α- and TLR4-mediated mechanisms, functionally compromising the ability of DCs to stimulate T cells. The findings offer a novel potential molecular target for the development of an anti-HIV-1 treatment. IMPORTANCE The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) Tat on the PD-1/PD-L1 coinhibitory pathway on human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MoDCs). We found that treatment of MoDCs from either healthy or HIV-1-infected patients with HIV-1 Tat protein stimulated the expression of PD-L1. We demonstrate that this stimulation was mediated through an indirect mechanism, involving tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) pathways, and resulted in compromised ability of Tat-treated MoDCs to functionally stimulate T-cell proliferation.
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Ronsard L, Lata S, Singh J, Ramachandran VG, Das S, Banerjea AC. Molecular and genetic characterization of natural HIV-1 Tat Exon-1 variants from North India and their functional implications. PLoS One 2014; 9:e85452. [PMID: 24465566 PMCID: PMC3900424 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0085452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2013] [Accepted: 11/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Designing an ideal vaccine against HIV-1 has been difficult due to enormous genetic variability as a result of high replication rate and lack of proofreading activity of reverse transcriptase leading to emergence of genetic variants and recombinants. Tat transactivates HIV-1 LTR, resulting in a remarkable increase in viral gene expression, and plays a vital role in pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to characterize the genetic variations of Tat exon-1 from HIV-1 infected patients from North India. METHODS Genomic DNA was isolated from PBMCs and Tat exon-1 was PCR amplified with specific primers followed by cloning, sequencing and sequence analyses using bioinformatic tools for predicting HIV-1 subtypes, recombination events, conservation of domains and phosphorylation sites, and LTR transactivation by luciferase assay. RESULTS Phylogenetic analysis of Tat exon-1 variants (n = 120) revealed sequence similarity with South African Tat C sequences and distinct geographical relationships were observed for B/C recombinants. Bootscan analysis of our variants showed 90% homology to Tat C and 10% to B/C recombinants with a precise breakpoint. Natural substitutions were observed with high allelic frequencies which may be beneficial for virus. High amino acid conservation was observed in Tat among Anti Retroviral Therapy (ART) recipients. Barring few changes, most of the functional domains, predicted motifs and phosphorylation sites were well conserved in most of Tat variants. dN/dS analysis revealed purifying selection, implying the importance of functional conservation of Tat exon-1. Our Indian Tat C variants and B/C recombinants showed differential LTR transactivation. CONCLUSIONS The possible role of Tat exon-1 variants in shaping the current HIV-1 epidemic in North India was highlighted. Natural substitutions across conserved functional domains were observed and provided evidence for the emergence of B/C recombinants within the ORF of Tat exon-1. These events are likely to have implications for viral pathogenesis and vaccine formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larance Ronsard
- Virology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
- Department of Microbiology, University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - Sneh Lata
- Department of Microbiology, University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - Jyotsna Singh
- Virology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
- Department of Microbiology, University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
| | | | - Shukla Das
- Department of Microbiology, University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Delhi, India
| | - Akhil C. Banerjea
- Virology Laboratory, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
- * E-mail: ,
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Nicoli F, Finessi V, Sicurella M, Rizzotto L, Gallerani E, Destro F, Cafaro A, Marconi P, Caputo A, Ensoli B, Gavioli R. The HIV-1 Tat protein induces the activation of CD8+ T cells and affects in vivo the magnitude and kinetics of antiviral responses. PLoS One 2013; 8:e77746. [PMID: 24223723 PMCID: PMC3817196 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0077746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2013] [Accepted: 09/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
T cells are functionally compromised during HIV infection despite their increased activation and proliferation. Although T cell hyperactivation is one of the best predictive markers for disease progression, its causes are poorly understood. Anti-tat natural immunity as well as anti-tat antibodies induced by Tat immunization protect from progression to AIDS and reverse signs of immune activation in HIV-infected patients suggesting a role of Tat in T cell dysfunctionality. The Tat protein of HIV-1 is known to induce, in vitro, the activation of CD4(+) T lymphocytes, but its role on CD8(+) T cells and how these effects modulate, in vivo, the immune response to pathogens are not known. To characterize the role of Tat in T cell hyperactivation and dysfunction, we examined the effect of Tat on CD8(+) T cell responses and antiviral immunity in different ex vivo and in vivo models of antigenic stimulation, including HSV infection. We demonstrate for the first time that the presence of Tat during priming of CD8(+) T cells favors the activation of antigen-specific CTLs. Effector CD8(+) T cells generated in the presence of Tat undergo an enhanced and prolonged expansion that turns to a partial dysfunctionality at the peak of the response, and worsens HSV acute infection. Moreover, Tat favors the development of effector memory CD8(+) T cells and a transient loss of B cells, two hallmarks of the chronic immune activation observed in HIV-infected patients. Our data provide evidence that Tat affects CD8(+) T cell responses to co-pathogens and suggest that Tat may contribute to the CD8(+) T cell hyperactivation observed in HIV-infected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Nicoli
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Valentina Finessi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mariaconcetta Sicurella
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Lara Rizzotto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Sant'Anna, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Eleonora Gallerani
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Federica Destro
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Aurelio Cafaro
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Peggy Marconi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Antonella Caputo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Barbara Ensoli
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Gavioli
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- * E-mail:
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Ait Mebarek M, Wijkhuisen A, Adel-Patient K, Lamourette P, Léonetti M, Volland H. Production of human antibodies by in vitro immunization using a fusion protein containing the transcriptional transactivator of HIV-1. J Immunol Methods 2013; 396:96-106. [PMID: 23954270 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2013.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2012] [Revised: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 07/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Antigen-specific activation of human B cells represents a key step for the production of monoclonal antibodies. Several approaches have been developed over the last thirty years in order to improve the process of lymphocyte activation in vitro. In the present study, we investigated whether the transcriptional transactivator (Tat) of human immunodeficiency virus, which possesses numerous biological activities, is able to trigger antibody secretion when incubated with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. No such effect was observed when using Tat as a free protein. However, we found a significant IgM antibody production when Tat was previously fused to a double domain, called ZZ, derived from protein A of Staphylococcus aureus. The effect was also observed when the fusion protein, called ZZTat101, was incubated with purified B cells, indicating that the phenomenon does not require T-cell help. Antibody secretion was observed in the absence of cytokines that are usually used during in vitro immunization experiments, indicating that ZZTat101 provides the signals required for the initiation of the immune response. Antibody secretion was observed using a ZZTat mutant, containing only the Tat residues 22 to 57, called ZZTat22-57, indicating that this region is sufficient to initiate the immune response. In contrast, the effect was not found with a ZZTat22-57 mutant devoid of the seven Tat cysteines located between residues 22 and 37, demonstrating that these residues play a crucial role in the phenomenon. Our results pave the way to the development of a new in vitro immunization method based on antigens associated with ZZTat.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ait Mebarek
- CEA, Institut de Biologie et de Technologie de Saclay (iBiTec-S), Service de Pharmacologie et d'immunoanalyse (SPI), 91191 Gif sur Yvette, France
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Manuel SL, Sehgal M, Connolly J, Makedonas G, Khan ZK, Gardner J, Goedert JJ, Betts MR, Jain P. Lack of recall response to Tax in ATL and HAM/TSP patients but not in asymptomatic carriers of human T-cell leukemia virus type 1. J Clin Immunol 2013; 33:1223-39. [PMID: 23888327 PMCID: PMC3784618 DOI: 10.1007/s10875-013-9918-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2013] [Accepted: 06/17/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE & METHODS The immunopathogenic mechanisms responsible for debilitating neurodegenerative and oncologic diseases associated with human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) are not fully understood. Quality of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) is being increasingly associated with the outcome of persistent HTLV-1 infection. In this respect, a patient cohort (from HTLV-1 endemic region) consisting of seronegative controls (controls), asymptomatic carriers (ACs), and patients with adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) or HTLV-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) was analyzed for CD8(+) T cells polyfunctionality in response to the viral antigen Tax. RESULTS Compared to ACs, ATL and HAM/TSP patients had lower frequency and polyfunctionality of CTLs in response to Tax suggesting dysfunction of CD8(+) T cells in these individuals. As an underlying mechanism, programmed death-1 (PD-1) receptor was found to be highly unregulated in Tax-responsive as well as total CD8(+) T cells from ATL and HAM/TSP but not from ACs and directly correlated with the lack of polyfunctionality in these individuals. Further, PD-1 expression showed a direct whereas MIP-1α expression had an indirect correlation with the proviral load providing new insights about the immunopathogenesis of HTLV-associated diseases. Additionally, we identified key cytokine signatures defining the immune activation status of clinical samples by the luminex assay. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our findings suggest that reconstitution of fully functional CTLs, stimulation of MIP-1α expression, and/or blockade of the PD-1 pathway are potential approaches for immunotherapy / therapeutic vaccine against HTLV-mediated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharrón L. Manuel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Mohit Sehgal
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | - George Makedonas
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Zafar K. Khan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jay Gardner
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - James J. Goedert
- National Cancer Institute, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Michael R. Betts
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Pooja Jain
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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31
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Liu Y, Li F, Qi Z, Hao Y, Hong K, Liu Y, Cong Y, Shao Y. The effects of HIV Tat DNA on regulating the immune response of HIV DNA vaccine in mice. Virol J 2013; 10:297. [PMID: 24073803 PMCID: PMC3851266 DOI: 10.1186/1743-422x-10-297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2013] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV trans-activator protein (Tat) is the crucial factor to control HIV transcription, and is usually considered as an important immunogen for the design of HIV vaccine. Recent studies reported some special bio-activities of Tat protein on immunoregulation. However, to date, few studies have focused on exploring the effects of Tat expression plasmid (pTat) on regulating the immune responses induced by HIV DNA vaccines. In this study, our main objective is to investigate the immunoregulation mediated by pTat in mice. METHODS Four gene-coding plasmids (pTat, pGag, pEnv and pPol) were constructed, and the gene expression was detected by western blot method. The effects of pTat on regulating the immune responses to antigens Gag, Env, Pol were assessed by enzyme-linked immunospot and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The data was analysed by one-way analysis of variance. RESULTS After two immunizations, mice vaccinated with antigen expressing plasmid (pGag, pEnv or pPol) plus pTat exhibited significantly stronger IFN-gamma response than that vaccinated with the corresponding antigen alone. Moreover, mice receiving two injections of antigen plus pTat exhibited the same strong IFN-gamma response as those receiving three injections of antigen alone did. Furthermore, addition of pTat not only induced a more balanced Th1 and Th2 response, but also broadened IgG subclass responses to antigens Gag and Pol. CONCLUSION pTat exhibited the appreciable effects on modulating immune responses to HIV antigens Gag, Env and Pol, providing us interesting clues on how to optimize HIV DNA vaccine.
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MESH Headings
- AIDS Vaccines/administration & dosage
- AIDS Vaccines/genetics
- AIDS Vaccines/immunology
- Animals
- Female
- Interferon-gamma/metabolism
- Mice
- Vaccination/methods
- Vaccines, DNA/administration & dosage
- Vaccines, DNA/genetics
- Vaccines, DNA/immunology
- env Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/genetics
- env Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/immunology
- gag Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/genetics
- gag Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/immunology
- pol Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/genetics
- pol Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/immunology
- tat Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chinese P. L. A. General Hospital, No. 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Fusheng Li
- Statistical Center for HIV/AIDS Research and Prevention, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Avenue N, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Zhi Qi
- State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, 155 Changbai Road Changping District, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yanling Hao
- State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, 155 Changbai Road Changping District, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Kunxue Hong
- State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, 155 Changbai Road Changping District, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yong Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, 155 Changbai Road Changping District, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yulong Cong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chinese P. L. A. General Hospital, No. 28 Fuxing Road, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Yiming Shao
- State Key Laboratory for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, 155 Changbai Road Changping District, Beijing 102206, China
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32
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Planès R, Bahraoui E. HIV-1 Tat protein induces the production of IDO in human monocyte derived-dendritic cells through a direct mechanism: effect on T cells proliferation. PLoS One 2013; 8:e74551. [PMID: 24073214 PMCID: PMC3779232 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0074551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2013] [Accepted: 08/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
During HIV-1 infection, an increase of indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO) expression, and dendritic cells (DC) dysfunction were often associated with AIDS disease progression. In this work, we investigated the effect of HIV-1 Tat protein on the expression of IDO, in MoDCs. We show that Tat induces IDO protein expression and activity in a dose dependent manner by acting at the cell membrane. Using Tat-mutants, we show that the N-Terminal domain, Tat 1–45, but not the central region, Tat 30–72, is sufficient to induce the expression of active IDO. Tat protein is also able to induce several cytokines in MoDCs, including IFN-γ, a strong inducer of IDO. In order to understand whether IDO is induced directly by Tat protein or indirectly following IFN-γ production, complementary experiments were performed and showed that: i) at the kinetic level, Tat induced IDO expression before the production of IFN-γ ii) treatment of MoDCs with Tat-conditioned medium was unable to stimulate IDO expression, iii) coculture of MoDCs in a transwell cell system did not allow IDO expression in MoDCs not previously treated by Tat, iv) direct contact between Tat-treated and untreated MoDCs was not sufficient to induce IDO expression in a Tat-independent manner, and v) treatment of MoDCs in the presence of IFN-γ pathway inhibitors, Jak I and Ly294002, inhibited IFN-γ-induced IDO but had no effect on Tat-induced IDO. At the functional level, our data showed that treatment of MoDCs with Tat led to the inhibition of their capacity to stimulate T cell proliferation. This impairement was totally abolished when the stimulation was performed in the presence of 1MT, an inhibitor of IDO activity, arguing for the implication of the kynurenine pathway. By inducing IDO, Tat protein may be considered, as a viral pathogenic factor, in the dysregulation of the DC functions during HIV-1 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rémi Planès
- INSERM, U1043, Toulouse, France
- CNRS, U5282, Toulouse, France
- Université Paul Sabatier, EA 3038, Toulouse, France
| | - Elmostafa Bahraoui
- INSERM, U1043, Toulouse, France
- CNRS, U5282, Toulouse, France
- Université Paul Sabatier, EA 3038, Toulouse, France
- * E-mail:
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Cruz LJ, Rueda F, Tacken P, Albericio F, Torensma R, Figdor CG. Enhancing immunogenicity and cross-reactivity of HIV-1 antigens by in vivo targeting to dendritic cells. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2013; 7:1591-610. [PMID: 23148541 DOI: 10.2217/nnm.12.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Current retroviral treatments have reduced AIDS to a chronic disease for most patients. However, given drug-related side effects, the emergence of drug-resistant strains and the persistence of viral replication, the development of alternative treatments is a pressing need. This review focuses on recent developments in HIV immunotherapy treatments, with particular emphasis on current vaccination strategies for optimizing the induction of an effective immune response by the recruitment of dendritic cells. In addition to cell-based therapies, targeted strategies aiming to deliver synthetic HIV peptides to dendritic cell-specific receptors in vivo will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis J Cruz
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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Monini P, Cafaro A, Srivastava IK, Moretti S, Sharma VA, Andreini C, Chiozzini C, Ferrantelli F, Cossut MRP, Tripiciano A, Nappi F, Longo O, Bellino S, Picconi O, Fanales-Belasio E, Borsetti A, Toschi E, Schiavoni I, Bacigalupo I, Kan E, Sernicola L, Maggiorella MT, Montin K, Porcu M, Leone P, Leone P, Collacchi B, Palladino C, Ridolfi B, Falchi M, Macchia I, Ulmer JB, Buttò S, Sgadari C, Magnani M, Federico MPM, Titti F, Banci L, Dallocchio F, Rappuoli R, Ensoli F, Barnett SW, Garaci E, Ensoli B. HIV-1 tat promotes integrin-mediated HIV transmission to dendritic cells by binding Env spikes and competes neutralization by anti-HIV antibodies. PLoS One 2012; 7:e48781. [PMID: 23152803 PMCID: PMC3496724 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0048781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2012] [Accepted: 10/01/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Use of Env in HIV vaccine development has been disappointing. Here we show that, in the presence of a biologically active Tat subunit vaccine, a trimeric Env protein prevents in monkeys virus spread from the portal of entry to regional lymph nodes. This appears to be due to specific interactions between Tat and Env spikes that form a novel virus entry complex favoring R5 or X4 virus entry and productive infection of dendritic cells (DCs) via an integrin-mediated pathway. These Tat effects do not require Tat-transactivation activity and are blocked by anti-integrin antibodies (Abs). Productive DC infection promoted by Tat is associated with a highly efficient virus transmission to T cells. In the Tat/Env complex the cysteine-rich region of Tat engages the Env V3 loop, whereas the Tat RGD sequence remains free and directs the virus to integrins present on DCs. V2 loop deletion, which unshields the CCR5 binding region of Env, increases Tat/Env complex stability. Of note, binding of Tat to Env abolishes neutralization of Env entry or infection of DCs by anti-HIV sera lacking anti-Tat Abs, which are seldom present in natural infection. This is reversed, and neutralization further enhanced, by HIV sera containing anti-Tat Abs such as those from asymptomatic or Tat-vaccinated patients, or by sera from the Tat/Env vaccinated monkeys. Thus, both anti-Tat and anti-Env Abs are required for efficient HIV neutralization. These data suggest that the Tat/Env interaction increases HIV acquisition and spreading, as a mechanism evolved by the virus to escape anti-Env neutralizing Abs. This may explain the low effectiveness of Env-based vaccines, which are also unlikely to elicit Abs against new Env epitopes exposed by the Tat/Env interaction. As Tat also binds Envs from different clades, new vaccine strategies should exploit the Tat/Env interaction for both preventative and therapeutic interventions.
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MESH Headings
- AIDS Vaccines/administration & dosage
- AIDS Vaccines/immunology
- Animals
- Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
- Antibodies, Neutralizing/metabolism
- Binding Sites
- Dendritic Cells/immunology
- Dendritic Cells/virology
- HIV Antibodies/immunology
- HIV Antibodies/metabolism
- HIV Envelope Protein gp120/immunology
- HIV Envelope Protein gp120/metabolism
- HIV Infections/immunology
- HIV Infections/prevention & control
- HIV Infections/transmission
- HIV Infections/virology
- HIV-1/immunology
- HIV-1/metabolism
- Humans
- Integrins/immunology
- Integrins/metabolism
- Macaca fascicularis
- Male
- Molecular Docking Simulation
- Neutralization Tests
- Oligopeptides/metabolism
- Protein Binding
- Protein Interaction Domains and Motifs/immunology
- Receptors, CCR5/metabolism
- Receptors, CXCR4/metabolism
- Recombinant Proteins/immunology
- Recombinant Proteins/isolation & purification
- Recombinant Proteins/metabolism
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- T-Lymphocytes/virology
- Vaccines, Virus-Like Particle/administration & dosage
- Vaccines, Virus-Like Particle/immunology
- Virus Internalization
- Virus Replication
- env Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/chemistry
- env Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/immunology
- env Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/metabolism
- tat Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/chemistry
- tat Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/immunology
- tat Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Monini
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Aurelio Cafaro
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Indresh K. Srivastava
- Novartis Vaccines & Diagnostics, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sonia Moretti
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Victoria A. Sharma
- Novartis Vaccines & Diagnostics, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | | | | | | | | | - Antonella Tripiciano
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
- San Gallicano Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Filomena Nappi
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Olimpia Longo
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Orietta Picconi
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Elena Toschi
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Elaine Kan
- Novartis Vaccines & Diagnostics, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | | | | | - Katy Montin
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marco Porcu
- CERM, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Patrizia Leone
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Barbara Ridolfi
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Falchi
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Iole Macchia
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Jeffrey B. Ulmer
- Novartis Vaccines & Diagnostics, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Stefano Buttò
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Cecilia Sgadari
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Magnani
- Department of Biomolecular Science, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| | | | - Fausto Titti
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Banci
- CERM, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Susan W. Barnett
- Novartis Vaccines & Diagnostics, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Enrico Garaci
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Ensoli
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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Fairman P, Angel JB. The effect of human immunodeficiency virus-1 on monocyte-derived dendritic cell maturation and function. Clin Exp Immunol 2012; 170:101-13. [PMID: 22943206 PMCID: PMC3444722 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2012.04628.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DC) are mediators of the adaptive immune response responsible for antigen presentation to naive T cells in secondary lymph organs. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) has been reported to inhibit the maturation of DC, but a clear link between maturation and function has not been elucidated. To understand further the effects of HIV-1 on DC maturation and function, we expanded upon previous investigations and assessed the effects of HIV-1 infection on the expression of surface molecules, carbohydrate endocytosis, antigen presentation and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) responsiveness over the course of maturation. In vitro infection with HIV-1 resulted in an increase in the expression of DC-specific intercellular adhesion molecule-3-grabbing non-integrin (DC-SIGN) as well as decreases in maturation-induced CCR7 and major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-II expression. Retention of endocytosis that normally occurs with DC maturation as well as inhibition of antigen presentation to CD8(+) T cells was also observed. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) responsiveness to LPS as measured by phosphorylation of p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 was not affected by HIV-1 infection. In summary, in-vitro HIV-1 impairs DC maturation, as defined by cell surface protein expression, with selective alterations in mature DC function. Understanding the mechanisms of DC dysfunction in HIV infection will provide further insight into HIV immune pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Fairman
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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36
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Fang M, Xu N, Shao X, Yang J, Wu N, Yao H. Inhibitory effects of human immunodeficiency virus gp120 and Tat on CpG-A-induced inflammatory cytokines in plasmacytoid dendritic cells. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2012; 44:797-804. [PMID: 22814248 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gms062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), not only inhibit viral replication, but also play an essential role in linking the innate and adaptive immune system. In this study, we explored the effects of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) gp120 and tat on CpG-A-induced inflammatory cytokines in pDCs. The results provided fundamental insights into HIV pathogenesis that may hold promise for preventative and even curative strategies. pDCs were isolated using blood DC antigen 4 (BDCA-4) DC isolation kit, and the purity was analyzed using BDCA-2 antibody by flow cytometry. pDCs and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were stimulated by either CpG-A (5 µg/ml), gp120 (0.5 µg/ml), tat (0.5 µg/ml), or CpG-A treatment combined with gp120 or tat. The production of type I interferons (IFNs) and other inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interlukine-6 (IL-6), and interferon-gamma-inducible protein-10 (IP-10) in the culture supernatant, was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results showed that CpG-A induced high levels of type I IFNs and other inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-6, and IP-10, in pDCs. Concomitant treatment with gp120 reduced the levels of IFN-α, IFN-β, TNF-α, IL-6, and IP-10 induced by CpG-A in pDCs by 79%, 53%, 60%, 50%, and 34%, respectively, while tat suppressed them by 88%, 66%, 71%, 64%, and 53%, respectively. Similar results were demonstrated in CpG-A-treated PBMCs. In conclusion, gp120 and tat are effective inhibitors of the CpG-A-mediated induction of type I IFNs and other inflammatory cytokines from pDCs and PBMCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meixin Fang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Institute of Infectious Diseases, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
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Porter KM, Sutliff RL. HIV-1, reactive oxygen species, and vascular complications. Free Radic Biol Med 2012; 53:143-59. [PMID: 22564529 PMCID: PMC3377788 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2012.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2011] [Revised: 03/16/2012] [Accepted: 03/18/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Over 1 million people in the United States and 33 million individuals worldwide suffer from HIV/AIDS. Since its discovery, HIV/AIDS has been associated with an increased susceptibility to opportunistic infection due to immune dysfunction. Highly active antiretroviral therapies restore immune function and, as a result, people infected with HIV-1 are living longer. This improved survival of HIV-1 patients has revealed a previously unrecognized risk of developing vascular complications, such as atherosclerosis and pulmonary hypertension. The mechanisms underlying these HIV-associated vascular disorders are poorly understood. However, HIV-induced elevations in reactive oxygen species (ROS), including superoxide and hydrogen peroxide, may contribute to vascular disease development and progression by altering cell function and redox-sensitive signaling pathways. In this review, we summarize the clinical and experimental evidence demonstrating HIV- and HIV antiretroviral therapy-induced alterations in reactive oxygen species and how these effects are likely to contribute to vascular dysfunction and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristi M Porter
- Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Division, Emory University School of Medicine/Atlanta VA Medical Center, 1670 Clairmont Road, Mailstop 151P, Decatur, GA 30033, USA.
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38
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Transfer of the ability of HIV-1 Tat to raise an adjuvant-free humoral immune response to unrelated antigens. Vaccine 2012; 30:2859-68. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2012.02.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2011] [Revised: 01/24/2012] [Accepted: 02/17/2012] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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39
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Kaposi sarcoma: review and medical management update. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol 2012; 113:2-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tripleo.2011.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2011] [Revised: 05/11/2011] [Accepted: 05/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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40
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Pigs as an experimental model for systemic Mycobacterium avium infectious disease. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2011; 34:455-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2011.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2011] [Revised: 09/07/2011] [Accepted: 09/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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41
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Honda JR, Shang S, Shanley CA, Caraway ML, Henao-Tamayo M, Chan ED, Basaraba RJ, Orme IM, Ordway DJ, Flores SC. Immune Responses of HIV-1 Tat Transgenic Mice to Mycobacterium Tuberculosis W-Beijing SA161. Open AIDS J 2011; 5:86-95. [PMID: 22046211 PMCID: PMC3204420 DOI: 10.2174/1874613601105010086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2011] [Revised: 04/22/2011] [Accepted: 05/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Mycobacterium tuberculosis remains among the leading causes of death from an infectious agent in the world and exacerbates disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV infected individuals are prone to lung infections by a variety of microbial pathogens, including M. tuberculosis. While the destruction of the adaptive immune response by HIV is well understood, the actual pathogenesis of tuberculosis in co-infected individuals remains unclear. Tat is an HIV protein essential for efficient viral gene transcription, is secreted from infected cells, and is known to influence a variety of host inflammatory responses. We hypothesize Tat contributes to pathophysiological changes in the lung microenvironment, resulting in impaired host immune responses to infection by M. tuberculosis. Results: Herein, we show transgenic mice that express Tat by lung alveolar cells are more susceptible than non-transgenic control littermates to a low-dose aerosol infection of M. tuberculosis W-Beijing SA161. Survival assays demonstrate accelerated mortality rates of the Tat transgenic mice compared to non-transgenics. Tat transgenic mice also showed poorly organized lung granulomata-like lesions. Analysis of the host immune response using quantitative RT-PCR, flow cytometry for surface markers, and intracellular cytokine staining showed increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the lungs, increased numbers of cells expressing ICAM1, increased numbers of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T regulatory cells, and IL-4 producing CD4+ T cells in the Tat transgenics compared to infected non-tg mice. Conclusions: Our data show quantitative differences in the inflammatory response to the SA161 clinical isolate of M. tuberculosis W-Beijing between Tat transgenic and non-transgenic mice, suggesting Tat contributes to the pathogenesis of tuberculosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Honda
- Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, 80045, USA
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42
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Systemic immune activation in HIV infection is associated with decreased MDC responsiveness to TLR ligand and inability to activate naive CD4 T-cells. PLoS One 2011; 6:e23884. [PMID: 21912648 PMCID: PMC3164669 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0023884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2011] [Accepted: 07/30/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background HIV infection is characterized by ineffective anti-viral T-cell responses and impaired dendritic cell (DC) functions, including response to Toll-Like Receptor (TLR) ligands. Because TLR responsiveness may affect a host's response to virus, we examined TLR ligand induced Myeloid and Plasmacytoid DC (MDC and PDC) activation of naïve T-cells in HIV+ subjects. Methods Freshly purified MDC and PDC obtained from HIV+ subjects and healthy controls were cultured in the presence and absence of TLR ligands (poly I∶C or R-848). We evaluated indices of maturation/activation (CD83, CD86, and HLA-DR expression), cytokine secretion (IFN-alpha and IL-6), and ability to activate allogeneic naïve CD4 T-cells to secrete IFN-gamma and IL-2. Results MDC from HIV+ subjects had increased spontaneous IL-6 production and increased CD83 and CD86 expression when compared to MDC of controls. MDC IL-6 expression was associated with plasma HIV level. At the same time, poly I∶C induced HLA-DR up-regulation on MDC was reduced in HIV+ persons when compared to controls. The latter finding was associated with impaired ability of MDC from HIV+ subjects to activate allogeneic naïve CD4 T-cells. PDC from HIV+ persons had increased spontaneous and TLR ligand induced IL-6 expression, and increased HLA-DR expression at baseline. The latter was associated with an intact ability of HIV PDC to activate allogeneic naïve CD4 T-cells. Conclusion These results have implications for the ability of the HIV+ host to form innate and adaptive responses to HIV and other pathogens.
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Modulation of Th1/Th2 immune responses to HIV-1 Tat by new pro-GSH molecules. Vaccine 2011; 29:6823-9. [PMID: 21816192 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2011.07.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2010] [Revised: 06/15/2011] [Accepted: 07/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
We have previously demonstrated that in Ova-immunized mice the increase in intra-macrophage thiol pool induced by pro-GSH molecules modulates the Th1/Th2 balance in favour of a Th1-type immune response. We show now that the same molecules can support a Th1-type over Th2-type immunity against Tat, which is an early HIV-1 regulatory protein and a Th1 polarizing immunomodulator that is increasingly considered in new anti-HIV vaccination strategies. Our results indicate that Tat-immunized mice pre-treated with the C4 (n-butanoyl) derivative of reduced glutathione (GSH-C4) or a pro-drug of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and beta-mercaptoethylamine (MEA) (I-152), have decreased levels of anti-Tat IgG1 as well as increased levels of anti-Tat IgG2a and IgG2b isotypes suggesting a Th1-type response. Moreover, Th1-(IFN-γ and IL-2) Ag-specific cellular responses were detected by ELISPOT assay in splenocytes of the same animals as well as an increase of IL-12 levels in the plasma. These findings suggest that the Th1 immune response to HIV-1 Tat could be further polarized by these molecules. These results together with those previously reported suggest that pro-GSH molecules could be used to modulate the immune response towards different antigens and may be further exploited for inducing specific Th1 immune responses against other HIV antigens as well as other intracellular pathogens in new Tat-based vaccination protocols.
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Ferrantelli F, Maggiorella MT, Schiavoni I, Sernicola L, Olivieri E, Farcomeni S, Pavone-Cossut MR, Moretti S, Belli R, Collacchi B, Srivastava IK, Titti F, Cafaro A, Barnett SW, Ensoli B. A combination HIV vaccine based on Tat and Env proteins was immunogenic and protected macaques from mucosal SHIV challenge in a pilot study. Vaccine 2011; 29:2918-32. [PMID: 21338681 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2011.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2010] [Revised: 01/31/2011] [Accepted: 02/05/2011] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
HIV native Tat and V2 loop-deleted Env (EnvΔV2) proteins already proved safe and immunogenic in phase I clinical testing as single vaccine components. Further, a phase II vaccine trial with Tat showed intensification of the therapeutic effects of HAART in successfully treated HIV-infected individuals. Here a pilot study assessed the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of an HIV/AIDS vaccine based on the combination of Tat and EnvΔV2 proteins in cynomolgus macaques against homologous intrarectal challenge with 35 MID(50) (monkey infectious dose 50) of an R5 simian-human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV(SF162P4cy)). Upon challenge, three of four macaques immunized with Tat and EnvΔV2, and two of three monkeys immunized with EnvΔV2 alone were protected from infection. In contrast, all three control animals, which had been either administered with the adjuvants only or left untreated, and an additional monkey immunized with Tat alone became systemically infected. Protection of the macaques vaccinated with EnvΔV2 or Tat/EnvΔV2 correlated with higher peak titers of pre-challenge neutralizing antibodies obtained during the immunization period (between 70 and 3 weeks before challenge) and with anti-Env V3 loop binding antibodies assessed 3 weeks before challenge. Compared to EnvΔV2 alone, the Tat and EnvΔV2 combined vaccine elicited faster antibody responses (IgM) with a trend, early in the vaccination schedule, after the second immunization including EnvΔV2, towards broader anti-Env IgG epitope specificity and a higher ratio of neutralizing to Env-binding antibody titers. As the number of immunizations increased, vaccination with EnvΔV2 approached the immune response assessed after two inocula with the Tat/EnvΔV2 combined vaccine, even though some differences remained between groups, as indicated by anti-Env IgG epitope mapping. In fact, three weeks before challenge, plasma IgG of animals in the EnvΔV2 group showed a trend towards stronger specificity for the V1 loop and V5 loop-C5 regions of Env, whereas the Tat/EnvΔV2 group displayed an overall higher reactivity for epitopes within the Env V3 loop throughout the immunization period. Although differences in terms of protection rate were not found between the EnvΔV2 or Tat/EnvΔV2 vaccination groups in this pilot study, vaccination with Tat/EnvΔV2 appeared to accelerate the induction of potentially protective antibody responses to Env. In particular, antibodies to the Env V3 loop, whose levels at pre-challenge correlated with protection, were already higher early in the vaccination schedule in monkeys immunized with Tat/EnvΔV2 as compared to EnvΔV2 alone. Further studies including larger vaccination groups and fewer immunizations with these two vaccine candidates are needed to confirm these findings and to assess whether the Tat/EnvΔV2 vaccine may afford superior protection against infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Ferrantelli
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299 00161 Rome, Italy
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Doetsch M, Fürtig B, Gstrein T, Stampfl S, Schroeder R. The RNA annealing mechanism of the HIV-1 Tat peptide: conversion of the RNA into an annealing-competent conformation. Nucleic Acids Res 2011; 39:4405-18. [PMID: 21297117 PMCID: PMC3105384 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkq1339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The annealing of nucleic acids to (partly) complementary RNA or DNA strands is involved in important cellular processes. A variety of proteins have been shown to accelerate RNA/RNA annealing but their mode of action is still mainly uncertain. In order to study the mechanism of protein-facilitated acceleration of annealing we selected a short peptide, HIV-1 Tat(44–61), which accelerates the reaction efficiently. The activity of the peptide is strongly regulated by mono- and divalent cations which hints at the importance of electrostatic interactions between RNA and peptide. Mutagenesis of the peptide illustrated the dominant role of positively charged amino acids in RNA annealing—both the overall charge of the molecule and a precise distribution of basic amino acids within the peptide are important. Additionally, we found that Tat(44–61) drives the RNA annealing reaction via entropic rather than enthalpic terms. One-dimensional-NMR data suggest that the peptide changes the population distribution of possible RNA structures to favor an annealing-prone RNA conformation, thereby increasing the fraction of colliding RNA molecules that successfully anneal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Doetsch
- Max F Perutz Laboratories, Dr Bohrgasse 9/5, 1030 Vienna, Austria
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HIV fragment gag vaccine induces broader T cell response in mice. Vaccine 2011; 29:2582-9. [PMID: 21292005 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2011.01.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2010] [Revised: 12/21/2010] [Accepted: 01/18/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Broad T-cell response is considered critical for HIV-1 vaccines to compensate viral diversity. Usually, a limited number of immunodominant epitopes are recognized in natural infections, as well as in vaccinations. Here, we seek to overcome immunofocusing of CD8 T Cell responses to HIV-1 CN54 gag DNA (delivered as a plasmid) in BalB/C mice by splitting it into fragments for reducing competition of recognition between dominant and sub-dominant epitopes. As expected, mice immunized with mixture of DNA fragments elicited significantly broader T cell responses than whole-length gag. We also further studied the effects when fragments and full-length DNA vaccines are combined for prime-boost vaccination. Interestingly, mice primed with full-length gag and boosted with DNA vaccine fragments induced similar T-cell response breadth as mice both primed and boosted by fragments DNA. In contrast, mice primed with DNA vaccine fragments and boosted with full-length gag failed to broaden T cell responses, once again, only the dominant epitopes were recognized. In summary, our study demonstrated that "fragmentation strategy" can indeed broaden T cell responses. This enhancement is more likely achieved in boosting stage. This study offers a promising way to design a vaccine with higher chance covering the highly diversified circulating strains.
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Ensoli B, Bellino S, Tripiciano A, Longo O, Francavilla V, Marcotullio S, Cafaro A, Picconi O, Paniccia G, Scoglio A, Arancio A, Ariola C, Ruiz Alvarez MJ, Campagna M, Scaramuzzi D, Iori C, Esposito R, Mussini C, Ghinelli F, Sighinolfi L, Palamara G, Latini A, Angarano G, Ladisa N, Soscia F, Mercurio VS, Lazzarin A, Tambussi G, Visintini R, Mazzotta F, Di Pietro M, Galli M, Rusconi S, Carosi G, Torti C, Di Perri G, Bonora S, Ensoli F, Garaci E. Therapeutic immunization with HIV-1 Tat reduces immune activation and loss of regulatory T-cells and improves immune function in subjects on HAART. PLoS One 2010; 5:e13540. [PMID: 21085635 PMCID: PMC2978690 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0013540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2010] [Accepted: 09/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Although HAART suppresses HIV replication, it is often unable to restore immune homeostasis. Consequently, non-AIDS-defining diseases are increasingly seen in treated individuals. This is attributed to persistent virus expression in reservoirs and to cell activation. Of note, in CD4+ T cells and monocyte-macrophages of virologically-suppressed individuals, there is continued expression of multi-spliced transcripts encoding HIV regulatory proteins. Among them, Tat is essential for virus gene expression and replication, either in primary infection or for virus reactivation during HAART, when Tat is expressed, released extracellularly and exerts, on both the virus and the immune system, effects that contribute to disease maintenance. Here we report results of an ad hoc exploratory interim analysis (up to 48 weeks) on 87 virologically-suppressed HAART-treated individuals enrolled in a phase II randomized open-label multicentric clinical trial of therapeutic immunization with Tat (ISS T-002). Eighty-eight virologically-suppressed HAART-treated individuals, enrolled in a parallel prospective observational study at the same sites (ISS OBS T-002), served for intergroup comparison. Immunization with Tat was safe, induced durable immune responses, and modified the pattern of CD4+ and CD8+ cellular activation (CD38 and HLA-DR) together with reduction of biochemical activation markers and persistent increases of regulatory T cells. This was accompanied by a progressive increment of CD4+ T cells and B cells with reduction of CD8+ T cells and NK cells, which were independent from the type of antiretroviral regimen. Increase in central and effector memory and reduction in terminally-differentiated effector memory CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were accompanied by increases of CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses against Env and recall antigens. Of note, more immune-compromised individuals experienced greater therapeutic effects. In contrast, these changes were opposite, absent or partial in the OBS population. These findings support the use of Tat immunization to intensify HAART efficacy and to restore immune homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Ensoli
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
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Effect of the redox state on HIV-1 tat protein multimerization and cell internalization and trafficking. Mol Cell Biochem 2010; 345:105-18. [PMID: 20721684 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-010-0564-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2010] [Accepted: 07/29/2010] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The redox state of the cysteine-rich region of the HIV Tat protein is known to play a crucial role in Tat biological activity. In this article, we show that Tat displays two alternative functional states depending on the presence of either one or three reduced sulphydryl groups in the cysteine-rich region, respectively. Using different approaches, a disulfide pattern has been defined for the Tat protein and a specific DTT-dependent breaking order of disulfide bonds highlighted. The Tat redox state deeply influences macrophage protein uptake. Immunoistochemistry analysis shows that the oxidized protein does not enter cells, whereas partially reduced protein reaches the cytosol and, to a limited extent, the nucleus. Finally electrophoretic analysis shows Tat high-molecular weight multi-aggregation, resulting in the loss of biological activity. This is due to strong electrostatic and metal-binding interactions, whereas Tat dimerization involves metal-binding interactions as well as disulfide bond formation.
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Castaldello A, Sgarbanti M, Marsili G, Brocca-Cofano E, Remoli AL, Caputo A, Battistini A. Interferon regulatory factor-1 acts as a powerful adjuvant in tat DNA based vaccination. J Cell Physiol 2010; 224:702-9. [PMID: 20432465 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.22169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Genetic vaccines are safe cost-effective approaches to immunization but DNA immunization is an inefficient process. There is, therefore, a pressing need for adjuvants capable of enhancing the immunogenicity and effectiveness of these vaccines. This is particularly important for diseases for which successful vaccines are still lacking, such as cancer and infectious diseases including HIV-1/AIDS. Here we report an approach to enhance the immunogenicity of DNA vaccines involving the use of transcription factors of the Interferon regulatory factor (IRF) family, specifically IRF-1, IRF-3, and IRF-7 using the tat gene as model antigen. Balb/c mice were immunized by three intramuscular inoculations, using a DNA prime-protein boost protocol, with a DNA encoding tat of HIV-1 and the indicated IRFs and immune responses were compared to those induced by vaccination with tat DNA alone. In vivo administration of plasmid DNA encoding IRF-1, or a mutated version of IRF-1 deleted of the DNA-binding domain, enhanced Tat-specific immune responses and shifted them towards a predominant T helper 1-type immune response with increased IFN-gamma production and cytotoxic T lymphocytes responses. Conversely, the use of IRF-3 or IRF-7 did not affect the tat-induced responses. These findings define IRF-1 and its mutated form as efficacious T helper 1-inducing adjuvants in the context of tat-based vaccination and also providing a new promising candidate for genetic vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Castaldello
- Department of Histology, Microbiology and Medical Biotechnology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Cafaro A, Macchia I, Maggiorella MT, Titti F, Ensoli B. Innovative approaches to develop prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines against HIV/AIDS. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2010; 655:189-242. [PMID: 20047043 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-1132-2_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) emerged in the human population in the summer of 1981. According to the latest United Nations estimates, worldwide over 33 million people are infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the prevalence rates continue to rise globally. To control the alarming spread of HIV, an urgent need exists for developing a safe and effective vaccine that prevents individuals from becoming infected or progressing to disease. To be effective, an HIV/AIDS vaccine should induce broad and long-lasting humoral and cellular immune responses, at both mucosal and systemic level. However, the nature of protective immune responses remains largely elusive and this represents one of the major roadblocks preventing the development of an effective vaccine. Here we summarize our present understanding of the factors responsible for resistance to infection or control of progression to disease in human and monkey that may be relevant to vaccine development and briefly review recent approaches which are currently being tested in clinical trials. Finally, the rationale and the current status of novel strategies based on nonstructural HIV-1 proteins, such as Tat, Nef and Rev, used alone or in combination with modified structural HIV-1 Env proteins are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurelio Cafaro
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, V.le Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
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