201
|
Klingel H, Lauen M, Krüttgen A, Imöhl M, Kleines M. Severity of adverse reactions is associated with T-cell response in mRNA-1273 vaccinated health care workers. Clin Exp Vaccine Res 2022; 11:121-124. [PMID: 35223673 PMCID: PMC8844663 DOI: 10.7774/cevr.2022.11.1.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Knowledge about mRNA-1273 elicited T-cell response is limited. We investigated adverse reactions and interferon gamma release by specific T-cells among mRNA-1273 vaccinated health care workers. Seven to 13 weeks after complete vaccination low levels of specific T-cells were detected not correlating with antibody response. Severity of symptoms after first and number of symptoms after second immunization were associated with T-cell response. Assessment of T-cell response in addition to antibody response is crucial because even few specific T-cells could add to protection against infection. Investigation of mRNA-1273 induced inflammatory processes might help improve reactogenicity and immunogenicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Klingel
- Laboratory Diagnostic Center, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Maike Lauen
- Laboratory Diagnostic Center, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Alexander Krüttgen
- Laboratory Diagnostic Center, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Matthias Imöhl
- Laboratory Diagnostic Center, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Michael Kleines
- Laboratory Diagnostic Center, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
202
|
Jukič M, Kores K, Janežič D, Bren U. Repurposing of Drugs for SARS-CoV-2 Using Inverse Docking Fingerprints. Front Chem 2021; 9:757826. [PMID: 35028304 PMCID: PMC8748264 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.757826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 or SARS-CoV-2 is a virus that belongs to the Coronaviridae family. This group of viruses commonly causes colds but possesses a tremendous pathogenic potential. In humans, an outbreak of SARS caused by the SARS-CoV virus was first reported in 2003, followed by 2012 when the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) led to an outbreak of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). Moreover, COVID-19 represents a serious socioeconomic and global health problem that has already claimed more than four million lives. To date, there are only a handful of therapeutic options to combat this disease, and only a single direct-acting antiviral, the conditionally approved remdesivir. Since there is an urgent need for active drugs against SARS-CoV-2, the strategy of drug repurposing represents one of the fastest ways to achieve this goal. An in silico drug repurposing study using two methods was conducted. A structure-based virtual screening of the FDA-approved drug database on SARS-CoV-2 main protease was performed, and the 11 highest-scoring compounds with known 3CLpro activity were identified while the methodology was used to report further 11 potential and completely novel 3CLpro inhibitors. Then, inverse molecular docking was performed on the entire viral protein database as well as on the Coronaviridae family protein subset to examine the hit compounds in detail. Instead of target fishing, inverse docking fingerprints were generated for each hit compound as well as for the five most frequently reported and direct-acting repurposed drugs that served as controls. In this way, the target-hitting space was examined and compared and we can support the further biological evaluation of all 11 newly reported hits on SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro as well as recommend further in-depth studies on antihelminthic class member compounds. The authors acknowledge the general usefulness of this approach for a full-fledged inverse docking fingerprint screening in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marko Jukič
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry and Chemical Thermodynamics, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies, University of Primorska, Koper, Slovenia
| | - Katarina Kores
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry and Chemical Thermodynamics, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Dušanka Janežič
- Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies, University of Primorska, Koper, Slovenia
| | - Urban Bren
- Laboratory of Physical Chemistry and Chemical Thermodynamics, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
- Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies, University of Primorska, Koper, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
203
|
Fazlollahi A, Zahmatyar M, Noori M, Nejadghaderi SA, Sullman MJM, Shekarriz-Foumani R, Kolahi AA, Singh K, Safiri S. Cardiac complications following mRNA COVID-19 vaccines: A systematic review of case reports and case series. Rev Med Virol 2021; 32:e2318. [PMID: 34921468 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
There have been several local and systemic adverse events associated with mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. Pericarditis, myocarditis and myocardial infarction are examples of cardiac complications related to these vaccines. In this article, we conducted a systematic review of case reports and case series to identify the clinical profile, investigations, and management of reported cardiac complications post-mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, as well as the medRxiv preprint server, with terms including: 'SARS-CoV-2', 'COVID-19', 'messenger RNA vaccine*', 'mRNA-1273 vaccine', 'BNT162 vaccine', 'myocarditis', 'pericarditis', 'stroke' and 'Myocardial Ischemia' up to 25 September 2021. Studies were excluded if they were not case reports or case series, or reported cases from non-mRNA vaccines. Case reports and case series were included that investigated the potential cardiac complications associated with mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. The JBI checklist was used to assess quality and data synthesis was conducted using a qualitative methodology called narrative synthesis. Sixty-nine studies, including 43 case reports and 26 case series, were included. Myocarditis/myopericarditis and pericarditis were the most common adverse events among the 243 reported cardiac complications, post mRNA COVID-19 vaccination. Males with a median age of 21 years had the highest frequency of myocarditis. Almost three quarters (74.4%) of cases with myocarditis had received the BNT162b2 vaccine and 87.7% had received the second dose of the vaccine. Chest pain (96.1%) and fever (38.2%) were the most common presentations. CK-MB, troponin, and NT-proBNP were elevated in 100%, 99.5% and 78.3% of subjects, respectively. ST-segment abnormality was the most common electrocardiogram feature. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, which is the gold-standard approach for diagnosing myocarditis, was abnormal in all patients diagnosed with myocarditis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were the most prescribed medication for the management of myocarditis. Apart from inflammatory conditions, some rare cases of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, myocardial infarction, myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries, and isolated tachycardia were also reported following immunisation with mRNA COVID-19 vaccines. We acknowledge that only reviewing case reports and case series studies is one potential limitation of our study. We found that myocarditis was the most commonly reported adverse cardiac event associated with mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, which presented as chest pain with a rise in cardiac biomarkers. Further large-scale observational studies are recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asra Fazlollahi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Zahmatyar
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Noori
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Aria Nejadghaderi
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Expert Group (SRMEG), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mark J M Sullman
- Department of Life and Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus.,Department of Social Sciences, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Reza Shekarriz-Foumani
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali-Asghar Kolahi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kuljit Singh
- Department of Medicine, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.,Department of Cardiology, Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Saeid Safiri
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
204
|
Murano K, Guo Y, Siomi H. The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants threatens to decrease the efficacy of neutralizing antibodies and vaccines. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:2879-2890. [PMID: 34854887 PMCID: PMC8786300 DOI: 10.1042/bst20210859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The novel coronavirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the cause of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. As of August 2021, more than 200 million people have been infected with the virus and 4.3 million have lost their lives. Various monoclonal antibodies of human origin that neutralize the SARS-CoV-2 infection have been isolated from convalescent patients for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. Several vaccines have been developed to restrict the spread of the virus and have been rapidly administered. However, the rollout of vaccines has coincided with the spread of variants of concern. Emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 present new challenges for therapeutic antibodies and threaten the efficacy of current vaccines. Here, we review the problems faced by neutralizing antibodies and vaccines in the midst of the increasing spread of mutant viruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kensaku Murano
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Youjia Guo
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Siomi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
205
|
Lafuente-Gómez N, Latorre A, Milán-Rois P, Rodriguez Diaz C, Somoza Á. Stimuli-responsive nanomaterials for cancer treatment: boundaries, opportunities and applications. Chem Commun (Camb) 2021; 57:13662-13677. [PMID: 34874370 DOI: 10.1039/d1cc05056g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Small molecule drugs, including most chemotherapies, are rapidly degraded and/or eliminated from the body, which is why high doses of these drugs are necessary, potentially producing toxic effects. Several types of nanoparticles loaded with anti-cancer drugs have been designed to overcome the disadvantages of conventional therapies. Modified nanoparticles can circulate for a long time, thus improving the solubility and biodistribution of drugs. Furthermore, they also allow the controlled release of the payload once its target tissue has been reached. These mechanisms can reduce the exposure of healthy tissues to chemotherapeutics, since the drugs are only released in the presence of specific tumour stimuli. Overall, these properties can improve the effectiveness of treatments while reducing undesirable side effects. In this article, we review the recent advances in stimuli-responsive albumin, gold and magnetic nanostructures for controlled anti-cancer drug delivery. These nanostructures were designed to release drugs in response to different internal and external stimuli of the cellular environment, including pH, redox, light and magnetic fields. We also describe various examples of applications of these nanomaterials. Overall, we shed light on the properties, potential clinical translation and limitations of stimuli-responsive nanoparticles for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nuria Lafuente-Gómez
- Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados en Nanociencia (IMDEA Nanociencia), 28049 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Ana Latorre
- Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados en Nanociencia (IMDEA Nanociencia), 28049 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Paula Milán-Rois
- Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados en Nanociencia (IMDEA Nanociencia), 28049 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Ciro Rodriguez Diaz
- Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados en Nanociencia (IMDEA Nanociencia), 28049 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Álvaro Somoza
- Instituto Madrileño de Estudios Avanzados en Nanociencia (IMDEA Nanociencia), 28049 Madrid, Spain. .,Unidad Asociada al Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
206
|
Sagar R, Lou J, Watson AJ, Best MD. Zinc Triggered Release of Encapsulated Cargo from Liposomes via a Synthetic Lipid Switch. Bioconjug Chem 2021; 32:2485-2496. [PMID: 34870414 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.1c00425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Liposomes are effective nanocarriers due to their ability to encapsulate and deliver a wide variety of therapeutics. However, therapeutic potential would be improved by enhanced control over the release of drug cargo. Zinc ions provide exciting new targets for stimuli-responsive lipid design due to their overly abundant concentrations associated with diseased cells. Herein, we report zinc-triggered release of liposomal contents exploiting synthetic lipid switches designed to undergo conformational changes in the presence of this ion. Initially, Nile red leakage assays were conducted that validated successful dose-dependent triggering of release using zinc-responsive lipids (ZRLs). In addition, dynamic light scattering and confocal microscopy experiments showed that zinc treatment led to morphological changes in lipid nanoparticles only when ZRLs were present in formulations. Next, zinc-binding experiments conducted in a solution (NMR, MS) or membrane (zeta potential) context confirmed ZRL-Zn complexation. Finally, polar cargo release from liposomes was achieved. The results from these wide-ranging experiments using four different compounds indicated that zinc-responsive properties varied based on ZRL structure, providing insights into the structural requirements for activity. This work has established zinc-responsive liposomal platforms toward the development of clinical triggered release formulations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruhani Sagar
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, 1420 Circle Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Jinchao Lou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, 1420 Circle Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Alexa J Watson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, 1420 Circle Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| | - Michael D Best
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, 1420 Circle Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, United States
| |
Collapse
|
207
|
Lazebnik Y. Cell fusion as a link between the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, COVID-19 complications, and vaccine side effects. Oncotarget 2021; 12:2476-2488. [PMID: 34917266 PMCID: PMC8664391 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.28088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A distinctive feature of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is its ability to efficiently fuse cells, thus producing syncytia found in COVID-19 patients. This commentary proposes how this ability enables spike to cause COVID-19 complications as well as side effects of COVID-19 vaccines, and suggests how these effects can be prevented.
Collapse
|
208
|
Valderrama OJ, Nischang I. Reincarnation of the Analytical Ultracentrifuge: Emerging Opportunities for Nanomedicine. Anal Chem 2021; 93:15805-15815. [PMID: 34806364 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c03116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The analytical ultracentrifuge (AUC) and the modern field of analytical ultracentrifugation found its inception approximately a century ago. We highlight the scope of its major experimental opportunities as a transport-based method, contemporary and up-and-coming investigation potential for polymers, polymer-drug conjugates, polymer assemblies, as well as medical nanoparticles. Special focus lies on molar mass estimates of unimeric polymeric species, self-assemblies in solution, and (co)localization of multicomponent systems in solution alongside the material-biofluid interactions. We close with present challenges and incentives for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olenka Jibaja Valderrama
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743 Jena, Germany.,Jena Center for Soft Matter, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Ivo Nischang
- Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry (IOMC), Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Humboldtstrasse 10, 07743 Jena, Germany.,Jena Center for Soft Matter, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Philosophenweg 7, 07743 Jena, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
209
|
Abstract
Over the past two decades, research on mRNA-based therapies has exploded, mainly because of the inherent advantages of mRNA, including a low integration probability, transient expression, and simple and rapid in vitro transcription production approaches. In addition, thanks to improved stability and reduced immunogenicity by advanced strategies, the application of mRNA has expanded from protein replacement therapy to vaccination, gene editing and other fields, showing great promise for clinical application. Recently, with the successive launch of two mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines, mRNA technology has attracted an enormous amount of attention from scientific researchers as well as pharmaceutical companies. Because of the large molecular weight, hydrophilicity, and highly negative charge densities of mRNA, it is difficult to overcome the intracellular delivery barriers. Therefore, various delivery vehicles have been developed to achieve more effective mRNA delivery. In general, conventional mRNA administration methods are based on injection strategies, including intravenous, intramuscular, intradermal, and subcutaneous injections. Although these routes circumvent the absorption barriers to some extent, they bring about injection-related concerns such as safety issues, pain, low compliance, and difficulty in repeated dosing, increasing the need to explore alternative strategies for noninvasive delivery. The ideal noninvasive delivery systems are featured with easy to use, low risks of infection, and good patient compliance. At the same time, they allow patients to self-administer, reducing reliance on professional healthcare workers and interference with bodily functions and daily life. In particular, the noninvasive mucosal delivery of mRNA vaccines can induce mucosal immune responses, which are important for resisting pathogens infected through mucosal routes.Because of the potential clinical benefits mentioned above, we detailed the existing strategies for the noninvasive delivery of mRNA in this review, including delivery via the nasal, pulmonary, vaginal, and transdermal routes. First, we discussed the unique strengths and biological hindrances of each route on the basis of physiology. Next, we comprehensively summarized the research progress reported so far and analyzed the technologies and delivery vehicles used, hoping to provide some references for further explorations. Among these noninvasive routes, nasal and pulmonary delivery are the earliest and most intensively studied areas, mostly owing to their favorable physiological structures: the nasal or pulmonary mucosa is easily accessible, highly permeable and highly vascularized. In contrast, the development of vaginal mRNA delivery is relatively less reported, and the current research mainly focused on some local applications. In addition, microneedles have also been investigated to overcome skin barriers for mRNA delivery in recent years, making microneedle-based delivery an emerging alternative pathway. In summary, a variety of mRNA formulations and delivery strategies have been developed for noninvasive mRNA delivery, skillfully combining appropriate vehicles or physical technologies to enhance effectiveness. We surmise that continuous advances and technological innovations in the development of mRNA noninvasive delivery will accelerate the translation from experimental research to clinical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Qin
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, P. R. China
| | - Guangsheng Du
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, P. R. China
| | - Xun Sun
- Key Laboratory of Drug-Targeting and Drug Delivery System of the Education Ministry, Sichuan Engineering Laboratory for Plant-Sourced Drug and Sichuan Research Center for Drug Precision Industrial Technology, West China School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
210
|
Tanaka H, Miyama R, Sakurai Y, Tamagawa S, Nakai Y, Tange K, Yoshioka H, Akita H. Improvement of mRNA Delivery Efficiency to a T Cell Line by Modulating PEG-Lipid Content and Phospholipid Components of Lipid Nanoparticles. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13122097. [PMID: 34959378 PMCID: PMC8706876 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13122097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: T cells are important target cells, since they exert direct cytotoxic effects on infected/malignant cells, and affect the regulatory functions of other immune cells in a target antigen-specific manner. One of the current approaches for modifying the function of T cells is gene transfection by viral vectors. However, the insertion of the exogenous DNA molecules into the genome is attended by the risk of mutagenesis, especially when a transposon-based gene cassette is used. Based on this scenario, the transient expression of proteins by an in vitro-transcribed messenger RNA (IVT-mRNA) has become a subject of interest. The use of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for the transfection of IVT-mRNA is one of the more promising strategies for introducing exogenous genes. In this study, we report on the development of LNPs with transfection efficiencies that are comparable to that for electroporation in a T cell line (Jurkat cells). (2) Methods: Transfection efficiency was improved by optimizing the phospholipids and polyethylene glycol (PEG)-conjugated lipid components. (3) Results: Modification of the lipid composition resulted in the 221-fold increase in luciferase activity compared to a previously optimized formulation. Such a high transfection activity was due to the efficient uptake by clathrin/dynamin-dependent endocytosis and the relatively efficient escape into the cytoplasm at an early stage of endocytosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Tanaka
- Laboratory of DDS Design and Drug Disposition, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba City 260-0856, Japan; (R.M.); (Y.S.)
- Correspondence: (H.T.); (H.A.); Tel.: +81-43-226-2894 (H.T.); +81-43-226-2893 (H.A.)
| | - Ryo Miyama
- Laboratory of DDS Design and Drug Disposition, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba City 260-0856, Japan; (R.M.); (Y.S.)
| | - Yu Sakurai
- Laboratory of DDS Design and Drug Disposition, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba City 260-0856, Japan; (R.M.); (Y.S.)
| | - Shinya Tamagawa
- DDS Research Laboratory, NOF CORPORATION, 3-3 Chidori-cho, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki City 210-0865, Japan; (S.T.); (Y.N.); (K.T.); (H.Y.)
| | - Yuta Nakai
- DDS Research Laboratory, NOF CORPORATION, 3-3 Chidori-cho, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki City 210-0865, Japan; (S.T.); (Y.N.); (K.T.); (H.Y.)
| | - Kota Tange
- DDS Research Laboratory, NOF CORPORATION, 3-3 Chidori-cho, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki City 210-0865, Japan; (S.T.); (Y.N.); (K.T.); (H.Y.)
| | - Hiroki Yoshioka
- DDS Research Laboratory, NOF CORPORATION, 3-3 Chidori-cho, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki City 210-0865, Japan; (S.T.); (Y.N.); (K.T.); (H.Y.)
| | - Hidetaka Akita
- Laboratory of DDS Design and Drug Disposition, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba City 260-0856, Japan; (R.M.); (Y.S.)
- Correspondence: (H.T.); (H.A.); Tel.: +81-43-226-2894 (H.T.); +81-43-226-2893 (H.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
211
|
Wang W, Feng S, Ye Z, Gao H, Lin J, Ouyang D. Prediction of lipid nanoparticles for mRNA vaccines by the machine learning algorithm. Acta Pharm Sin B 2021; 12:2950-2962. [PMID: 35755271 PMCID: PMC9214321 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2021.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) is commonly used to deliver mRNA vaccines. Currently, LNP optimization primarily relies on screening ionizable lipids by traditional experiments which consumes intensive cost and time. Current study attempts to apply computational methods to accelerate the LNP development for mRNA vaccines. Firstly, 325 data samples of mRNA vaccine LNP formulations with IgG titer were collected. The machine learning algorithm, lightGBM, was used to build a prediction model with good performance (R2 > 0.87). More importantly, the critical substructures of ionizable lipids in LNPs were identified by the algorithm, which well agreed with published results. The animal experimental results showed that LNP using DLin-MC3-DMA (MC3) as ionizable lipid with an N/P ratio at 6:1 induced higher efficiency in mice than LNP with SM-102, which was consistent with the model prediction. Molecular dynamic modeling further investigated the molecular mechanism of LNPs used in the experiment. The result showed that the lipid molecules aggregated to form LNPs, and mRNA molecules twined around the LNPs. In summary, the machine learning predictive model for LNP-based mRNA vaccines was first developed, validated by experiments, and further integrated with molecular modeling. The prediction model can be used for virtual screening of LNP formulations in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
| | - Shuo Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Zhuyifan Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
| | - Hanlu Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
| | - Jinzhong Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
- Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +853 88224514 (Defang Ouyang); +86 21 31246764 (Jinzhong Lin).
| | - Defang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
- Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +853 88224514 (Defang Ouyang); +86 21 31246764 (Jinzhong Lin).
| |
Collapse
|
212
|
Valdivia-Olivares RY, Rodriguez-Fernandez M, Álvarez-Figueroa MJ, Kalergis AM, González-Aramundiz JV. The Importance of Nanocarrier Design and Composition for an Efficient Nanoparticle-Mediated Transdermal Vaccination. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9121420. [PMID: 34960166 PMCID: PMC8705631 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9121420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization estimates that the pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus claimed more than 3 million lives in 2020 alone. This situation has highlighted the importance of vaccination programs and the urgency of working on new technologies that allow an efficient, safe, and effective immunization. From this perspective, nanomedicine has provided novel tools for the design of the new generation of vaccines. Among the challenges of the new vaccine generations is the search for alternative routes of antigen delivery due to costs, risks, need for trained personnel, and low acceptance in the population associated with the parenteral route. Along these lines, transdermal immunization has been raised as a promising alternative for antigen delivery and vaccination based on a large absorption surface and an abundance of immune system cells. These features contribute to a high barrier capacity and high immunological efficiency for transdermal immunization. However, the stratum corneum barrier constitutes a significant challenge for generating new pharmaceutical forms for transdermal antigen delivery. This review addresses the biological bases for transdermal immunomodulation and the technological advances in the field of nanomedicine, from the passage of antigens facilitated by devices to cross the stratum corneum, to the design of nanosystems, with an emphasis on the importance of design and composition towards the new generation of needle-free nanometric transdermal systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rayen Yanara Valdivia-Olivares
- Departamento de Farmacia, Escuela de Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Química y de Farmacia, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7820436, Chile; (R.Y.V.-O.); (M.J.Á.-F.)
- Institute for Biological and Medical Engineering, Schools of Engineering, Medicine and Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7820436, Chile;
| | - Maria Rodriguez-Fernandez
- Institute for Biological and Medical Engineering, Schools of Engineering, Medicine and Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7820436, Chile;
| | - María Javiera Álvarez-Figueroa
- Departamento de Farmacia, Escuela de Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Química y de Farmacia, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7820436, Chile; (R.Y.V.-O.); (M.J.Á.-F.)
| | - Alexis M. Kalergis
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Genética Molecular y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins No. 340, Santiago 7810000, Chile
- Departamento de Endocrinología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7810000, Chile
- Correspondence: (A.M.K.); (J.V.G.-A.)
| | - José Vicente González-Aramundiz
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Departamento de Farmacia, Escuela de Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Química y de Farmacia, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7820436, Chile
- Centro de Investigación en Nanotecnología y Materiales Avanzados “CIEN-UC”, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 7810000, Chile
- Correspondence: (A.M.K.); (J.V.G.-A.)
| |
Collapse
|
213
|
Kaneko S, Kurosaki M, Sugiyama T, Takahashi Y, Yamaguchi Y, Nagasawa M, Izumi N. The dynamics of quantitative SARS-CoV-2 antispike IgG response to BNT162b2 vaccination. J Med Virol 2021; 93:6813-6817. [PMID: 34314037 PMCID: PMC8427121 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.27231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Vaccination for SARS-CoV-2 is necessary to overcome coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, the time-dependent vaccine-induced immune response is not well understood. This study aimed to investigate the dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 antispike immunoglobulin G (IgG) response. Medical staff participants who received two sequential doses of the BNT162b2 vaccination on days 0 and 21 were recruited prospectively from the Musashino Red Cross Hospital between March and May 2021. The quantitative antispike receptor-binding domain (RBD) IgG antibody responses were measured using the Abbott SARS-CoV-2 IgGII Quant assay (cut off ≥50 AU/ml). A total of 59 participants without past COVID-19 history were continuously tracked with serum samples. The median age was 41 (22-75) years, and 14 participants were male (23.7%). The median antispike RBD IgG and seropositivity rates were 0 (0-31.1) AU/ml, 0.3 (0-39.5) AU/ml, 529.1 (48.3-8711.4) AU/ml, 18,836.9 (742.2-57,260.4) AU/ml, and 0%, 0%, 98.3%, and 100% on days 0, 3, 14, and 28 after the first vaccination, respectively. The antispike RBD IgG levels were significantly increased after day 14 from vaccination (p < 0.001) The BNT162b2 vaccination led almost all participants to obtain serum antispike RBD IgG 14 days after the first dose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shun Kaneko
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyMusashino Red Cross HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Masayuki Kurosaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyMusashino Red Cross HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Toru Sugiyama
- Department of Endocrinology and MetabolismMusashino Red Cross HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Yuka Takahashi
- Medical Examination Center, Musashino Red Cross HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Yoshimi Yamaguchi
- Division of Clinical laboratoryMusashino Red Cross HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Masayuki Nagasawa
- Division of Infection Control and PreventionMusashino Red Cross HospitalTokyoJapan
| | - Namiki Izumi
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyMusashino Red Cross HospitalTokyoJapan
| |
Collapse
|
214
|
Jain S, Venkataraman A, Wechsler ME, Peppas NA. Messenger RNA-based vaccines: Past, present, and future directions in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 179:114000. [PMID: 34637846 PMCID: PMC8502079 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have received major attention in the fight against COVID-19. Formulations from companies such as Moderna and BioNTech/Pfizer have allowed us to slowly ease the social distancing measures, mask requirements, and lockdowns that have been prevalent since early 2020. This past year's focused work on mRNA vaccines has catapulted this technology to the forefront of public awareness and additional research pursuits, thus leading to new potential for bionanotechnology principles to help drive further innovation using mRNA. In addition to alleviating the burden of COVID-19, mRNA vaccines could potentially provide long-term solutions all over the world for diseases ranging from influenza to AIDS. Herein, we provide a brief commentary based on the history and development of mRNA vaccines in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, we address current research using the technology and future directions of mRNA vaccine research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samagra Jain
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Abhijeet Venkataraman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Marissa E. Wechsler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Nicholas A. Peppas
- Department of Chemical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA,Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA,Institute for Biomaterials, Drug Delivery, and Regenerative Medicine, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA,Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA,Department of Surgery and Perioperative Care, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA,Corresponding author
| |
Collapse
|
215
|
Gorczynski RM, Lindley RA, Steele EJ, Wickramasinghe NC. Nature of Acquired Immune Responses, Epitope Specificity and Resultant Protection from SARS-CoV-2. J Pers Med 2021; 11:1253. [PMID: 34945725 PMCID: PMC8708741 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11121253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The primary global response to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has been to bring to the clinic as rapidly as possible a number of vaccines that are predicted to enhance immunity to this viral infection. While the rapidity with which these vaccines have been developed and tested (at least for short-term efficacy and safety) is commendable, it should be acknowledged that this has occurred despite the lack of research into, and understanding of, the immune elements important for natural host protection against the virus, making this endeavor a somewhat unique one in medical history. In contrast, as pointed out in the review below, there were already important past observations that suggested that respiratory infections at mucosal surfaces were susceptible to immune clearance by mechanisms not typical of infections caused by systemic (blood-borne) pathogens. Accordingly, it was likely to be important to understand the role for both innate and acquired immunity in response to viral infection, as well as the optimum acquired immune resistance mechanisms for viral clearance (B cell or antibody-mediated, versus T cell mediated). This information was needed both to guide vaccine development and to monitor its success. We have known that many pathogens enter into a quasi-symbiotic relationship with the host, with each undergoing sequential change in response to alterations the other makes to its presence. The subsequent evolution of viral variants which has caused such widespread concern over the last 3-6 months as host immunity develops was an entirely predictable response. What is still not known is whether there will be other unexpected side-effects of the deployment of novel vaccines in humans which have yet to be characterized, and, if so, how and if these can be avoided. We conclude by remarking that to ignore a substantial body of well-attested immunological research in favour of expediency is a poor way to proceed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reginald M. Gorczynski
- Institute of Medical Science, Department of Immunology and Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G3, Canada
| | - Robyn A. Lindley
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry & Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia;
- GMDx Group Ltd., Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Edward J. Steele
- C.Y.O’Connor ERADE Village Foundation, Piara Waters, Perth, WA 6207, Australia;
- Melville Analytics Pty Ltd., Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Nalin Chandra Wickramasinghe
- Buckingham Centre for Astrobiology, University of Buckingham, Buckingham MK18 1EG, UK;
- Centre for Astrobiology, University of Ruhuna, Matara 81000, Sri Lanka
- National Institute of Fundamental Studies, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka
| |
Collapse
|
216
|
Uchida S, Yamaberi Y, Tanaka M, Oba M. A helix foldamer oligopeptide improves intracellular stability and prolongs protein expression of the delivered mRNA. NANOSCALE 2021; 13:18941-18946. [PMID: 34664600 DOI: 10.1039/d1nr03600a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Prolonging the duration of protein expression from mRNA is a major challenge in the development of mRNA nanomedicines. mRNA complexed with helix foldamer oligopeptides consisting of arginine and α-aminoisobutyric acids showed higher intracellular stability than that complexed with oligoarginines, thereby maintaining efficient protein translation for three days.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Uchida
- Medical Chemistry, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.
- Innovation Center of NanoMedicine (iCONM), Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Yuto Yamaberi
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Masakazu Tanaka
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Makoto Oba
- Medical Chemistry, Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
217
|
Karrow NA, Shandilya UK, Pelech S, Wagter-Lesperance L, McLeod D, Bridle B, Mallard BA. Maternal COVID-19 Vaccination and Its Potential Impact on Fetal and Neonatal Development. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:1351. [PMID: 34835282 PMCID: PMC8617890 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9111351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccines have been developed at "warp speed" to combat the COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Although they are considered the best approach for preventing mortality, when assessing the safety of these vaccines, pregnant women have not been included in clinical trials. Thus, vaccine safety for this demographic, as well as for the developing fetus and neonate, remains to be determined. A global effort has been underway to encourage pregnant women to get vaccinated despite the uncertain risk posed to them and their offspring. Given this, post-hoc data collection, potentially for years, will be required to determine the outcomes of COVID-19 and vaccination on the next generation. Most COVID-19 vaccine reactions include injection site erythema, pain, swelling, fatigue, headache, fever and lymphadenopathy, which may be sufficient to affect fetal/neonatal development. In this review, we have explored components of the first-generation viral vector and mRNA COVID-19 vaccines that are believed to contribute to adverse reactions and which may negatively impact fetal and neonatal development. We have followed this with a discussion of the potential for using an ovine model to explore the long-term outcomes of COVID-19 vaccination during the prenatal and neonatal periods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niel A. Karrow
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Umesh K. Shandilya
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Steven Pelech
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada;
| | - Lauraine Wagter-Lesperance
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (L.W.-L.); (B.B.); (B.A.M.)
| | - Deanna McLeod
- Kaleidoscope Strategic Inc., Toronto, ON M6R 1E7, Canada;
| | - Byram Bridle
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (L.W.-L.); (B.B.); (B.A.M.)
| | - Bonnie A. Mallard
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (L.W.-L.); (B.B.); (B.A.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
218
|
Paloncýová M, Čechová P, Šrejber M, Kührová P, Otyepka M. Role of Ionizable Lipids in SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines As Revealed by Molecular Dynamics Simulations: From Membrane Structure to Interaction with mRNA Fragments. J Phys Chem Lett 2021; 12:11199-11205. [PMID: 34761943 PMCID: PMC8609914 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.1c03109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in RNA-based medicine have provided new opportunities for the global current challenge, i.e., the COVID-19 pandemic. Novel vaccines are based on a messenger RNA (mRNA) motif with a lipid nanoparticle (LNP) vector, consisting of high content of unique pH-sensitive ionizable lipids (ILs). Here we provide molecular insights into the role of the ILs and lipid mixtures used in current mRNA vaccines. We observed that the lipid mixtures adopted a nonlamellar organization, with ILs separating into a very disordered, pH-sensitive phase. We describe structural differences of the two ILs leading to their different congregation, with implications for the vaccine stability. Finally, as RNA interacts preferentially with IL-rich phases located at the regions with high curvature of lipid phase, local changes in RNA flexibility and base pairing are induced by lipids. A proper atomistic understanding of RNA-lipid interactions may enable rational tailoring of LNP composition for efficient RNA delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markéta Paloncýová
- Regional
Centre of Advanced Technologies and Materials, Czech Advanced Technology
and Research Institute (CATRIN), Palacký
University Olomouc, Šlechtitelů 27, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Čechová
- Regional
Centre of Advanced Technologies and Materials, Czech Advanced Technology
and Research Institute (CATRIN), Palacký
University Olomouc, Šlechtitelů 27, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Šrejber
- Regional
Centre of Advanced Technologies and Materials, Czech Advanced Technology
and Research Institute (CATRIN), Palacký
University Olomouc, Šlechtitelů 27, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Kührová
- Regional
Centre of Advanced Technologies and Materials, Czech Advanced Technology
and Research Institute (CATRIN), Palacký
University Olomouc, Šlechtitelů 27, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Otyepka
- Regional
Centre of Advanced Technologies and Materials, Czech Advanced Technology
and Research Institute (CATRIN), Palacký
University Olomouc, Šlechtitelů 27, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
- IT4Innovations, VSB—Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, 708 00 Ostrava-Poruba, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
219
|
Machado BAS, Hodel KVS, Fonseca LMDS, Mascarenhas LAB, Andrade LPCDS, Rocha VPC, Soares MBP, Berglund P, Duthie MS, Reed SG, Badaró R. The Importance of RNA-Based Vaccines in the Fight against COVID-19: An Overview. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:1345. [PMID: 34835276 PMCID: PMC8623509 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9111345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, vaccine development using ribonucleic acid (RNA) has become the most promising and studied approach to produce safe and effective new vaccines, not only for prophylaxis but also as a treatment. The use of messenger RNA (mRNA) as an immunogenic has several advantages to vaccine development compared to other platforms, such as lower coast, the absence of cell cultures, and the possibility to combine different targets. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of mRNA as a vaccine became more relevant; two out of the four most widely applied vaccines against COVID-19 in the world are based on this platform. However, even though it presents advantages for vaccine application, mRNA technology faces several pivotal challenges to improve mRNA stability, delivery, and the potential to generate the related protein needed to induce a humoral- and T-cell-mediated immune response. The application of mRNA to vaccine development emerged as a powerful tool to fight against cancer and non-infectious and infectious diseases, for example, and represents a relevant research field for future decades. Based on these advantages, this review emphasizes mRNA and self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) for vaccine development, mainly to fight against COVID-19, together with the challenges related to this approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Aparecida Souza Machado
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Katharine Valéria Saraiva Hodel
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Larissa Moraes dos Santos Fonseca
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Luís Alberto Brêda Mascarenhas
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Leone Peter Correia da Silva Andrade
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Vinícius Pinto Costa Rocha
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Milena Botelho Pereira Soares
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador 40296-710, Brazil
| | - Peter Berglund
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102, USA; (P.B.); (M.S.D.); (S.G.R.)
| | - Malcolm S. Duthie
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102, USA; (P.B.); (M.S.D.); (S.G.R.)
| | - Steven G. Reed
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102, USA; (P.B.); (M.S.D.); (S.G.R.)
| | - Roberto Badaró
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
220
|
Attia MA, Essa EA, Elebyary TT, Faheem AM, Elkordy AA. Brief on Recent Application of Liposomal Vaccines for Lower Respiratory Tract Viral Infections: From Influenza to COVID-19 Vaccines. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:1173. [PMID: 34832955 PMCID: PMC8619292 DOI: 10.3390/ph14111173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccination is the most effective means of preventing infectious diseases and saving lives. Modern biotechnology largely enabled vaccine development. In the meantime, recent advances in pharmaceutical technology have resulted in the emergence of nanoparticles that are extensively investigated as promising miniaturized drug delivery systems. Scientists are particularly interested in liposomes as an important carrier for vaccine development. Wide acceptability of liposomes lies in their flexibility and versatility. Due to their unique vesicular structure with alternating aqueous and lipid compartments, liposomes can enclose both hydrophilic and lipophilic compounds, including antigens. Liposome composition can be tailored to obtain the desired immune response and adjuvant characteristics. During the current pandemic of COVID-19, many liposome-based vaccines have been developed with great success. This review covers a liposome-based vaccine designed particularly to combat viral infection of the lower respiratory tract (LRT), i.e., infection of the lung, specifically in the lower airways. Viruses such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV-1 and SARS-CoV-2) are common causes of LRT infections, hence this review mainly focuses on this category of viruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ahmed Attia
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Sunderland, Sunderland SR1 3SD, UK; (M.A.A.); (A.M.F.)
| | - Ebtessam Ahmed Essa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta 31511, Egypt; (E.A.E.); (T.T.E.)
| | - Toka Tarek Elebyary
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta 31511, Egypt; (E.A.E.); (T.T.E.)
| | - Ahmed Mostafa Faheem
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Sunderland, Sunderland SR1 3SD, UK; (M.A.A.); (A.M.F.)
| | - Amal Ali Elkordy
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Sunderland, Sunderland SR1 3SD, UK; (M.A.A.); (A.M.F.)
| |
Collapse
|
221
|
Krhač Levačić A, Berger S, Müller J, Wegner A, Lächelt U, Dohmen C, Rudolph C, Wagner E. Dynamic mRNA polyplexes benefit from bioreducible cleavage sites for in vitro and in vivo transfer. J Control Release 2021; 339:27-40. [PMID: 34547258 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Currently, messenger RNA (mRNA)-based lipid nanoparticle formulations revolutionize the clinical field. Cationic polymer-based complexes (polyplexes) represent an alternative compound class for mRNA delivery. After establishing branched polyethylenimine with a succinylation degree of 10% (succPEI) as highly effective positive mRNA transfection standard, a diverse library of PEI-like peptides termed sequence-defined oligoaminoamides (OAAs) was screened for mRNA delivery. Notably, sequences, which had previously been identified as potent plasmid DNA (pDNA) or small-interfering RNA (siRNA) carriers, displayed only moderate mRNA transfection activity. A second round of screening combined the cationizable building block succinoyl tetraethylene pentamine and histidines for endosomal buffering, tyrosine tripeptides and various fatty acids for mRNA polyplex stabilization, as well as redox-sensitive units for programmed intracellular release. For the tested OAA carriers, balancing of extracellular stability, endosomal lytic activity, and intracellular release capability was found to be of utmost importance for optimum mRNA transfection efficiency. OAAs with T-shape topology containing two oleic acids as well-stabilizing fatty acids, attached via a dynamic bioreducible building block, displayed superior activity with up to 1000-fold increased transfection efficiency compared to their non-reducible analogs. In the absence of the dynamic linkage, incorporation of shorter less stabilizing fatty acids could only partly compensate for mRNA delivery. Highest GFP expression and the largest fraction of transfected cells (96%) could be detected for the bioreducible OAA with incorporated histidines and a dioleoyl motif, outperforming all other tested carriers as well as the positive control succPEI. The good in vitro performance of the dynamic lead structure was verified in vivo upon intratracheal administration of mRNA complexes in mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Krhač Levačić
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Simone Berger
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany
| | - Judith Müller
- Ethris GmbH, Semmelweisstr. 3, Planegg D-82152, Germany
| | - Andrea Wegner
- Ethris GmbH, Semmelweisstr. 3, Planegg D-82152, Germany
| | - Ulrich Lächelt
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany
| | | | | | - Ernst Wagner
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Munich, Butenandtstr. 5-13, D-81377 Munich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
222
|
Qiu M, Li Y, Bloomer H, Xu Q. Developing Biodegradable Lipid Nanoparticles for Intracellular mRNA Delivery and Genome Editing. Acc Chem Res 2021; 54:4001-4011. [PMID: 34668716 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.1c00500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Since the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted emergency use authorization for two mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2, mRNA-based technology has attracted broad attention from the scientific community to investors. When delivered intracellularly, mRNA has the ability to produce various therapeutic proteins, enabling the treatment of a variety of illnesses, including but not limited to infectious diseases, cancers, and genetic diseases. Accordingly, mRNA holds significant therapeutic potential and provides a promising means to target historically hard-to-treat diseases. Current clinical efforts harnessing mRNA-based technology are focused on vaccination, cancer immunotherapy, protein replacement therapy, and genome editing. The clinical translation of mRNA-based technology has been made possible by leveraging nanoparticle delivery methods. However, the application of mRNA for therapeutic purposes is still challenged by the need for specific, efficient, and safe delivery systems.This Account highlights key advances in designing and developing combinatorial synthetic lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) with distinct chemical structures and properties for in vitro and in vivo intracellular mRNA delivery. LNPs represent the most advanced nonviral nanoparticle delivery systems that have been extensively investigated for nucleic acid delivery. The aforementioned COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and one LNP-based small interfering RNA (siRNA) drug (ONPATTRO) have received clinical approval from the FDA, highlighting the success of synthetic ionizable lipids for in vivo nucleic acid delivery. In this Account, we first summarize the research efforts from our group on the development of bioreducible and biodegradable LNPs by leveraging the combinatorial chemistry strategy, such as the Michael addition reaction, which allows us to easily generate a large set of lipidoids with diverse chemical structures. Next, we discuss the utilization of a library screening strategy to identify optimal LNPs for targeted mRNA delivery and showcase the applications of the optimized LNPs in cell engineering and genome editing. Finally, we outline key challenges to the clinical translation of mRNA-based therapies and propose an outlook for future directions of the chemical design and optimization of LNPs to improve the safety and specificity of mRNA drugs. We hope this Account provides insight into the rational design of LNPs for facilitating the development of mRNA therapeutics, a transformative technology that promises to revolutionize future medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Qiu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Yamin Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Hanan Bloomer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
- School of Medicine & Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, United States
| | - Qiaobing Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| |
Collapse
|
223
|
Childs E, Henry CM, Canton J, Reis e Sousa C. Maintenance and loss of endocytic organelle integrity: mechanisms and implications for antigen cross-presentation. Open Biol 2021; 11:210194. [PMID: 34753318 PMCID: PMC8580422 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.210194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The membranes of endosomes, phagosomes and macropinosomes can become damaged by the physical properties of internalized cargo, by active pathogenic invasion or by cellular processes, including endocytic maturation. Loss of membrane integrity is often deleterious and is, therefore, prevented by mitigation and repair mechanisms. However, it can occasionally be beneficial and actively induced by cells. Here, we summarize the mechanisms by which cells, in particular phagocytes, try to prevent membrane damage and how, when this fails, they repair or destroy damaged endocytic organelles. We also detail how one type of phagocyte, the dendritic cell, can deliberately trigger localized damage to endocytic organelles to allow for major histocompatibility complex class I presentation of exogenous antigens and initiation of CD8+ T-cell responses to viruses and tumours. Our review highlights mechanisms for the regulation of endocytic organelle membrane integrity at the intersection of cell biology and immunology that could be co-opted for improving vaccination and intracellular drug delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Childs
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Conor M. Henry
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Johnathan Canton
- Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Caetano Reis e Sousa
- Immunobiology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
224
|
Alleva DG, Delpero AR, Scully MM, Murikipudi S, Ragupathy R, Greaves EK, Sathiyaseelan T, Haworth JR, Shah NJ, Rao V, Nagre S, Lancaster TM, Webb SS, Jasa AI, Ronca SE, Green FM, Elyard HA, Yee J, Klein J, Karnes L, Sollie F, Zion TC. Development of an IgG-Fc fusion COVID-19 subunit vaccine, AKS-452. Vaccine 2021; 39:6601-6613. [PMID: 34642088 PMCID: PMC8491978 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.09.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AKS-452 is a biologically-engineered vaccine comprising an Fc fusion protein of the SARS-CoV-2 viral spike protein receptor binding domain antigen (Ag) and human IgG1 Fc (SP/RBD-Fc) in clinical development for the induction and augmentation of neutralizing IgG titers against SARS-CoV-2 viral infection to address the COVID-19 pandemic. The Fc moiety is designed to enhance immunogenicity by increasing uptake via Fc-receptors (FcγR) on Ag-presenting cells (APCs) and prolonging exposure due to neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) recycling. AKS-452 induced approximately 20-fold greater neutralizing IgG titers in mice relative to those induced by SP/RBD without the Fc moiety and induced comparable long-term neutralizing titers with a single dose vs. two doses. To further enhance immunogenicity, AKS-452 was evaluated in formulations containing a panel of adjuvants in which the water-in-oil adjuvant, Montanide™ ISA 720, enhanced neutralizing IgG titers by approximately 7-fold after one and two doses in mice, including the neutralization of live SARS-CoV-2 virus infection of VERO-E6 cells. Furthermore, ISA 720-adjuvanted AKS-452 was immunogenic in rabbits and non-human primates (NHPs) and protected from infection and clinical symptoms with live SARS-CoV-2 virus in NHPs (USA-WA1/2020 viral strain) and the K18 human ACE2-trangenic (K18-huACE2-Tg) mouse (South African B.1.351 viral variant). These preclinical studies support the initiation of Phase I clinical studies with adjuvanted AKS-452 with the expectation that this room-temperature stable, Fc-fusion subunit vaccine can be rapidly and inexpensively manufactured to provide billions of doses per year especially in regions where the cold-chain is difficult to maintain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David G Alleva
- Akston Biosciences Corporation., 100 Cummings Center, Suite 454C, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
| | - Andrea R Delpero
- Akston Biosciences Corporation., 100 Cummings Center, Suite 454C, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
| | - Melanie M Scully
- Akston Biosciences Corporation., 100 Cummings Center, Suite 454C, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
| | - Sylaja Murikipudi
- Akston Biosciences Corporation., 100 Cummings Center, Suite 454C, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
| | - Ramya Ragupathy
- Akston Biosciences Corporation., 100 Cummings Center, Suite 454C, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
| | - Emma K Greaves
- Akston Biosciences Corporation., 100 Cummings Center, Suite 454C, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
| | | | - Jeffrey R Haworth
- Akston Biosciences Corporation., 100 Cummings Center, Suite 454C, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
| | - Nishit J Shah
- Akston Biosciences Corporation., 100 Cummings Center, Suite 454C, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
| | - Vidhya Rao
- Akston Biosciences Corporation., 100 Cummings Center, Suite 454C, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
| | - Shashikant Nagre
- Akston Biosciences Corporation., 100 Cummings Center, Suite 454C, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
| | - Thomas M Lancaster
- Akston Biosciences Corporation., 100 Cummings Center, Suite 454C, Beverly, MA 01915, United States
| | - Sarah S Webb
- Biomere Biomedical Research Models, 57 Union St., Worcester, MA 01608, United States
| | - Allison I Jasa
- Biomere Biomedical Research Models, 57 Union St., Worcester, MA 01608, United States
| | - Shannon E Ronca
- Feigin ABSL-3 Facility, Baylor, College of Medicine, 1102 Bates Ave, 300.15, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Freedom M Green
- Feigin ABSL-3 Facility, Baylor, College of Medicine, 1102 Bates Ave, 300.15, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Hanne Andersen Elyard
- BIOQUAL, Inc., 9600 Medical Center Drive, Suite 101, Rockville, MD 20850-3336, United States
| | - JoAnn Yee
- Primate Assay Laboratory, CA National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Jeffrey Klein
- Sinclair Research Center, 562 State Road DD, Auxvasse, MO 65231, United States
| | - Larry Karnes
- Sinclair Research Center, 562 State Road DD, Auxvasse, MO 65231, United States
| | - Frans Sollie
- Pharmaceutical Research Associates Group B.V., Amerikaweg 18, 9407 TK Assen, Netherlands
| | - Todd C Zion
- Akston Biosciences Corporation., 100 Cummings Center, Suite 454C, Beverly, MA 01915, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
225
|
Marschall ALJ. Targeting the Inside of Cells with Biologicals: Chemicals as a Delivery Strategy. BioDrugs 2021; 35:643-671. [PMID: 34705260 PMCID: PMC8548996 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-021-00500-y] [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] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Delivering macromolecules into the cytosol or nucleus is possible in vitro for DNA, RNA and proteins, but translation for clinical use has been limited. Therapeutic delivery of macromolecules into cells requires overcoming substantially higher barriers compared to the use of small molecule drugs or proteins in the extracellular space. Breakthroughs like DNA delivery for approved gene therapies and RNA delivery for silencing of genes (patisiran, ONPATTRO®, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, MA, USA) or for vaccination such as the RNA-based coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines demonstrated the feasibility of using macromolecules inside cells for therapy. Chemical carriers are part of the reason why these novel RNA-based therapeutics possess sufficient efficacy for their clinical application. A clear advantage of synthetic chemicals as carriers for macromolecule delivery is their favourable properties with respect to production and storage compared to more bioinspired vehicles like viral vectors or more complex drugs like cellular therapies. If biologicals can be applied to intracellular targets, the druggable space is substantially broadened by circumventing the limited utility of small molecules for blocking protein–protein interactions and the limitation of protein-based drugs to the extracellular space. An in depth understanding of the macromolecular cargo types, carrier types and the cell biology of delivery is crucial for optimal application and further development of biologicals inside cells. Basic mechanistic principles of the molecular and cell biological aspects of cytosolic/nuclear delivery of macromolecules, with particular consideration of protein delivery, are reviewed here. The efficiency of macromolecule delivery and applications in research and therapy are highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea L J Marschall
- Institute of Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Brunswick, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
226
|
Kang YM, Lim J, Choe KW, Lee KD, Jo DH, Kim MJ, Kim JM, Kim KN. Reactogenicity after the first and second doses of BNT162b2 mRNA coronavirus disease vaccine: a single-center study. Clin Exp Vaccine Res 2021; 10:282-289. [PMID: 34703812 PMCID: PMC8511587 DOI: 10.7774/cevr.2021.10.3.282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study was conducted to determine differences in adverse events associated with the first and second doses of the BNT162b2 coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine based on the age and sex of recipients. Materials and Methods An online survey on the post-vaccination adverse events of healthcare workers was conducted from March 2021 to April 2021. The differences in the types of adverse events, including severity, onset time, and duration of symptoms, and how the adverse events were dealt with by the patient were analyzed based on the age and sex. The profiles of adverse events were compared after the first and second vaccination doses. Results Among the 131 participants who participated in the online survey out of 208 vaccine recipients, 43 and 80 recipients of the BNT162b2 vaccine experienced adverse events after the first and second dose, respectively. No sex-related differences were observed in the profiles of adverse events in vaccinated recipients. The overall frequency of adverse events did not differ based on age after the first dose. After the second dose, the frequency of adverse events, including both local and systemic reactions was significantly higher in the younger age group than in the older age group. Conclusion The BNT162b2 vaccine resulted in a higher frequency of adverse events after the second dose than after the first dose especially in the younger age group; however, no sex-related differences associated with these adverse events were observed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Min Kang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Jaegyun Lim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Kang-Won Choe
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Ki-Deok Lee
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Dong Ho Jo
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Moon Jung Kim
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Jong Min Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| | - Kwang Nam Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
227
|
Valdez RB, Romero KS. Improving Adult Vaccination Status in the United States. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9111411. [PMID: 34828459 PMCID: PMC8620051 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9111411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult immunization practices leave much to be desired. Misinformation has increased mistrust. As a result, Latino and African American populations have low rates of annual flu vaccinations and, during the COVID-19 pandemic, lag behind for COVID-19 vaccination. Historically, healthcare staff have failed to adhere to adult immunization guidelines contributing to patient infections. Healthcare staff, both clinical and non-clinical, must lead by example by making “prevention primary”. Most adults may not realize they need immunizations. We recommend the following steps to increase immunization uptake: Make adult immunization a standard of patient care as we do for children. Assess immunization status at every clinical opportunity. Strongly recommend vaccinations needed. Administer needed vaccinations, multiple if warranted. Document vaccines received by your patient. Participate in your state’s immunization registry and work with community organizations that can help make adult immunization the norm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. Burciaga Valdez
- Department of Family & Community Medicine and Economics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001, USA
- Correspondence: or
| | - Korazon S. Romero
- School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
228
|
Chu C, Baxamusa S, Witherel C. Impact of COVID-19 on materials science research innovation and related pandemic response. MRS BULLETIN 2021; 46:807-812. [PMID: 34658504 PMCID: PMC8508403 DOI: 10.1557/s43577-021-00186-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The scope of impact that the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has had and continues to have on life, society, and the world as we know it will be debated for years to come. One thing is for certain, scientists, engineers, clinicians, and researchers around the globe rallied to heed the call for innovation, particularly in the field of materials science. In this special issue of MRS Bulletin, we feature six articles, two of which showcase primary consumable materials research and development, along with four review articles highlighting materials innovation over the last 18 months in diagnostics, prevention, and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection. GRAPHIC ABSTRACT
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Crystal Chu
- Department of Chemistry, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, USA
| | | | - Claire Witherel
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
229
|
Vaccines against COVID-19: Priority to mRNA-Based Formulations. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102716. [PMID: 34685696 PMCID: PMC8534873 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
As of September 2021, twenty-one anti-COVID-19 vaccines have been approved in the world. Their utilization will expedite an end to the current pandemic. Besides the usual vaccine formats that include inactivated viruses (eight approved vaccines) and protein-based vaccines (four approved vaccines), three new formats have been validated: recombinant adenovirus (six approved vaccines), DNA (one approved vaccine), and messenger RNA (mRNA, two approved vaccines). The latter was the fastest (authorized in 2020 in the EU, the USA, and Switzerland). Most Western countries have reserved or use the protein vaccines, the adenovirus vaccines, and mRNA vaccines. I describe here the different vaccine formats in the context of COVID-19, detail the three formats that are chiefly reserved or used in Europe, Canada, and the USA, and discuss why the mRNA vaccines appear to be the superior format.
Collapse
|
230
|
Kamat S, Kumari M, Jayabaskaran C. Nano-engineered tools in the diagnosis, therapeutics, prevention, and mitigation of SARS-CoV-2. J Control Release 2021; 338:813-836. [PMID: 34478750 PMCID: PMC8406542 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.08.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The recent outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 has forever altered mankind resulting in the COVID-19 pandemic. This respiratory virus further manifests into vital organ damage, resulting in severe post COVID-19 complications. Nanotechnology has been moonlighting in the scientific community to combat several severe diseases. This review highlights the triune of the nano-toolbox in the areas of diagnostics, therapeutics, prevention, and mitigation of SARS-CoV-2. Nanogold test kits have already been on the frontline of rapid detection. Breath tests, magnetic nanoparticle-based nucleic acid detectors, and the use of Raman Spectroscopy present myriads of possibilities in developing point of care biosensors, which will ensure sensitive, affordable, and accessiblemass surveillance. Most of the therapeutics are trying to focus on blocking the viral entry into the cell and fighting with cytokine storm, using nano-enabled drug delivery platforms. Nanobodies and mRNA nanotechnology with lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) as vaccines against S and N protein have regained importance. All the vaccines coming with promising phase 3 clinical trials have used nano-delivery systems for delivery of vaccine-cargo, which are currently administered widely in many countries. The use of chemically diverse metal, carbon and polymeric nanoparticles, nanocages and nanobubbles demonstrate opportunities to develop anti-viral nanomedicine. In order to prevent and mitigate the viral spread, high-performance charged nanofiber filters, spray coating of nanomaterials on surfaces, novel materials for PPE kits and facemasks have been developed that accomplish over 90% capture of airborne SARS-CoV-2. Nano polymer-based disinfectants are being tested to make smart-transport for human activities. Despite the promises of this toolbox, challenges in terms of reproducibility, specificity, efficacy and emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants are yet to overcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siya Kamat
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, 560012, India
| | - Madhuree Kumari
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, 560012, India.
| | - C Jayabaskaran
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, 560012, India
| |
Collapse
|
231
|
Hyaluronic Acid-Glycine-Cholesterol Conjugate-Based Nanoemulsion as a Potent Vaccine Adjuvant for T Cell-Mediated Immunity. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13101569. [PMID: 34683862 PMCID: PMC8539354 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13101569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical cases of allergic reaction that are due to excipients containing polyethylene glycol (PEG), a hydrophilic molecule commonly used in drug/vaccine formulations, has attracted much attention in recent years. In order to develop PEG-free adjuvants, we investigated the feasibility of natural ingredients in the human body such as hyaluronic acid in the form of hyaluronic acid-glycine cholesterol (HACH) conjugate as an excipient for vaccine formulation. Interestingly, HACH grafted with ~13 wt.% cholesterol has good water dispersity and can serve as an emulsifier to stabilize the squalene/water interfaces, yielding a milky white and isotropic emulsion (SQ@HACH) after being passed through a high-shear microfluidizer. Our results show that SQ@HACH particles possessed a unimodal average hydrodynamic diameter of approximately 190 nm measured by dynamic light scattering and exhibited good stability upon storage at 4 °C and 37 °C for over 20 weeks. The results of immunogenicity using a mouse model with ovalbumin (OVA) as the antigen revealed that SQ@HACH significantly enhanced antigen-specific immune responses, including the polarization of IgG antibodies, the cytokine secretions of T cells, and enhancement of cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activation. Moreover, SQ@HACH revealed lower local inflammation and rapidly absorbing properties compared with AlPO4 after intramuscular injection in vivo, indicating the potential functions of the HA-derived conjugate as an excipient in vaccine formulations for enhancement of T cell-mediated immunity.
Collapse
|
232
|
Kim SC, Sekhon SS, Shin WR, Ahn G, Cho BK, Ahn JY, Kim YH. Modifications of mRNA vaccine structural elements for improving mRNA stability and translation efficiency. Mol Cell Toxicol 2021; 18:1-8. [PMID: 34567201 PMCID: PMC8450916 DOI: 10.1007/s13273-021-00171-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Background mRNA vaccines hold great potential as therapeutic techniques against viral infections due to their efficacy, safety,
and large-scale production. mRNA vaccines offer flexibility in development as any protein can be produced from
mRNA without altering the production or application process. Objective This review highlights the iterative optimization of mRNA vaccine structural elements that impact the type,
specificity, and intensity of immune responses leading to higher translational potency and intracellular stability. Results Modifying the mRNA structural elements particularly the 5′ cap, 5′-and 3′-untranslated regions (UTRs), the coding region, and polyadenylation tail help reduce the excessive mRNA immunogenicity and consistently improve its
intracellular stability and translational efficiency. Conclusion Further studies regarding mRNA-structural elements and their optimization are needed to create new opportunities
for engineering mRNA vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sun Chang Kim
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141 South Korea
| | - Simranjeet Singh Sekhon
- School of Biological Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 South Korea
| | - Woo-Ri Shin
- School of Biological Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 South Korea.,Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644 South Korea
| | - Gna Ahn
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644 South Korea
| | - Byung-Kwan Cho
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141 South Korea
| | - Ji-Young Ahn
- School of Biological Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 South Korea.,Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644 South Korea
| | - Yang-Hoon Kim
- School of Biological Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Chungdae-ro, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, 28644 South Korea.,Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644 South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
233
|
Rana R, Tripathi A, Kumar N, Ganguly NK. A Comprehensive Overview on COVID-19: Future Perspectives. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:744903. [PMID: 34595136 PMCID: PMC8476999 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.744903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The outbreak of COVID-19 has proven to be an unprecedented disaster for the whole world. The virus has inflicted billion of lives across the globe in all aspects-physically, psychologically, as well as socially. Compared to the previous strains of β-CoV genera- MERS and SARS, SARS-CoV-2 has significantly higher transmissibility and worst post-recovery implications. A frequent mutation in the initial SARS-CoV-2 strain has been a major cause of mortalities (approx. 3 million deaths) and uncontrolled virulence (approx. 1 billion positive cases). As far as clinical manifestations are concerned, this particular virus has exhibited deleterious impacts on systems other than the respiratory system (primary target organ), such as the brain, hematological system, liver, kidneys, endocrine system, etc. with no promising curatives to date. Lack of emergency treatments and shortage of life-saving drugs has promoted the repurposing of existing therapeutics along with the emergence of vaccines with the combined efforts of scientists and industrial experts in this short span. This review summarizes every detail on COVID-19 and emphasizes undermining the future approaches to minimize its prevalence to the remaining lives.
Collapse
|
234
|
Anselmo AC, Mitragotri S. Nanoparticles in the clinic: An update post COVID-19 vaccines. Bioeng Transl Med 2021; 6:e10246. [PMID: 34514159 PMCID: PMC8420572 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanoparticles are used in the clinic to treat cancer, resolve mineral deficiencies, image tissues, and facilitate vaccination. As a modular technology, nanoparticles combine diagnostic agents or therapeutics (e.g., elements, small molecules, biologics), synthetic materials (e.g., polymers), and biological molecules (e.g., antibodies, peptides, lipids). Leveraging these parameters, nanoparticles can be designed and tuned to navigate biological microenvironments, negotiate biological barriers, and deliver therapeutics or diagnostic agents to specific cells and tissues in the body. Recently, with the Emergency Use Authorization of the COVID-19 lipid nanoparticle vaccines, the advantages and potential of nanoparticles as a delivery vehicle have been displayed at the forefront of biotechnology. Here, we provide a 5-year status update on our original "Nanoparticles in the Clinic" review (also a 2-year update on our second "Nanoparticles in the Clinic" review) by discussing recent nanoparticle delivery system approvals, highlighting new clinical trials, and providing an update on the previously highlighted clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron C. Anselmo
- Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular PharmaceuticsEshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillChapel HillNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Samir Mitragotri
- John A. Paulson School of Engineering & Applied SciencesHarvard UniversityCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired EngineeringBostonMassachusettsUSA
| |
Collapse
|
235
|
Minnaert AK, Vanluchene H, Verbeke R, Lentacker I, De Smedt SC, Raemdonck K, Sanders NN, Remaut K. Strategies for controlling the innate immune activity of conventional and self-amplifying mRNA therapeutics: Getting the message across. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 176:113900. [PMID: 34324884 PMCID: PMC8325057 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The recent approval of messenger RNA (mRNA)-based vaccines to combat the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic highlights the potential of both conventional mRNA and self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA) as a flexible immunotherapy platform to treat infectious diseases. Besides the antigen it encodes, mRNA itself has an immune-stimulating activity that can contribute to vaccine efficacy. This self-adjuvant effect, however, will interfere with mRNA translation and may influence the desired therapeutic outcome. To further exploit its potential as a versatile therapeutic platform, it will be crucial to control mRNA's innate immune-stimulating properties. In this regard, we describe the mechanisms behind the innate immune recognition of mRNA and provide an extensive overview of strategies to control its innate immune-stimulating activity. These strategies range from modifications to the mRNA backbone itself, optimization of production and purification processes to the combination with innate immune inhibitors. Furthermore, we discuss the delicate balance of the self-adjuvant effect in mRNA vaccination strategies, which can be both beneficial and detrimental to the therapeutic outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- An-Katrien Minnaert
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Helena Vanluchene
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Rein Verbeke
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Ine Lentacker
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Koen Raemdonck
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Niek N Sanders
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Katrien Remaut
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
236
|
Soh SM, Kim Y, Kim C, Jang US, Lee HR. The rapid adaptation of SARS-CoV-2-rise of the variants: transmission and resistance. J Microbiol 2021; 59:807-818. [PMID: 34449057 PMCID: PMC8390340 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-021-1348-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The causative factor of COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is continuously mutating. Interestingly, identified mutations mainly occur in the spike (S) protein which interacts with the ACE2 receptor and is cleaved via serine protease TMPRSS2. Some mutated strains are becoming dominant in various parts of the globe because of increased transmissibility as well as cell entry efficacy. Remarkably, the neutralizing activity of monoclonal antibodies, convalescent sera, and vaccines against the variants has been reported to be significantly reduced. Therefore, the efficacy of various monoclonal antibodies therapy and vaccines against these variants is becoming a great global concern. We herein summarize the current status of SARS-CoV-2 with gears shifted towards the recent and most common genetic variants in relation to transmission, neutralizing activity, and vaccine efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine M Soh
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Science and Technology, Korea University, Sejong, 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeongjun Kim
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Science and Technology, Korea University, Sejong, 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Chanwoo Kim
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Science and Technology, Korea University, Sejong, 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Ui Soon Jang
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Science and Technology, Korea University, Sejong, 30019, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Ra Lee
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, College of Science and Technology, Korea University, Sejong, 30019, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Lab Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
237
|
Calina D, Hernández AF, Hartung T, Egorov AM, Izotov BN, Nikolouzakis TK, Tsatsakis A, Vlachoyiannopoulos PG, Docea AO. Challenges and Scientific Prospects of the Newest Generation of mRNA-Based Vaccines against SARS-CoV-2. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11090907. [PMID: 34575056 PMCID: PMC8467884 DOI: 10.3390/life11090907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic, traditional, complex and lengthy methods of vaccine development and production would not have been able to ensure proper management of this global public health crisis. Hence, a number of technologies have been developed for obtaining a vaccine quickly and ensuring a large scale production, such as mRNA-based vaccine platforms. The use of mRNA is not a new concept in vaccine development but has leveraged on previous knowledge and technology. The great number of human resources and capital investements for mRNA vaccine development, along with the experience gained from previous studies on infectious diseases, allowed COVID-19 mRNA vaccines to be developed, conditionally approved and commercialy available in less than one year, thanks to decades of basic research. This review critically presents and discusses the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine-induced immunity, and it summarizes the most common anaphylactic and autoimmune adverse effects that have been identified until now after massive vaccination campaigns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
- Correspondence: (D.C.); (A.O.D.)
| | - Antonio F. Hernández
- Department of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain;
- Biomedical Research Institute of Granada ibs.GRANADA, Avda. de las Fuerzas Armadas, 2, 18014 Granada, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology & Public Health (CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública), CIBERESP, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Monforte de Lemos 3-5, Pabellón 11, Planta 0, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Thomas Hartung
- CAAT-Europe, University of Konstanz, 78464 Konstanz, Germany;
- CAAT, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Alexey M. Egorov
- Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune and Biological Products, Russian Academy of Sciences, 108819 Moscow, Russia;
- Division of Medical Sciences, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Boris Nikolaevich Izotov
- Department of Analytical and Forensic Medical Toxicology, Sechenov University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (B.N.I.); (A.T.)
| | | | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Department of Analytical and Forensic Medical Toxicology, Sechenov University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (B.N.I.); (A.T.)
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece;
| | | | - Anca Oana Docea
- Department of Toxicology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
- Correspondence: (D.C.); (A.O.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
238
|
Heinz FX, Stiasny K. Distinguishing features of current COVID-19 vaccines: knowns and unknowns of antigen presentation and modes of action. NPJ Vaccines 2021; 6:104. [PMID: 34400651 PMCID: PMC8368295 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-021-00369-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 219] [Impact Index Per Article: 73.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 vaccines were developed with an unprecedented pace since the beginning of the pandemic. Several of them have reached market authorization and mass production, leading to their global application on a large scale. This enormous progress was achieved with fundamentally different vaccine technologies used in parallel. mRNA, adenoviral vector as well as inactivated whole-virus vaccines are now in widespread use, and a subunit vaccine is in a final stage of authorization. They all rely on the native viral spike protein (S) of SARS-CoV-2 for inducing potently neutralizing antibodies, but the presentation of this key antigen to the immune system differs substantially between the different categories of vaccines. In this article, we review the relevance of structural modifications of S in different vaccines and the different modes of antigen expression after vaccination with genetic adenovirus-vector and mRNA vaccines. Distinguishing characteristics and unknown features are highlighted in the context of protective antibody responses and reactogenicity of vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franz X Heinz
- Center for Virology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Karin Stiasny
- Center for Virology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
239
|
Granados-Riveron JT, Aquino-Jarquin G. Engineering of the current nucleoside-modified mRNA-LNP vaccines against SARS-CoV-2. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 142:111953. [PMID: 34343897 PMCID: PMC8299225 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, there are over 230 different COVID-19 vaccines under development around the world. At least three decades of scientific development in RNA biology, immunology, structural biology, genetic engineering, chemical modification, and nanoparticle technologies allowed the accelerated development of fully synthetic messenger RNA (mRNA)-based vaccines within less than a year since the first report of a SARS-CoV-2 infection. mRNA-based vaccines have been shown to elicit broadly protective immune responses, with the added advantage of being amenable to rapid and flexible manufacturing processes. This review recapitulates current advances in engineering the first two SARS-CoV-2-spike-encoding nucleoside-modified mRNA vaccines, highlighting the strategies followed to potentiate their effectiveness and safety, thus facilitating an agile response to the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javier T Granados-Riveron
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Patogénesis Molecular, Hospital Infantil de México, Federico Gómez, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Guillermo Aquino-Jarquin
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Genómica, Genética y Bioinformática, Hospital Infantil de México, Federico Gómez, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
240
|
Chatzikleanthous D, O'Hagan DT, Adamo R. Lipid-Based Nanoparticles for Delivery of Vaccine Adjuvants and Antigens: Toward Multicomponent Vaccines. Mol Pharm 2021; 18:2867-2888. [PMID: 34264684 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.1c00447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Despite the many advances that have occurred in the field of vaccine adjuvants, there are still unmet needs that may enable the development of vaccines suitable for more challenging pathogens (e.g., HIV and tuberculosis) and for cancer vaccines. Liposomes have already been shown to be highly effective as adjuvant/delivery systems due to their versatility and likely will find further uses in this space. The broad potential of lipid-based delivery systems is highlighted by the recent approval of COVID-19 vaccines comprising lipid nanoparticles with encapsulated mRNA. This review provides an overview of the different approaches that can be evaluated for the design of lipid-based vaccine adjuvant/delivery systems for protein, carbohydrate, and nucleic acid-based antigens and how these strategies might be combined to develop multicomponent vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Despo Chatzikleanthous
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, 161 Cathedral Street, G4 0RE Glasgow, U.K.,GSK, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
241
|
Pre-Drawn Syringes of Comirnaty for an Efficient COVID-19 Mass Vaccination: Demonstration of Stability. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13071029. [PMID: 34371721 PMCID: PMC8309022 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13071029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Moving towards a real mass vaccination in the context of COVID-19, healthcare professionals are required to face some criticisms due to limited data on the stability of a mRNA-based vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine in the US or Comirnaty in EU) as a dose in a 1 mL-syringe. The stability of the lipid nanoparticles and the encapsulated mRNA was evaluated in a “real-life” scenario. Specifically, we investigated the effects of different storing materials (e.g., syringes vs. glass vials), as well as of temperature and mechanical stress on nucleic acid integrity, number, and particle size distribution of lipid nanoparticles. After 5 h in the syringe, lipid nanoparticles maintained the regular round shape, and the hydrodynamic diameter ranged between 80 and 100 nm with a relatively narrow polydispersity (<0.2). Samples were stable independently of syringe materials and storage conditions. Only strong mechanical stress (e.g., shaking) caused massive aggregation of lipid nanoparticles and mRNA degradation. These proof-of-concept experiments support the hypothesis that vaccine doses can be safely prepared in a dedicated area using an aseptic technique and transferred without affecting their stability.
Collapse
|
242
|
Berger M, Lechanteur A, Evrard B, Piel G. Innovative lipoplexes formulations with enhanced siRNA efficacy for cancer treatment: Where are we now? Int J Pharm 2021; 605:120851. [PMID: 34217823 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.120851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Over the past two decades, RNA interference has become an extensively studied mechanism to silence gene and treat diseases including cancer. siRNA appears as a promising strategy that could avoid some side effects related to traditional chemotherapy. Considering the weak stability of naked siRNA in blood, vectors like cationic liposomes or Lipid Nanoparticles (LNPs) are widely used to carry and protect siRNA until it reaches the tumor targeted. Despite extensive research, only three RNAi drugs are currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration, including only one LNP formulation of siRNA to treat hereditary ATTR amyloidosis. This shows the difficulty of lipoplexes clinical translation, in particular in cancer therapy. To overcome the lipoplexes limitations, searches are made on innovative lipoplexes formulations with enhanced siRNA efficacy. The present review is focusing on the recent use of pH-sensitive lipids, peptides and cell-penetrating peptides or polymers. The incorporation of some of these components in the lipoplex formulation induces a fusogenic property or an enhanced endosomal escape, an enhanced cellular uptake, an enhanced tumor targeting, an improved stability in the blood stream …These innovations appear critical to obtain an efficient siRNA accumulation in tumor cells with effective antitumor effect considering the complex tumor environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manon Berger
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, CIRM, University of Liege, Belgium.
| | - Anna Lechanteur
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, CIRM, University of Liege, Belgium.
| | - Brigitte Evrard
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, CIRM, University of Liege, Belgium.
| | - Géraldine Piel
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, CIRM, University of Liege, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
243
|
Saeb MR, Rabiee N, Mozafari M, Mostafavi E. Metal-Organic Frameworks-Based Nanomaterials for Drug Delivery. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 14:3652. [PMID: 34208958 PMCID: PMC8269711 DOI: 10.3390/ma14133652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The composition and topology of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are exceptionally tailorable; moreover, they are extremely porous and represent an excellent Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area (≈3000-6000 m2·g-1). Nanoscale MOFs (NMOFs), as cargo nanocarriers, have increasingly attracted the attention of scientists and biotechnologists during the past decade, in parallel with the evolution in the use of porous nanomaterials in biomedicine. Compared to other nanoparticle-based delivery systems, such as porous nanosilica, nanomicelles, and dendrimer-encapsulated nanoparticles, NMOFs are more flexible, have a higher biodegradability potential, and can be more easily functionalized to meet the required level of host-guest interactions, while preserving a larger and fully adjustable pore window in most cases. Due to these unique properties, NMOFs have the potential to carry anticancer cargos. In contrast to almost all porous materials, MOFs can be synthesized in diverse morphologies, including spherical, ellipsoidal, cubic, hexagonal, and octahedral, which facilitates the acceptance of various drugs and genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Navid Rabiee
- Department of Chemistry, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran 11155-3516, Iran
| | - Masoud Mozafari
- Department of Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14665-354, Iran;
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| |
Collapse
|
244
|
Delehedde C, Even L, Midoux P, Pichon C, Perche F. Intracellular Routing and Recognition of Lipid-Based mRNA Nanoparticles. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13070945. [PMID: 34202584 PMCID: PMC8308975 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13070945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) is being extensively used in gene therapy and vaccination due to its safety over DNA, in the following ways: its lack of integration risk, cytoplasmic expression, and transient expression compatible with fine regulations. However, clinical applications of mRNA are limited by its fast degradation by nucleases, and the activation of detrimental immune responses. Advances in mRNA applications, with the recent approval of COVID-19 vaccines, were fueled by optimization of the mRNA sequence and the development of mRNA delivery systems. Although delivery systems and mRNA sequence optimization have been abundantly reviewed, understanding of the intracellular processing of mRNA is mandatory to improve its applications. We will focus on lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) as they are the most advanced nanocarriers for the delivery of mRNA. Here, we will review how mRNA therapeutic potency can be affected by its interactions with cellular proteins and intracellular distribution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Delehedde
- Innovative Therapies & Nanomedicine, Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire CNRS UPR4301, Rue Charles Sadron, 45071 Orléans, France; (C.D.); (P.M.)
- Sanofi R&D, Integrated Drug Discovery, 91385 Chilly-Mazarin, France;
| | - Luc Even
- Sanofi R&D, Integrated Drug Discovery, 91385 Chilly-Mazarin, France;
| | - Patrick Midoux
- Innovative Therapies & Nanomedicine, Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire CNRS UPR4301, Rue Charles Sadron, 45071 Orléans, France; (C.D.); (P.M.)
| | - Chantal Pichon
- Innovative Therapies & Nanomedicine, Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire CNRS UPR4301, Rue Charles Sadron, 45071 Orléans, France; (C.D.); (P.M.)
- Correspondence: (C.P.); (F.P.); Tel.: +33-2-3825-5595 (C.P.); Tel.: +33-2-3825-5544 (F.P.)
| | - Federico Perche
- Innovative Therapies & Nanomedicine, Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire CNRS UPR4301, Rue Charles Sadron, 45071 Orléans, France; (C.D.); (P.M.)
- Correspondence: (C.P.); (F.P.); Tel.: +33-2-3825-5595 (C.P.); Tel.: +33-2-3825-5544 (F.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
245
|
Guljaš S, Bosnić Z, Salha T, Berecki M, Krivdić Dupan Z, Rudan S, Majnarić Trtica L. Lack of Informations about COVID-19 Vaccine: From Implications to Intervention for Supporting Public Health Communications in COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18116141. [PMID: 34200133 PMCID: PMC8201156 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18116141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Lack of knowledge and mistrust towards vaccines represent a challenge in achieving the vaccination coverage required for population immunity. The aim of this study is to examine the opinion that specific demographic groups have about COVID-19 vaccination, in order to detect potential fears and reasons for negative attitudes towards vaccination, and to gain knowledge on how to prepare strategies to eliminate possible misinformation that could affect vaccine hesitancy. The data collection approach was based on online questionnaire surveys, divided into three groups of questions that followed the main postulates of the health belief theory—a theory that helps understanding a behaviour of the public in some concrete surrounding in receiving preventive measures. Ordinary least squares regression analyses were used to examine the influence of individual factors on refusing the vaccine, and to provide information on the perception of participants on the danger of COVID-19 infection, and on potential barriers that could retard the vaccine utility. There was an equal proportion of participants (total number 276) who planned on receiving the COVID-19 vaccine (37%), and of those who did not (36.3%). The rest (26.7%) of participants were still indecisive. Our results indicated that attitudes on whether to receive the vaccine, on how serious consequences might be if getting the infection, as well as a suspicious towards the vaccine efficacy and the fear of the vaccine potential side effects, may depend on participants’ age (<40 vs. >40 years) and on whether they are healthcare workers or not. The barriers that make participants‘ unsure about of receiving the vaccine, such as a distrust in the vaccine efficacy and safety, may vary in different socio-demographic groups and depending on which is the point of time in the course of the pandemic development, as well as on the vaccine availability and experience in using certain vaccine formulas. There is a pressing need for health services to continuously provide information to the general population, and to address the root causes of mistrust through improved communication, using a wide range of policies, interventions and technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silva Guljaš
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Center Osijek, 31 000 Osijek, Croatia;
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31 000 Osijek, Croatia; (T.S.); (M.B.)
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31 000 Osijek, Croatia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Zvonimir Bosnić
- Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine and the History of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31 000 Osijek, Croatia; (Z.B.); (L.M.T.)
| | - Tamer Salha
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31 000 Osijek, Croatia; (T.S.); (M.B.)
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31 000 Osijek, Croatia;
- Department of Teleradiology and Arteficial Intelligence, Health Center Osijek-Baranja County, 31 000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Monika Berecki
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31 000 Osijek, Croatia; (T.S.); (M.B.)
| | - Zdravka Krivdić Dupan
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital Center Osijek, 31 000 Osijek, Croatia;
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31 000 Osijek, Croatia; (T.S.); (M.B.)
| | - Stjepan Rudan
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31 000 Osijek, Croatia;
| | - Ljiljana Majnarić Trtica
- Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine and the History of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31 000 Osijek, Croatia; (Z.B.); (L.M.T.)
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, 31 000 Osijek, Croatia
| |
Collapse
|
246
|
Schoenmaker L, Witzigmann D, Kulkarni JA, Verbeke R, Kersten G, Jiskoot W, Crommelin DJA. mRNA-lipid nanoparticle COVID-19 vaccines: Structure and stability. Int J Pharm 2021; 601:120586. [PMID: 33839230 PMCID: PMC8032477 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.120586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 661] [Impact Index Per Article: 220.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A drawback of the current mRNA-lipid nanoparticle (LNP) COVID-19 vaccines is that they have to be stored at (ultra)low temperatures. Understanding the root cause of the instability of these vaccines may help to rationally improve mRNA-LNP product stability and thereby ease the temperature conditions for storage. In this review we discuss proposed structures of mRNA-LNPs, factors that impact mRNA-LNP stability and strategies to optimize mRNA-LNP product stability. Analysis of mRNA-LNP structures reveals that mRNA, the ionizable cationic lipid and water are present in the LNP core. The neutral helper lipids are mainly positioned in the outer, encapsulating, wall. mRNA hydrolysis is the determining factor for mRNA-LNP instability. It is currently unclear how water in the LNP core interacts with the mRNA and to what extent the degradation prone sites of mRNA are protected through a coat of ionizable cationic lipids. To improve the stability of mRNA-LNP vaccines, optimization of the mRNA nucleotide composition should be prioritized. Secondly, a better understanding of the milieu the mRNA is exposed to in the core of LNPs may help to rationalize adjustments to the LNP structure to preserve mRNA integrity. Moreover, drying techniques, such as lyophilization, are promising options still to be explored.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linde Schoenmaker
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, 2300 RA Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Dominik Witzigmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jayesh A Kulkarni
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; NanoMedicines Innovation Network (NMIN), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Rein Verbeke
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gideon Kersten
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, 2300 RA Leiden, the Netherlands; Coriolis Pharma, Fraunhoferstrasse 18b, 82152 Martinsried, Germany
| | - Wim Jiskoot
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden University, 2300 RA Leiden, the Netherlands; Coriolis Pharma, Fraunhoferstrasse 18b, 82152 Martinsried, Germany.
| | - Daan J A Crommelin
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|