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Donà MG, Di Bonito P, Chiantore MV, Amici C, Accardi L. Targeting Human Papillomavirus-Associated Cancer by Oncoprotein-Specific Recombinant Antibodies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179143. [PMID: 34502053 PMCID: PMC8431386 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, recombinant antibodies against specific antigens have shown great promise for the therapy of infectious diseases and cancer. Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are involved in the development of around 5% of all human cancers and HPV16 is the high-risk genotype with the highest prevalence worldwide, playing a dominant role in all HPV-associated cancers. Here, we describe the main biological activities of the HPV16 E6, E7, and E5 oncoproteins, which are involved in the subversion of important regulatory pathways directly associated with all known hallmarks of cancer. We then review the state of art of the recombinant antibodies targeted to HPV oncoproteins developed so far in different formats, and outline their mechanisms of action. We describe the advantages of a possible antibody-based therapy against the HPV-associated lesions and discuss the critical issue of delivery to tumour cells, which must be addressed in order to achieve the desired translation of the antibodies from the laboratory to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paola Di Bonito
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (P.D.B.); (M.V.C.)
| | - Maria Vincenza Chiantore
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (P.D.B.); (M.V.C.)
| | - Carla Amici
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Luisa Accardi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (P.D.B.); (M.V.C.)
- Correspondence:
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Zhang W, Shan H, Jiang K, Huang W, Li S. A novel intracellular nanobody against HPV16 E6 oncoprotein. Clin Immunol 2021; 225:108684. [PMID: 33549834 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2021.108684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cervical cancer occurs as a result of the persistent infection of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV16 oncoproteins E6 and E7 exert different and concerted pro-tumor actions in cell transformation and malignance maintenance in various m echanisms. Nanobody expressed as "intracellular antibodies" (intrabodies) can target intracellular antigens to hamper their function efficaciously and specifically. In this work, phage-display approach was employed to select the high affinity HPV16 E6-specific nanobody, nanobody Nb9 against HPV16 E6 was selected. Nb9 has high affinity (Kaff =6.3 × 108 M-) and can specifically bind endogenous HPV16 E6 protein in HPV16 positive CaSki and SiHa cells. In Nb9 overexpressed SiHa and CaSki cells, nucleus localization of HPV16 E6 was inhibited, p53 inactivation was prevented and increased apoptosis was observed. Moreover, tumor growth was inhibited in mouse xenograft model. Taken together, our results suggested that nanobody Nb9 could be a useful inhibitor for HPV16 E6 function and particularly appropriate for the treatment of HPV-associated disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- The Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, Ministry of Education, Southeast University Medical School, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Haitao Shan
- The Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, Ministry of Education, Southeast University Medical School, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Kunpeng Jiang
- The Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, Ministry of Education, Southeast University Medical School, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Wenbin Huang
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
| | - Shufeng Li
- The Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases, Ministry of Education, Southeast University Medical School, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing 210009, China.
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Paolini F, Amici C, Carosi M, Bonomo C, Di Bonito P, Venuti A, Accardi L. Intrabodies targeting human papillomavirus 16 E6 and E7 oncoproteins for therapy of established HPV-associated tumors. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2021; 40:37. [PMID: 33485370 PMCID: PMC7825221 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-01841-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Background The oncogenic activity of the high risk human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16) is fully dependent on the E6 and E7 viral oncoproteins produced during viral infection. The oncoproteins interfere with cellular homeostasis by promoting proliferation, inhibiting apoptosis and blocking epithelial differentiation, driving the infected cells towards neoplastic progression. The causal relationship between expression of E6/E7 and cellular transformation allows inhibiting the oncogenic process by hindering the activity of the two oncoproteins. We previously developed and characterized some antibodies in single-chain format (scFvs) against the HPV16 E6 and E7 proteins, and demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo their antitumor activity consisting of protective efficacy against tumor progression of HPV16-positive cells. Methods Envisioning clinical application of the best characterized anti-HPV16 E6 and –HPV16 E7 scFvs, we verified their activity in the therapeutic setting, on already implanted tumors. Recombinant plasmids expressing the anti-HPV16 E6 scFvI7 with nuclear targeting sequence, or the anti-HPV16 E7 scFv43M2 with endoplasmic reticulum targeting sequence were delivered by injection followed by electroporation to three different preclinical models using C57/BL6 mice, and their effect on tumor growth was investigated. In the first model, the HPV16+ TC-1 Luc cells were used to implant tumors in mice, and tumor growth was measured by luciferase activity; in the second model, a fourfold number of TC-1 cells was used to obtain more aggressively growing tumors; in the third model, the HPV16+ C3 cells where used to rise tumors in mice. To highlight the scFv possible mechanism of action, H&E and caspase-3 staining of tumor section were performed. Results We showed that both the anti-HPV16 E6 and HPV16 E7 scFvs tested were efficacious in delaying tumor progression in the three experimental models and that their antitumor activity seems to rely on driving tumor cells towards the apoptotic pathway. Conclusion Based on our study, two scFvs have been identified that could represent a safe and effective treatment for the therapy of HPV16-associated lesions. The mechanism underlying the scFv effectiveness appears to be leading cells towards death by apoptosis. Furthermore, the validity of electroporation, a methodology allowed for human treatment, to deliver scFvs to tumors was confirmed. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-021-01841-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Paolini
- HPV Unit, UOSD Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Carla Amici
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Mariantonia Carosi
- Anatomy Pathology Unit, Department of Research, Diagnosis and Innovative Technologies, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Bonomo
- Anatomy Pathology Unit, Department of Research, Diagnosis and Innovative Technologies, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Di Bonito
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Aldo Venuti
- HPV Unit, UOSD Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Accardi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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Jamieson TR, Poutou J, Ilkow CS. Redirecting oncolytic viruses: Engineering opportunists to take control of the tumour microenvironment. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2020; 56:102-114. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2020.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Zhang C, Ötjengerdes RM, Roewe J, Mejias R, Marschall ALJ. Applying Antibodies Inside Cells: Principles and Recent Advances in Neurobiology, Virology and Oncology. BioDrugs 2020; 34:435-462. [PMID: 32301049 PMCID: PMC7391400 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-020-00419-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
To interfere with cell function, many scientists rely on methods that target DNA or RNA due to the ease with which they can be applied. Proteins are usually the final executors of function but are targeted only indirectly by these methods. Recent advances in targeted degradation of proteins based on proteolysis-targeting chimaeras (PROTACs), ubiquibodies, deGradFP (degrade Green Fluorescent Protein) and other approaches have demonstrated the potential of interfering directly at the protein level for research and therapy. Proteins can be targeted directly and very specifically by antibodies, but using antibodies inside cells has so far been considered to be challenging. However, it is possible to deliver antibodies or other proteins into the cytosol using standard laboratory equipment. Physical methods such as electroporation have been demonstrated to be efficient and validated thoroughly over time. The expression of intracellular antibodies (intrabodies) inside cells is another way to interfere with intracellular targets at the protein level. Methodological strategies to target the inside of cells with antibodies, including delivered antibodies and expressed antibodies, as well as applications in the research areas of neurobiology, viral infections and oncology, are reviewed here. Antibodies have already been used to interfere with a wide range of intracellular targets. Disease-related targets included proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (α-synuclein), Alzheimer's disease (amyloid-β) or Huntington's disease (mutant huntingtin [mHtt]). The applications of intrabodies in the context of viral infections include targeting proteins associated with HIV (e.g. HIV1-TAT, Rev, Vif, gp41, gp120, gp160) and different oncoviruses such as human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and Epstein-Barr virus, and they have been used to interfere with various targets related to different processes in cancer, including oncogenic pathways, proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis or neo-antigens (e.g. p53, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 [HER2], signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 [STAT3], RAS-related RHO-GTPase B (RHOB), cortactin, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 [VEGFR2], Ras, Bcr-Abl). Interfering at the protein level allows questions to be addressed that may remain unanswered using alternative methods. This review addresses why direct targeting of proteins allows unique insights, what is currently feasible in vitro, and how this relates to potential therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congcong Zhang
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Frankfurt/Mainz, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rina M Ötjengerdes
- Hannover Medical School (MHH), Carl-Neuberg-Straße 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Julian Roewe
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Clinical Cooperation Unit (CCU) Neuroimmunology and Brain TumorImmunology (D170), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rebeca Mejias
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Andrea L J Marschall
- Technische Universität Braunschweig, Institute of Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Brunswick, Germany.
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Epitope Mapping and Computational Analysis of Anti-HPV16 E6 and E7 Antibodies in Single-Chain Format for Clinical Development as Antitumor Drugs. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12071803. [PMID: 32640530 PMCID: PMC7408665 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12071803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Human Papillomavirus 16-associated cancer, affecting primarily the uterine cervix but, increasingly, other body districts, including the head–neck area, will long be a public health problem, despite there being a vaccine. Since the virus oncogenic activity is fully ascribed to the viral E6 and E7 oncoproteins, one of the therapeutic approaches for HPV16 cancer is based on specific antibodies in single-chain format targeting the E6/E7 activity. We analyzed the Complementarity Determining Regions, repositories of antigen-binding activity, of four anti-HPV16 E6 and -HPV16 E7 scFvs, to highlight possible conformity to biophysical properties, recognized to be advantageous for therapeutic use. By epitope mapping, using E7 mutants with amino acid deletions or variations, we investigated differences among the anti-16E7 scFvs in terms of antigen-binding capacity. We also performed computational analyses to determine whether length, total net charge, surface hydrophobicity, polarity and charge distribution conformed well to those of the antibodies that had already reached clinical use, through the application of developability guidelines derived from recent literature on clinical-stage antibodies, and the Therapeutic Antibodies Profiler software. Overall, our findings show that the scFvs investigated may represent valid candidates to be developed as therapeutic molecules for clinical use, and highlight characteristics that could be improved by molecular engineering.
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Ferrantelli F, Arenaccio C, Manfredi F, Olivetta E, Chiozzini C, Leone P, Percario Z, Ascione A, Flego M, Di Bonito P, Accardi L, Federico M. The Intracellular Delivery Of Anti-HPV16 E7 scFvs Through Engineered Extracellular Vesicles Inhibits The Proliferation Of HPV-Infected Cells. Int J Nanomedicine 2019; 14:8755-8768. [PMID: 31806970 PMCID: PMC6844212 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s209366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) are one of the smallest antigen-binding units having the invaluable advantage to be expressed by a unique short open reading frame (ORF). Despite their reduced size, spontaneous cell entry of scFvs remains inefficient, hence precluding the possibility to target intracellular antigens. Here, we describe an original strategy to deliver scFvs inside target cells through engineered extracellular vesicles (EVs). This approach relies on the properties of a Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-1 Nef mutant protein referred to as Nefmut. It is a previously characterized Nef allele lacking basically all functions of wt Nef, yet strongly accumulating in the EV lumen also when fused at its C-terminus with a foreign protein. To gain the proof-of-principle for the efficacy of the proposed strategy, the tumor-promoting Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)16-E7 protein was considered as a scFv-specific intracellular target. The oncogenic effect of HPV16-E7 relies on its binding to the tumor suppressor pRb protein leading to a dysregulated cell duplication. Interfering with this interaction means impairing the HPV16-E7-induced cell proliferation. Methods The Nefmut gene was fused in frame at its 3ʹ-terminus with the ORF coding for a previously characterized anti-HPV16-E7 scFv. Interaction between the Nefmut-fused anti-HPV16-E7 scFv and the HPV16-E7 protein was tested by both confocal microscope and co-immunoprecipitation analyses on co-transfected cells. The in cis anti-proliferative effect of the Nefmut/anti-HPV16-E7 scFv was assayed by transfecting HPV16-infected cells. The anti-proliferative effect of EVs engineered with Nefmut/anti-HPV16-E7 scFv on HPV16-E7-expressing cells was evaluated in two ways: i) through challenge with purified EVs by a Real-Time Cell Analysis system and ii) in transwell co-cultures by an MTS-based assay. Results The Nefmut/anti-HPV16-E7 scFv chimeric product is efficiently uploaded in EVs, binds HPV16-E7, and inhibits the proliferation of HPV16-E7-expressing cells. Most important, challenge with cell-free EVs incorporating the Nefmut/anti-HPV16-E7 scFv led to the inhibition of proliferation of HPV16-E7-expressing cells. The proliferation of these cells was hindered also when they were co-cultured in transwells with cells producing EVs uploading Nefmut/anti-HPV16-E7 scFv. Conclusion Our data represent the proof-of-concept for the possibility to target intracellular antigens through EV-mediated delivery of scFvs. This finding could be relevant to design novel methods of intracellular therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Ferrantelli
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Arenaccio
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Manfredi
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Olivetta
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Chiozzini
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Leone
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Ascione
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Flego
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Di Bonito
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Accardi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Federico
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità (ISS), Rome, Italy
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Flego M, Frau A, Accardi L, Mallano A, Ascione A, Gellini M, Fanunza E, Vella S, Di Bonito P, Tramontano E. Intracellular human antibody fragments recognizing the VP35 protein of Zaire Ebola filovirus inhibit the protein activity. BMC Biotechnol 2019; 19:64. [PMID: 31488108 PMCID: PMC6727353 DOI: 10.1186/s12896-019-0554-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ebola hemorrhagic fever is caused by the Ebola filovirus (EBOV), which is one of the most aggressive infectious agents known worldwide. The EBOV pathogenesis starts with uncontrolled viral replication and subversion of both the innate and adaptive host immune response. The multifunctional viral VP35 protein is involved in this process by exerting an antagonistic action against the early antiviral alpha/beta interferon (IFN-α/β) response, and represents a suitable target for the development of strategies to control EBOV infection. Phage display technology permits to select antibodies as single chain Fragment variable (scFv) from an artificial immune system, due to their ability to specifically recognize the antigen of interest. ScFv is ideal for genetic manipulation and to obtain antibody constructs useful for targeting either antigens expressed on cell surface or intracellular antigens if the scFv is expressed as intracellular antibody (intrabody) or delivered into the cells. RESULTS Monoclonal antibodies (mAb) in scFv format specific for the EBOV VP35 were isolated from the ETH-2 library of human recombinant antibodies by phage display technology. Five different clones were identified by sequencing, produced in E.coli and expressed in CHO mammalian cells to be characterized in vitro. All the selected scFvs were able to react with recombinant VP35 protein in ELISA, one of the scFvs being also able to react in Western Blot assay (WB). In addition, all scFvs were expressed in cell cytoplasm as intrabodies; a luciferase reporter gene inhibition assay performed in A549 cells showed that two of the scFvs can significantly hamper the inhibition of the IFN-β-induced RIG-I signaling cascade mediated by EBOV VP35. CONCLUSION Five antibodies in scFv format recognize an active form of EBOV VP35 in ELISA, while one antibody also recognizes VP35 in WB. Two of these scFvs were also able to interfere with the intracellular activity of VP35 in a cell system in vitro. These findings suggest that such antibodies in scFv format might be employed to develop therapeutic molecules able to hamper EBOV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Flego
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), National Center for Global Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Aldo Frau
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato SS554 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Luisa Accardi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Viral Hepatitis, Oncoviruses and Retroviruses (EVOR) unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Mallano
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), National Center for Global Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Ascione
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), National Center for Global Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Mara Gellini
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), National Center for Global Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Fanunza
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato SS554 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Stefano Vella
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), National Center for Global Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Di Bonito
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Viral Hepatitis, Oncoviruses and Retroviruses (EVOR) unit, Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Enzo Tramontano
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato SS554 09042 Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy.
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Nanobody against the E7 oncoprotein of human papillomavirus 16. Mol Immunol 2019; 109:12-19. [PMID: 30849663 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2019.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The persistent infection of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common causes of cervical cancer. It is well documented that expression of two oncogenes (E6/E7) plays a key role in tumor progression. HPV16E7 -targeting via nanobody (Nb) therefore could be beneficial for HPV16-associated cancer diagnosis and therapy. In this work, phage-display approach was employed to select the high affinity HPV16E7-specific Nb. Firstly; a high-quality immune library was constructed. After three round of biopanning, high-affinity HPV16 E7-specific nanobodies were retrieved. By phage ELISA and sequencing, four different sequences of anti- HPV16E7 nanobodies were selected. Then recombinant nanobody Nb2 was cloned and expressed in E. coli, and the specificity and thermal stability of purified Nb2 was evaluated. To examine the potential of Nb2 as an inhibitor of E7 function, Nb2 was expressed within HPV16 positive cells. Proliferation assay showed that the intracellular expressed Nb2 as an intrabody can decrease the growth of HPV16-positive cells. The results indicate that Nb2 as an intracellular antibody directed towards HPV oncoprotein E7 has great promise in applications for the therapy of HPV16-associated disease.
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A novel intracellular antibody against the E6 oncoprotein impairs growth of human papillomavirus 16-positive tumor cells in mouse models. Oncotarget 2017; 7:15539-53. [PMID: 26788990 PMCID: PMC4941259 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) expressed as “intracellular antibodies” (intrabodies) can target intracellular antigens to hamper their function efficaciously and specifically. Here we use an intrabody targeting the E6 oncoprotein of Human papillomavirus 16 (HPV16) to address the issue of a non-invasive therapy for HPV cancer patients. A scFv against the HPV16 E6 was selected by Intracellular Antibody Capture Technology and expressed as I7nuc in the nucleus of HPV16-positive SiHa, HPV-negative C33A and 293T cells. Colocalization of I7nuc and recombinant E6 was observed in different cell compartments, obtaining evidence of E6 delocalization ascribable to I7nuc. In SiHa cells, I7nuc expressed by pLNCX retroviral vector was able to partially inhibit degradation of the main E6 target p53, and induced p53 accumulation in nucleus. When analyzing in vitro activity on cell proliferation and survival, I7nuc was able to decrease growth inducing late apoptosis and necrosis of SiHa cells. Finally, I7nuc antitumor activity was demonstrated in two pre-clinical models of HPV tumors. C57BL/6 mice were injected subcutaneously with HPV16-positive TC-1 or C3 tumor cells, infected with pLNCX retroviral vector expressing or non-expressing I7nuc. All the mice injected with I7nuc-expressing cells showed a clear delay in tumor onset; 60% and 40% of mice receiving TC-1 and C3 cells, respectively, remained tumor-free for 17 weeks of follow-up, whereas 100% of the controls were tumor-bearing 20 days post-inoculum. Our data support the therapeutic potential of E6-targeted I7nuc against HPV tumors.
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Vici P, Mariani L, Pizzuti L, Sergi D, Di Lauro L, Vizza E, Tomao F, Tomao S, Cavallotti C, Paolini F, Venuti A. Immunologic treatments for precancerous lesions and uterine cervical cancer. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2014; 33:29. [PMID: 24667138 PMCID: PMC3986944 DOI: 10.1186/1756-9966-33-29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Development of HPV-associated cancers not only depends on efficient negative regulation of cell cycle control that supports the accumulation of genetic damage, but also relies on immune evasion that enable the virus to go undetected for long periods of time. In this way, HPV-related tumors usually present MHC class I down-regulation, impaired antigen-processing ability, avoidance of T-cell mediated killing, increased immunosuppression due to Treg infiltration and secrete immunosuppressive cytokines. Thus, these are the main obstacles that immunotherapy has to face in the treatment of HPV-related pathologies where a number of different strategies have been developed to overcome them including new adjuvants. Although antigen-specific immunotherapy induced by therapeutic HPV vaccines was proved extremely efficacious in pre-clinical models, its progression through clinical trials suffered poor responses in the initial trials. Later attempts seem to have been more promising, particularly against the well-defined precursors of cervical, anal or vulvar cancer, where the local immunosuppressive milieu is less active. This review focuses on the advances made in these fields, highlighting several new technologies (such as mRNA vaccine, plant-derived vaccine). The most promising immunotherapies used in clinical trials are also summarized, along with integrated strategies, particularly promising in controlling tumor metastasis and in eliminating cancer cells altogether. After the early promising clinical results, the development of therapeutic HPV vaccines need to be implemented and applied to the users in order to eradicate HPV-associated malignancies, eradicating existing perception (after the effectiveness of commercial preventive vaccines) that we have already solved the problem.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Aldo Venuti
- HPV Unit, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, V Elio Chianesi 53, Rome 00144, Italy.
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12
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Accardi L, Paolini F, Mandarino A, Percario Z, Di Bonito P, Di Carlo V, Affabris E, Giorgi C, Amici C, Venuti A. In vivo antitumor effect of an intracellular single-chain antibody fragment against the E7 oncoprotein of human papillomavirus 16. Int J Cancer 2013; 134:2742-7. [PMID: 24226851 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.28604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2013] [Revised: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 11/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated tumors still represent an urgent problem of public health in spite of the efficacy of the prophylactic HPV vaccines. Specific antibodies in single-chain format expressed as intracellular antibodies (intrabodies) are valid tools to counteract the activity of target proteins. We previously showed that the M2SD intrabody, specific for the E7 oncoprotein of HPV16 and expressed in the endoplasmic reticulum of the HPV16-positive SiHa cells, was able to inhibit cell proliferation. Here, we showed by confocal microscopy that M2SD and E7 colocalize in the endoplasmic reticulum of SiHa cells, suggesting that the E7 delocalization mediated by M2SD could account for the anti-proliferative activity of the intrabody. We then tested the M2SD antitumor activity in two mouse models for HPV tumors based respectively on TC-1 and C3 cells. The M2SD intrabody was delivered by retroviral vector to tumor cells before cell injection into C57BL/6 mice. In both models, a marked delay of tumor onset with respect to the controls was observed in all the mice injected with the M2SD-expressing tumor cells and, importantly, a significant percentage of mice remained tumor-free permanently. This is the first in vivo demonstration of the antitumor activity of an intrabody directed towards an HPV oncoprotein. We consider that these results could contribute to the development of new therapeutic molecules based on antibodies in single-chain format, to be employed against the HPV-associated lesions even in combination with other drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Accardi
- Department of Infectious Parasitic and Immune-mediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena, 299, Rome, Italy
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Accardi L, Donà MG, Mileo AM, Paggi MG, Federico A, Torreri P, Petrucci TC, Accardi R, Pim D, Tommasino M, Banks L, Chirullo B, Giorgi C. Retinoblastoma-independent antiproliferative activity of novel intracellular antibodies against the E7 oncoprotein in HPV 16-positive cells. BMC Cancer 2011; 11:17. [PMID: 21241471 PMCID: PMC3032750 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-11-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2010] [Accepted: 01/17/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background "High risk" Human Papillomavirus strains are the causative agents of the vast majority of carcinomas of the uterine cervix. In these tumors, the physical integration of the HPV genome is a frequent, though not invariable occurrence, but the constitutive expression of the E6 and E7 viral genes is always observed, suggesting key roles for the E6 and E7 oncoproteins in the process of malignant transformation. The "intracellular antibody" technology using recombinant antibodies in single-chain format offers the possibility of targeting a protein in its intracellular environment even at the level of definite domains thus representing a valuable strategy to "knock out" the function of specific proteins. Methods In this study, we investigate the in vitro activity of two single-chain antibody fragments directed against the "high-risk" HPV 16 E7 oncoprotein, scFv 43M2 and scFv 51. These scFvs were expressed by retroviral system in different cell compartments of the HPV16-positive SiHa cells, and cell proliferation was analyzed by Colony Formation Assay and EZ4U assay. The binding of these scFvs to E7, and their possible interference with the interaction between E7 and its main target, the tumor suppressor pRb protein, were then investigated by immunoassays, PepSet™technology and Surface Plasmon Resonance. Results The expression of the two scFvs in the nucleus and the endoplasmic reticulum of SiHa cells resulted in the selective growth inhibition of these cells. Analysis of binding showed that both scFvs bind E7 via distinct but overlapping epitopes not corresponding to the pRb binding site. Nevertheless, the binding of scFv 43M2 to E7 was inhibited by pRb in a non-competitive manner. Conclusions Based on the overall results, the observed inhibition of HPV-positive SiHa cells proliferation could be ascribed to an interaction between scFv and E7, involving non-pRb targets. The study paves the way for the employment of specific scFvs in immunotherapeutic approaches against the HPV-associated lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Accardi
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
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Pérez-Martínez D, Tanaka T, Rabbitts TH. Intracellular antibodies and cancer: new technologies offer therapeutic opportunities. Bioessays 2010; 32:589-98. [PMID: 20544739 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201000009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Since the realisation that the antigen-binding regions of antibodies, the variable (V) regions, can be uncoupled from the rest of the molecule to create fragments that recognise and abrogate particular protein functions in cells, the use of antibody fragments inside cells has become an important tool in bioscience. Diverse libraries of antibody fragments plus in vivo screening can be used to isolate single chain variable fragments comprising VH and VL segments or single V-region domains. Some of these are interfering antibody fragments that compete with protein-protein interactions, providing lead molecules for drug interactions that until now have been considered difficult or undruggable. It may be possible to deliver or express antibody fragments in target cells as macrodrugs per se. In future incarnations of intracellular antibodies, however, the structural information of the interaction interface of target and antibody fragment should facilitate development of binding site mimics as small drug-like molecules. This is a new dawn for intracellular antibody fragments both as macrodrugs and as precursors of drugs to treat human diseases and should finally lead to the removal of the epithet of the 'undruggable' protein-protein interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Pérez-Martínez
- Leeds Institute of Molecular Medicine, Wellcome Trust Brenner Building, Section of Experimental Therapeutics, St. James's University Hospital, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Romani C, Comper F, Bandiera E, Ravaggi A, Bignotti E, Tassi RA, Pecorelli S, Santin AD. Development and characterization of a human single-chain antibody fragment against claudin-3: a novel therapeutic target in ovarian and uterine carcinomas. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2009; 201:70.e1-9. [PMID: 19426958 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2009.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2008] [Revised: 12/17/2008] [Accepted: 02/20/2009] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to develop and characterize a human antibody in a single-chain antibody fragment format (scFv) that is directed specifically against claudin-3 (CLDN3). STUDY DESIGN The synthetic ETH-2 Gold human antibody phage display library was used to select scFv specific against CLDN3. scFv binding properties were analyzed by surface plasmon resonance; specificity was confirmed with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry on a panel of ovarian and uterine serous carcinoma cell lines. RESULTS Surface plasmon resonance studies indicated scFv H6 to be the clone with the highest affinity against CLDN3 (K(D) of 23.60 nmol/L). scFv H6 efficiently stained CLDN3-expressing cells and recognized its epitope in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay that was performed with uterine serous papillary carcinoma native protein extract, which suggested that a conformational epitope is recognized by this antibody. Cell surface immunofluorescence with laser scanning confocal microscopy confirmed the specific binding to the native membrane CLDN3. CONCLUSION scFv H6 may represent a novel antitumor agent against chemotherapy-resistant ovarian and serous papillary carcinomas and other human malignancies that overexpress CLDN3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Romani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Mirecka EA, Hey T, Fiedler U, Rudolph R, Hatzfeld M. Affilin Molecules Selected against the Human Papillomavirus E7 Protein Inhibit the Proliferation of Target Cells. J Mol Biol 2009; 390:710-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2009.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2009] [Revised: 05/10/2009] [Accepted: 05/15/2009] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Antibody Phage Display. SPRINGER PROTOCOLS HANDBOOKS 2008. [PMCID: PMC7123299 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-60327-375-6_34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Doorbar J, Griffin H. Intrabody strategies for the treatment of human papillomavirus-associated disease. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2007; 7:677-89. [PMID: 17477805 DOI: 10.1517/14712598.7.5.677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are associated with a variety of epithelial lesions, including benign genital warts and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Both cause significant morbidity in the general population, with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia progressing to cervical cancer in a subset of women who cannot resolve their infection. At present, there are no antiviral agents for the treatment of genital HPV infections, with many lesions requiring surgical intervention. Although other approaches are available for the treatment of genital warts, HPV infection cannot usually be cured and lesion recurrence is often a problem. A growing understanding of the molecular biology of HPV infection has identified several viral protein functions that may serve as drug targets. Among these are the HPV E1 and E2 proteins, which are necessary for viral genome replication and partitioning, and the E6 and E7 proteins, which are necessary for cell proliferation and apoptotic inhibition. With the exception of E1, these proteins lack enzymatic activity and achieve their effects by interacting with cellular proteins. Protein-protein interactions are in general quite difficult to inhibit using conventional small molecule drugs, but are amenable to inhibition using intracellular antibodies or intrabodies, which bind the viral proteins and sterically inhibit their association with cellular partners. The lack of homology between viral and cellular proteins, and the fact that HPV infections can be treated topically, makes them particularly well suited to the intrabody approach. This review covers the various strategies that are being considered for the treatment of HPV infections and the different intrabody formats that have been used to inhibit HPV function in model systems. The clinical utility of the approach is considered alongside the general difficulties of using protein molecules as intracellular therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Doorbar
- National Institute for Medical Research, Division of Virology, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, London, NW7 1AA, UK.
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Characterization of antibodies in single-chain format against the E7 oncoprotein of the human papillomavirus type 16 and their improvement by mutagenesis. BMC Cancer 2007; 7:25. [PMID: 17266749 PMCID: PMC1797048 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-7-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2006] [Accepted: 01/31/2007] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are the etiological agents of cervical cancer. The viral E7 protein plays a crucial role in viral oncogenesis. Many strategies have been explored to block the E7 oncoprotein activity. The single-chain variable antibody fragments (scFvs) are valuable tools in cancer immunotherapy and can be used as "intracellular antibodies" to knock out specific protein functions. For both in vivo and in vitro employment, the scFv intrinsic solubility and stability are important to achieve long-lasting effects. Here we report the characterization in terms of reactivity, solubility and thermal stability of three anti-HPV16 E7 scFvs. We have also analysed the scFv43 sequence with the aim of improving stability and then activity of the antibody, previously shown to have antiproliferative activity when expressed in HPV16-positive cells. METHODS The three anti-HPV16 E7 scFv 32, 43 51 were selected from the ETH-2 "phage-display" library. Thermal stability was evaluated with ELISA by determining the residual activity of each purified scFv against the recombinant HPV16 E7, after incubation in the presence of human seroalbumine for different time-intervals at different temperatures. Sequence analysis of the scFvs was performed with BLAST and CLUSTALL programs. The scFv43 aminoacid changes were reverted back to the consensus sequence from the immunoglobuline database by site-directed mutagenesis. ScFv solubility was evaluated with Western blotting by determining their relative amounts in the soluble and insoluble fractions of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems. RESULTS ScFv51 was the most thermally stable scFv considered. Sequence analysis of the most reactive scFv43 has evidenced 2 amino acid changes possibly involved in molecule stability, in the VH and VL CDR3 regions respectively. By mutagenesis, two novel scFv43-derived scFvs were obtained, scFv43 M1 and M2. ScFv43 M2 showed to have improved thermal stability and solubility in comparison with the parental scFv43. CONCLUSION The characterization of 5 specific anti-HPV16 E7 scFvs shows features important for their activity in vivo. ScFv43 M2 shows higher thermal stability with respect to the parental scFv43, and scFv51 shows high stability and solubility. These properties make the 2 scFvs the best candidates to be tested for anti-E7 activity in vivo.
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Di Bonito P, Grasso F, Mochi S, Accardi L, Donà MG, Branca M, Costa S, Mariani L, Agarossi A, Ciotti M, Syrjänen K, Giorgi C. Serum antibody response to Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections detected by a novel ELISA technique based on denatured recombinant HPV16 L1, L2, E4, E6 and E7 proteins. Infect Agent Cancer 2006; 1:6. [PMID: 17150135 PMCID: PMC1660559 DOI: 10.1186/1750-9378-1-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2006] [Accepted: 11/08/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are the primary etiological agents of cervical cancer and are also involved in the development of other tumours (skin, head and neck). Serological survey of the HPV infections is important to better elucidate their natural history and to disclose antigen determinants useful for vaccine development. At present, the analysis of the HPV-specific antibodies has not diagnostic value for the viral infections, and new approaches are needed to correlate the antibody response to the disease outcome. The aim of this study is to develop a novel ELISA, based on five denatured recombinant HPV16 proteins, to be used for detection HPV-specific antibodies. Methods The HPV16 L1, L2, E4, E6 and E7 genes were cloned in a prokaryotic expression vector and expressed as histidine-tagged proteins. These proteins, in a denatured form, were used in ELISA as coating antigens. Human sera were collected from women with abnormal PAP smear enrolled during an ongoing multicenter HPV-PathogenISS study in Italy, assessing the HPV-related pathogenetic mechanisms of progression of cervical cancer precursor lesions. Negative human sera were collected from patients affected by other infectious agents. All the HPV-positive sera were also subjected to an avidity test to assess the binding strength in the antigen-antibody complexes. Results Most of the sera showed a positive reactivity to the denatured HPV16 proteins: 82% of the sera from HPV16 infected women and 89% of the sera from women infected by other HPV genotypes recognised at least one of the HPV16 proteins. The percentages of samples showing reactivity to L1, L2 and E7 were similar, but only a few serum samples reacted to E6 and E4. Most sera bound the antigens with medium and high avidity index, suggesting specific antigen-antibody reactions. Conclusion This novel ELISA, based on multiple denatured HPV16 antigens, is able to detect antibodies in women infected by HPV16 and it is not genotype-specific, as it detects antibodies also in women infected by other genital HPVs. The assay is easy to perform and has low cost, making it suitable for monitoring the natural history of HPV infections as well as for detecting pre-existing HPV antibodies in women who receive VLP-based HPV vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Di Bonito
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità. (ISS), Rome, Italy
- on behalf of the HPV-PathogenISS group #
| | - Felicia Grasso
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità. (ISS), Rome, Italy
- on behalf of the HPV-PathogenISS group #
| | - Stefania Mochi
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità. (ISS), Rome, Italy
- on behalf of the HPV-PathogenISS group #
| | - Luisa Accardi
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità. (ISS), Rome, Italy
- on behalf of the HPV-PathogenISS group #
| | - Maria Gabriella Donà
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità. (ISS), Rome, Italy
- on behalf of the HPV-PathogenISS group #
| | - Margherita Branca
- Unità Citoistopatologica, Centro Nazionale di Epidemiologia, Sorveglianza e Promozione della Salute, ISS, Rome, Italy
- on behalf of the HPV-PathogenISS group #
| | - Silvano Costa
- Dipartimento di Ginecologia e Ostetricia, Azienda Ospedaliera S. Orsola Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
- on behalf of the HPV-PathogenISS group #
| | - Luciano Mariani
- Ginecologia e Ostetricia, IFO, Istituto Regina Elena, Rome, Italy
- on behalf of the HPV-PathogenISS group #
| | - Alberto Agarossi
- Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica, Istituto Scienze Biomediche, Ospedale Luigi Sacco, Milano, Italy
- on behalf of the HPV-PathogenISS group #
| | - Marco Ciotti
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology and Virology, University Hospital "Policlinico Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
- on behalf of the HPV-PathogenISS group #
| | - Kari Syrjänen
- Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- on behalf of the HPV-PathogenISS group #
| | - Colomba Giorgi
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità. (ISS), Rome, Italy
- on behalf of the HPV-PathogenISS group #
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Mirecka EA, Rudolph R, Hey T. Expression and purification of His-tagged HPV16 E7 protein active in pRb binding. Protein Expr Purif 2006; 48:281-91. [PMID: 16814565 DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2006.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2005] [Revised: 04/16/2006] [Accepted: 04/17/2006] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16) protein E7 is the major oncogenic factor associated with the development of human cervical cancer. The transforming activity of the E7 protein is linked to its interaction with host regulatory proteins such as the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein. The recombinant production of E7 protein is a prerequisite for its structural and functional characterization as well as for the development of various preventive and therapeutic strategies. We present an approach to enhance the soluble expression of His-tagged E7 protein by optimization of the E7 gene and the expression conditions in the host Escherichia coli. We also report a detailed protocol for the purification of E7 protein by standard chromatographic methods. The binding of E7 protein to the recombinant non-phosphorylated form of retinoblastoma protein was examined by ELISA and surface plasmon resonance analysis. These studies confirm that the recombinant His-tagged E7 protein retains its conformational properties and biological activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa A Mirecka
- Institut für Biotechnologie, Martin-Luther-Universität Halle/Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
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