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Yu H, Yang L, Han Z, Zhou X, Zhang Z, Sun T, Zheng F, Yang J, Guan F, Xie J, Liu C. SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein enhances the level of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e29270. [PMID: 38047459 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pathogenesis is influenced by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Nevertheless, the precise mechanisms implicated remain poorly understood. The nucleocapsid (N) protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the main driver for this condition, is a structural protein indispensable for viral replication and assembly, and its role in ROS production has not been reported. This study shows that SARS-CoV-2 N protein expression enhances mitochondrial ROS level. Bulk RNA-sequencing suggests of aberrant redox state of the electron transport chain. Accordingly, this protein hinders ATP production but simultaneously augments the activity of complexes I and III, and most mitochondrially encoded complex I and III proteins are upregulated by it. Mechanistically, N protein of SARS-CoV-2 shows significant mitochondrial localization. It interacts with mitochondrial transcription components and stabilizes them. Moreover, it also impairs the activity of antioxidant enzymes with or without detectable interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyun Yu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Lu Yang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhennan Han
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zhou
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zihan Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Tianli Sun
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Fang Zheng
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jingzhi Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shangdong, China
| | - Fei Guan
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jungang Xie
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, National Clinical Research Center of Respiratory Disease, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chaohong Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College and State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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2
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Yu H, Guan F, Miller H, Lei J, Liu C. The role of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein in antiviral immunity and vaccine development. Emerg Microbes Infect 2023; 12:e2164219. [PMID: 36583642 PMCID: PMC9980416 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2022.2164219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTThe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused enormous health risks and global economic disruption. This disease is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein is a structural protein involved in viral replication and assembly. There is accumulating evidence indicating that the nucleocapsid protein is multi-functional, playing a key role in the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and antiviral immunity against SARS-CoV-2. Here, we summarize its potential application in the prevention of COVID-19, which is based on its role in inflammation, cell death, antiviral innate immunity, and antiviral adaptive immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyun Yu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei Guan
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Heather Miller
- Laboratory of Intracellular Parasites, Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Jiahui Lei
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chaohong Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China, Chaohong Liu
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3
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Lao T, Farnos O, Bueno A, Alvarez A, Rodríguez E, Palacios J, de la Luz KR, Kamen A, Carpio Y, Estrada MP. Transient Expression in HEK-293 Cells in Suspension Culture as a Rapid and Powerful Tool: SARS-CoV-2 N and Chimeric SARS-CoV-2N-CD154 Proteins as a Case Study. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3050. [PMID: 38002050 PMCID: PMC10669214 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11113050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In a previous work, we proposed a vaccine chimeric antigen based on the fusion of the SARS-CoV-2 N protein to the extracellular domain of the human CD40 ligand (CD154). This vaccine antigen was named N-CD protein and its expression was carried out in HEK-293 stably transfected cells, grown in adherent conditions and serum-supplemented medium. The chimeric protein obtained in these conditions presented a consistent pattern of degradation. The immunization of mice and monkeys with this chimeric protein was able to induce a high N-specific IgG response with only two doses in pre-clinical experiments. In order to explore ways to diminish protein degradation, in the present work, the N and N-CD proteins were produced in suspension cultures and serum-free media following transient transfection of the HEK-293 clone 3F6, at different scales, including stirred-tank controlled bioreactors. The results showed negligible or no degradation of the target proteins. Further, clones stably expressing N-CD were obtained and adapted to suspension culture, obtaining similar results to those observed in the transient expression experiments in HEK-293-3F6. The evidence supports transient protein expression in suspension cultures and serum-free media as a powerful tool to produce in a short period of time high levels of complex proteins susceptible to degradation, such as the SARS-CoV-2 N protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thailin Lao
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Animal Biotechnology Department, Havana 10600, Cuba; (T.L.)
| | - Omar Farnos
- Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0E9, Canada; (O.F.); (A.K.)
| | - Alexi Bueno
- Process Development Department, Center of Molecular Immunology, Havana 11600, Cuba (J.P.); (K.R.d.l.L.)
| | - Anays Alvarez
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Animal Biotechnology Department, Havana 10600, Cuba; (T.L.)
| | - Elsa Rodríguez
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Animal Biotechnology Department, Havana 10600, Cuba; (T.L.)
| | - Julio Palacios
- Process Development Department, Center of Molecular Immunology, Havana 11600, Cuba (J.P.); (K.R.d.l.L.)
| | - Kathya Rashida de la Luz
- Process Development Department, Center of Molecular Immunology, Havana 11600, Cuba (J.P.); (K.R.d.l.L.)
| | - Amine Kamen
- Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0E9, Canada; (O.F.); (A.K.)
| | - Yamila Carpio
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Animal Biotechnology Department, Havana 10600, Cuba; (T.L.)
| | - Mario Pablo Estrada
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Animal Biotechnology Department, Havana 10600, Cuba; (T.L.)
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4
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Cao J, Gu H, Zhang X, Yun H, Li J, Si CY, Zhang J, Wang H. Intranasal inoculation of female BALB/c mice with replication-deficient human adenovirus type 5 expressing SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein aggravates lung pathology upon re-encountering the antigen. Virus Res 2023; 335:199201. [PMID: 37595663 PMCID: PMC10470087 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2023.199201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Preclinical studies indicate that SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N)-based vaccines, along with other viral protein(s), confer protection in various animal models against infection by SARS-CoV-2 ancestral virus and variants of concern. However, the optimal vaccination procedure and the role of N-specific host adaptive immune responses remain elusive. Here, we report that intranasal inoculation with replication-deficient human adenovirus type 5 expressing SARS-CoV-2 N protein (Ad5-N) conferred no protection in the lung of female BALB/c mice upon re-encountering the antigen, either by 10-fold Ad5-N re-exposure or sublethal infection of mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2. By contrast, this procedure led to aggravated lung pathology with more necroptotic CD3+ T cells and Ly6G+ granulocytes, which was associated with the accumulation of IFN-γ-expressing antigen-experienced CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. These findings pre-caution the clinical application of this vaccination procedure. Furthermore, our data suggest that excessive host adaptive immune responses against N protein contributes to COVID-19 pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junxia Cao
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Hongjing Gu
- Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Xueting Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Hongfang Yun
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Jiarong Li
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing 100850, China; University of South China, Hengyang Medical School, Hengyang 421001, China
| | - Chuan-Yimu Si
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Jiyan Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing 100850, China; University of South China, Hengyang Medical School, Hengyang 421001, China; Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing 102206, China.
| | - Hui Wang
- Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing 100071, China.
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5
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Lao T, Avalos I, Rodríguez EM, Zamora Y, Rodriguez A, Ramón A, Alvarez Y, Cabrales A, Andújar I, González LJ, Puente P, García C, Gómez L, Valdés R, Estrada MP, Carpio Y. Production and characterization of a chimeric antigen, based on nucleocapsid of SARS-CoV-2 fused to the extracellular domain of human CD154 in HEK-293 cells as a vaccine candidate against COVID-19. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288006. [PMID: 37751460 PMCID: PMC10522030 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite that more than one hundred vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 have been developed and that some of them were evaluated in clinical trials, the latest results revealed that these vaccines still face great challenges. Among the components of the virus, the N-protein constitutes an attractive target for a subunit vaccine because it is the most abundant, highly conserved and immunogenic protein. In the present work, a chimeric protein (N-CD protein) was constructed by the fusion of the N-protein to the extracellular domain of human CD154 as the molecular adjuvant. HEK-293 cells were transduced with lentiviral vector bearing the N-CD gene and polyclonal cell populations were obtained. The N-CD protein was purified from cell culture supernatant and further characterized by several techniques. Immunogenicity studies in mice and non-human primates showed the N-CD protein induced high IgG titers in both models after two doses. Moreover, overall health monitoring of non-human primates demonstrated that animals were healthy during 228 days after first immunization. Data obtained support further investigation in order to develop this chimeric protein as vaccine candidate against COVID-19 and other coronavirus diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thailin Lao
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Animal Biotechnology Department, Havana, Cuba
| | - Ileanet Avalos
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Animal Biotechnology Department, Havana, Cuba
| | - Elsa María Rodríguez
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Animal Biotechnology Department, Havana, Cuba
| | - Yasser Zamora
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Animal Biotechnology Department, Havana, Cuba
| | - Alianet Rodriguez
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Animal Biotechnology Department, Havana, Cuba
| | - Ailyn Ramón
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Havana, Cuba
| | - Yanitza Alvarez
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Animal Biotechnology Department, Havana, Cuba
| | - Ania Cabrales
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Systems Biology, Havana, Cuba
| | - Ivan Andújar
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Systems Biology, Havana, Cuba
| | | | - Pedro Puente
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Animal housing, Havana, Cuba
| | - Cristina García
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Production Division, Havana, Cuba
| | - Leonardo Gómez
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Production Division, Havana, Cuba
| | - Rodolfo Valdés
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Production Division, Havana, Cuba
| | - Mario Pablo Estrada
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Animal Biotechnology Department, Havana, Cuba
| | - Yamila Carpio
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Animal Biotechnology Department, Havana, Cuba
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6
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Song W, Fang Z, Ma F, Li J, Huang Z, Zhang Y, Li J, Chen K. The role of SARS-CoV-2 N protein in diagnosis and vaccination in the context of emerging variants: present status and prospects. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1217567. [PMID: 37675423 PMCID: PMC10478715 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1217567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite many countries rapidly revising their strategies to prevent contagions, the number of people infected with Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) continues to surge. The emergent variants that can evade the immune response significantly affect the effectiveness of mainstream vaccines and diagnostic products based on the original spike protein. Therefore, it is essential to focus on the highly conserved nature of the nucleocapsid protein as a potential target in the field of vaccines and diagnostics. In this regard, our review initially discusses the structure, function, and mechanism of action of N protein. Based on this discussion, we summarize the relevant research on the in-depth development and application of diagnostic methods and vaccines based on N protein, such as serology and nucleic acid detection. Such valuable information can aid in designing more efficient diagnostic and vaccine tools that could help end the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanchen Song
- School of Medical Technology and Information Engineering, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhongbiao Fang
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Feike Ma
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiaxuan Li
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiwei Huang
- School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yanjun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Detection and Etiological Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Microbiology, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianhua Li
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Detection and Etiological Research of Zhejiang Province, Department of Microbiology, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, China
| | - Keda Chen
- Shulan International Medical College, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, China
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7
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de Moor WRJ, Williamson AL, Schäfer G, Douglass N, Gers S, Sutherland AD, Blumenthal MJ, Margolin E, Shaw ML, Preiser W, Chapman R. LSDV-Vectored SARS-CoV-2 S and N Vaccine Protects against Severe Clinical Disease in Hamsters. Viruses 2023; 15:1409. [PMID: 37515096 PMCID: PMC10383203 DOI: 10.3390/v15071409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic demonstrated the need for potent and broad-spectrum vaccines. This study reports the development and testing of a lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV)-vectored vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, utilizing stabilized spike and conserved nucleocapsid proteins as antigens to develop robust immunogenicity. Construction of the vaccine (LSDV-SARS2-S,N) was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and sequencing. In vitro characterization confirmed that cells infected with LSDV-SARS2-S,N expressed SARS-CoV-2 spike and nucleocapsid protein. In BALB/c mice, the vaccine elicited high magnitude IFN-γ ELISpot responses (spike: 2808 SFU/106 splenocytes) and neutralizing antibodies (ID50 = 6552). Testing in hamsters, which emulate human COVID-19 disease progression, showed the development of high titers of neutralizing antibodies against the Wuhan and Delta SARS-CoV-2 variants (Wuhan ID50 = 2905; Delta ID50 = 4648). Additionally, hamsters vaccinated with LSDV-SARS2-S,N displayed significantly less weight loss, lung damage, and reduced viral RNA copies following SARS-CoV-2 infection with the Delta variant as compared to controls, demonstrating protection against disease. These data demonstrate that LSDV-vectored vaccines display promise as an effective SARS-CoV-2 vaccine and as a potential vaccine platform for communicable diseases in humans and animals. Further efficacy testing and immune response analysis, particularly in non-human primates, are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warren R J de Moor
- Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Anna-Lise Williamson
- Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Georgia Schäfer
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Africa, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Nicola Douglass
- Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | | | - Andrew D Sutherland
- Division of Medical Virology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University Tygerberg Campus, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Melissa J Blumenthal
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Emmanuel Margolin
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Africa, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
- Biopharming Research Unit, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7701, South Africa
| | - Megan L Shaw
- Division of Medical Virology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University Tygerberg Campus, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Wolfgang Preiser
- Division of Medical Virology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University Tygerberg Campus, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Rosamund Chapman
- Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
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8
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Rabdano SO, Ruzanova EA, Pletyukhina IV, Saveliev NS, Kryshen KL, Katelnikova AE, Beltyukov PP, Fakhretdinova LN, Safi AS, Rudakov GO, Arakelov SA, Andreev IV, Kofiadi IA, Khaitov MR, Valenta R, Kryuchko DS, Berzin IA, Belozerova NS, Evtushenko AE, Truhin VP, Skvortsova VI. Immunogenicity and In Vivo Protective Effects of Recombinant Nucleocapsid-Based SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Convacell ®. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11040874. [PMID: 37112786 PMCID: PMC10141225 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11040874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The vast majority of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines which are licensed or under development focus on the spike (S) protein and its receptor binding domain (RBD). However, the S protein shows considerable sequence variations among variants of concern. The aim of this study was to develop and characterize a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine targeting the highly conserved nucleocapsid (N) protein. Recombinant N protein was expressed in Escherichia coli, purified to homogeneity by chromatography and characterized by SDS-PAGE, immunoblotting, mass spectrometry, dynamic light scattering and differential scanning calorimetry. The vaccine, formulated as a squalane-based emulsion, was used to immunize Balb/c mice and NOD SCID gamma (NSG) mice engrafted with human PBMCs, rabbits and marmoset monkeys. Safety and immunogenicity of the vaccine was assessed via ELISA, cytokine titer assays and CFSE dilution assays. The protective effect of the vaccine was studied in SARS-CoV-2-infected Syrian hamsters. Immunization induced sustainable N-specific IgG responses and an N-specific mixed Th1/Th2 cytokine response. In marmoset monkeys, an N-specific CD4+/CD8+ T cell response was observed. Vaccinated Syrian hamsters showed reduced lung histopathology, lower virus proliferation, lower lung weight relative to the body, and faster body weight recovery. Convacell® thus is shown to be effective and may augment the existing armamentarium of vaccines against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevastyan O Rabdano
- Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia (SPbSRIVS), St. Petersburg 198320, Russia
| | - Ellina A Ruzanova
- Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia (SPbSRIVS), St. Petersburg 198320, Russia
| | - Iuliia V Pletyukhina
- Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia (SPbSRIVS), St. Petersburg 198320, Russia
| | - Nikita S Saveliev
- Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia (SPbSRIVS), St. Petersburg 198320, Russia
| | | | | | - Petr P Beltyukov
- Scientific Research Institute of Hygiene, Occupational Pathology and Human Ecology of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia (SRIHOPHE), Kuzmolovsky 188663, Russia
| | - Liliya N Fakhretdinova
- Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia (SPbSRIVS), St. Petersburg 198320, Russia
| | - Ariana S Safi
- Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia (SPbSRIVS), St. Petersburg 198320, Russia
| | - German O Rudakov
- Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia (SPbSRIVS), St. Petersburg 198320, Russia
| | - Sergei A Arakelov
- Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia (SPbSRIVS), St. Petersburg 198320, Russia
| | - Igor V Andreev
- National Research Center Institute of Immunology (NRCII), Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow 115522, Russia
| | - Ilya A Kofiadi
- National Research Center Institute of Immunology (NRCII), Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow 115522, Russia
- Department of Immunology, N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Musa R Khaitov
- National Research Center Institute of Immunology (NRCII), Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow 115522, Russia
- Department of Immunology, N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Rudolf Valenta
- National Research Center Institute of Immunology (NRCII), Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow 115522, Russia
- Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119435, Russia
- Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, 3500 Krems, Austria
| | - Daria S Kryuchko
- Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow 125310, Russia
| | - Igor A Berzin
- Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia, Moscow 125310, Russia
| | - Natalia S Belozerova
- Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia (SPbSRIVS), St. Petersburg 198320, Russia
| | - Anatoly E Evtushenko
- Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia (SPbSRIVS), St. Petersburg 198320, Russia
| | - Viktor P Truhin
- Saint Petersburg Scientific Research Institute of Vaccines and Serums of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency of Russia (SPbSRIVS), St. Petersburg 198320, Russia
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9
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Wang SY, Liu WQ, Li YQ, Li JX, Zhu FC. A China-developed adenovirus vector-based COVID-19 vaccine: review of the development and application of Ad5-nCov. Expert Rev Vaccines 2023; 22:704-713. [PMID: 37501516 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2023.2242528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The global spread of COVID-19 has prompted the development of vaccines. A recombinant adenovirus type-5 vectored COVID-19 vaccine (Ad5-nCoV) developed by Chinese scientists has been authorized for use as a prime and booster dose in China and several other countries. AREAS COVERED We searched published articles as of 4 May 2023, on PubMed using keywords related to Adenovirus vector, vaccine, and SARS-CoV-2. We reported the progress and outcomes of Ad5-nCov, including vaccine efficacy, safety, immunogenicity based on pre-clinical trials, clinical trials, and real-world studies for primary and booster doses. EXPERT OPINION Ad5-nCoV is a significant advancement in Chinese vaccine development technology. Evidence from clinical trials and real-world studies has demonstrated well-tolerated, highly immunogenic, and efficacy of Ad5-nCoV in preventing severe/critical COVID-19. Aerosolized Ad5-nCoV, given via a novel route, could elicit mucosal immunity and improve the vaccine efficacy, enhance the production capacity and availability, and reduce the potential negative impact of preexisting antibodies. However, additional research is necessary to evaluate the long-term safety and immunogenicity of Ad5-nCoV, its efficacy against emerging variants, its effectiveness in a real-world context of hybrid immunity, and its cost-effectiveness, particularly with respect to aerosolized Ad5-nCoV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen-Yu Wang
- Department of Immunization Programe, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wen-Qing Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu-Qing Li
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing-Xin Li
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Enteric Pathogenic Microbiology (Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention), Nanjing, China
- Institute of Global Public Health and Emergency Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng-Cai Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Enteric Pathogenic Microbiology (Jiangsu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention), Nanjing, China
- Institute of Global Public Health and Emergency Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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10
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Niu Z, Li X, Gao Y, Wang L, Fan S, Xu X, Jiang G, Cui P, Li D, Liao Y, Yu L, Zhao H, Zhang Y, Li Q. Evaluation of Immunogenicity and Clinical Protection of SARS-CoV-2 S1 and N Antigens in Syrian Golden Hamster. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10121996. [PMID: 36560406 PMCID: PMC9781188 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10121996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) epidemic continues to be a global public crisis affecting human health. Many research groups are developing different types of vaccines to suppress the spread of SARS-CoV-2, and some vaccines have entered phase III clinical trials and have been rapidly implemented. Whether multiple antigen matches are necessary to induce a better immune response remains unclear. To address this question, this study tested the immunogenicity and protective effects of a SARS-CoV-2 recombinant S and N peptide vaccine in the Syrian golden hamster model. This experiment was based on two immunization methods: intradermal and intramuscular administration. Immunized hamsters were challenged with live SARS-CoV-2 14 days after booster immunization. Clinical symptoms were observed daily, and the antibody titer and viral load in each tissue were detected. The results showed that immunization of golden hamsters with the SARS-CoV-2 structural protein S alone or in combination with the N protein through different routes induced antibody responses, whereas immunization with the N protein alone did not. However, although the immunized hamsters exhibited partial alleviation of clinical symptoms when challenged with the virus, neither vaccine effectively inhibited the proliferation and replication of the challenging virus. In addition, the pathological damage in the immunized hamsters was similar to that in the control hamsters. Interestingly, the neutralizing antibody levels of all groups including immunized and nonimmunized animals increased significantly after viral challenge. In conclusion, the immune response induced by the experimental S and N polypeptide vaccines had no significant ability to prevent viral infection and pathogenicity in golden hamsters.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ying Zhang
- Correspondence: (Y.Z.); (Q.L.); Tel.: +86-871-68335905 (Y.Z. & Q.L.)
| | - Qihan Li
- Correspondence: (Y.Z.); (Q.L.); Tel.: +86-871-68335905 (Y.Z. & Q.L.)
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11
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A rational strategy for the maintenance of antiviral immunity to new SARS-CoV-2 strains. КЛИНИЧЕСКАЯ ПРАКТИКА 2022. [DOI: 10.17816/clinpract111120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
New variants of SARS-CoV-2 such as Omicron BA.2, BA.4/5, BA.2.12.1 and BA 2.75 are characterized by higher infectivity and the ability to escape virus-neutralizing antibodies against previous coronavirus variants. The S-trimer of BA.2 and its phylogenetic derivatives are characterized by a predominant Up-conformation, which facilitates the interaction with ACE2 on target cells and promotes the resistance to neutralizing antibodies. The immunity acquired from the infection with earlier strains is non-sterile for both early and later strains; the booster systemic immunization does not significantly affect the effectiveness of antiviral immunity, and its feasibility is currently being questioned. Studies of the mucosal immune response have shown that intranasal immunization with adenovirus vaccines provides more pronounced protective immunity than systemic reimmunization does. A promising approach is the creation of multivalent inhaled next generation vaccines containing immunoadjuvants that activate B- and T-cell mucosal immunity. Currently, a large number of intranasal vaccines are undergoing phase I/II trials, while the preclinical and preliminary clinical results indicate that this method of vaccination provides a better mucosal immune response at the entry site of the virus than systemic immunization does. This strategy may provide a long-term immune protection against the currently existing and yet unknown new strains of SARS-CoV-2.
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12
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Ghaemi A, Roshani Asl P, Zargaran H, Ahmadi D, Hashimi AA, Abdolalipour E, Bathaeian S, Miri SM. Recombinant COVID-19 vaccine based on recombinant RBD/Nucleoprotein and saponin adjuvant induces long-lasting neutralizing antibodies and cellular immunity. Front Immunol 2022; 13:974364. [PMID: 36159845 PMCID: PMC9494508 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.974364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has caused a global pandemic, infecting millions of people. An effective preventive vaccine against this virus is urgently needed. Here, we designed and developed a novel formulated recombinant receptor-binding domain (RBD) nucleocapsid (N) recombinant vaccine candidates. The RBD and N were separately expressed in E. coli and purified using column chromatography. The female Balb/c mice were immunized subcutaneously with the combination of purified RBD and N alone or formulated with saponin adjuvant in a two-week interval in three doses. Neutralization antibody (Nabs) titers against the SARS-CoV-2 were detected by a Surrogate Virus Neutralization (sVNT) Test. Also, total IgG and IgG1, and IgG2a isotypes and the balance of cytokines in the spleen (IFN-γ, Granzyme B, IL-4, and IL-12) were measured by ELISA. The percentages of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were quantified by flow cytometry. The lymphoproliferative activity of restimulated spleen cells was also determined. The findings showed that the combination of RBD and N proteins formulated with saponin significantly promoted specific total IgG and neutralization antibodies, elicited robust specific lymphoproliferative and T cell response responses. Moreover, marked increase in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were observed in the adjuvanted RBD and N vaccine group compared with other groups. The results suggest that the formulations are able to elicit a specific long-lasting mixed Th1/Th2 balanced immune response. Our data indicate the significance of the saponin-adjuvanted RBD/N vaccine in the design of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines and provide a rationale for the development of a protective long-lasting and strong vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Ghaemi
- Department of Influenza and other respiratory viruses, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Roshani Asl
- Department of Influenza and other respiratory viruses, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Delaram Ahmadi
- Department of Influenza and other respiratory viruses, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Sahar Bathaeian
- Department of Influenza and other respiratory viruses, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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13
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Newly Emerged Antiviral Strategies for SARS-CoV-2: From Deciphering Viral Protein Structural Function to the Development of Vaccines, Antibodies, and Small Molecules. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116083. [PMID: 35682761 PMCID: PMC9181103 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the infection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has become the most severe health crisis, causing extraordinary economic disruption worldwide. SARS-CoV-2 is a single-stranded RNA-enveloped virus. The process of viral replication and particle packaging is finished in host cells. Viral proteins, including both structural and nonstructural proteins, play important roles in the viral life cycle, which also provides the targets of treatment. Therefore, a better understanding of the structural function of virus proteins is crucial to speed up the development of vaccines and therapeutic strategies. Currently, the structure and function of proteins encoded by the SARS-CoV-2 genome are reviewed by several studies. However, most of them are based on the analysis of SARS-CoV-1 particles, lacking a systematic review update for SARS-CoV-2. Here, we specifically focus on the structure and function of proteins encoded by SARS-CoV-2. Viral proteins that contribute to COVID-19 infection and disease pathogenesis are reviewed according to the most recent research findings. The structure-function correlation of viral proteins provides a fundamental rationale for vaccine development and targeted therapy. Then, current antiviral vaccines are updated, such as inactive viral vaccines and protein-based vaccines and DNA, mRNA, and circular RNA vaccines. A summary of other therapeutic options is also reviewed, including monoclonal antibodies such as a cross-neutralizer antibody, a constructed cobinding antibody, a dual functional monoclonal antibody, an antibody cocktail, and an engineered bispecific antibody, as well as peptide-based inhibitors, chemical compounds, and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) exploration. Overall, viral proteins and their functions provide the basis for targeted therapy and vaccine development.
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14
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Feng W, Xiang Y, Wu L, Chen Z, Li Q, Chen J, Guo Y, Xia D, Chen N, Zhang L, Zhu S, Zhao K. Nucleocapsid protein of SARS‐CoV‐2 is a potential target for developing new generation of vaccine. J Clin Lab Anal 2022; 36:e24479. [PMID: 35527696 PMCID: PMC9169192 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.24479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Methods Results Conclusion
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixu Feng
- School of Basic Medical Science Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou China
| | - Yunru Xiang
- School of Basic Medical Science Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou China
| | - Lianpeng Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine The Sixth People Hospital of Wenzhou Wenzhou China
| | - Zhuo Chen
- School of Basic Medical Science Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou China
| | - Qingfeng Li
- School of Basic Medical Science Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou China
| | - Jun Chen
- School of Basic Medical Science Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou China
| | - Yanru Guo
- School of Basic Medical Science Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou China
| | - Dandan Xia
- Department of Laboratory Medicine The Sixth People Hospital of Wenzhou Wenzhou China
| | - Na Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine The Sixth People Hospital of Wenzhou Wenzhou China
| | - Lifang Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Science Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou China
| | - Shanli Zhu
- School of Basic Medical Science Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou China
| | - Kong‐Nan Zhao
- School of Basic Medical Science Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuyin Children Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou China
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology The University of Queensland St Lucia Queensland Australia
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15
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Kar S, Devnath P, Emran TB, Tallei TE, Mitra S, Dhama K. Oral and intranasal vaccines against SARS-CoV-2: Current progress, prospects, advantages, and challenges. Immun Inflamm Dis 2022; 10:e604. [PMID: 35349752 PMCID: PMC8959423 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has caused a deadly pandemic in the 21st century, resulting in many deaths, economic loss, and international immobility. Vaccination represents the only mechanism to defeat this virus. Several intramuscular vaccines have been approved and are currently used worldwide. Main body However, global mass vaccination has not been achieved owing to several limitations, including the need for expertise to administer the injection‐based vaccine, improper distribution of the vaccine, and lack of cold chain facilities, particularly in resource‐poor, low‐income countries. Mucosal vaccines are typically administered either orally or nasally, and several studies have shown promising results for developing these vaccines against SARS‐CoV‐2 that might serve as viable alternatives to current vaccines. SARS‐CoV‐2 invades the human body via oral and nasal mucosal surfaces; thus, an oral or nasal vaccine can trigger the immune system to inhibit the virus at the mucosal level, preventing further transmission via a strong mucosal and systematic immune response. Although several approaches toward developing a mucosal vaccine are currently being tested, additional attention is required. Conclusion In this article, the current approaches used to develop effective oral and nasal mucosal vaccines against SARS‐CoV‐2 and their benefits, prospects, and challenges have been summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanchita Kar
- Department of Infectious Disease, Institute of Developing Science and Health Initiatives, ECB Chattar, Dhaka, Bangladesh.,Department of Microbiology, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Popy Devnath
- Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Talha B Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Trina E Tallei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia.,Division of Sustainable Use of Wallacea Area, The University Centre of Excellence for Biotechnology and Conservation of Wallacea, Institute for Research and Community Services, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
| | - Saikat Mitra
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
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16
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Dhama K, Dhawan M, Tiwari R, Emran TB, Mitra S, Rabaan AA, Alhumaid S, Alawi ZA, Al Mutair A. COVID-19 intranasal vaccines: current progress, advantages, prospects, and challenges. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2022; 18:2045853. [PMID: 35258416 PMCID: PMC8935456 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2022.2045853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple vaccines have recently been developed, and almost all the countries are presently vaccinating their population to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. Most of the COVID-19 vaccines in use are administered via intramuscular (IM) injection, eliciting protective humor and cellular immunity. COVID-19 intranasal (IN) vaccines are also being developed that have shown promising ability to induce a significant amount of antibody-mediated immune response and a robust cell-mediated immunity as well as hold the added ability to stimulate protective mucosal immunity along with the additional advantage of the ease of administration as compared to IM injected vaccines. By inducing secretory IgA antibody responses specifically in the nasal compartment, the intranasal SARS-CoV-2 vaccine can prevent virus infection, replication, shedding, and disease development, as well as possibly limits virus transmission. This article highlights the current progress, advantages, prospects, and challenges in developing intranasal COVID-19 vaccines for countering the ongoing pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, India
| | - Manish Dhawan
- Department of Microbiology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India.,The Trafford Group of Colleges, Manchester, UK
| | - Ruchi Tiwari
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Sciences, Uttar Pradesh Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU), Mathura, India
| | - Talha Bin Emran
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, India.,Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Saikat Mitra
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Ali A Rabaan
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.,College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Public Health and Nutrition, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan
| | - Saad Alhumaid
- Administration of Pharmaceutical Care, Al-Ahsa Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zainab Al Alawi
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abbas Al Mutair
- Research Center, Almoosa Specialist Hospital, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia.,College of Nursing, Princess Norah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,School of Nursing, Wollongong University, Wollongong, Australia
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17
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Alu A, Chen L, Lei H, Wei Y, Tian X, Wei X. Intranasal COVID-19 vaccines: From bench to bed. EBioMedicine 2022; 76:103841. [PMID: 35085851 PMCID: PMC8785603 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.103841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently licensed COVID-19 vaccines are all designed for intramuscular (IM) immunization. However, vaccination today failed to prevent the virus infection through the upper respiratory tract, which is partially due to the absence of mucosal immunity activation. Despite the emerging severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants, the next generation of COVID-19 vaccine is in demand and intranasal (IN) vaccination method has been demonstrated to be potent in inducing both mucosal and systemic immune responses. Presently, although not licensed, various IN vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 are under intensive investigation, with 12 candidates reaching clinical trials at different phases. In this review, we give a detailed description about current status of IN COVID-19 vaccines, including virus-vectored vaccines, recombinant subunit vaccines and live attenuated vaccines. The ongoing clinical trials for IN vaccines are highlighted. Additionally, the underlying mechanisms of mucosal immunity and potential mucosal adjuvants and nasal delivery devices are also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aqu Alu
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Li Chen
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hong Lei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yuquan Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiaohe Tian
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
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18
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Wei SC, Hsu WT, Chiu CH, Chang FY, Lo HR, Liao CY, Yang HI, Chou YC, Tsai CH, Chao YC. An Integrated Platform for Serological Detection and Vaccination of COVID-19. Front Immunol 2022; 12:771011. [PMID: 35003088 PMCID: PMC8734241 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.771011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is an ongoing pandemic. Detection and vaccination are essential for disease control, but they are distinct and complex operations that require significant improvements. Here, we developed an integrated detection and vaccination system to greatly simplify these efforts. We constructed recombinant baculoviruses to separately display the nucleocapsid (N) and spike (S) proteins of SARS-CoV-2. Insect cells infected by the recombinant baculoviruses were used to generate a cell-based system to accurately detect patient serum. Notably, although well-recognized by our newly developed detection system in which S-displaying insect cells acted as antigen, anti-S antibodies from many patients were barely detectable by Western blot, evidencing that COVID-19 patients primarily produce conformation-dependent anti-S antibodies. Furthermore, the same baculovirus constructs can display N (N-Bac) or S (S-Bac) on the baculovirus envelope and serve as vector vaccines. Animal experiments show that S-Bac or N-Bac immunization in mice elicited a strong and specific antibody response, and S-Bac in particular stimulated effective neutralizing antibodies without the need for adjuvant. Our integrated system maintains antigen conformation and membrane structure to facilitate serum detection and antibody stimulation. Thus, compared with currently available technologies, our system represents a simplified and efficient platform for better SARS-CoV-2 detection and vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Chan Wei
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Ting Hsu
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Hsiang Chiu
- Division of Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Feng-Yee Chang
- Division of Infectious Disease and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Huei-Ru Lo
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Yu Liao
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hwai-I Yang
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chi Chou
- Biomedical Translation Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hsuan Tsai
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chan Chao
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture and Nature Resources, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Entomology, College of Bioresources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, College of Bioresources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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19
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Jiang W, Shi L, Cai L, Wang X, Li J, Li H, Liang J, Gu Q, Ji G, Li J, Liu L, Sun M. A two-adjuvant multiantigen candidate vaccine induces superior protective immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 challenge. Cell Rep 2021; 37:110112. [PMID: 34863353 PMCID: PMC8610932 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.110112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
An ideal vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 is expected to elicit broad immunity to prevent viral infection and disease, with efficient viral clearance in the upper respiratory tract (URT). Here, the N protein and prefusion-full S protein (SFLmut) are combined with flagellin (KF) and cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) to generate a candidate vaccine, and this vaccine elicits stronger systemic and mucosal humoral immunity than vaccines containing other forms of the S protein. Furthermore, the candidate vaccine administered via intranasal route can enhance local immune responses in the respiratory tract. Importantly, human ACE2 transgenic mice given the candidate vaccine are protected against lethal SARS-CoV-2 challenge, with superior protection in the URT compared with that in mice immunized with an inactivated vaccine. In summary, the developed vaccine can elicit a multifaceted immune response and induce robust viral clearance in the URT, which makes it a potential vaccine for preventing disease and infection of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenwen Jiang
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Vaccine Research and Development on Severe Infectious Diseases, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Li Shi
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Lukui Cai
- Laboratory of Vaccine Development, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Vaccine Research and Development on Severe Infectious Diseases, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jingyan Li
- Laboratory of Vaccine Development, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Heng Li
- Laboratory of Respiratory Infection, Kunming National High-level Biosafety Research Center, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jiangli Liang
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Vaccine Research and Development on Severe Infectious Diseases, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Qin Gu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Vaccine Research and Development on Severe Infectious Diseases, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Guang Ji
- Laboratory of Vaccine Development, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jing Li
- Laboratory of Respiratory Infection, Kunming National High-level Biosafety Research Center, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Longding Liu
- Laboratory of Respiratory Infection, Kunming National High-level Biosafety Research Center, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
| | - Mingbo Sun
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Vaccine Research and Development on Severe Infectious Diseases, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China; Laboratory of Vaccine Development, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
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20
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Daian e Silva DSDO, da Fonseca FG. The Rise of Vectored Vaccines: A Legacy of the COVID-19 Global Crisis. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9101101. [PMID: 34696209 PMCID: PMC8538930 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9101101] [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: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic represents a milestone in vaccine research and development in a global context. A worldwide effort, as never seen before, involved scientists from all over the world in favor of the fast, accurate and precise construction and testing of immunogens against the new coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. Among all the vaccine strategies put into play for study and validation, those based on recombinant viral vectors gained special attention due to their effectiveness, ease of production and the amplitude of the triggered immune responses. Some of these new vaccines have already been approved for emergency/full use, while others are still in pre- and clinical trials. In this article we will highlight what is behind adeno-associated vectors, such as those presented by the immunogens ChaAdOx1, Sputnik, Convidecia (CanSino, Tianjin, China), and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson, New Jersey, EUA), in addition to other promising platforms such as Vaccinia virus MVA, influenza virus, and measles virus, among others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Soares de Oliveira Daian e Silva
- Laboratório de Virologia Básica e Aplicada, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-(31)-3409-2745
| | - Flávio Guimarães da Fonseca
- Laboratório de Virologia Básica e Aplicada, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil;
- CT Vacinas, BH-TEC Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31310-260, Brazil
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21
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The method utilized to purify the SARS-CoV-2 N protein can affect its molecular properties. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 188:391-403. [PMID: 34371045 PMCID: PMC8343380 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
One of the main structural proteins of Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the nucleocapsid protein (N). The basic function of this protein is to bind genomic RNA and to form a protective nucleocapsid in the mature virion. The intrinsic ability of the N protein to interact with nucleic acids makes its purification very challenging. Therefore, typically employed purification methods appear to be insufficient for removing nucleic acid contamination. In this study, we present a novel purification protocol that enables the N protein to be prepared without any bound nucleic acids. We also performed comparative structural analysis of the N protein contaminated with nucleic acids and free of contamination and showed significant differences in the structural and phase separation properties of the protein. These results indicate that nucleic-acid contamination may severely affect molecular properties of the purified N protein. In addition, the notable ability of the N protein to form condensates whose morphology and behaviour suggest more ordered forms resembling gel-like or solid structures is described.
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22
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The preparation of N-IgY targeting SARS-CoV-2 and its immunomodulation to IFN-γ production in vitro. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 96:107797. [PMID: 34162159 PMCID: PMC8133490 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107797] [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: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Specific antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 structural protein have a wide range of effects in the diagnose, prevention and treatment of the COVID-19 epidemic. Among them, egg yolk immunoglobulin Y (IgY), which has high safety, high yield, and without inducing antibody-dependent enhancement, is an important biological candidate. In this study, specific IgY against the conservative nucleocapsid protein (NP) of SARS-CoV-2 was obtained by immunizing hens. Through a series of optimized precipitation and ultrafiltration extraction schemes, its purity was increased to 98%. The hyperimmune IgY against NP (N-IgY) at a titer of 1:50,000 showed strong NP binding ability, which laid the foundation of N-IgY's application targeting NP. In an in vitro immunoregulatory study, N-IgY (1 mg/mL) modulated NP-induced immune response by alleviating type II interferon secretion stimulated by NP (20 μg/mL). In summary, N-IgY can be mass produced by achievable method, which endows it with potential value against the current COVID-19 pandemic.
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23
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Ryzhikov AB, Ryzhikov ЕА, Bogryantseva MP, Usova SV, Danilenko ED, Nechaeva EA, Pyankov OV, Pyankova OG, Gudymo AS, Bodnev SA, Onkhonova GS, Sleptsova ES, Kuzubov VI, Ryndyuk NN, Ginko ZI, Petrov VN, Moiseeva AA, Torzhkova PY, Pyankov SA, Tregubchak TV, Antonec DV, Gavrilova EV, Maksyutov RA. A single blind, placebo-controlled randomized study of the safety, reactogenicity and immunogenicity of the “EpiVacCorona” Vaccine for the prevention of COVID-19, in volunteers aged 18–60 years (phase I–II). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021. [DOI: 10.15789/2220-7619-asb-1699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Vaccination of the population is one of the most effective countermeasures in responding to the pandemic caused by novel coronavirus infection. Therefore, scientists all over the world have been working to develop effective and safe vaccines. We have developed a synthetic peptide vaccine, EpiVacCorona, against novel SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, which is a suspension for intramuscular administration containing a composition of chemically synthesized peptide immunogens of the S protein of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus conjugated to a carrier protein and adsorbed on aluminum hydroxide. Phase I–II clinical trials of the vaccine have started that consist of two stages: Stage 1 is an open study of the safety, reactogenicity, and immunological activity of the vaccine with the involvement of 14 volunteers aged 18–30 years; Stage 2 is a single blind, comparative, randomized placebo-controlled study with the involvement of 86 volunteers. The study involved volunteers aged 18–60 years; the vaccine was injected intramuscularly twice, spaced 21 days apart between injections. All local reactions in response to vaccine administration were mild, such as a short-term pain at the injection site. There were no signs of development of local or systemic adverse reactions. The two-dose vaccination scheme induced the production of antibodies, specific to the antigens that make up the vaccine, in 100% of the volunteers. Seroconversion with a neutralizing antibody titer ≥ 1:20 was reported in 100% of the volunteers 21 days following the second immunization dose. No seroconversion was reported in the groups of volunteers vaccinated with a placebo. The peptide-based EpiVacCorona Vaccine has low reactogenicity and is a safe, immunogenic product. Clinical Trials Identifier: NCT04527575.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. B. Ryzhikov
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | | | - M. P. Bogryantseva
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - S. V. Usova
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - E. D. Danilenko
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - E. A. Nechaeva
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - O. V. Pyankov
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - O. G. Pyankova
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - A. S. Gudymo
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - S. A. Bodnev
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - G. S. Onkhonova
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | | | - V. I. Kuzubov
- Medical Unit No. 163 of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia
| | - N. N. Ryndyuk
- Medical Unit No. 163 of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia
| | - Z. I. Ginko
- Medical Unit No. 163 of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia
| | - V. N. Petrov
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - A. A. Moiseeva
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - P. Yu. Torzhkova
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - S. A. Pyankov
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - T. V. Tregubchak
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - D. V. Antonec
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - E. V. Gavrilova
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
| | - R. A. Maksyutov
- State Scientific Center of Virology and Biotechnology “Vector” of Rospotrebnadzor
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