1
|
Bie Y, Zhang J, Chen J, Zhang Y, Huang M, Zhang L, Zhou X, Qiu Y. Design of antiviral AGO2-dependent short hairpin RNAs. Virol Sin 2024:S1995-820X(24)00069-5. [PMID: 38734183 DOI: 10.1016/j.virs.2024.05.001] [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: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The increasing emergence and re-emergence of RNA virus outbreaks underlines the urgent need to develop effective antivirals. RNA interference (RNAi) is a sequence-specific gene silencing mechanism that is triggered by small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) or short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs), which exhibits significant promise for antiviral therapy. AGO2-dependent shRNA (agshRNA) generates a single-stranded guide RNA and presents significant advantages over traditional siRNA and shRNA. In this study, we applied a logistic regression algorithm to a previously published chemically siRNA efficacy dataset and built a machine learning-based model with high predictive power. Using this model, we designed siRNA sequences targeting diverse RNA viruses, including human enterovirus A71 (EV71), Zika virus (ZIKV), dengue virus 2 (DENV2), mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and transformed them into agshRNAs. We validated the performance of our agshRNA design by evaluating antiviral efficacies of agshRNAs in cells infected with different viruses. Using the agshRNA targeting EV71 as an example, we showed that the anti-EV71 effect of agshRNA was more potent compared with the corresponding siRNA and shRNA. Moreover, the antiviral effect of agshRNA is dependent on AGO2-processed guide RNA, which can load into the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). We also confirmed the antiviral effect of agshRNA in vivo. Together, this work develops a novel antiviral strategy that combines machine learning-based algorithm with agshRNA design to custom design antiviral agshRNAs with high efficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Bie
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jieling Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China
| | - Jiyao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yumin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Muhan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Leike Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xi Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China.
| | - Yang Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
A Novel Approach of Antiviral Drugs Targeting Viral Genomes. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10081552. [PMID: 36013970 PMCID: PMC9414836 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10081552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Outbreaks of viral diseases, which cause morbidity and mortality in animals and humans, are increasing annually worldwide. Vaccines, antiviral drugs, and antibody therapeutics are the most effective tools for combating viral infection. The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, in particular, raises an urgent need for the development of rapid and broad-spectrum therapeutics. Current antiviral drugs and antiviral antibodies, which are mostly specific at protein levels, have encountered difficulties because the rapid evolution of mutant viral strains resulted in drug resistance. Therefore, degrading viral genomes is considered a novel approach for developing antiviral drugs. The current article highlights all potent candidates that exhibit antiviral activity by digesting viral genomes such as RNases, RNA interference, interferon-stimulated genes 20, and CRISPR/Cas systems. Besides that, we introduce a potential single-chain variable fragment (scFv) that presents antiviral activity against various DNA and RNA viruses due to its unique nucleic acid hydrolyzing characteristic, promoting it as a promising candidate for broad-spectrum antiviral therapeutics.
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang Q, Yang J, Tillieux S, Guo Z, Natividade RDS, Koehler M, Petitjean S, Cui Z, Alsteens D. Stepwise Enzymatic-Dependent Mechanism of Ebola Virus Binding to Cell Surface Receptors Monitored by AFM. NANO LETTERS 2022; 22:1641-1648. [PMID: 35108019 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.1c04677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Ebola virus (EBOV) is responsible for several outbreaks of hemorrhagic fever with high mortality, raising great public concern. Several cell surface receptors have been identified to mediate EBOV binding and internalization, including phosphatidylserine (PS) receptors (TIM-1) and C-type lectin receptors (DC-SIGNR). However, the role of TIM-1 during early cell surface binding remains elusive and in particular whether TIM-1 acts as a specific receptor for EBOV. Here, we used force-distance curve-based atomic force microscopy (FD-based AFM) to quantify the binding between TIM-1/DC-SIGNR and EBOV glycoprotein (GP) and observed that both receptors specifically bind to GP with high-affinity. Since TIM-1 can also directly interact with PS at the single-molecule level, we also confirmed that TIM-1 acts as dual-function receptors of EBOV. These results highlight the direct involvement of multiple high-affinity receptors in the first steps of binding to cell surfaces, thus offering new perspectives for the development of anti-EBOV therapeutic molecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingrong Zhang
- Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Science and Technology, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve 1348, Belgium
| | - Jinsung Yang
- Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Science and Technology, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve 1348, Belgium
| | - Sueli Tillieux
- Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Science and Technology, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve 1348, Belgium
| | - Zhengyuan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Rita Dos Santos Natividade
- Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Science and Technology, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve 1348, Belgium
| | - Melanie Koehler
- Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Science and Technology, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve 1348, Belgium
| | - Simon Petitjean
- Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Science and Technology, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve 1348, Belgium
| | - Zongqiang Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - David Alsteens
- Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Science and Technology, Université Catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve 1348, Belgium
- Walloon Excellence in Life sciences and Biotechnology (WELBIO), Wavre 1300, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ray B, Ali I, Jana S, Mukherjee S, Pal S, Ray S, Schütz M, Marschall M. Antiviral Strategies Using Natural Source-Derived Sulfated Polysaccharides in the Light of the COVID-19 Pandemic and Major Human Pathogenic Viruses. Viruses 2021; 14:35. [PMID: 35062238 PMCID: PMC8781365 DOI: 10.3390/v14010035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Only a mere fraction of the huge variety of human pathogenic viruses can be targeted by the currently available spectrum of antiviral drugs. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) outbreak has highlighted the urgent need for molecules that can be deployed quickly to treat novel, developing or re-emerging viral infections. Sulfated polysaccharides are found on the surfaces of both the susceptible host cells and the majority of human viruses, and thus can play an important role during viral infection. Such polysaccharides widely occurring in natural sources, specifically those converted into sulfated varieties, have already proved to possess a high level and sometimes also broad-spectrum antiviral activity. This antiviral potency can be determined through multifold molecular pathways, which in many cases have low profiles of cytotoxicity. Consequently, several new polysaccharide-derived drugs are currently being investigated in clinical settings. We reviewed the present status of research on sulfated polysaccharide-based antiviral agents, their structural characteristics, structure-activity relationships, and the potential of clinical application. Furthermore, the molecular mechanisms of sulfated polysaccharides involved in viral infection or in antiviral activity, respectively, are discussed, together with a focus on the emerging methodology contributing to polysaccharide-based drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bimalendu Ray
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan 713104, West Bengal, India; (I.A.); (S.J.); (S.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Imran Ali
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan 713104, West Bengal, India; (I.A.); (S.J.); (S.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Subrata Jana
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan 713104, West Bengal, India; (I.A.); (S.J.); (S.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Shuvam Mukherjee
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan 713104, West Bengal, India; (I.A.); (S.J.); (S.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Saikat Pal
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan 713104, West Bengal, India; (I.A.); (S.J.); (S.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Sayani Ray
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan 713104, West Bengal, India; (I.A.); (S.J.); (S.M.); (S.P.)
| | - Martin Schütz
- Institute for Clinical and Molecular Virology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) of Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Manfred Marschall
- Institute for Clinical and Molecular Virology, Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) of Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Vasudevan K, Thirumal Kumar D, Udhaya Kumar S, Saleem A, Nagasundaram N, Siva R, Tayubi IA, George Priya Doss C, Zayed H. A computational overview on phylogenetic characterization, pathogenic mutations, and drug targets for Ebola virus disease. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2021; 61:28-35. [PMID: 34563987 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2021.08.015] [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: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The World Health Organization declared Ebola virus disease (EVD) as the major outbreak in the 20th century. EVD was first identified in 1976 in South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. EVD was transmitted from infected fruit bats to humans via contact with infected animal body fluids. The Ebola virus (EBOV) has a genome size of ∼18,959 bp. It encodes seven distinct proteins: nucleoprotein (NP), glycoprotein (GP), viral proteins VP24, VP30, VP35, matrix protein VP40, and polymerase L is considered a prime target for potential antiviral strategies. The current US FDA-approved anti-EVD vaccine, ERVERBO, and the other equally effective anti-EBOV combinations of three fully human monoclonal antibodies such as REGN-EB3, primarily target the envelope glycoprotein. This work elaborates on the EBOV's phylogenetic structure and the crucial mutations associated with viral pathogenicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karthick Vasudevan
- School of Applied Sciences, Reva University, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
| | - D Thirumal Kumar
- Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - S Udhaya Kumar
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Aisha Saleem
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - N Nagasundaram
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - R Siva
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Iftikhar Aslam Tayubi
- Faculty of Computing and Information Technology, King Abdulaziz University, Rabigh, 21911, Saudi Arabia
| | - C George Priya Doss
- School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Hatem Zayed
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Monty MA, Islam MA, Nan X, Tan J, Tuhin IJ, Tang X, Miao M, Wu D, Yu L. Emerging role of RNA interference in immune cells engineering and its therapeutic synergism in immunotherapy. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:1741-1755. [PMID: 33608889 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
RNAi effectors (e.g. siRNA, shRNA and miRNA) can trigger the silencing of specific genes causing alteration of genomic functions becoming a new therapeutic area for the treatment of infectious diseases, neurodegenerative disorders and cancer. In cancer treatment, RNAi effectors showed potential immunomodulatory actions by down-regulating immuno-suppressive proteins, such as PD-1 and CTLA-4, which restrict immune cell function and present challenges in cancer immunotherapy. Therefore, compared with extracellular targeting by antibodies, RNAi-mediated cell-intrinsic disruption of inhibitory pathways in immune cells could promote an increased anti-tumour immune response. Along with non-viral vectors, DNA-based RNAi strategies might be a more promising method for immunomodulation to silence multiple inhibitory pathways in T cells than immune checkpoint blockade antibodies. Thus, in this review, we discuss diverse RNAi implementation strategies, with recent viral and non-viral mediated RNAi synergism to immunotherapy that augments the anti-tumour immunity. Finally, we provide the current progress of RNAi in clinical pipeline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masuma Akter Monty
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Md Ariful Islam
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Nan
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingwen Tan
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Israth Jahan Tuhin
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaowen Tang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Miao Miao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Depei Wu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lei Yu
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Molecular Therapeutics and New Drug Development, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Read CM, Plante K, Rafael G, Rossi SL, Braun W, Weaver SC, Schein CH. Designing multivalent immunogens for alphavirus vaccine optimization. Virology 2021; 561:117-124. [PMID: 33823988 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2020.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
There is a pressing need for vaccines against mosquito-borne alphaviruses such as Venezualen and eastern equine encephalitis viruses (VEEV, EEEV). We demonstrate an approach to vaccine development based on physicochemical properties (PCP) of amino acids to design a PCP-consensus sequence of the epitope-rich B domain of the VEEV major antigenic E2 protein. The consensus "spike" domain was incorporated into a live-attenuated VEEV vaccine candidate (ZPC/IRESv1). Mice inoculated with either ZPC/IRESv1 or the same virus containing the consensus E2 protein fragment (VEEVconE2) were protected against lethal challenge with VEEV strains ZPC-738 and 3908, and Mucambo virus (MUCV, related to VEEV), and had comparable neutralizing antibody titers against each virus. Both vaccines induced partial protection against Madariaga virus (MADV), a close relative of EEEV, lowering mortality from 60% to 20%. Thus PCP-consensus sequences can be integrated into a replicating virus that could, with further optimization, provide a broad-spectrum vaccine against encephalitic alphaviruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C M Read
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Kenneth Plante
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA; Institute for Human Infections and Immunity (IHII), University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA; World Reference Center for Emerging Viruses and Arboviruses, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Grace Rafael
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Shannan L Rossi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA; Institute for Human Infections and Immunity (IHII), University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Werner Braun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA; Sealy Center for Structural Biology and Molecular Biophysics, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Scott C Weaver
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA; Institute for Human Infections and Immunity (IHII), University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA; World Reference Center for Emerging Viruses and Arboviruses, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA; Sealy Center for Structural Biology and Molecular Biophysics, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Catherine H Schein
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA; Institute for Human Infections and Immunity (IHII), University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rahimi A, Mirzazadeh A, Tavakolpour S. Genetics and genomics of SARS-CoV-2: A review of the literature with the special focus on genetic diversity and SARS-CoV-2 genome detection. Genomics 2021; 113:1221-1232. [PMID: 33007398 PMCID: PMC7525243 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2020.09.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The outbreak of 2019-novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, started in late 2019; in a short time, it has spread rapidly all over the world. Although some possible antiviral and anti-inflammatory medications are available, thousands of people are dying daily. Well-understanding of the SARS-CoV-2 genome is not only essential for the development of new treatments/vaccines, but it also can be used for improving the sensitivity and specificity of current approaches for virus detection. Accordingly, we reviewed the most critical findings related to the genetics of the SARS-CoV-2, with a specific focus on genetic diversity and reported mutations, molecular-based diagnosis assays, using interfering RNA technology for the treatment of patients, and genetic-related vaccination strategies. Additionally, considering the unanswered questions or uncertainties in these regards, different topics were discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Rahimi
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Azin Mirzazadeh
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran,Joint Bioinformatics Graduate Program, University of Arkansas Little Rock and University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Soheil Tavakolpour
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Roychoudhury S, Das A, Sengupta P, Dutta S, Roychoudhury S, Choudhury AP, Ahmed ABF, Bhattacharjee S, Slama P. Viral Pandemics of the Last Four Decades: Pathophysiology, Health Impacts and Perspectives. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E9411. [PMID: 33333995 PMCID: PMC7765415 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17249411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The twenty-first century has witnessed some of the deadliest viral pandemics with far-reaching consequences. These include the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) (1981), Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV) (2002), Influenza A virus subtype H1N1 (A/H1N1) (2009), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) (2012) and Ebola virus (2013) and the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) (2019-present). Age- and gender-based characterizations suggest that SARS-CoV-2 resembles SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV with regard tohigher fatality rates in males, and in the older population with comorbidities. The invasion-mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV, involves binding of its spike protein with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors; MERS-CoV utilizes dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4), whereas H1N1 influenza is equipped with hemagglutinin protein. The viral infections-mediated immunomodulation, and progressive inflammatory state may affect the functions of several other organs. Although no effective commercial vaccine is available for any of the viruses, those against SARS-CoV-2 are being developed at an unprecedented speed. Until now, only Pfizer/BioNTech's vaccine has received temporary authorization from the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. Given the frequent emergence of viral pandemics in the 21st century, proper understanding of their characteristics and modes of action are essential to address the immediate and long-term health consequences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anandan Das
- Department of Life Science and Bioinformatics, Assam University, Silchar 788011, India;
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, MAHSA University, SP2, Bandar Saujana Putra, Jenjarom, Selangor 42610, Malaysia;
| | - Sulagna Dutta
- Department of Oral Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, SP2, Bandar Saujana Putra, Jenjarom, Selangor 42610, Malaysia;
| | - Shatabhisha Roychoudhury
- Department of Microbiology, R. G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata 700004, India;
- Health Centre, Assam University, Silchar 788011, India
| | - Arun Paul Choudhury
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Silchar Medical College and Hospital, Silchar 788014, India; (A.P.C.); (A.B.F.A.)
| | - A. B. Fuzayel Ahmed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Silchar Medical College and Hospital, Silchar 788014, India; (A.P.C.); (A.B.F.A.)
| | | | - Petr Slama
- Department of Animal Morphology, Physiology and Genetics, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 613 00 Brno, Czech Republic;
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Le TK, Paris C, Khan KS, Robson F, Ng WL, Rocchi P. Nucleic Acid-Based Technologies Targeting Coronaviruses. Trends Biochem Sci 2020; 46:351-365. [PMID: 33309323 PMCID: PMC7691141 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2020.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is currently creating a global health emergency. This crisis is driving a worldwide effort to develop effective vaccines, prophylactics, and therapeutics. Nucleic acid (NA)-based treatments hold great potential to combat outbreaks of coronaviruses (CoVs) due to their rapid development, high target specificity, and the capacity to increase druggability. Here, we review key anti-CoV NA-based technologies, including antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), siRNAs, RNA-targeting clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats-CRISPR-associated protein (CRISPR-Cas), and mRNA vaccines, and discuss improved delivery methods and combination therapies with other antiviral drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thi Khanh Le
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, CRCM, Inserm UMR1068, CNRS UMR7258, Aix-Marseille University U105, Institut Paoli-Calmettes Marseille, France; Department of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of Hanoi (USTH), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Clément Paris
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, CRCM, Inserm UMR1068, CNRS UMR7258, Aix-Marseille University U105, Institut Paoli-Calmettes Marseille, France
| | - Khadija Shahed Khan
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Fran Robson
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Wai-Lung Ng
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Palma Rocchi
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Marseille, CRCM, Inserm UMR1068, CNRS UMR7258, Aix-Marseille University U105, Institut Paoli-Calmettes Marseille, France.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bianculli RH, Mase JD, Schulz MD. Antiviral Polymers: Past Approaches and Future Possibilities. Macromolecules 2020. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.0c01273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel H. Bianculli
- Department of Chemistry, Macromolecules Innovation Institute (MII), Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Jonathan D. Mase
- Department of Chemistry, Macromolecules Innovation Institute (MII), Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Michael D. Schulz
- Department of Chemistry, Macromolecules Innovation Institute (MII), Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
|
13
|
Dhama K, Karthik K, Khandia R, Chakraborty S, Munjal A, Latheef SK, Kumar D, Ramakrishnan MA, Malik YS, Singh R, Malik SVS, Singh RK, Chaicumpa W. Advances in Designing and Developing Vaccines, Drugs, and Therapies to Counter Ebola Virus. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1803. [PMID: 30147687 PMCID: PMC6095993 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Ebola virus (EBOV), a member of the family Filoviridae, is responsible for causing Ebola virus disease (EVD) (formerly named Ebola hemorrhagic fever). This is a severe, often fatal illness with mortality rates varying from 50 to 90% in humans. Although the virus and associated disease has been recognized since 1976, it was only when the recent outbreak of EBOV in 2014-2016 highlighted the danger and global impact of this virus, necessitating the need for coming up with the effective vaccines and drugs to counter its pandemic threat. Albeit no commercial vaccine is available so far against EBOV, a few vaccine candidates are under evaluation and clinical trials to assess their prophylactic efficacy. These include recombinant viral vector (recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus vector, chimpanzee adenovirus type 3-vector, and modified vaccinia Ankara virus), Ebola virus-like particles, virus-like replicon particles, DNA, and plant-based vaccines. Due to improvement in the field of genomics and proteomics, epitope-targeted vaccines have gained top priority. Correspondingly, several therapies have also been developed, including immunoglobulins against specific viral structures small cell-penetrating antibody fragments that target intracellular EBOV proteins. Small interfering RNAs and oligomer-mediated inhibition have also been verified for EVD treatment. Other treatment options include viral entry inhibitors, transfusion of convalescent blood/serum, neutralizing antibodies, and gene expression inhibitors. Repurposed drugs, which have proven safety profiles, can be adapted after high-throughput screening for efficacy and potency for EVD treatment. Herbal and other natural products are also being explored for EVD treatment. Further studies to better understand the pathogenesis and antigenic structures of the virus can help in developing an effective vaccine and identifying appropriate antiviral targets. This review presents the recent advances in designing and developing vaccines, drugs, and therapies to counter the EBOV threat.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, India
| | - Kumaragurubaran Karthik
- Central University Laboratory, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai, India
| | - Rekha Khandia
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, Barkatullah University, Bhopal, India
| | - Sandip Chakraborty
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Agartala, India
| | - Ashok Munjal
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, Barkatullah University, Bhopal, India
| | - Shyma K. Latheef
- Immunology Section, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, India
| | - Deepak Kumar
- Division of Veterinary Biotechnology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, India
| | | | - Yashpal Singh Malik
- Division of Biological Standardization, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, India
| | - Rajendra Singh
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, India
| | - Satya Veer Singh Malik
- Division of Veterinary Public Health, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, India
| | - Raj Kumar Singh
- ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Wanpen Chaicumpa
- Center of Research Excellence on Therapeutic Proteins and Antibody Engineering, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine SIriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Leiva-Suero LE, Morales JM, Villacís-Valencia SE, Escalona-Rabaza M, Quishpe-Jara GDLM, Hernández-Navarro EV, Fernández-Nieto M. Ébola, abordaje clínico integral. REVISTA DE LA FACULTAD DE MEDICINA 2018. [DOI: 10.15446/revfacmed.v66n3.64545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Introducción. El virus del Ébola, antes llamado fiebre hemorrágica del Ébola, es una enfermedad altamente contagiosa con mortalidad entre 50% y 90%, para la cual existen prometedoras opciones de tratamiento que se encuentran en fase de evaluación y uso compasional.Objetivos. Revisar la mejor evidencia médica publicada y analizar el comportamiento de las epidemias por virus del Ébola, sus manifestaciones clínicas, sus complicaciones, los elementos más significativos para su diagnóstico y las nuevas opciones terapéuticas disponibles, para así aprender y aplicar estas experiencias en nuevos brotes.Materiales y métodos. Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática en las bases de datos PubMed, ProQuest, Embase, Redalyc, Ovid, Medline, DynaMed y ClinicalKey durante el periodo 2009-2017 en el contexto internacional, regional y local.Resultados. La revisión sistemática de artículos aportó un total de 51 430 registros, de los cuales 772 eran elegibles; de estos, 722 no eran relevantes, por lo que quedaron incluidos 50. A punto de partida se pudieron precisar los aspectos objeto de esta revisión.Conclusión. La enfermedad causada por el virus del Ébola, a pesar de su alta mortalidad, puede ser prevenida, diagnosticada oportunamente y tratada con efectividad, lo cual permite evaluar su impacto epidemiológico en las áreas endémicas y a nivel mundial. Existe un potencial arsenal terapéutico en fase de experimentación con resultados prometedores.
Collapse
|
15
|
Qureshi A, Tantray VG, Kirmani AR, Ahangar AG. A review on current status of antiviral siRNA. Rev Med Virol 2018; 28:e1976. [PMID: 29656441 PMCID: PMC7169094 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.1976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Viral diseases like influenza, AIDS, hepatitis, and Ebola cause severe epidemics worldwide. Along with their resistant strains, new pathogenic viruses continue to be discovered so creating an ongoing need for new antiviral treatments. RNA interference is a cellular gene‐silencing phenomenon in which sequence‐specific degradation of target mRNA is achieved by means of complementary short interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules. Short interfering RNA technology affords a potential tractable strategy to combat viral pathogenesis because siRNAs are specific, easy to design, and can be directed against multiple strains of a virus by targeting their conserved gene regions. In this review, we briefly summarize the current status of siRNA therapy for representative examples from different virus families. In addition, other aspects like their design, delivery, medical significance, bioinformatics resources, and limitations are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abid Qureshi
- Biomedical Informatics Center, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Srinagar, India
| | - Vaqar Gani Tantray
- Biomedical Informatics Center, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Srinagar, India
| | - Altaf Rehman Kirmani
- Biomedical Informatics Center, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Srinagar, India
| | - Abdul Ghani Ahangar
- Biomedical Informatics Center, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Srinagar, India
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Del Vecchio K, Frick CT, Gc JB, Oda SI, Gerstman BS, Saphire EO, Chapagain PP, Stahelin RV. A cationic, C-terminal patch and structural rearrangements in Ebola virus matrix VP40 protein control its interactions with phosphatidylserine. J Biol Chem 2018; 293:3335-3349. [PMID: 29348171 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m117.816280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Revised: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Ebola virus (EBOV) is a filamentous lipid-enveloped virus that causes hemorrhagic fever with a high fatality rate. Viral protein 40 (VP40) is the major EBOV matrix protein and regulates viral budding from the plasma membrane. VP40 is a transformer/morpheein that can structurally rearrange its native homodimer into either a hexameric filament that facilitates viral budding or an RNA-binding octameric ring that regulates viral transcription. VP40 associates with plasma-membrane lipids such as phosphatidylserine (PS), and this association is critical to budding from the host cell. However, it is poorly understood how different VP40 structures interact with PS, what essential residues are involved in this association, and whether VP40 has true selectivity for PS among different glycerophospholipid headgroups. In this study, we used lipid-binding assays, MD simulations, and cellular imaging to investigate the molecular basis of VP40-PS interactions and to determine whether different VP40 structures (i.e. monomer, dimer, and octamer) can interact with PS-containing membranes. Results from quantitative analysis indicated that VP40 associates with PS vesicles via a cationic patch in the C-terminal domain (Lys224, 225 and Lys274, 275). Substitutions of these residues with alanine reduced PS-vesicle binding by >40-fold and abrogated VP40 localization to the plasma membrane. Dimeric VP40 had 2-fold greater affinity for PS-containing membranes than the monomer, whereas binding of the VP40 octameric ring was reduced by nearly 10-fold. Taken together, these results suggest the different VP40 structures known to form in the viral life cycle harbor different affinities for PS-containing membranes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Del Vecchio
- From the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556
| | - Cary T Frick
- From the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556
| | | | | | | | - Erica Ollmann Saphire
- the Department of Immunology and Microbiology and.,The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, and
| | - Prem P Chapagain
- the Department of Physics and.,Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, Florida 33199
| | - Robert V Stahelin
- From the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, .,the Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Baikerikar S. Curcumin and Natural Derivatives Inhibit Ebola Viral Proteins: An In silico Approach. Pharmacognosy Res 2017; 9:S15-S22. [PMID: 29333037 PMCID: PMC5757320 DOI: 10.4103/pr.pr_30_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ebola viral disease is a severe and mostly fatal disease in humans caused by Ebola virus. This virus belongs to family Filoviridae and is a single-stranded negative-sense virus. There is no single treatment for this disease which puts forth the need to identify new therapy to control and treat this fatal condition. Curcumin, one of the bioactives of turmeric, has proven antiviral property. OBJECTIVE The current study evaluates the inhibitory activity of curcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and tetrahydrocurcumin against Zaire Ebola viral proteins (VPs). MATERIALS AND METHODS Molecular simulation of the Ebola VPs followed by docking studies with ligands comprising curcumin and related compounds was performed. RESULTS The highest binding activity for VP40 is -6.3 kcal/mol, VP35 is -8.3 kcal/mol, VP30 is -8.0 kcal/mol, VP24 is -7.7 kcal/mol, glycoprotein is -7.1 kcal/mol, and nucleoprotein is 6.8 kcal/mol. CONCLUSION Bisdemethoxycurcumin shows better binding affinity than curcumin for most VPs. Metabolite tetrahydrocurcumin also shows binding affinity comparable to curcumin. These results indicate that curcumin, curcuminoids, and metabolite tetrahydrocurcumin can be potential lead compounds for developing a new therapy for Ebola viral disease. SUMMARY Curcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin, and demethoxycurcumin are active constituents of turmeric. Tetrahydrocurcumin is the major metabolite of curcumin formed in the body after consumption and absorption of curcuminoidsCurcuminoids have proven antiviral activityBisdemethoxycurcumin showed maximum inhibition of Ebola viral proteins (VPs) among the curcuminoids in the docking procedure with a docking score as high as -8.3 kcal/molTetrahydrocurcumin showed inhibitory activity against Ebola VPs close to that of curcumin's inhibitory action. Abbreviations Used: EBOV: Ebola virus, GP: Glycoprotein, NP: Nucleoprotein, NPT: Isothermal-isobaric Ensemble, amount of substance (N), pressure (P) and temperature (T) conserved, NVE: Canonical ensemble, amount of substance (N), volume (V) and temperature (T) conserved, VP: Viral protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Baikerikar
- Department of Biotechnology, Thadomal Shahani Engineering College, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
Under a traditional paradigm, only those with the expected background knowledge consume academic literature. The lay press, as well as government and non-government agencies, play a complementary role of extracting findings of high interest or importance and translating them for general viewing. The need for accurate reporting and public advising is paramount when attempting to tackle epidemic outbreaks through behavior change. Yet, public trust in media outlets is at a historic low. The Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication (CERC) model for media reporting on public health emergencies was established in 2005 and has subsequently been used to analyze media reporting on outbreaks of influenza and measles as well as smoking habits and medication compliance. However, no media analysis had yet been performed on the 2013–2016 Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak. This study compared the EVD information relayed by lay press sources with general review articles in the academic literature through a mixed-methods analysis. These findings suggest that comprehensive review articles could not serve as a source to clarify and contextualize the uncertainties around the EVD outbreak, perhaps due to adherence to technical accuracy at the expense of clarity within the context of outbreak conditions. This finding does not imply inferiority of the academic literature, nor does it draw direct causation between confusion in review articles and public misunderstanding. Given the erosion of the barriers siloing academia, combined with the demands of today’s fast-paced media environment, contemporary researchers should realize that no study is outside the public forum and to therefore consider shifting the paradigm to take personal responsibility in the process of accurately translating their scientific words into public policy actions to best serve as a source of clarity.
Collapse
|
19
|
Pacheco DADMRA, Rodrigues AAG, Silva CMLD. Ebola virus - from neglected threat to global emergency state. Rev Assoc Med Bras (1992) 2017; 62:458-67. [PMID: 27656857 DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.62.05.458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2015] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This review aims to update knowledge about Ebola virus disease (EVD) and recent advances in its diagnosis, treatment and prevention. METHOD A literature review was performed using the following databases: ISI Web of Knowledge, PubMed, IRIS, Scopus and the websites of the CDC and the WHO. Additionally, we have included articles and reports referenced in the basic literature search, and news that were considered relevant. RESULTS The Ebola virus, endemic in some parts of Africa, is responsible for a severe form of hemorrhagic fever in humans; bats are probably its natural reservoir. It is an extremely virulent virus and easily transmitted by bodily fluids. EVD's complex pathophysiology, characterized by immunosuppression as well as stimulation of an intense inflammatory response, results in a syndrome similar to septic shock. The diagnosis is difficult due to the initial symptoms that mimic other diseases. Despite the high mortality rates that can amount to 90%, a prophylaxis (chemical or vaccine) or effective treatment does not exist. Two vaccines and experimental therapies are being developed for the prevention and treatment of EVD. CONCLUSION Although the virus is known for about 40 years, the lack of knowledge obtained and the disinterest of government authorities in the countries involved justify the state of emergency currently exists regarding this infectious agent. Only the coordination of multiple entities and the effective commitment of the international community will facilitate the control and effective prevention of EVD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Acácio Agostinho Gonçalves Rodrigues
- PhD - Director of the Department and Laboratory of Microbiology, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade do Porto. MD, Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Burns Unit, Hospital de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmen Maria Lisboa da Silva
- PhD - Professor of the Department and Laboratory of Microbiology, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade do Porto. MD, Department of Dermatovenereology, Hospital São João, Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sweiti H, Ekwunife O, Jaschinski T, Lhachimi SK. Repurposed Therapeutic Agents Targeting the Ebola Virus: A Systematic Review. CURRENT THERAPEUTIC RESEARCH 2017; 84:10-21. [PMID: 28761574 PMCID: PMC5522984 DOI: 10.1016/j.curtheres.2017.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Ebola virus has been responsible for numerous outbreaks since the 1970s, with the most recent outbreak taking place between 2014 and 2016 and causing an international public health emergency. Ebola virus disease (EVD) has a high mortality rate and no approved targeted treatment exists to date. A number of established drugs are being considered as potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of EVD. OBJECTIVE We aimed to identify potential drug repositioning candidates and to assess the scientific evidence available on their efficacy. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature search in MEDLINE, Embase, and other relevant trial registry platforms for studies published between January 1976 and January 2017. We included drug screening, preclinical studies, and clinical studies on repurposed drugs for the treatment of EVD. The risk of bias for animal studies and nonrandomized clinical studies was assessed. The quality of reporting for case series and case reports was evaluated. Finally, we selected drugs approved by established regulatory authorities, which have positive in vitro study outcomes and at least one additional animal or clinical trial. RESULTS We identified 3301 publications, of which 37 studies fulfilled our inclusion criteria. Studies were highly heterogeneous in terms of study type, methodology, and intervention. The risk of bias was high for 13 out of 14 animal studies. We selected 11 drugs with potential anti-EVD therapeutic effects and summarized their evidence. CONCLUSIONS Several established drugs may have therapeutic effects on EVD, but the quality and quantity of current scientific evidence is lacking. This review highlights the need for well-designed and conducted preclinical and clinical research to establish the efficacy of potential repurposed drugs against EVD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hussein Sweiti
- Institute of Health Services Research and Health Economics, School of Medicine, Heinrich-Heine University Dû¥sseldorf, Dû¥sseldorf, Germany
- Surgical Department, Klinikum Frankfurt HûÑchst, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Obinna Ekwunife
- Cooperative Research Group for Evidence-Based Public Health, Department of Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology-BIPS, Bremen, Germany
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Management, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
| | - Thomas Jaschinski
- Department for Evidence-based Health Services Research, Institute for Research in Operative Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - Stefan K. Lhachimi
- Institute of Health Services Research and Health Economics, School of Medicine, Heinrich-Heine University Dû¥sseldorf, Dû¥sseldorf, Germany
- Cooperative Research Group for Evidence-Based Public Health, Department of Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology-BIPS, Bremen, Germany
- Institute for Public Health, Health Sciences Bremen, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Pablo Beca J, Salas SP. [Ethical and health issues posed by the recent Ebola epidemic: What should we learn?]. Rev Med Chil 2017; 144:371-6. [PMID: 27299824 DOI: 10.4067/s0034-98872016000300013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The recent Ebola epidemic that affected several countries in Africa, with very high mortality and a pandemic threat, posed problems of justice, public health, prevention, treatment and research, each of which has relevant ethical issues. Despite severe initial difficulties, an effective international response was achieved, whose outcome has left significant teachings to be considered in order to deal with future epidemics or pandemics. In this article, the authors analyze the main problems faced during the Ebola epidemic, including the unequal distribution of health resources between countries, the need for international collaboration, the requirement for a review of the ethical standards of clinical trials in emergencies, and the necessity of an organized global system of prevention and timely response to these outbreaks. Authors conclude that at the present time health is a global issue without borders, that insufficient healthcare resources in some countries poses risks and affects all countries and that the confrontation of the threats of epidemics requires a solution based in universal solidarity. At the same time, a moral duty to investigate should be acknowledged, seeking a balance between sense of urgency, scientific rigor and involvement of local communities.
Collapse
|
22
|
Filovirus proteins for antiviral drug discovery: A structure/function analysis of surface glycoproteins and virus entry. Antiviral Res 2016; 135:1-14. [PMID: 27640102 PMCID: PMC7113884 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2016.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Revised: 09/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
This review focuses on the recent progress in our understanding of filovirus protein structure/function and its impact on antiviral research. Here we focus on the surface glycoprotein GP1,2 and its different roles in filovirus entry. We first describe the latest advances on the characterization of GP gene-overlapping proteins sGP, ssGP and Δ-peptide. Then, we compare filovirus surface GP1,2 proteins in terms of structure, synthesis and function. As they bear potential in drug-design, the discovery of small organic compounds inhibiting filovirus entry is a currently very active field. Although it is at an early stage, the development of antiviral drugs against Ebola and Marburg virus entry might prove essential to reduce outbreak-associated fatality rates through post-exposure treatment of both suspected and confirmed cases. The filovirus surface glycoprotein is the key player protein responsible for viral entry. Secreted forms of the glycoprotein have been suggested to participate to filovirus virus pathogenicity. Recent structural insights of the filovirus surface glycoprotein highlight new antiviral perspectives. Interesting compounds and innovative antiviral strategies emerge from research and development to inhibit filovirus entry.
Collapse
|
23
|
Madelain V, Nguyen THT, Olivo A, de Lamballerie X, Guedj J, Taburet AM, Mentré F. Ebola Virus Infection: Review of the Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Properties of Drugs Considered for Testing in Human Efficacy Trials. Clin Pharmacokinet 2016; 55:907-23. [PMID: 26798032 PMCID: PMC5680399 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-015-0364-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The 2014-2015 outbreak of Ebola virus disease is the largest epidemic to date in terms of the number of cases, deaths, and affected areas. In October 2015, no antiviral agents had proven antiviral efficacy in patients. However, in September 2014, the World Health Organization inventoried and has since regularly updated a list of potential drug candidates with demonstrated antiviral efficacy in in vitro or animal models. This includes agents belonging to various therapeutic classes, namely direct antiviral agents (favipiravir and BCX4430), a combination of antibodies (ZMapp), type I interferons, RNA interference-based drugs (TKM-Ebola and AVI-7537), and anticoagulant drugs (rNAPc2). Here, we review the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic information presently available for these drugs, using data obtained in healthy volunteers for pharmacokinetics and data obtained in human clinical trials or animal models for pharmacodynamics. Future studies evaluating these drugs in clinical trials are critical to confirm their efficacy in humans, propose appropriate doses, and evaluate the possibility of treatment combinations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Madelain
- INSERM, IAME, UMR 1137, Paris, France
- Université Paris Diderot, IAME, UMR 1137, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Thi Huyen Tram Nguyen
- INSERM, IAME, UMR 1137, Paris, France
- Université Paris Diderot, IAME, UMR 1137, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Anaelle Olivo
- Hospital Bicêtre, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, DHU Hepatinov, INSERM U1184, Center for Immunology of Viral Infections and Autoimmune Diseases, Université Paris-Sud, Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Xavier de Lamballerie
- Aix Marseille Université, IRD French Institute of Research for Development, EHESP French School of Public Health, EPV UMR_D 190 "Emergence des Pathologies Virales", Marseille, France
- Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Jérémie Guedj
- INSERM, IAME, UMR 1137, Paris, France
- Université Paris Diderot, IAME, UMR 1137, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Anne-Marie Taburet
- Hospital Bicêtre, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, DHU Hepatinov, INSERM U1184, Center for Immunology of Viral Infections and Autoimmune Diseases, Université Paris-Sud, Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Volz A, Sutter G. Modified Vaccinia Virus Ankara: History, Value in Basic Research, and Current Perspectives for Vaccine Development. Adv Virus Res 2016; 97:187-243. [PMID: 28057259 PMCID: PMC7112317 DOI: 10.1016/bs.aivir.2016.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 195] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Safety tested Modified Vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) is licensed as third-generation vaccine against smallpox and serves as a potent vector system for development of new candidate vaccines against infectious diseases and cancer. Historically, MVA was developed by serial tissue culture passage in primary chicken cells of vaccinia virus strain Ankara, and clinically used to avoid the undesirable side effects of conventional smallpox vaccination. Adapted to growth in avian cells MVA lost the ability to replicate in mammalian hosts and lacks many of the genes orthopoxviruses use to conquer their host (cell) environment. As a biologically well-characterized mutant virus, MVA facilitates fundamental research to elucidate the functions of poxvirus host-interaction factors. As extremely safe viral vectors MVA vaccines have been found immunogenic and protective in various preclinical infection models. Multiple recombinant MVA currently undergo clinical testing for vaccination against human immunodeficiency viruses, Mycobacterium tuberculosis or Plasmodium falciparum. The versatility of the MVA vector vaccine platform is readily demonstrated by the swift development of experimental vaccines for immunization against emerging infections such as the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome. Recent advances include promising results from the clinical testing of recombinant MVA-producing antigens of highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 or Ebola virus. This review summarizes our current knowledge about MVA as a unique strain of vaccinia virus, and discusses the prospects of exploiting this virus as research tool in poxvirus biology or as safe viral vector vaccine to challenge existing and future bottlenecks in vaccinology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Volz
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, LMU University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - G Sutter
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, LMU University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Hisam A, Rana MN, Mahmood-Ur-Rahman. Knowledge and attitude regarding Ebola virus disease among medical students of Rawalpindi: A preventable threat not yet confronted. Pak J Med Sci 2016; 32:1015-9. [PMID: 27648059 PMCID: PMC5017070 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.324.9898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the knowledge and attitude regarding Ebola virus disease (EVD) among medical students of Rawalpindi. METHODS A descriptive cross sectional study was carried out in a medical college of Rawalpindi from September 2014-November 2014. About 400 students were inducted with 77% (n=308) response rate. After taking informed verbal consent from students and administration, a pre-designed and pre-tested questionnaire was circulated among students of third, fourth and final year MBBS as well as third and fourth year BDS. The data collected was entered and analyzed using SPSS 20. RESULTS The response rate was 77% (308/400). About 244 (79.2%) of students had heard about EVD before. One hundred and sixty four (53.2%) of the students correctly identified that no treatment is available for EVD as yet. Also 163 (52.9%) said that no vaccine was available against the virus either. Washing hands every time after touching a patient in clinics/wards was important for 151 (49.0%) while 223 (72.4%) claimed to use proper techniques to dispose off used injections. CONCLUSION Students have basic knowledge regarding EVD. However, there is deficient information regarding the diagnosis and precautionary measures required to control it.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aliya Hisam
- Dr. Aliya Hisam, MBBS, MPH, FCPS. Assistant Professor in Community Medicine Department, Army Medical College, Abid Majeed Road, National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Mariam Nadeem Rana
- Mariam Nadeem Rana, MBBS Student, Army Medical College, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Mahmood-Ur-Rahman
- Mahmood-Ur-Rahman, MBBS, DPH, MPH, MSc, FCPS. Professor & Head of Dept. Community Medicine Department, Army Medical College, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Fan Y, Moon JJ. Particulate delivery systems for vaccination against bioterrorism agents and emerging infectious pathogens. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2016; 9. [PMID: 27038091 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Bioterrorism agents that can be easily transmitted with high mortality rates and cause debilitating diseases pose major threats to national security and public health. The recent Ebola virus outbreak in West Africa and ongoing Zika virus outbreak in Brazil, now spreading throughout Latin America, are case examples of emerging infectious pathogens that have incited widespread fear and economic and social disruption on a global scale. Prophylactic vaccines would provide effective countermeasures against infectious pathogens and biological warfare agents. However, traditional approaches relying on attenuated or inactivated vaccines have been hampered by their unacceptable levels of reactogenicity and safety issues, whereas subunit antigen-based vaccines suffer from suboptimal immunogenicity and efficacy. In contrast, particulate vaccine delivery systems offer key advantages, including efficient and stable delivery of subunit antigens, co-delivery of adjuvant molecules to bolster immune responses, low reactogenicity due to the use of biocompatible biomaterials, and robust efficiency to elicit humoral and cellular immunity in systemic and mucosal tissues. Thus, vaccine nanoparticles and microparticles are promising platforms for clinical development of biodefense vaccines. In this review, we summarize the current status of research efforts to develop particulate vaccine delivery systems against bioterrorism agents and emerging infectious pathogens. WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol 2017, 9:e1403. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1403 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Fan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - James J Moon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Kaushik A, Tiwari S, Dev Jayant R, Marty A, Nair M. Towards detection and diagnosis of Ebola virus disease at point-of-care. Biosens Bioelectron 2016; 75:254-72. [PMID: 26319169 PMCID: PMC4601610 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2015.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2015] [Revised: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Ebola outbreak-2014 (mainly Zaire strain related Ebola virus) has been declared most widely spread deadly persistent epidemic due to unavailability of rapid diagnostic, detection, and therapeutics. Ebola virus disease (EVD), a severe viral hemorrhagic fever syndrome caused by Ebola virus (EBOV) is transmitted by direct contact with the body fluids of infected person and objects contaminated with virus or infected animals. World Health Organization (WHO) has declared EVD epidemic as public health emergency of international concern with severe global economic burden. At fatal EBOV infection stage, patients usually die before the antibody response. Currently, rapid blood tests to diagnose EBOV infection include the antigen or antibodies capture using ELISA and RNA detection using RT/Q-PCR within 3-10 days after the onset of symptoms. Moreover, few nanotechnology-based colorimetric and paper-based immunoassay methods have been recently reported to detect Ebola virus. Unfortunately, these methods are limited to laboratory only. As state-of-the art (SoA) diagnostics time to confirm Ebola infection, varies from 6h to about 3 days, it causes delay in therapeutic approaches. Thus developing a cost-effective, rapid, sensitive, and selective sensor to detect EVD at point-of-care (POC) is certainly worth exploring to establish rapid diagnostics to decide therapeutics. This review highlights SoA of Ebola diagnostics and also a call to develop rapid, selective and sensitive POC detection of EBOV for global health care. We propose that adopting miniaturized electrochemical EBOV immunosensing can detect virus level at pM concentration within ∼40min compared to 3 days of ELISA test at nM levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ajeet Kaushik
- Center for Personalized Nanomedicine, Institute of NeuroImmune Pharmacology, Department of Immunology, Florida International University, Miami, USA.
| | - Sneham Tiwari
- Center for Personalized Nanomedicine, Institute of NeuroImmune Pharmacology, Department of Immunology, Florida International University, Miami, USA
| | - Rahul Dev Jayant
- Center for Personalized Nanomedicine, Institute of NeuroImmune Pharmacology, Department of Immunology, Florida International University, Miami, USA
| | - Aileen Marty
- Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, USA
| | - Madhavan Nair
- Center for Personalized Nanomedicine, Institute of NeuroImmune Pharmacology, Department of Immunology, Florida International University, Miami, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Sweiti H, Ekwunife O, Jaschinski T, Lhachimi SK. Repurposed therapeutic agents targeting the Ebola virus: a protocol for a systematic review. Syst Rev 2015; 4:171. [PMID: 26607658 PMCID: PMC4658770 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-015-0153-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recent Ebola epidemic in western Africa developed into an acute public health emergency of unprecedented level in modern times. The treatment provided in most cases has been limited to supportive care, as no approved therapies are available to date. Several established, licenced drugs have been suggested as potential repurposed therapeutic agents for Ebola. However, scientific data on their efficacy in treating Ebola is limited. The purpose of this review is to systematically assess scientific evidence on potential drugs targeting Ebola. In specific, we aim to (1) identify drug library screens involving therapeutic agents targeting the Ebola virus, (2) list potential approved drugs identified from drug screens and review their mechanism of action against the Ebola virus and (3) summarise the outcome of preclinical and clinical trials investigating approved drugs targeting the Ebola virus. METHODS/DESIGN We will develop comprehensive systematic search strategies and will perform a systematic literature search in MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). Two authors will independently screen the titles, abstracts and the references of all selected articles on the basis of inclusion criteria. These include any available drug screening, preclinical studies and clinical studies examining the efficacy of approved therapeutic agents targeting the Ebola virus. There will be no restrictions on the type of participants, the type of comparator, time or setting. Data extraction and quality assessment will be undertaken by two review authors working independently. DISCUSSION This systematic review will provide systematic knowledge on potential repurposed therapeutic agents targeting Ebola. It aims to help guide future investigations on repurposed drugs and avoid repetitive studies. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42015024349.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hussein Sweiti
- Public Health, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany. .,Surgical Department, Klinikum Frankfurt Höchst, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Obinna Ekwunife
- Collaborative Research Group for Evidence-Based Public Health, Department of Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany. .,Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Management, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.
| | - Thomas Jaschinski
- Department for Evidence-based health services research, Institute for Research in Operative Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany.
| | - Stefan K Lhachimi
- Collaborative Research Group for Evidence-Based Public Health, Department of Prevention and Evaluation, Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology - BIPS, Bremen, Germany. .,Institute for Public Health, Health Sciences Bremen, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abd-ElMoemen N, Menshawy A, Negida A, Alaa El-Din M, Kamel A, Farouk AE. Ebola Outbreak in West Africa; Is Selenium Involved? Int J Pept Res Ther 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-015-9491-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
30
|
Passi D, Sharma S, Dutta SR, Dudeja P, Sharma V. Ebola Virus Disease (The Killer Virus): Another Threat to Humans and Bioterrorism: Brief Review and Recent Updates. J Clin Diagn Res 2015; 9:LE01-8. [PMID: 26266139 DOI: 10.7860/jcdr/2015/13062.6100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2015] [Accepted: 04/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Ebola virus disease (EVD) described as "one of the world's most virulent diseases" by WHO was popularly known as Ebola haemorrhagic fever in the past. It is usually considered a severe and deadly illness when humans are concerned. EVD outbreaks have shown to have a very high fatality rate ranging from 50 - 90% with a reported occurrence primarily seen near the tropical rainforests of remote villages in Central and West Africa. The virus is transmitted to people from wild animals and within the human community through human-to-human contact. Natural host for Ebola virus is not yet conclusively identified but the most probable host appears to be the fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family. Five subspecies of Ebola virus are recognized till date, with Zaire Ebola virus being the most aggressive of all varieties and recording up to 90% mortality. All Ebola forms are highly contagious and hence have been classed as Category A Priority Pathogens by WHO. Severely ill patients warrant intensive support therapy. Medical workers working in affected areas need to undertake extensive measures to prevent contracting the disease. Till date, no particular anti-viral therapy has demonstrated effectiveness in Ebola virus infection. Also, no vaccine for use in humans is yet approved by the regulatory bodies. If Ebola was actually misused as a biological weapon, it could be a serious threat. Idea behind this article is to briefly review the history and present recent updates on Ebola virus, its pathogenesis and possible hopes for treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Passi
- Tutor, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, ESIC Dental College and Hospital , Rohini, Delhi, India
| | - Sarang Sharma
- Associate Professor, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, ESIC Dental College and Hospital , Rohini, Delhi, India
| | - Shubha Ranjan Dutta
- Assistant Professor, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, M B Kedia Dental College , Birgunj, Nepal
| | - Pooja Dudeja
- Associate Professor, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, ESIC Dental College and Hospital , Rohini, Delhi, India
| | - Vivek Sharma
- Assistant Professor, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, ESIC Dental College and Hospital , Rohini, Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Oany AR, Sharmin T, Chowdhury AS, Jyoti TP, Hasan MA. Highly conserved regions in Ebola virus RNA dependent RNA polymerase may be act as a universal novel peptide vaccine target: a computational approach. In Silico Pharmacol 2015; 3:7. [PMID: 26820892 PMCID: PMC4529428 DOI: 10.1186/s40203-015-0011-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Ebola virus (EBOV) is such kind of virus which is responsible for 23,825 cases and 9675 deaths worldwide only in 2014 and with an average diseases fatality rate between 25 % and 90 %. Although, medical technology has tried to handle the problems, there is no Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved therapeutics or vaccines available for the prevention, post exposure, or treatment of Ebola virus disease (EVD). Methods In the present study, we used the immunoinformatics approach to design a potential epitope-based vaccine against the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase-L of EBOV. BioEdit v7.2.3 sequence alignment editor, Jalview v2 and CLC Sequence Viewer v7.0.2 were used for the initial sequence analysis for securing the conservancy from the sequences. Later the Immune Epitope Database and Analysis Resource (IEDB-AR) was used for the identification of T-cell and B-cellepitopes associated with type I and II major histocompatibility complex molecules analysis. Finally, the population coverage analysis was employed. Results The core epitope “FRYEFTAPF” was found to be the most potential one, with 100 % conservancy among all the strains of EBOV. It also interacted with both type I and II major histocompatibility complex molecules and is considered as nonallergenic in nature. Finally, with impressive cumulative population coverage of 99.87 % for the both MHC-I and MHC-II class throughout the world population was found for the proposed epitope. Conclusion To end, the projected peptide gave us a solid stand to propose for vaccine consideration and that might be experimented for its potency in eliciting immunity through humoral and cell mediated immune responses in vitro and in vivo. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40203-015-0011-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arafat Rahman Oany
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Life Science, Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University, Santosh, Tangail-1902, Bangladesh
| | - Tahmina Sharmin
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Life Science, Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University, Santosh, Tangail-1902, Bangladesh
| | - Afrin Sultana Chowdhury
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chittagong-4331, Bangladesh
| | - Tahmina Pervin Jyoti
- Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering Discipline, Life Science School, Khulna University, Khulna-9208, Bangladesh
| | - Md Anayet Hasan
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chittagong-4331, Bangladesh.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Addressing Therapeutic Options for Ebola Virus Infection in Current and Future Outbreaks. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2015; 59:5892-902. [PMID: 26248374 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01105-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ebola virus can cause severe hemorrhagic disease with high fatality rates. Currently, no specific therapeutic agent or vaccine has been approved for treatment and prevention of Ebola virus infection of humans. Although the number of Ebola cases has fallen in the last few weeks, multiple outbreaks of Ebola virus infection and the likelihood of future exposure highlight the need for development and rapid evaluation of pre- and postexposure treatments. Here, we briefly review the existing and future options for anti-Ebola therapy, based on the data coming from rare clinical reports, studies on animals, and results from in vitro models. We also project the mechanistic hypotheses of several potential drugs against Ebola virus, including small-molecule-based drugs, which are under development and being tested in animal models or in vitro using various cell types. Our paper discusses strategies toward identifying and testing anti-Ebola virus properties of known and medically approved drugs, especially those that can limit the pathological inflammatory response in Ebola patients and thereby provide protection from mortality. We underline the importance of developing combinational therapy for better treatment outcomes for Ebola patients.
Collapse
|
33
|
Glisic S, Paessler S, Veljkovic N, Perovic VR, Prljic J, Veljkovic V. Improving attrition rates in Ebola virus drug discovery. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2015; 10:1025-32. [DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2015.1062872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
|
34
|
Martínez-Romero C, García-Sastre A. Against the clock towards new Ebola virus therapies. Virus Res 2015; 209:4-10. [PMID: 26057711 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2015.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2015] [Revised: 05/23/2015] [Accepted: 05/29/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Since the end of 2013, West Africa has been suffering the largest Ebola virus (EBOV) outbreak in recorded history. The lack of health care infrastructure in the affected countries, as well as a concentration of infected cases in the most populated areas allowed the virus to spread with no control during the first months of the outbreak. With no specific treatment available to combat EBOV infection and its associated disease, an extraordinary worldwide effort was made to confront the severity of the situation and to establish new therapeutic strategies that would lead to better and faster control and eradicate the outbreak. In the last two years, several candidate therapies and potential vaccines against EBOV have arisen and human clinical trials are ongoing, in hopes of starting their deployment in the affected countries. This article reviews the current candidate therapies against EBOV, their stage of development and future prospects in battling EBOV outbreaks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carles Martínez-Romero
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA; Global Health and Emerging Pathogens Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA.
| | - Adolfo García-Sastre
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA; Global Health and Emerging Pathogens Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Jonsson-Schmunk
- Division of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
- Center for Infectious Disease, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Maria A Croyle
- Division of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
- Center for Infectious Disease, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Elshabrawy HA, Erickson TB, Prabhakar BS. Ebola virus outbreak, updates on current therapeutic strategies. Rev Med Virol 2015; 25:241-53. [PMID: 25962887 PMCID: PMC7169053 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.1841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Revised: 03/30/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Filoviruses are enveloped negative‐sense single‐stranded RNA viruses, which include Ebola and Marburg viruses, known to cause hemorrhagic fever in humans with a case fatality of up to 90%. There have been several Ebola virus outbreaks since the first outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1976 of which, the recent 2013–2015 epidemic in Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone is the largest in recorded history. Within a few months of the start of the outbreak in December 2013, thousands of infected cases were reported with a significant number of deaths. As of March 2015, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there have been nearly 25 000 suspected cases, with 15 000 confirmed by laboratory testing, and over 10 000 deaths. The large number of cases and the high mortality rate, combined with the lack of effective Food and Drug Administration‐approved treatments, necessitate the development of potent and safe therapeutic measures to combat the current and future outbreaks. Since the beginning of the outbreak, there have been considerable efforts to develop and characterize protective measures including vaccines and antiviral small molecules, and some have proven effective in vitro and in animal models. Most recently, a cocktail of monoclonal antibodies has been shown to be highly effective in protecting non‐human primates from Ebola virus infection. In this review, we will discuss what is known about the nature of the virus, phylogenetic classification, genomic organization and replication, disease transmission, and viral entry and highlight the current approaches and efforts, in the development of therapeutics, to control the outbreak. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hatem A Elshabrawy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Timothy B Erickson
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,Center for Global Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Bellur S Prabhakar
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,Center for Global Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Madara JJ, Han Z, Ruthel G, Freedman BD, Harty RN. The multifunctional Ebola virus VP40 matrix protein is a promising therapeutic target. Future Virol 2015; 10:537-546. [PMID: 26120351 DOI: 10.2217/fvl.15.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The highly virulent nature of Ebola virus, evident from the 2014 West African pandemic, highlights the need to develop vaccines or therapeutic agents that limit the pathogenesis and spread of this virus. While vaccines represent an obvious approach, targeting virus interactions with host proteins that critically regulate the virus lifecycle also represent important therapeutic strategies. Among Ebola virus proteins at this critical interface is its matrix protein, VP40, which is abundantly expressed during infection and plays a number of critical roles in the viral lifecycle. In addition to regulating viral transcription, VP40 coordinates virion assembly and budding from infected cells. Details of the molecular mechanisms underpinning these essential functions are currently being elucidated, with a particular emphasis on its interactions with host proteins that control virion assembly and egress. This review focuses on the strategies geared toward developing novel therapeutic agents that target VP40-specific control of host functions critical to virion transcription, assembly and egress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan J Madara
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ziying Han
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Gordon Ruthel
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Bruce D Freedman
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ronald N Harty
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Kraft CS, Hewlett AL, Koepsell S, Winkler AM, Kratochvil CJ, Larson L, Varkey JB, Mehta AK, Lyon GM, Friedman-Moraco RJ, Marconi VC, Hill CE, Sullivan JN, Johnson DW, Lisco SJ, Mulligan MJ, Uyeki TM, McElroy AK, Sealy T, Campbell S, Spiropoulou C, Ströher U, Crozier I, Sacra R, Connor MJ, Sueblinvong V, Franch HA, Smith PW, Ribner BS. The Use of TKM-100802 and Convalescent Plasma in 2 Patients With Ebola Virus Disease in the United States. Clin Infect Dis 2015; 61:496-502. [PMID: 25904375 DOI: 10.1093/cid/civ334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The current West Africa Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak has resulted in multiple individuals being medically evacuated to other countries for clinical management. METHODS We report two patients who were transported from West Africa to the United States for treatment of EVD. Both patients received aggressive supportive care measures, as well as an investigational therapeutic (TKM-100802) and convalescent plasma. RESULTS While one patient experienced critical illness with multi-organ failure requiring mechanical ventilation and renal replacement therapy, both patients recovered without serious long-term sequelae to date. CONCLUSIONS It is unclear what role the experimental drug and convalescent plasma had in the recovery of these patients. Prospective clinical trials are needed to delineate the role of investigational therapies in the care of patients with EVD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colleen S Kraft
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Angela L Hewlett
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine
| | | | | | | | | | - Jay B Varkey
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Aneesh K Mehta
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - G Marshall Lyon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Rachel J Friedman-Moraco
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Vincent C Marconi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - James N Sullivan
- Division of Critical Care, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha
| | - Daniel W Johnson
- Division of Critical Care, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha
| | - Steven J Lisco
- Division of Critical Care, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha
| | - Mark J Mulligan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Timothy M Uyeki
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Anita K McElroy
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Tara Sealy
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | | | - Ute Ströher
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Ian Crozier
- World Health Organization, Kenema Hospital, Sierra Leone
| | - Richard Sacra
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester
| | - Michael J Connor
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | - Harold A Franch
- Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Philip W Smith
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine
| | - Bruce S Ribner
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Jonsson-Schmunk K, Croyle MA. A long-lasting, single-dose nasal vaccine for Ebola: a practical armament for an outbreak with significant global impact. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2015; 13:527-30. [PMID: 25796987 DOI: 10.1586/14787210.2015.1028368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
In response to the severity and scale of the 2014 Ebola outbreak, several experimental vaccines were granted fast-track status for clinical testing. Although they may provide long-lasting protection from Ebola, they are, in their current states, far from optimal for populations that need them the most. In this context, nasal immunization addresses the: immune response required at the mucosa where Ebola initiates infection; needs of a population in terms of cost and compliance; and potency of each platform as they contain viruses that naturally infect the respiratory tract. Understanding the attributes of nasal immunization and its application will lead to potent vaccines that can effectively end Ebola and other emerging infectious diseases in developing and industrialized countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Jonsson-Schmunk
- Division of Pharmaceutics, University of Texas at Austin, College of Pharmacy, 2409 W University Ave, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Kilgore PE, Grabenstein JD, Salim AM, Rybak M. Treatment of Ebola Virus Disease. Pharmacotherapy 2015; 35:43-53. [DOI: 10.1002/phar.1545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul E. Kilgore
- Department of Pharmacy Practice; Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences; Wayne State University; Detroit Michigan
| | | | - Abdulbaset M. Salim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice; Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences; Wayne State University; Detroit Michigan
| | - Michael Rybak
- Department of Pharmacy Practice; Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences; Wayne State University; Detroit Michigan
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Choi JH, Schafer SC, Freiberg AN, Croyle MA. Bolstering Components of the Immune Response Compromised by Prior Exposure to Adenovirus: Guided Formulation Development for a Nasal Ebola Vaccine. Mol Pharm 2015; 12:2697-711. [PMID: 25549696 PMCID: PMC4525322 DOI: 10.1021/mp5006454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
![]()
The
severity and longevity of the current Ebola outbreak highlight
the need for a fast-acting yet long-lasting vaccine for at-risk populations
(medical personnel and rural villagers) where repeated prime-boost
regimens are not feasible. While recombinant adenovirus (rAd)-based
vaccines have conferred full protection against multiple strains of
Ebola after a single immunization, their efficacy is impaired by pre-existing
immunity (PEI) to adenovirus. To address this important issue, a panel
of formulations was evaluated by an in vitro assay
for their ability to protect rAd from neutralization. An amphiphilic
polymer (F16, FW ∼39,000) significantly improved transgene
expression in the presence of anti-Ad neutralizing antibodies (NAB)
at concentrations of 5 times the 50% neutralizing dose (ND50). In vivo performance of rAd in F16 was compared
with unformulated virus, virus modified with poly(ethylene) glycol
(PEG), and virus incorporated into poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) polymeric beads. Histochemical analysis of
lung tissue revealed that F16 promoted strong levels of transgene
expression in naive mice and those that were exposed to adenovirus
in the nasal cavity 28 days prior to immunization. Multiparameter
flow cytometry revealed that F16 induced significantly more polyfunctional
antigen-specific CD8+ T cells simultaneously producing
IFN-γ, IL-2, and TNF-α than other test formulations. These
effects were not compromised by PEI. Data from formulations that provided
partial protection from challenge consistently identified specific
immunological requirements necessary for protection. This approach
may be useful for development of formulations for other vaccine platforms
that also employ ubiquitous pathogens as carriers like the influenza
virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Huk Choi
- †Division of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Stephen C Schafer
- †Division of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Alexander N Freiberg
- ‡Department of Pathology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas 77555, United States
| | - Maria A Croyle
- †Division of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States.,§Center for Infectious Disease, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Chiappelli F, Bakhordarian A, Thames AD, Du AM, Jan AL, Nahcivan M, Nguyen MT, Sama N, Manfrini E, Piva F, Rocha RM, Maida CA. Ebola: translational science considerations. J Transl Med 2015; 13:11. [PMID: 25592846 PMCID: PMC4320629 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-014-0362-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We are currently in the midst of the most aggressive and fulminating outbreak of Ebola-related disease, commonly referred to as "Ebola", ever recorded. In less than a year, the Ebola virus (EBOV, Zaire ebolavirus species) has infected over 10,000 people, indiscriminately of gender or age, with a fatality rate of about 50%. Whereas at its onset this Ebola outbreak was limited to three countries in West Africa (Guinea, where it was first reported in late March 2014, Liberia, where it has been most rampant in its capital city, Monrovia and other metropolitan cities, and Sierra Leone), cases were later reported in Nigeria, Mali and Senegal, as well as in Western Europe (i.e., Madrid, Spain) and the US (i.e., Dallas, Texas; New York City) by late October 2014. World and US health agencies declared that the current Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak has a strong likelihood of growing exponentially across the world before an effective vaccine, treatment or cure can be developed, tested, validated and distributed widely. In the meantime, the spread of the disease may rapidly evolve from an epidemics to a full-blown pandemic. The scientific and healthcare communities actively research and define an emerging kaleidoscope of knowledge about critical translational research parameters, including the virology of EBOV, the molecular biomarkers of the pathological manifestations of EVD, putative central nervous system involvement in EVD, and the cellular immune surveillance to EBOV, patient-centered anthropological and societal parameters of EVD, as well as translational effectiveness about novel putative patient-targeted vaccine and pharmaceutical interventions, which hold strong promise, if not hope, to curb this and future Ebola outbreaks. This work reviews and discusses the principal known facts about EBOV and EVD, and certain among the most interesting ongoing or future avenues of research in the field, including vaccination programs for the wild animal vectors of the virus and the disease from global translational science perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Chiappelli
- UCLA School of Dentistry (Oral Biology & Medicine), Los Angeles, USA.
- Evidence-Based Decision Practice-Based Research Network, Los Angeles, USA.
- UCLA Center for the Health Sciences 63-090, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1668, USA.
| | - Andre Bakhordarian
- UCLA School of Dentistry (Oral Biology & Medicine), Los Angeles, USA.
- Evidence-Based Decision Practice-Based Research Network, Los Angeles, USA.
| | - April D Thames
- UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine (Psychiatry), Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Angela M Du
- UCLA School of Dentistry (Oral Biology & Medicine), Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Allison L Jan
- UCLA School of Dentistry (Oral Biology & Medicine), Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Melissa Nahcivan
- UCLA School of Dentistry (Oral Biology & Medicine), Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Mia T Nguyen
- UCLA School of Dentistry (Oral Biology & Medicine), Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Nateli Sama
- UCLA School of Dentistry (Oral Biology & Medicine), Los Angeles, USA.
| | | | - Francesco Piva
- Polytechnic University of the Marche Region (Odontostomatological Sciences), Ancona, Italy.
| | | | - Carl A Maida
- UCLA School of Dentistry (Oral Biology & Medicine), Los Angeles, USA.
- UCLA School of Dentistry (Public Health Dentistry), UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, UCLA Center for Tropical Research, Los Angeles, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Ebola Hemorrhagic Fever as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern; a Review Article. EMERGENCY (TEHRAN, IRAN) 2015; 3:3-7. [PMID: 26512362 PMCID: PMC4614609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Ebola hemorrhagic fever (EHF) was first reported in 1976 with two concurrent outbreaks of acute viral hemorrhagic fever centered in Yambuku (near the Ebola river), Democratic Republic of Congo, and in Nzara, Sudan. The current outbreak of the Ebola virus was started by reporting the first case in March 2014 in the forest regions of southeastern Guinea. Due to infection rates raising over 13,000% within a 6-month period, Ebola is now considered as a global public health emergency and on August 8(th), 2014 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the epidemic to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. With more than 5000 involved cases and nearly 3000 deaths, this event has turned into the largest and most dangerous Ebola virus outbreak in the world. Based on the above-mentioned, the present article aimed to review the virologic characteristics, transmission, clinical manifestation, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Ebola virus disease.
Collapse
|
44
|
Meyers L, Frawley T, Goss S, Kang C. Ebola Virus Outbreak 2014: Clinical Review for Emergency Physicians. Ann Emerg Med 2015; 65:101-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2014.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Revised: 10/02/2014] [Accepted: 10/07/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
45
|
Rubinson L. From clinician to suspect case: my experience after a needle stick in an Ebola treatment unit in Sierra Leone. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2014; 92:225-226. [PMID: 25510717 PMCID: PMC4347316 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.14-0769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lewis Rubinson
- *Address correspondence to Lewis Rubinson, R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 22 South Greene Street, Baltimore, MD 21210. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Li H, Ying T, Yu F, Lu L, Jiang S. Development of therapeutics for treatment of Ebola virus infection. Microbes Infect 2014; 17:109-17. [PMID: 25498866 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2014.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Revised: 11/25/2014] [Accepted: 11/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Ebola virus infection can cause Ebola virus disease (EVD). Patients usually show severe symptoms, and the fatality rate can reach up to 90%. No licensed medicine is available. In this review, development of therapeutics for treatment of Ebola virus infection and EVD will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haoyang Li
- Key Lab of Medical Molecular Virology of MOE/MOH, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 130 Dong An Rd., Xuhui District, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Tianlei Ying
- Key Lab of Medical Molecular Virology of MOE/MOH, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 130 Dong An Rd., Xuhui District, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Fei Yu
- Key Lab of Medical Molecular Virology of MOE/MOH, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 130 Dong An Rd., Xuhui District, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Lu Lu
- Key Lab of Medical Molecular Virology of MOE/MOH, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 130 Dong An Rd., Xuhui District, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Shibo Jiang
- Key Lab of Medical Molecular Virology of MOE/MOH, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 130 Dong An Rd., Xuhui District, Shanghai 200032, China; Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Beeching
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, UK Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Lai KY, Ng WYG, Cheng FF. Human Ebola virus infection in West Africa: a review of available therapeutic agents that target different steps of the life cycle of Ebola virus. Infect Dis Poverty 2014; 3:43. [PMID: 25699183 PMCID: PMC4334593 DOI: 10.1186/2049-9957-3-43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent outbreak of the human Zaire ebolavirus (EBOV) epidemic is spiraling out of control in West Africa. Human EBOV hemorrhagic fever has a case fatality rate of up to 90%. The EBOV is classified as a biosafety level 4 pathogen and is considered a category A agent of bioterrorism by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with no approved therapies and vaccines available for its treatment apart from supportive care. Although several promising therapeutic agents and vaccines against EBOV are undergoing the Phase I human trial, the current epidemic might be outpacing the speed at which drugs and vaccines can be produced. Like all viruses, the EBOV largely relies on host cell factors and physiological processes for its entry, replication, and egress. We have reviewed currently available therapeutic agents that have been shown to be effective in suppressing the proliferation of the EBOV in cell cultures or animal studies. Most of the therapeutic agents in this review are directed against non-mutable targets of the host, which is independent of viral mutation. These medications are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of other diseases. They are available and stockpileable for immediate use. They may also have a complementary role to those therapeutic agents under development that are directed against the mutable targets of the EBOV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kang Yiu Lai
- />Department of Intensive Care, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, HKSAR, B6, 30 Gascoigne Rd, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR China
| | - Wing Yiu George Ng
- />Department of Intensive Care, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, HKSAR, B6, 30 Gascoigne Rd, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR China
| | - Fan Fanny Cheng
- />Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, HKSAR, Kowloon, Hong Kong SARChina
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Choi JH, Jonsson-Schmunk K, Qiu X, Shedlock DJ, Strong J, Xu JX, Michie KL, Audet J, Fernando L, Myers MJ, Weiner D, Bajrovic I, Tran LQ, Wong G, Bello A, Kobinger GP, Schafer SC, Croyle MA. A Single Dose Respiratory Recombinant Adenovirus-Based Vaccine Provides Long-Term Protection for Non-Human Primates from Lethal Ebola Infection. Mol Pharm 2014; 12:2712-31. [PMID: 25363619 PMCID: PMC4525323 DOI: 10.1021/mp500646d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
![]()
As
the Ebola outbreak in West Africa continues and cases appear
in the United States and other countries, the need for long-lasting
vaccines to preserve global health is imminent. Here, we evaluate
the long-term efficacy of a respiratory and sublingual (SL) adenovirus-based
vaccine in non-human primates in two phases. In the first, a single
respiratory dose of 1.4 × 109 infectious virus particles
(ivp)/kg of Ad-CAGoptZGP induced strong Ebola glycoprotein (GP) specific
CD8+ and CD4+ T cell responses and Ebola GP-specific
antibodies in systemic and mucosal compartments and was partially
(67%) protective from challenge 62 days after immunization. The same
dose given by the SL route induced Ebola GP-specific CD8+ T cell responses similar to that of intramuscular (IM) injection,
however, the Ebola GP-specific antibody response was low. All primates
succumbed to infection. Three primates were then given the vaccine
in a formulation that improved the immune response to Ebola in rodents.
Three primates were immunized with 2.0 × 1010 ivp/kg
of vaccine by the SL route. Diverse populations of polyfunctional
Ebola GP-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and
significant anti-Ebola GP antibodies were present in samples collected
150 days after respiratory immunization. The formulated vaccine was
fully protective against challenge 21 weeks after immunization. While
diverse populations of Ebola GP-specific CD4+ T cells were
produced after SL immunization, antibodies were not neutralizing and
the vaccine was unprotective. To our knowledge, this is the first
time that durable protection from a single dose respiratory adenovirus-based
Ebola vaccine has been demonstrated in primates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Huk Choi
- †Division of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Kristina Jonsson-Schmunk
- †Division of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Xiangguo Qiu
- §Special Pathogens Program, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 3R2, Canada
| | - Devon J Shedlock
- ∥Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Jim Strong
- §Special Pathogens Program, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 3R2, Canada
| | - Jason X Xu
- †Division of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Kelly L Michie
- ⊥The University of Texas College of Natural Sciences Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Jonathan Audet
- §Special Pathogens Program, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 3R2, Canada
| | - Lisa Fernando
- §Special Pathogens Program, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 3R2, Canada
| | - Mark J Myers
- †Division of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - David Weiner
- ∥Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Irnela Bajrovic
- #Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural Sciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Lilian Q Tran
- †Division of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Gary Wong
- §Special Pathogens Program, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 3R2, Canada
| | - Alexander Bello
- §Special Pathogens Program, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 3R2, Canada
| | - Gary P Kobinger
- §Special Pathogens Program, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 3R2, Canada.,∥Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Stephen C Schafer
- †Division of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Maria A Croyle
- †Division of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States.,⊥The University of Texas College of Natural Sciences Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States.,¶Center for Infectious Disease, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Funk DJ, Kumar A. Ebola virus disease: an update for anesthesiologists and intensivists. Can J Anaesth 2014; 62:80-91. [PMID: 25373801 PMCID: PMC4286619 DOI: 10.1007/s12630-014-0257-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2014] [Accepted: 10/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a viral hemorrhagic fever that is highly transmissible and all too often rapidly fatal. Recent outbreaks in West Africa reveal that this infection has the potential to be transmitted worldwide. Anesthesiologists and intensivists, due to their training in the management of the critically ill, may be called upon to assist in the management of these patients. The focus of this brief review is on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and management of patients with EVD. Source Review of the current literature. Principal findings Ebola virus disease causes severe diarrhea, electrolyte disturbances and other major end-organ dysfunction. Early aggressive resuscitation may reduce the mortality of this disease. There is presently no available vaccine nor cure, with experimental therapies having yielded limited success. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is necessary for all patient contact, and enhanced PPE is required for all aerosol-generating medical procedures. Conclusion Anesthesiologists and intensivists may be called upon to manage patients with EVD. It is important that these clinicians have an appreciation for the epidemiology and pathogenesis of this disease and for the proper utilization of PPE when treating these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Duane J Funk
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Medicine, Section of Critical Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, 2nd Floor Harry Medovy House, 671 William Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, Canada,
| | | |
Collapse
|