1
|
Petersson M, Thrane SW, Gram L, Muyldermans S, Laustsen AH. Orally delivered single-domain antibodies against gastrointestinal pathogens. Trends Biotechnol 2023; 41:875-886. [PMID: 36774206 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Single-domain antibodies (sdAbs) are exceptionally stable fragments derived from the antigen-binding domains of immunoglobulins. They can withstand extreme pH, high temperature, and proteolysis, making them suitable for controlling gastrointestinal (GI) infections in humans and animals. sdAbs may function in their native soluble form, although different derived protein formats and the use of delivery vehicles can be useful for improved oral delivery. We discuss selected examples of the use of orally delivered sdAbs for protecting humans and animals against GI infections caused by pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and parasites. We finally provide perspectives on how sdAbs may be applied industrially and what challenges should be overcome for orally delivered sdAbs to reach the market.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Petersson
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark; Bactolife A/S, Copenhagen East, Denmark
| | | | - Lone Gram
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Serge Muyldermans
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Andreas H Laustsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark; Bactolife A/S, Copenhagen East, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yong Joon Kim J, Sang Z, Xiang Y, Shen Z, Shi Y. Nanobodies: Robust miniprotein binders in biomedicine. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 195:114726. [PMID: 36754285 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.114726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Variable domains of heavy chain-only antibodies (VHH), also known as nanobodies (Nbs), are monomeric antigen-binding domains derived from the camelid heavy chain-only antibodies. Nbs are characterized by small size, high target selectivity, and marked solubility and stability, which collectively facilitate high-quality drug development. In addition, Nbs are readily expressed from various expression systems, including E. coli and yeast cells. For these reasons, Nbs have emerged as preferred antibody fragments for protein engineering, disease diagnosis, and treatment. To date, two Nb-based therapies have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Numerous candidates spanning a wide spectrum of diseases such as cancer, immune disorders, infectious diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders are under preclinical and clinical investigation. Here, we discuss the structural features of Nbs that allow for specific, versatile, and strong target binding. We also summarize emerging technologies for identification, structural analysis, and humanization of Nbs. Our main focus is to review recent advances in using Nbs as a modular scaffold to facilitate the engineering of multivalent polymers for cutting-edge applications. Finally, we discuss remaining challenges for Nb development and envision new opportunities in Nb-based research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Yong Joon Kim
- Center of Protein Engineering and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1, Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Zhe Sang
- Center of Protein Engineering and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1, Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Yufei Xiang
- Center of Protein Engineering and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1, Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Zhuolun Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Shi
- Center of Protein Engineering and Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1, Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fernández-Quintero ML, Ljungars A, Waibl F, Greiff V, Andersen JT, Gjølberg TT, Jenkins TP, Voldborg BG, Grav LM, Kumar S, Georges G, Kettenberger H, Liedl KR, Tessier PM, McCafferty J, Laustsen AH. Assessing developability early in the discovery process for novel biologics. MAbs 2023; 15:2171248. [PMID: 36823021 PMCID: PMC9980699 DOI: 10.1080/19420862.2023.2171248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Beyond potency, a good developability profile is a key attribute of a biological drug. Selecting and screening for such attributes early in the drug development process can save resources and avoid costly late-stage failures. Here, we review some of the most important developability properties that can be assessed early on for biologics. These include the influence of the source of the biologic, its biophysical and pharmacokinetic properties, and how well it can be expressed recombinantly. We furthermore present in silico, in vitro, and in vivo methods and techniques that can be exploited at different stages of the discovery process to identify molecules with liabilities and thereby facilitate the selection of the most optimal drug leads. Finally, we reflect on the most relevant developability parameters for injectable versus orally delivered biologics and provide an outlook toward what general trends are expected to rise in the development of biologics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monica L. Fernández-Quintero
- Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), Department of General, Inorganic and Theoretical Chemistry, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Anne Ljungars
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Franz Waibl
- Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), Department of General, Inorganic and Theoretical Chemistry, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Victor Greiff
- Department of Immunology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jan Terje Andersen
- Department of Immunology, University of Oslo, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Department of Pharmacology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Timothy P. Jenkins
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Bjørn Gunnar Voldborg
- National Biologics Facility, Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Lise Marie Grav
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Sandeep Kumar
- Biotherapeutics Discovery, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc, Ridgefield, CT, USA
| | - Guy Georges
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Large Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Hubert Kettenberger
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Large Molecule Research, Roche Innovation Center Munich, Penzberg, Germany
| | - Klaus R. Liedl
- Center for Molecular Biosciences Innsbruck (CMBI), Department of General, Inorganic and Theoretical Chemistry, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Peter M. Tessier
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - John McCafferty
- Department of Medicine, Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology and Infectious Disease, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Maxion Therapeutics, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | - Andreas H. Laustsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
α-Synuclein fibril-specific nanobody reduces prion-like α-synuclein spreading in mice. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4060. [PMID: 35853942 PMCID: PMC9296447 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-31787-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic α-synuclein (α-syn) is a prion-like protein that drives the pathogenesis of Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) and Parkinson's Disease (PD). To target pathogenic α-syn preformed fibrils (PFF), here we designed extracellular disulfide bond-free synthetic nanobody libraries in yeast. Following selection, we identified a nanobody, PFFNB2, that can specifically recognize α-syn PFF over α-syn monomers. PFFNB2 cannot inhibit the aggregation of α-syn monomer, but can significantly dissociate α-syn fibrils. Furthermore, adeno-associated virus (AAV)-encoding EGFP fused to PFFNB2 (AAV-EGFP-PFFNB2) can inhibit PFF-induced α-syn serine 129 phosphorylation (pS129) in mouse primary cortical neurons, and prevent α-syn pathology spreading to the cortex in the transgenic mice expressing human wild type (WT) α-syn by intrastriatal-PFF injection. The pS129 immunoreactivity is negatively correlated with the expression of AAV-EGFP-PFFNB2. In conclusion, PFFNB2 holds a promise for mechanistic exploration and therapeutic development in α-syn-related pathogenesis.
Collapse
|
5
|
Barakat S, Berksöz M, Zahedimaram P, Piepoli S, Erman B. Nanobodies as molecular imaging probes. Free Radic Biol Med 2022; 182:260-275. [PMID: 35240292 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2022.02.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Camelidae derived single-domain antibodies (sdAbs), commonly known as nanobodies (Nbs), are the smallest antibody fragments with full antigen-binding capacity. Owing to their desirable properties such as small size, high specificity, strong affinity, excellent stability, and modularity, nanobodies are on their way to overtake conventional antibodies in terms of popularity. To date, a broad range of nanobodies have been generated against different molecular targets with applications spanning basic research, diagnostics, and therapeutics. In the field of molecular imaging, nanobody-based probes have emerged as a powerful tool. Radioactive or fluorescently labeled nanobodies are now used to detect and track many targets in different biological systems using imaging techniques. In this review, we provide an overview of the use of nanobodies as molecular probes. Additionally, we discuss current techniques for the generation, conjugation, and intracellular delivery of nanobodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Barakat
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, 34956, Tuzla, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Melike Berksöz
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, 34956, Tuzla, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Pegah Zahedimaram
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, 34956, Tuzla, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Sofia Piepoli
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Bogazici University, 34342, Bebek, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Batu Erman
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Bogazici University, 34342, Bebek, Istanbul, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Fagbadebo FO, Rothbauer U. Peptide-Tag Specific Nanobodies for Studying Proteins in Live Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2446:555-579. [PMID: 35157294 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2075-5_29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Single-domain antibodies such as nanobodies (Nbs) have substantially expanded the possibilities of advanced cellular imaging. In comparison to conventional antibodies, Nbs are characterized by small size, high stability, and solubility in many environments, including the cytoplasm. Nbs can be efficiently functionalized or modified according to the needs of the imaging approach. Target-specific Nbs can be easily converted into genetically encoded fluorescently labeled intrabodies, also known as chromobodies (CBs), which represent powerful tools to study the dynamics of different proteins of interest within living cells. In this context, CBs specific for a short peptide epitope provide a versatile alternative to bypass the limitations observed with larger fluorescent protein fusions and can be readily used to visualize and monitor peptide-tagged proteins for which specific Nbs are not available. Here, we present our novel detection system comprising a 15 amino acid peptide-tag (PepTag) in combination with a peptide-tag specific CB (PepCB). We provide protocols for adding the PepTag to different proteins of interest, reformatting the peptide-specific Nb (PepNb) into a CB for expression in mammalian cells, and establishment of stable cell lines expressing the PepCB for protein interaction assays and compound screenings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Funmilayo O Fagbadebo
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Rothbauer
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.
- Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tuebingen, Reutlingen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wagner TR, Rothbauer U. Nanobodies - Little helpers unravelling intracellular signaling. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 176:46-61. [PMID: 34536541 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The identification of diagnostic and therapeutic targets requires a comprehensive understanding of cellular processes, for which advanced technologies in biomedical research are needed. The emergence of nanobodies (Nbs) derived from antibody fragments of camelid heavy chain-only antibodies as intracellular research tools offers new possibilities to study and modulate target antigens in living cells. Here we summarize this rapidly changing field, beginning with a brief introduction of Nbs, followed by an overview of how target-specific Nbs can be generated, and introduce the selection of intrabodies as research tools. Intrabodies, by definition, are intracellular functional Nbs that target ectopic or endogenous intracellular antigens within living cells. Such binders can be applied in various formats, e.g. as chromobodies for live cell microscopy or as biosensors to decipher complex intracellular signaling pathways. In addition, protein knockouts can be achieved by target-specific Nbs, while modulating Nbs have the potential as future therapeutics. The development of fine-tunable and switchable Nb-based systems that simultaneously provide spatial and temporal control has recently taken the application of these binders to the next level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa R Wagner
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany; NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Rothbauer
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany; NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany; Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC2180) "Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies", Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Njeru FN, Kusolwa PM. Nanobodies: their potential for applications in biotechnology, diagnosis and antiviral properties in Africa; focus on application in agriculture. BIOTECHNOL BIOTEC EQ 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/13102818.2021.1974943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Faith Njeri Njeru
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Parasitology and Biotechnology, Southern African Centre for Infectious Disease Surveillance (SACIDS), Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania
| | - Paul Mbogo Kusolwa
- Department of Crop Science and Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wagner TR, Rothbauer U. Nanobodies Right in the Middle: Intrabodies as Toolbox to Visualize and Modulate Antigens in the Living Cell. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10121701. [PMID: 33371447 PMCID: PMC7767433 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In biomedical research, there is an ongoing demand for new technologies to elucidate disease mechanisms and develop novel therapeutics. This requires comprehensive understanding of cellular processes and their pathophysiology based on reliable information on abundance, localization, post-translational modifications and dynamic interactions of cellular components. Traceable intracellular binding molecules provide new opportunities for real-time cellular diagnostics. Most prominently, intrabodies derived from antibody fragments of heavy-chain only antibodies of camelids (nanobodies) have emerged as highly versatile and attractive probes to study and manipulate antigens within the context of living cells. In this review, we provide an overview on the selection, delivery and usage of intrabodies to visualize and monitor cellular antigens in living cells and organisms. Additionally, we summarize recent advances in the development of intrabodies as cellular biosensors and their application to manipulate disease-related cellular processes. Finally, we highlight switchable intrabodies, which open entirely new possibilities for real-time cell-based diagnostics including live-cell imaging, target validation and generation of precisely controllable binding reagents for future therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa R. Wagner
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany;
- Natural and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Tuebingen, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Rothbauer
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, 72076 Tuebingen, Germany;
- Natural and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Tuebingen, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-7121-5153-0415; Fax: +49-7121-5153-0816
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Soetens E, Ballegeer M, Saelens X. An Inside Job: Applications of Intracellular Single Domain Antibodies. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10121663. [PMID: 33322697 PMCID: PMC7764588 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sera of camelid species contain a special kind of antibody that consists only of heavy chains. The variable antigen binding domain of these heavy chain antibodies can be expressed as a separate entity, called a single domain antibody that is characterized by its small size, high solubility and oftentimes exceptional stability. Because of this, most single domain antibodies fold correctly when expressed in the reducing environment of the cytoplasm, and thereby retain their antigen binding specificity. Single domain antibodies can thus be used to target a broad range of intracellular proteins. Such intracellular single domain antibodies are also known as intrabodies, and have proven to be highly useful tools for basic research by allowing visualization, disruption and even targeted degradation of intracellular proteins. Furthermore, intrabodies can be used to uncover prospective new therapeutic targets and have the potential to be applied in therapeutic settings in the future. In this review we provide a brief overview of recent advances in the field of intracellular single domain antibodies, focusing on their use as research tools and potential therapeutic applications. Special attention is given to the available methods that allow delivery of single domain antibodies into cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eline Soetens
- VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB, B-9052 Ghent, Belgium; (E.S.); (M.B.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marlies Ballegeer
- VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB, B-9052 Ghent, Belgium; (E.S.); (M.B.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Xavier Saelens
- VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology, VIB, B-9052 Ghent, Belgium; (E.S.); (M.B.)
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Unique, functional, homodimeric heavy chain-only antibodies, devoid of light chains, are circulating in the blood of Camelidae. These antibodies recognize their cognate antigen via one single domain, known as VHH or Nanobody. This serendipitous discovery made three decades ago has stimulated a growing number of researchers to generate highly specific Nanobodies against a myriad of targets. The small size, strict monomeric state, robustness, and easy tailoring of these Nanobodies have inspired many groups to design innovative Nanobody-based multi-domain constructs to explore novel applications. As such, Nanobodies have been employed as an exquisite research tool in structural, cell, and developmental biology. Furthermore, Nanobodies have demonstrated their benefit for more sensitive diagnostic tests. Finally, several Nanobody-based constructs have been designed to develop new therapeutic products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serge Muyldermans
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; .,Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Imaging, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116023, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
de Beer MA, Giepmans BNG. Nanobody-Based Probes for Subcellular Protein Identification and Visualization. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:573278. [PMID: 33240044 PMCID: PMC7667270 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.573278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding how building blocks of life contribute to physiology is greatly aided by protein identification and cellular localization. The two main labeling approaches developed over the past decades are labeling with antibodies such as immunoglobulin G (IgGs) or use of genetically encoded tags such as fluorescent proteins. However, IgGs are large proteins (150 kDa), which limits penetration depth and uncertainty of target position caused by up to ∼25 nm distance of the label created by the chosen targeting approach. Additionally, IgGs cannot be easily recombinantly modulated and engineered as part of fusion proteins because they consist of multiple independent translated chains. In the last decade single domain antigen binding proteins are being explored in bioscience as a tool in revealing molecular identity and localization to overcome limitations by IgGs. These nanobodies have several potential benefits over routine applications. Because of their small size (15 kDa), nanobodies better penetrate during labeling procedures and improve resolution. Moreover, nanobodies cDNA can easily be fused with other cDNA. Multidomain proteins can thus be easily engineered consisting of domains for targeting (nanobodies) and visualization by fluorescence microscopy (fluorescent proteins) or electron microscopy (based on certain enzymes). Additional modules for e.g., purification are also easily added. These nanobody-based probes can be applied in cells for live-cell endogenous protein detection or may be purified prior to use on molecules, cells or tissues. Here, we present the current state of nanobody-based probes and their implementation in microscopy, including pitfalls and potential future opportunities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marit A de Beer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Ben N G Giepmans
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Traenkle B, Segan S, Fagbadebo FO, Kaiser PD, Rothbauer U. A novel epitope tagging system to visualize and monitor antigens in live cells with chromobodies. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14267. [PMID: 32868807 PMCID: PMC7459311 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-71091-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Epitope tagging is a versatile approach to study different proteins using a well-defined and established methodology. To date, most epitope tags such as myc, HA, V5 and FLAG tags are recognized by antibodies, which limits their use to fixed cells, tissues or protein samples. Here we introduce a broadly applicable tagging strategy utilizing a short peptide tag (PepTag) which is specifically recognized by a nanobody (PepNB). We demonstrated that the PepNB can be easily functionalized for immunoprecipitation or direct immunofluorescence staining of Pep-tagged proteins in vitro. For in cellulo studies we converted the PepNB into a fluorescently labeled Pep-chromobody (PepCB) which is functionally expressed in living cells. The addition of the small PepTag does not interfere with the examined structures in different cellular compartments and its detection with the PepCB enables optical antigen tracing in real time. By employing the phenomenon of antigen-mediated chromobody stabilization (AMCBS) using a turnover-accelerated PepCB we demonstrated that the system is suitable to visualize and quantify changes in Pep-tagged antigen concentration by quantitative live-cell imaging. We expect that this novel tagging strategy offers new opportunities to study the dynamic regulation of proteins, e.g. during cellular signaling, cell differentiation, or upon drug action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bjoern Traenkle
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany.,Natural and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Tuebingen, Markwiesenstr. 55, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Sören Segan
- Natural and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Tuebingen, Markwiesenstr. 55, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany
| | | | - Philipp D Kaiser
- Natural and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Tuebingen, Markwiesenstr. 55, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Rothbauer
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany. .,Natural and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Tuebingen, Markwiesenstr. 55, 72770, Reutlingen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Muyldermans S. A guide to: generation and design of nanobodies. FEBS J 2020; 288:2084-2102. [PMID: 32780549 PMCID: PMC8048825 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
A nanobody (Nb) is a registered trademark of Ablynx, referring to the single antigen-binding domain of heavy chain-only antibodies (HCAbs) that are circulating in Camelidae. Nbs are produced recombinantly in micro-organisms and employed as research tools or for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. They were - and still are - also named single-domain antibodies (sdAbs) or variable domain of the heavy chain of HCAbs (VHH). A variety of methods are currently in use for the fast and efficient generation of target-specific Nbs. Such Nbs are produced at low cost and associate with high affinity to their cognate antigen. They are robust, strictly monomeric and easy to tailor into more complex entities to meet the requirements of their application. Here, we review the various sources and different strategies that have been developed to identify rapidly, target-specific Nbs. We further discuss a variety of engineering technologies that have been explored to broaden the application range of Nbs and summarise those applications where designed Nbs might offer a marked advantage over other affinity reagents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serge Muyldermans
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium.,Liaoning Key Laboratory of Molecular Recognition and Imaging, School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zhang C, Ötjengerdes RM, Roewe J, Mejias R, Marschall ALJ. Applying Antibodies Inside Cells: Principles and Recent Advances in Neurobiology, Virology and Oncology. BioDrugs 2020; 34:435-462. [PMID: 32301049 PMCID: PMC7391400 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-020-00419-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
To interfere with cell function, many scientists rely on methods that target DNA or RNA due to the ease with which they can be applied. Proteins are usually the final executors of function but are targeted only indirectly by these methods. Recent advances in targeted degradation of proteins based on proteolysis-targeting chimaeras (PROTACs), ubiquibodies, deGradFP (degrade Green Fluorescent Protein) and other approaches have demonstrated the potential of interfering directly at the protein level for research and therapy. Proteins can be targeted directly and very specifically by antibodies, but using antibodies inside cells has so far been considered to be challenging. However, it is possible to deliver antibodies or other proteins into the cytosol using standard laboratory equipment. Physical methods such as electroporation have been demonstrated to be efficient and validated thoroughly over time. The expression of intracellular antibodies (intrabodies) inside cells is another way to interfere with intracellular targets at the protein level. Methodological strategies to target the inside of cells with antibodies, including delivered antibodies and expressed antibodies, as well as applications in the research areas of neurobiology, viral infections and oncology, are reviewed here. Antibodies have already been used to interfere with a wide range of intracellular targets. Disease-related targets included proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (α-synuclein), Alzheimer's disease (amyloid-β) or Huntington's disease (mutant huntingtin [mHtt]). The applications of intrabodies in the context of viral infections include targeting proteins associated with HIV (e.g. HIV1-TAT, Rev, Vif, gp41, gp120, gp160) and different oncoviruses such as human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and Epstein-Barr virus, and they have been used to interfere with various targets related to different processes in cancer, including oncogenic pathways, proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, metastasis, angiogenesis or neo-antigens (e.g. p53, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 [HER2], signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 [STAT3], RAS-related RHO-GTPase B (RHOB), cortactin, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 [VEGFR2], Ras, Bcr-Abl). Interfering at the protein level allows questions to be addressed that may remain unanswered using alternative methods. This review addresses why direct targeting of proteins allows unique insights, what is currently feasible in vitro, and how this relates to potential therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Congcong Zhang
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Frankfurt/Mainz, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rina M Ötjengerdes
- Hannover Medical School (MHH), Carl-Neuberg-Straße 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Julian Roewe
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Clinical Cooperation Unit (CCU) Neuroimmunology and Brain TumorImmunology (D170), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rebeca Mejias
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Andrea L J Marschall
- Technische Universität Braunschweig, Institute of Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Brunswick, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lin J, Gu Y, Xu Y, Yu J, Tang J, Wu L, Zhou Z, Chen C, Liu M, Chun X, Liu H, Nian R, Song H, Zhang J. Characterization and applications of nanobodies against Pseudomonas aeruginosa Exotoxin A selected from single alpaca B cells. BIOTECHNOL BIOTEC EQ 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/13102818.2020.1817782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jingtao Lin
- Unit of Clinical Laboratory, Dalang Hospital of Dongguan, Dalang, Dongguan, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Yi Gu
- Shenzhen Innova Nanobodi Co., Ltd, Shenzhen, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Yanru Xu
- Unit of Clinical Laboratory, Dalang Hospital of Dongguan, Dalang, Dongguan, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Jianli Yu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, PR China
| | - Jinsong Tang
- Unit of Clinical Laboratory, Dalang Hospital of Dongguan, Dalang, Dongguan, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Lili Wu
- Unit of Clinical Laboratory, Dalang Hospital of Dongguan, Dalang, Dongguan, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Zhengwei Zhou
- Unit of Clinical Laboratory, Dalang Hospital of Dongguan, Dalang, Dongguan, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Cailing Chen
- Unit of Clinical Laboratory, Dalang Hospital of Dongguan, Dalang, Dongguan, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Minjuan Liu
- Unit of Clinical Laboratory, Dalang Hospital of Dongguan, Dalang, Dongguan, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Xuan Chun
- Unit of Clinical Laboratory, Dalang Hospital of Dongguan, Dalang, Dongguan, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Hongling Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, PR China
| | - Rui Nian
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, PR China
| | - Haipeng Song
- Shenzhen Innova Nanobodi Co., Ltd, Shenzhen, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Jing Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, PR China
- Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Department of Biochemistry, Qilu Medical University, Zibo, Shandong, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
Camelid-derived nanobodies are versatile tools for research, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Certain nanobodies can function as intrabodies and bind antigens within the eukaryotic cytosol. This capability is valuable for the development of intracellular probes and targeted gene therapies. Consequently, many attempts have been made to produce nanobodies that are intracellularly stable and resistant to aggregation. Pursuit of these intrabodies generally focuses on library design or nanobody selection method. Recent variations of library design have yielded diverse libraries capable of producing nanobodies against a wide variety of antigens. Novel screening methods have also been developed, yielding nanobodies with high affinity for intracellular antigens. These screening techniques can have advantages over phage display methods when nanobodies against intracellular antigens must be rapidly produced. Some intracellular screening methods convey the additional advantage of selecting for other desired intrabody characteristics, such as antiviral action or conditional stability. This review summarizes the recent developments in both library design and selection methods aimed at producing intrabodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James Woods
- 1 Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Keller BM, Maier J, Secker KA, Egetemaier SM, Parfyonova Y, Rothbauer U, Traenkle B. Chromobodies to Quantify Changes of Endogenous Protein Concentration in Living Cells. Mol Cell Proteomics 2018; 17:2518-2533. [PMID: 30228193 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.tir118.000914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding cellular processes requires the determination of dynamic changes in the concentration of genetically nonmodified, endogenous proteins, which, to date, is commonly accomplished by end-point assays in vitro Molecular probes such as fluorescently labeled nanobodies (chromobodies, CBs) are powerful tools to visualize the dynamic subcellular localization of endogenous proteins in living cells. Here, we employed the dependence of intracellular levels of chromobodies on the amount of their endogenous antigens, a phenomenon, which we termed antigen-mediated CB stabilization (AMCBS), for simultaneous monitoring of time-resolved changes in the concentration and localization of native proteins. To improve the dynamic range of AMCBS we generated turnover-accelerated CBs and demonstrated their application in visualization and quantification of fast reversible changes in antigen concentration upon compound treatment by quantitative live-cell imaging. We expect that this broadly applicable strategy will enable unprecedented insights into the dynamic regulation of proteins, e.g. during cellular signaling, cell differentiation, or upon drug action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Julia Maier
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Kathy-Ann Secker
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Germany
| | | | - Yana Parfyonova
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Rothbauer
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Germany; Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tuebingen, Reutlingen, Germany.
| | - Bjoern Traenkle
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Recent advances in the selection and identification of antigen-specific nanobodies. Mol Immunol 2018; 96:37-47. [PMID: 29477934 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2018.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Revised: 02/12/2018] [Accepted: 02/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Nanobodies represent the next-generation antibody-derived biologics with significant advances over conventional antibodies. Several rapid and robust techniques for isolating highly specific nanobodies have been developed. Antigen specific nanobodies are selected from constructed nanobody libraries, which can be classified into 3 main types: immune library, naïve library, and semisynthetic/synthetic library. The immune library is the most widely used strategy for nanobody screening. Target specific nanobodies are highly enriched in immune libraries than in non-immune libraries; however, it is largely limited by the natural antigenicity of antigens. The naïve library is thus developed. Despite the lack of somatic maturation, protein engineering can be employed to significantly increase the affinities of selected binders. However, a substantial amount of blood samples collected from a large number of individual animals is a prerequisite to ensure the diversity of the naïve library. With this issue considered, the semisynthetic/synthetic library may be a promising path toward obtaining a limitless source of nanobodies against a variety of antigens without the need of animals. In this review, we summarize the state-of-the-art screening technologies with different libraries. The approaches presented here can further boost the diverse applications of nanobodies in biomedicine and biotechnology.
Collapse
|
20
|
Traenkle B, Rothbauer U. Under the Microscope: Single-Domain Antibodies for Live-Cell Imaging and Super-Resolution Microscopy. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1030. [PMID: 28883823 PMCID: PMC5573807 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Single-domain antibodies (sdAbs) have substantially expanded the possibilities of advanced cellular imaging such as live-cell or super-resolution microscopy to visualize cellular antigens and their dynamics. In addition to their unique properties including small size, high stability, and solubility in many environments, sdAbs can be efficiently functionalized according to the needs of the respective imaging approach. Genetically encoded intrabodies fused to fluorescent proteins (chromobodies) have become versatile tools to study dynamics of endogenous proteins in living cells. Additionally, sdAbs conjugated to organic dyes were shown to label cellular structures with high density and minimal fluorophore displacement making them highly attractive probes for super-resolution microscopy. Here, we review recent advances of the chromobody technology to visualize localization and dynamics of cellular targets and the application of chromobody-based cell models for compound screening. Acknowledging the emerging importance of super-resolution microscopy in cell biology, we further discuss advantages and challenges of sdAbs for this technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bjoern Traenkle
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Rothbauer
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Eberhard Karls University Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tuebingen, Reutlingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Li T, Vandesquille M, Bay S, Dhenain M, Delatour B, Lafaye P. Selection of similar single domain antibodies from two immune VHH libraries obtained from two alpacas by using different selection methods. Immunol Lett 2017; 188:89-95. [PMID: 28690185 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The two most used methods to select camelid single-domain antibody-fragments (VHHs) are: displaying their repertoires on the surface of filamentous bacteriophages (phage display) or linking them to ribosomes (ribosome display). In this study, we compared specific VHHs isolated from two different immune libraries coming from two different alpacas by using these two selection methods. Three anti-GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein) VHHs were derived from an immune library obtained by ribosome display after immunization of one alpaca with purified GFAP, a protein expressed by astroglial cells. In parallel, three other anti-GFAP VHHs were derived from an immune library by phage display after immunization of another alpaca with a human brain tissue extract containing GFAP. All the VHHs were closely related and one VHH was found to be strictly identical in both studies. This highlights the selection pressure exerted by the camelid immune system to shape the paratope of an antibody against a defined antigen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tengfei Li
- Institut Pasteur, CITECH, Plateforme d'Ingénierie des Anticorps, Paris, France; Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ. Paris 06 UMR S 1127, Inserm U 1127/CNRS UMR 7225, Paris, France; Université Paris Diderot-Paris 7, Paris, France
| | | | - Sylvie Bay
- Institut Pasteur, Unité de Chimie des Biomolécules, Paris, France; CNRS UMR 3523, Paris, France
| | - Marc Dhenain
- Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives (CEA), Direction de la Recherche Fondamentale (DRF), MIRCen, CNRS, Université Paris-Sud, Université Paris-Saclay UMR 9199, Neurodegenerative Diseases Laboratory, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Benoît Delatour
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ. Paris 06 UMR S 1127, Inserm U 1127/CNRS UMR 7225, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Lafaye
- Institut Pasteur, CITECH, Plateforme d'Ingénierie des Anticorps, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Böldicke T. Single domain antibodies for the knockdown of cytosolic and nuclear proteins. Protein Sci 2017; 26:925-945. [PMID: 28271570 PMCID: PMC5405437 DOI: 10.1002/pro.3154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Single domain antibodies (sdAbs) from camels or sharks comprise only the variable heavy chain domain. Human sdAbs comprise the variable domain of the heavy chain (VH) or light chain (VL) and can be selected from human antibodies. SdAbs are stable, nonaggregating molecules in vitro and in vivo compared to complete antibodies and scFv fragments. They are excellent novel inhibitors of cytosolic/nuclear proteins because they are correctly folded inside the cytosol in contrast to scFv fragments. SdAbs are unique because of their excellent specificity and possibility to target posttranslational modifications such as phosphorylation sites, conformers or interaction regions of proteins that cannot be targeted with genetic knockout techniques and are impossible to knockdown with RNAi. The number of inhibiting cytosolic/nuclear sdAbs is increasing and usage of synthetic single pot single domain antibody libraries will boost the generation of these fascinating molecules without the need of immunization. The most frequently selected antigenic epitopes belong to viral and oncogenic proteins, followed by toxins, proteins of the nervous system as well as plant- and drosophila proteins. It is now possible to select functional sdAbs against virtually every cytosolic/nuclear protein and desired epitope. The development of new endosomal escape protein domains and cell-penetrating peptides for efficient transfection broaden the application of inhibiting sdAbs. Last but not least, the generation of relatively new cell-specific nanoparticles such as polymersomes and polyplexes carrying cytosolic/nuclear sdAb-DNA or -protein will pave the way to apply cytosolic/nuclear sdAbs for inhibition of viral infection and cancer in the clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Böldicke
- Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Structure and Function of ProteinsInhoffenstraße 7, D‐38124BraunschweigGermany
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Abstract
Ligand-induced activation of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) is a key mechanism permitting communication between cells and organs. Enormous progress has recently elucidated the structural and dynamic features of GPCR transmembrane signaling. Nanobodies, the recombinant antigen-binding fragments of camelid heavy-chain-only antibodies, have emerged as important research tools to lock GPCRs in particular conformational states. Active-state stabilizing nanobodies have elucidated several agonist-bound structures of hormone-activated GPCRs and have provided insight into the dynamic character of receptors. Nanobodies have also been used to stabilize transient GPCR transmembrane signaling complexes, yielding the first structural insights into GPCR signal transduction across the cellular membrane. Beyond their in vitro uses, nanobodies have served as conformational biosensors in living systems and have provided novel ways to modulate GPCR function. Here, we highlight several examples of how nanobodies have enabled the study of GPCR function and give insights into potential future uses of these important tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aashish Manglik
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305; ,
| | - Brian K Kobilka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305; ,
| | - Jan Steyaert
- Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
- VIB Structural Biology Research Center, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Maffey L, Vega CG, Miño S, Garaicoechea L, Parreño V. Anti-VP6 VHH: An Experimental Treatment for Rotavirus A-Associated Disease. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0162351. [PMID: 27603013 PMCID: PMC5014449 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0162351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Species A Rotaviruses (RVA) remain a leading cause of mortality in children under 5 years of age. Current treatment options are limited. We assessed the efficacy of two VP6-specific llama-derived heavy chain antibody fragments (VHH) -2KD1 and 3B2- as an oral prophylactic and therapeutic treatment against RVA-induced diarrhea in a neonatal mouse model inoculated with virulent murine RVA (ECw, G16P[16]I7). Joint therapeutic administration of 2KD1+3B2 (200 μg/dose) successfully reduced diarrhea duration, RVA infection severity and virus shedding in feces. While the same dose of 2KD1 or 3B2 (200 μg) significantly reduced duration of RVA-induced diarrhea, 2KD1 was more effective in diminishing the severity of intestinal infection and RVA shedding in feces, perhaps because 2KD1 presented higher binding affinity for RVA particles than 3B2. Neither prophylactic nor therapeutic administration of the VHH interfered with the host's humoral immune response against RVA. When 2KD1 (200 μg) was administered after diarrhea development, it also significantly reduced RVA intestinal infection and fecal shedding. Host antibody responses against the oral VHH treatment were not detected, nor did viral escape mutants. Our findings show that oral administration of anti-VP6 VHH constitute, not only an effective prophylactic treatment against RVA-associated diarrhea, but also a safe therapeutic tool against RVA infection, even once diarrhea is present. Anti-VP6 VHH could be used complementary to ongoing vaccination, especially in populations that have shown lower immunization efficacy. These VHH could also be scaled-up to develop pediatric medication or functional food like infant milk formulas that might help treat RVA diarrhea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Maffey
- Instituto de Virología, Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas, INTA Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Celina G. Vega
- Instituto de Virología, Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas, INTA Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Samuel Miño
- Instituto de Virología, Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas, INTA Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lorena Garaicoechea
- Instituto de Virología, Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas, INTA Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Viviana Parreño
- Instituto de Virología, Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas, INTA Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Moutel S, Bery N, Bernard V, Keller L, Lemesre E, de Marco A, Ligat L, Rain JC, Favre G, Olichon A, Perez F. NaLi-H1: A universal synthetic library of humanized nanobodies providing highly functional antibodies and intrabodies. eLife 2016; 5. [PMID: 27434673 PMCID: PMC4985285 DOI: 10.7554/elife.16228] [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] [Received: 03/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro selection of antibodies allows to obtain highly functional binders, rapidly and at lower cost. Here, we describe the first fully synthetic phage display library of humanized llama single domain antibody (NaLi-H1: Nanobody Library Humanized 1). Based on a humanized synthetic single domain antibody (hs2dAb) scaffold optimized for intracellular stability, the highly diverse library provides high affinity binders without animal immunization. NaLi-H1 was screened following several selection schemes against various targets (Fluorescent proteins, actin, tubulin, p53, HP1). Conformation antibodies against active RHO GTPase were also obtained. Selected hs2dAb were used in various immunoassays and were often found to be functional intrabodies, enabling tracking or inhibition of endogenous targets. Functionalization of intrabodies allowed specific protein knockdown in living cells. Finally, direct selection against the surface of tumor cells produced hs2dAb directed against tumor-specific antigens further highlighting the potential use of this library for therapeutic applications. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.16228.001 Antibodies are proteins that form part of an animal’s immune system and can identify and help eradicate infections. These proteins are also needed at many stages in biological research and represent one of the most promising tools in medical applications, from diagnostics to treatments. Traditionally, antibodies have been collected from animals that had been previously injected with a target molecule that the antibodies must recognize. An alternative strategy that uses bacteria and bacteria-infecting viruses instead of animals was developed several decades ago and allows researchers to obtain antibodies more quickly. However, the majority of the scientific community view these “in vitro selected antibodies” as inferior to those produced via the more traditional approach. Moutel, Bery et al. set out to challenge this widespread opinion, using a smaller kind of antibody known as nanobodies. The proteins were originally found in animals like llamas and camels and are now widely used in biological research. One particularly stable nanobody was chosen to form the backbone of the in vitro antibodies, and the DNA that encodes this nanobody was altered to make the protein more similar to human antibodies. Moutel, Bery et al. then changed the DNA sequence further to make billions of different versions of the nanobody, each one slightly different from the next in the region that binds to the target molecules. Transferring this DNA into bacteria resulted in a library (called the NaLi-H1 library) of bacterial clones that produce the nanobodies displayed at the surface of bacteria-infecting viruses. Moutel, Bery et al. then screened this library against various target molecules, including some from tumor cells, and showed that the fully in vitro selected antibodies worked just as well as natural antibodies in a number of assays. The in vitro antibodies could even be used to track, or inactivate, proteins within living cells. The NaLi-H1 library will help other researchers obtain new antibodies that bind strongly to their targets. The approaches developed to create the library could also see more people decide to create their own synthetic libraries, which would accelerate the identification of new antibodies in a way that is cheaper and requires fewer experiments to be done using animals. These in vitro selected antibodies could help to advance both fundamental and medical research. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.16228.002
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine Moutel
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France.,CNRS UMR144, Paris, France.,Translational Research Department, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Bery
- Inserm, UMR 1037-CRCT, Toulouse, France.,Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Laura Keller
- Inserm, UMR 1037-CRCT, Toulouse, France.,Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France.,Institut Claudius Regaud, Toulouse, France
| | - Emilie Lemesre
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France.,CNRS UMR144, Paris, France
| | - Ario de Marco
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Laetitia Ligat
- Le Pôle Technologique du Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, plateau de protéomique, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Gilles Favre
- Inserm, UMR 1037-CRCT, Toulouse, France.,Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France.,Institut Claudius Regaud, Toulouse, France
| | - Aurélien Olichon
- Inserm, UMR 1037-CRCT, Toulouse, France.,Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | - Franck Perez
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Paris, France.,CNRS UMR144, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Lee S, Kaku Y, Inoue S, Nagamune T, Kawahara M. Growth signalobody selects functional intrabodies in the mammalian cytoplasm. Biotechnol J 2016; 11:565-73. [PMID: 26647155 DOI: 10.1002/biot.201500364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Revised: 09/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
A versatile strategy to inhibit protein functions in the cytoplasmic environment is eagerly anticipated for drug discovery. In this study, we demonstrate a novel system to directly select functional intrabodies from a library in the mammalian cytoplasm. In this system, a target homo-oligomeric antigen is expressed together with a single-chain Fv (scFv) library that is linked to the cytoplasmic domain of a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) in the cytoplasm of murine interleukin-3 (IL-3)-dependent cells. As the tyrosine kinase is activated by dimerization, only scFv-RTK clones that can bind to the target antigen would be oligomerized and transduce a growth signal under the IL-3-deprived condition, which leads to selection of functional intrabodies. To demonstrate this system, we used rabies virus phosphoprotein (RV-P) that forms dimers in the cytoplasm as a target antigen. As a result, functional intrabodies were selected using our system from a naïve scFv library as well as from a pre-selected anti-RV-P library generated by phage display. This system may be applied for screening intrabodies that can prevent progression of various severe diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Songhee Lee
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Kaku
- Department of Veterinary Science, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Inoue
- Department of Veterinary Science, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Teruyuki Nagamune
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Kawahara
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
de Marco A. Recombinant antibody production evolves into multiple options aimed at yielding reagents suitable for application-specific needs. Microb Cell Fact 2015; 14:125. [PMID: 26330219 PMCID: PMC4557595 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-015-0320-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibodies have been a pillar of basic research, while their relevance in clinical diagnostics and therapy is constantly growing. Consequently, the production of both conventional and fragment antibodies constantly faces more demanding challenges for the improvement of their quantity and quality. The answer to such an increasing need has been the development of a wide array of formats and alternative production platforms. This review offers a critical comparison and evaluation of the different options to help the researchers interested in expressing recombinant antibodies in their choice. RESULTS Rather than the compilation of an exhaustive list of the recent publications in the field, this review intendeds to analyze the development of the most innovative or fast-growing strategies. These have been illustrated with some significant examples and, when possible, compared with the existing alternatives. Space has also been given to those solutions that might represent interesting opportunities or that investigate critical aspects of the production optimization but for which the available data as yet do not allow for a definitive judgment. CONCLUSIONS The take-home message is that there is a clear process of progressive diversification concerning the antibody expression platforms and an effort to yield directly application-adapted immune-reagents rather than generic naked antibodies that need further in vitro modification steps before becoming usable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ario de Marco
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Engineering, University of Nova Gorica, Glavni Trg 9, 5261, Vipava, Slovenia.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
Owing to their small size and enhanced stability, nanobodies derived from camelids have previously been used for the construction of intracellular “nanotraps,” which enable redirection and manipulation of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged targets within living plant and animal cells. By taking advantage of intracellular compartmentalization in the magnetic bacterium Magnetospirillum gryphiswaldense, we demonstrate that proteins and even entire organelles can be retargeted also within prokaryotic cells by versatile nanotrap technology. Expression of multivalent GFP-binding nanobodies on magnetosomes ectopically recruited the chemotaxis protein CheW1-GFP from polar chemoreceptor clusters to the midcell, resulting in a gradual knockdown of aerotaxis. Conversely, entire magnetosome chains could be redirected from the midcell and tethered to one of the cell poles. Similar approaches could potentially be used for building synthetic cellular structures and targeted protein knockdowns in other bacteria. Importance Intrabodies are commonly used in eukaryotic systems for intracellular analysis and manipulation of proteins within distinct subcellular compartments. In particular, so-called nanobodies have great potential for synthetic biology approaches because they can be expressed easily in heterologous hosts and actively interact with intracellular targets, for instance, by the construction of intracellular “nanotraps” in living animal and plant cells. Although prokaryotic cells also exhibit a considerable degree of intracellular organization, there are few tools available equivalent to the well-established methods used in eukaryotes. Here, we demonstrate the ectopic retargeting and depletion of polar membrane proteins and entire organelles to distinct compartments in a magnetotactic bacterium, resulting in a gradual knockdown of magneto-aerotaxis. This intracellular nanotrap approach has the potential to be applied in other bacteria for building synthetic cellular structures, manipulating protein function, and creating gradual targeted knockdowns. Our findings provide a proof of principle for the universal use of fluorescently tagged proteins as targets for nanotraps to fulfill these tasks. Intrabodies are commonly used in eukaryotic systems for intracellular analysis and manipulation of proteins within distinct subcellular compartments. In particular, so-called nanobodies have great potential for synthetic biology approaches because they can be expressed easily in heterologous hosts and actively interact with intracellular targets, for instance, by the construction of intracellular “nanotraps” in living animal and plant cells. Although prokaryotic cells also exhibit a considerable degree of intracellular organization, there are few tools available equivalent to the well-established methods used in eukaryotes. Here, we demonstrate the ectopic retargeting and depletion of polar membrane proteins and entire organelles to distinct compartments in a magnetotactic bacterium, resulting in a gradual knockdown of magneto-aerotaxis. This intracellular nanotrap approach has the potential to be applied in other bacteria for building synthetic cellular structures, manipulating protein function, and creating gradual targeted knockdowns. Our findings provide a proof of principle for the universal use of fluorescently tagged proteins as targets for nanotraps to fulfill these tasks.
Collapse
|
29
|
Matz J, Hérate C, Bouchet J, Dusetti N, Gayet O, Baty D, Benichou S, Chames P. Selection of intracellular single-domain antibodies targeting the HIV-1 Vpr protein by cytoplasmic yeast two-hybrid system. PLoS One 2014; 9:e113729. [PMID: 25436999 PMCID: PMC4249982 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0113729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2014] [Accepted: 10/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The targeting of HIV-1 using antibodies is of high interest as molecular tools to better understand the biology of the virus or as a first step toward the design of new inhibitors targeting critical viral intracellular proteins. Small and highly stable llama-derived single-domain antibodies can often be functionally expressed as intracellular antibodies in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. Using a selection method based on the Sos Recruitment System, a cytoplasmic yeast two-hybrid approach, we have isolated single-domain antibodies able to bind HIV-1 Vpr and Capside proteins in the yeast cytoplasm. One anti-Vpr single domain antibody was able to bind the HIV-1 regulatory Vpr protein in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells, leading to its delocalization from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. To our knowledge, this is the first description of a functional single-domain intrabody targeting HIV-1 Vpr, isolated using an in vivo cytoplasmic selection method that alleviates some limitations of the conventional yeast two-hybrid system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Matz
- Inserm U1068, CRCM, Marseille, France
- Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France
- Aix-Marseille Université UM105, Marseille, France
- CNRS, UMR7258, CRCM, Marseille, France
| | - Cécile Hérate
- Institut Cochin, CNRS UMR8104, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
- Inserm U1016, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Bouchet
- Institut Cochin, CNRS UMR8104, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
- Inserm U1016, Paris, France
| | - Nelson Dusetti
- Inserm U1068, CRCM, Marseille, France
- Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France
- Aix-Marseille Université UM105, Marseille, France
- CNRS, UMR7258, CRCM, Marseille, France
| | - Odile Gayet
- Inserm U1068, CRCM, Marseille, France
- Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France
- Aix-Marseille Université UM105, Marseille, France
- CNRS, UMR7258, CRCM, Marseille, France
| | - Daniel Baty
- Inserm U1068, CRCM, Marseille, France
- Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France
- Aix-Marseille Université UM105, Marseille, France
- CNRS, UMR7258, CRCM, Marseille, France
| | - Serge Benichou
- Institut Cochin, CNRS UMR8104, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
- Inserm U1016, Paris, France
| | - Patrick Chames
- Inserm U1068, CRCM, Marseille, France
- Institut Paoli-Calmettes, Marseille, France
- Aix-Marseille Université UM105, Marseille, France
- CNRS, UMR7258, CRCM, Marseille, France
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Characterization of camel nanobodies specific for superfolder GFP fusion proteins. Mol Biol Rep 2014; 41:6887-98. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-014-3575-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2013] [Accepted: 06/30/2014] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
|
31
|
Taussig MJ, Schmidt R, Cook EA, Stoevesandt O. Development of proteome-wide binding reagents for research and diagnostics. Proteomics Clin Appl 2014; 7:756-66. [PMID: 24178846 DOI: 10.1002/prca.201300060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2013] [Revised: 09/09/2013] [Accepted: 09/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Alongside MS, antibodies and other specific protein-binding molecules have a special place in proteomics as affinity reagents in a toolbox of applications for determining protein location, quantitative distribution and function (affinity proteomics). The realisation that the range of research antibodies available, while apparently vast is nevertheless still very incomplete and frequently of uncertain quality, has stimulated projects with an objective of raising comprehensive, proteome-wide sets of protein binders. With progress in automation and throughput, a remarkable number of recent publications refer to the practical possibility of selecting binders to every protein encoded in the genome. Here we review the requirements of a pipeline of production of protein binders for the human proteome, including target prioritisation, antigen design, 'next generation' methods, databases and the approaches taken by ongoing projects in Europe and the USA. While the task of generating affinity reagents for all human proteins is complex and demanding, the benefits of well-characterised and quality-controlled pan-proteome binder resources for biomedical research, industry and life sciences in general would be enormous and justify the effort. Given the technical, personnel and financial resources needed to fulfil this aim, expansion of current efforts may best be addressed through large-scale international collaboration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Taussig
- Protein Technology Group, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, UK; Cambridge Protein Arrays Ltd, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
De Meyer T, Muyldermans S, Depicker A. Nanobody-based products as research and diagnostic tools. Trends Biotechnol 2014; 32:263-70. [PMID: 24698358 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2014.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 303] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Revised: 02/17/2014] [Accepted: 03/05/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Since the serendipitous discovery 20 years ago of bona fide camelid heavy-chain antibodies, their single-domain antigen-binding fragments, known as VHHs or nanobodies, have received a progressively growing interest. As a result of the beneficial properties of these stable recombinant entities, they are currently highly valued proteins for multiple applications, including fundamental research, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Today, with the original patents expiring, even more academic and industrial groups are expected to explore innovative VHH applications. Here, we provide a thorough overview of novel implementations of VHHs as research and diagnostic tools, and of the recently evaluated production platforms for several VHHs and VHH-derived antibody formats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas De Meyer
- Department of Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052 Gent, Belgium; Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052 Gent, Belgium
| | - Serge Muyldermans
- Structural Biology Research Center, VIB, 1050 Brussel, Belgium; Research Unit of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussel, Belgium
| | - Ann Depicker
- Department of Plant Systems Biology, VIB, 9052 Gent, Belgium; Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Ghent University, 9052 Gent, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Kükenshöner T, Wohlwend D, Niemöller C, Dondapati P, Speck J, Adeniran AV, Nieth A, Gerhardt S, Einsle O, Müller KM, Arndt KM. Improving coiled coil stability while maintaining specificity by a bacterial hitchhiker selection system. J Struct Biol 2014; 186:335-48. [PMID: 24631970 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2014.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2013] [Revised: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 03/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The design and selection of peptides targeting cellular proteins is challenging and often yields candidates with undesired properties. Therefore we deployed a new selection system based on the twin-arginine translocase (TAT) pathway of Escherichia coli, named hitchhiker translocation (HiT) selection. A pool of α-helix encoding sequences was designed and selected for interference with the coiled coil domain (CC) of a melanoma-associated basic-helix-loop-helix-leucine-zipper (bHLHLZ) protein, the microphthalmia associated transcription factor (MITF). One predominant sequence (iM10) was enriched during selection and showed remarkable protease resistance, high solubility and thermal stability while maintaining its specificity. Furthermore, it exhibited nanomolar range affinity towards the target peptide. A mutation screen indicated that target-binding helices of increased homodimer stability and improved expression rates were preferred in the selection process. The crystal structure of the iM10/MITF-CC heterodimer (2.1Å) provided important structural insights and validated our design predictions. Importantly, iM10 did not only bind to the MITF coiled coil, but also to the markedly more stable HLHLZ domain of MITF. Characterizing the selected variants of the semi-rational library demonstrated the potential of the innovative bacterial selection approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tim Kükenshöner
- Molecular Biotechnology, Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany; Institute for Biology III, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Daniel Wohlwend
- Institute for Biochemistry, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Christoph Niemöller
- Institute for Biology III, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Padmarupa Dondapati
- Molecular Biotechnology, Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany; Institute for Biology III, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Janina Speck
- Molecular Biotechnology, Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany; Institute for Biology III, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Adebola V Adeniran
- Molecular Biotechnology, Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany; Institute for Biology III, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Anita Nieth
- Institute for Biology III, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; Centre for Biological Signalling Studies (BIOSS), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; Freiburg Institute for Advanced Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Stefan Gerhardt
- Institute for Biochemistry, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Oliver Einsle
- Centre for Biological Signalling Studies (BIOSS), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; Freiburg Institute for Advanced Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; Institute for Biochemistry, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Kristian M Müller
- Molecular Biotechnology, Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany; Institute for Biology III, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Technology, Bielefeld University, Germany
| | - Katja M Arndt
- Molecular Biotechnology, Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany; Institute for Biology III, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; Centre for Biological Signalling Studies (BIOSS), University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany; Freiburg Institute for Advanced Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Goldman ER, Brozozog-Lee PA, Zabetakis D, Turner KB, Walper SA, Liu JL, Anderson GP. Negative tail fusions can improve ruggedness of single domain antibodies. Protein Expr Purif 2014; 95:226-32. [PMID: 24440507 DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2014.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Revised: 01/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Single-domain antibodies (sdAbs), the recombinantly expressed binding domains derived from the heavy-chain-only antibodies found in camelids and sharks, are valued for their ability to refold after heat denaturation. However, some sdAbs are prone to aggregation on extended heating at high concentration. Additionally, sdAbs prepared cytoplasmically often lack the conserved disulfide bond found in variable heavy domains, which both decreases their melting point and can decrease their ability to refold. Genetic fusions of sdAbs with the acid tail of α-synuclein (ATS) resulted in constructs that had enhanced ability to resist aggregation. In addition, almost complete refolding was observed even in the absence of the disulfide bond. These sdAb-ATS fusions expand the utility of sdAbs. They provide sdAbs that are resistant to aggregation, and enable the production of re-foldable sdAbs in the reducing environment of the cytoplasm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen R Goldman
- Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory, 4555 Overlook Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20375, USA
| | | | - Dan Zabetakis
- Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory, 4555 Overlook Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20375, USA
| | - Kendrick B Turner
- Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program, American Society for Engineering Education, 4555 Overlook Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20375, USA
| | - Scott A Walper
- Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory, 4555 Overlook Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20375, USA
| | - Jinny L Liu
- Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory, 4555 Overlook Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20375, USA
| | - George P Anderson
- Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory, 4555 Overlook Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20375, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Hassanzadeh-Ghassabeh G, Devoogdt N, De Pauw P, Vincke C, Muyldermans S. Nanobodies and their potential applications. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2013; 8:1013-26. [PMID: 23730699 DOI: 10.2217/nnm.13.86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 221] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanobodies are recombinant, antigen-specific, single-domain, variable fragments of camelid heavy chain-only antibodies. The innate supremacy of nanobodies as a renewable source of affinity reagents, together with their high production yield in a broad variety of expression systems, minimal size, great stability, reversible refolding and outstanding solubility in aqueous solutions, and ability to specifically recognize unique epitopes with subnanomolar affinity, have combined to make them a useful class of biomolecules for research and various medical diagnostic and therapeutic applications. This article speculates on a number of technological innovations that might be introduced in the nanobody identification platform to streamline the generation of more potent nanobodies and to expand their application range.
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
Sera of camelids contain both conventional heterotetrameric antibodies and unique functional heavy (H)-chain antibodies (HCAbs). The H chain of these homodimeric antibodies consists of one antigen-binding domain, the VHH, and two constant domains. HCAbs fail to incorporate light (L) chains owing to the deletion of the first constant domain and a reshaped surface at the VHH side, which normally associates with L chains in conventional antibodies. The genetic elements composing HCAbs have been identified, but the in vivo generation of these antibodies from their dedicated genes into antigen-specific and affinity-matured bona fide antibodies remains largely underinvestigated. However, the facile identification of antigen-specific VHHs and their beneficial biochemical and economic properties (size, affinity, specificity, stability, production cost) supported by multiple crystal structures have encouraged antibody engineering of these single-domain antibodies for use as a research tool and in biotechnology and medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serge Muyldermans
- Research Group Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Fleetwood F, Devoogdt N, Pellis M, Wernery U, Muyldermans S, Ståhl S, Löfblom J. Surface display of a single-domain antibody library on Gram-positive bacteria. Cell Mol Life Sci 2013; 70:1081-93. [PMID: 23064703 PMCID: PMC11113301 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-012-1179-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2012] [Revised: 09/21/2012] [Accepted: 09/24/2012] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Combinatorial protein engineering for selection of proteins with novel functions, such as enzymes and affinity reagents, is an important tool in biotechnology, drug discovery, and other biochemical fields. Bacterial display is an emerging technology for isolation of new affinity proteins from such combinatorial libraries. Cells have certain properties that are attractive for directed evolution purposes, in particular the option to use quantitative flow-cytometric cell sorting for selection of binders. Here, an immune library of around 10(7) camelid single-domain antibody fragments (Nanobodies) was displayed on both the Gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus carnosus and on phage. As demonstrated for the first time, the antibody repertoire was found to be well expressed on the bacterial surface and flow-cytometric sorting yielded a number of Nanobodies with subnanomolar affinity for the target protein, green fluorescent protein (GFP). Interestingly, the staphylococcal output repertoire and the binders from the phage display selection contained two slightly different sets of clones, containing both unique as well as several similar variants. All of the Nanobodies from the staphylococcal selection were also shown to enhance the fluorescence of GFP upon binding, potentially due to the fluorescence-based sorting principle. Our study highlights the impact of the chosen display technology on the variety of selected binders and thus the value of having alternative methods available, and demonstrates in addition that the staphylococcal system is suitable for generation of high-affinity antibody fragments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Filippa Fleetwood
- Division of Molecular Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, KTH, Royal Institute of Technology, AlbaNova University Center, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nick Devoogdt
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Laboratory of In Vivo Cellular and Molecular Imaging, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mireille Pellis
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Structural Biology, VIB, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ulrich Wernery
- Central Veterinary Research Laboratory (CVRL), PO Box 597, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Serge Muyldermans
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Structural Biology, VIB, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Stefan Ståhl
- Division of Molecular Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, KTH, Royal Institute of Technology, AlbaNova University Center, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - John Löfblom
- Division of Molecular Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, KTH, Royal Institute of Technology, AlbaNova University Center, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
|