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Broudic K, Laurent S, Perkov V, Simon C, Garinot M, Truchot N, Latour J, Désert P. Nonclinical safety assessment of an mRNA Covid-19 vaccine candidate following repeated administrations and biodistribution. J Appl Toxicol 2024; 44:371-390. [PMID: 37723625 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have demonstrated efficacy against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) in humans. mRNA technology holds tremendous potential for rapid control and prevention of emergencies due to its flexibility with respect to production, application, and design for an efficacious and safe use in humans. We assessed the toxicity and biodistribution of MRT5500, an mRNA vaccine encoding for the full-length of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and delivered by lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) containing a novel ionizable lipid, Lipid-1 in preclinical animal models. In the repeated dose toxicity study, rabbits received three intramuscular (IM) injections of MRT5500 at 3-week interval followed by a 4-week observation period. In an exploratory biodistribution study in mice receiving a single IM injection of an mRNA encoding luciferase encapsulated in an LNP containing Lipid-1, the expression of the luciferase protein was monitored in vivo and ex vivo at several time points. In the regulatory biodistribution study in rabbits receiving a single IM injection of MRT5500, the quantification of the mRNA and the ionizable Lipid-1 were monitored in the same organs and time points as in the exploratory biodistribution study. MRT5500 was safe and well-tolerated with a transient acute phase response/inflammation and an expected vaccine-related immunological response, typical of those observed following a vaccine administration. The biodistribution data demonstrated that the mRNA and Lipid-1 components of the vaccine formulations were mainly detected at the injection site and in the draining lymph nodes. These results support the use of MRT5500 and its deployment into clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Broudic
- Research and Development, Sanofi, Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | | | | | - Charlene Simon
- Research and Development, Sanofi, Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Marie Garinot
- Research and Development, Sanofi, Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Nathalie Truchot
- France Safety Assessment SAS, Charles River Laboratories, Saint-Germain-Nuelles, France
| | - Julie Latour
- Research and Development, Sanofi, Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Paul Désert
- Research and Development, Sanofi, Marcy l'Etoile, France
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Kleynhans J, Sathekge MM, Ebenhan T. Preclinical Research Highlighting Contemporary Targeting Mechanisms of Radiolabelled Compounds for PET Based Infection Imaging. Semin Nucl Med 2023; 53:630-643. [PMID: 37012169 DOI: 10.1053/j.semnuclmed.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
It is important to constantly monitor developments in the preclinical imaging arena of infection. Firstly, novel radiopharmaceuticals with the correct characteristics must be identified to funnel into the clinic. Secondly, it must be evaluated if enough innovative research is being done and adequate resources are geared towards the development of radiopharmaceuticals that could feed into the Nuclear Medicine Clinic in the near future. It is proposed that the ideal infection imaging agent will involve PET combined with CT but more ideally MRI. The radiopharmaceuticals currently presented in preclinical literature have a wide selection of vectors and targets. Ionic formulations of PET-radionuclides such 64CuCl2 and 68GaCl2 are evaluated for bacterial infection imaging. Many small molecule based radiopharmaceuticals are being investigated with the most prominent targets being cell wall synthesis, maltodextrin transport (such as [18F]F-maltotriose), siderophores (bacterial and fungal infections), the folate synthesis pathway (such as [18F]F-PABA) and protein synthesis (radiolabelled puromycin). Mycobacterial specific antibiotics, antifungals and antiviral agents are also under investigation as infection imaging agents. Peptide based radiopharmaceuticals are developed for bacterial, fungal and viral infections. The radiopharmaceutical development could even react quickly enough on a pandemic to develop a SARS-CoV-2 imaging agent in a timely fashion ([64Cu]Cu-NOTA-EK1). New immuno-PET agents for the imaging of viruses have recently been published, specifically for HIV persistence but also for SARS-CoV2. A very promising antifungal immuno-PET agent (hJ5F) is also considered. Future technologies could include the application of aptamers and bacteriophages and even going as far as the design of theranostic infection. Another possibility would be the application of nanobodies for immuno-PET applications. Standardization and optimization of the preclinical evaluation of radiopharmaceuticals could enhance clinical translation and reduce time spent in pursuing less than optimal candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janke Kleynhans
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological sciences, Radiopharmaceutical Research, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mike Machaba Sathekge
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria and Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa; Preclinical Imaging Facility, Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Thomas Ebenhan
- Preclinical Imaging Facility, Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure, Pretoria, South Africa; Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
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Borg RE, Ozbakir HF, Xu B, Li E, Fang X, Peng H, Chen IA, Mukherjee A. Genetically engineered filamentous phage for bacterial detection using magnetic resonance imaging. SENSORS & DIAGNOSTICS 2023; 2:948-955. [PMID: 38405385 PMCID: PMC10888512 DOI: 10.1039/d3sd00026e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Detecting bacterial cells with high specificity in deep tissues is challenging. Optical probes provide specificity, but are limited by the scattering and absorption of light in biological tissues. Conversely, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows unfettered access to deep tissues, but lacks contrast agents for detecting specific bacterial strains. Here, we introduce a biomolecular platform that combines both capabilities by exploiting the modularity of M13 phage to target bacteria with tunable specificity and allow deep-tissue imaging using T1-weighted MRI. We engineered two types of phage probes: one for detecting the phage's natural host, viz., F-pilus expressing E. coli; and the other for detecting a different (F-negative) bacterial target, V. cholerae. We show that these phage sensors generate 3-9-fold stronger T1 relaxation upon recognizing target cells relative to non-target bacteria. We further establish a preliminary proof-of-concept for in vivo applications, by demonstrating that phage-labeled bacteria can be detected in mice using MRI. The framework developed in this study may have potential utility in a broad range of applications, from basic biomedical research to in situ diagnostics, which require methods to detect and track specific bacteria in the context of intact living systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond E Borg
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Harun F Ozbakir
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Binzhi Xu
- Biomolecular Science and Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Eugene Li
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Xiwen Fang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Huan Peng
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Irene A Chen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Arnab Mukherjee
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Biological Engineering, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE Existing clinical or microbiological scores are not sensitive enough to obtain prompt identification of patients at risk of complicated Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). Our aim was to use a CDI animal model to evaluate 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose positron emission tomography ([18F]FDG-PET) as a marker of severe course of infection. PROCEDURES CDI was induced with cefoperazone for 10 days followed by clindamycin 1 day before C. difficile inoculation. Mice were divided into wild type (n = 6), antibiotic without infection (AC n = 4), h001-infected (n = 5, ribotype 001), and h027-infected (n = 5, ribotype 027). Two days after inoculation, [18F]FDG-PET was acquired. Weight, general animal condition, and survival were monitored daily for 9 days. RESULTS h001 group showed symptoms for 4 days with 0 % mortality and a similar colon uptake than control animals (h001 0.52 ± 0.20, WT 0.42 ± 0.07, and AC 0.36 ± 0.06). The h027 group showed symptoms up to 7 days, with 66.7 % of mortality 4 days after infection, and significantly higher colon uptake (0.93 ± 0.38, p < 0.05). Clinical score was associated to colon and cecum uptake (rho = 0.78, p = 0.0001) (rho = 0.73, p = 0.0003). CONCLUSION High toxin producer ribotype 027 induced more severe CDI infections, correlating with higher colon and cecum [18F]FDG uptake. Colon uptake may purportedly serve as early predictor of CDI severity.
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Park AJ, Wright MA, Roach EJ, Khursigara CM. Imaging host-pathogen interactions using epithelial and bacterial cell infection models. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:134/5/jcs250647. [PMID: 33622798 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.250647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The age-old saying, seeing is believing, could not be truer when we think about the value of imaging interactions between epithelial cells and bacterial pathogens. Imaging and culturing techniques have vastly improved over the years, and the breadth and depth of these methods is ever increasing. These technical advances have benefited researchers greatly; however, due to the large number of potential model systems and microscopy techniques to choose from, it can be overwhelming to select the most appropriate tools for your research question. This Review discusses a variety of available epithelial culturing methods and quality control experiments that can be performed, and outlines various options commonly used to fluorescently label bacterial and mammalian cell components. Both light- and electron-microscopy techniques are reviewed, with descriptions of both technical aspects and common applications. Several examples of imaging bacterial pathogens and their interactions with epithelial cells are discussed to provide researchers with an idea of the types of biological questions that can be successfully answered by using microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber J Park
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Madison A Wright
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Elyse J Roach
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada.,Molecular and Cellular Imaging Facility, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Cezar M Khursigara
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada .,Molecular and Cellular Imaging Facility, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
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Kleynhans J, Kruger HG, Cloete T, Zeevaart JR, Ebenhan T. In Silico Modelling in the Development of Novel Radiolabelled Peptide Probes. Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:7048-7063. [DOI: 10.2174/0929867327666200504082256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
This review describes the usefulness of in silico design approaches in the design of
new radiopharmaceuticals, especially peptide-based radiotracers (including peptidomimetics).
Although not part of the standard arsenal utilized during radiopharmaceutical design, the use
of in silico strategies is steadily increasing in the field of radiochemistry as it contributes to a
more rational and scientific approach. The development of new peptide-based radiopharmaceuticals
as well as a short introduction to suitable computational approaches are provided in
this review. The first section comprises a concise overview of the three most useful computeraided
drug design strategies used, namely i) a Ligand-based Approach (LBDD) using pharmacophore
modelling, ii) a Structure-based Design Approach (SBDD) using molecular docking
strategies and iii) Absorption-Distribution-Metabolism-Excretion-Toxicity (ADMET)
predictions. The second section summarizes the challenges connected to these computer-aided
techniques and discusses successful applications of in silico radiopharmaceutical design in
peptide-based radiopharmaceutical development, thereby improving the clinical procedure in
Nuclear Medicine. Finally, the advances and future potential of in silico modelling as a design
strategy is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janke Kleynhans
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI) NPC, Pelindaba 0420, South Africa
| | | | - Theunis Cloete
- Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Jan Rijn Zeevaart
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI) NPC, Pelindaba 0420, South Africa
| | - Thomas Ebenhan
- Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI) NPC, Pelindaba 0420, South Africa
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Zhang S, Lloveras V, Pulido D, Liko F, Pinto LF, Albericio F, Royo M, Vidal-Gancedo J. Radical Dendrimers Based on Biocompatible Oligoethylene Glycol Dendrimers as Contrast Agents for MRI. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E772. [PMID: 32823903 PMCID: PMC7464757 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12080772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Finding alternatives to gadolinium (Gd)-based contrast agents (CA) with the same or even better paramagnetic properties is crucial to overcome their established toxicity. Herein we describe the synthesis and characterization of entirely organic metal-free paramagnetic macromolecules based on biocompatible oligoethylene glycol dendrimers fully functionalized with 5 and 20 organic radicals (OEG Gn-PROXYL (n = 0, 1) radical dendrimers) with the aim to be used as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents. Conferring high water solubility on such systems is often a concern, especially in large generation dendrimers. Our approach to overcome such an issue in this study is by synthesizing dendrimers with highly water-soluble branches themselves. In this work, we show that the highly water-soluble OEG Gn-PROXYL (n = 0, 1) radical dendrimers obtained showed properties that convert them in good candidates to be studied as contrast agents for MRI applications like diagnosis and follow-up of infectious diseases, among others. Importantly, with the first generation radical dendrimer, a similar r1 relaxivity value (3.4 mM-1s-1) in comparison to gadolinium-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd-DTPA) used in clinics (3.2 mM-1s-1, r.t. 7T) has been obtained, and it has been shown to not be cytotoxic, avoiding the toxicity risks associated with the unwanted accumulation of Gd in the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songbai Zhang
- Institut de Ciència de Materials de Barcelona (ICMAB-CSIC) and CIBER-BBN, Campus Universitari de Bellaterra, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (S.Z.); (V.L.); (F.L.); (L.F.P.)
| | - Vega Lloveras
- Institut de Ciència de Materials de Barcelona (ICMAB-CSIC) and CIBER-BBN, Campus Universitari de Bellaterra, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (S.Z.); (V.L.); (F.L.); (L.F.P.)
| | - Daniel Pulido
- Institut de Química Avançada de Catalunya (IQAC-CSIC) and CIBER-BBN c/ Jordi Girona 18–26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; (D.P.); (F.A.); (M.R.)
| | - Flonja Liko
- Institut de Ciència de Materials de Barcelona (ICMAB-CSIC) and CIBER-BBN, Campus Universitari de Bellaterra, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (S.Z.); (V.L.); (F.L.); (L.F.P.)
| | - Luiz F. Pinto
- Institut de Ciència de Materials de Barcelona (ICMAB-CSIC) and CIBER-BBN, Campus Universitari de Bellaterra, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (S.Z.); (V.L.); (F.L.); (L.F.P.)
| | - Fernando Albericio
- Institut de Química Avançada de Catalunya (IQAC-CSIC) and CIBER-BBN c/ Jordi Girona 18–26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; (D.P.); (F.A.); (M.R.)
- Department of Inorganic and Organic Chemistry, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- School of Chemistry and Physics, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - Miriam Royo
- Institut de Química Avançada de Catalunya (IQAC-CSIC) and CIBER-BBN c/ Jordi Girona 18–26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; (D.P.); (F.A.); (M.R.)
| | - José Vidal-Gancedo
- Institut de Ciència de Materials de Barcelona (ICMAB-CSIC) and CIBER-BBN, Campus Universitari de Bellaterra, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (S.Z.); (V.L.); (F.L.); (L.F.P.)
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Novobilský A, Höglund J. Small animal in vivo imaging of parasitic infections: A systematic review. Exp Parasitol 2020; 214:107905. [PMID: 32387050 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2020.107905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Non-invasive small animal in vivo imaging is an essential tool in a broad variety of biomedical sciences and enables continuous monitoring of disease progression in order to develop and improve diagnostic, therapeutic and preventive measures. Imaging parasites non-invasively in live animals allows efficient parasite distribution evaluation in the host organism and objective evaluation of parasitic diseases' burden and progression in individual animals. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize recent trends in small animal in vivo imaging and compare and discuss imaging of single-cell and multicellular eukaryotic parasites. A literature survey was performed using Web of Science and PubMed databases in research articles published between 1990 and 2018. The inclusion criteria were using any imaging method to visualize a range of protozoan and helminth parasites in laboratory animals in vivo. A total of 92 studies met our inclusion criteria. Protozoans and helminths were imaged in 88% and 12% of 92 studies, respectively. The most common parasite genus studied was the protozoan Plasmodium followed by Trypanosoma and Leishmania. The most frequent imaging method was bioluminescence. Among the helminths, Schistosoma and Echinococcus were the most studied organisms. In vivo imaging is applicable in both protozoans and helminths. In helminths, however, the use of in vivo imaging methods is limited to some extent. Imaging parasites in small animal models is a powerful tool in preclinical research aiming to develop novel therapeutic and preventive strategies for parasitic diseases of interest both in human and veterinary medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Novobilský
- Veterinary Research Institute, Department of Pharmacology and Immunotherapy, Hudcova 70, 62100, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Johan Höglund
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Section for Parasitology, Box 7036, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
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Liu J, Shi Y, Han J, Zhang Y, Cao Z, Cheng J. Quantitative Tracking Tumor Suppression Efficiency of Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Bioluminescence Imaging in Mice Hepatoma Model. Int J Stem Cells 2020; 13:104-115. [PMID: 31887848 PMCID: PMC7119203 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc19098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Tracking of the tumor progression by MSCs-based therapy is being increasingly important in evaluating relative therapy effectively. Herein, Bioluminescence imaging (BLI) technology was used to dynamically and quantitatively track the hepatocellular carcinoma suppressive effects by human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs). Methods and Results The stem cells present typical phenotypic characteristics and differentiation ability by morphology and flow cytometry analysis of marker expression. Then, the growth inhibition effect of conditioned medium and UC-MSC on H7402 cells was studied. It is found both the conditioned medium and UC-MSC can effectively decrease the proliferation of H7402 cells compared with the control group. Meanwhile, the relative migration of UC-MSC to H7402 is also increased through the transwell migration assay. In addition, a mice hepatoma tumor model was built by H7402 cells which can express a pLenti-6.3/DEST-CMV-luciferase 2-mKate2 gene. The effect of stem cells on growth inhibition of tumor in a mice transplantation model was dynamically monitored by bioluminescence imaging within 5 weeks. It has shown the bioluminescence signal intensity of the tumor model was significantly higher than that of the UC-MSC co-acting tumor model, indicating that the inhibition of UC-MSC on liver cancer resulted in low expression of bioluminescent signals. Conclusions The microenvironment of UC-MSCs can effectively inhibit the growth of liver cancer cells, and this therapeutic effect can be dynamically and quantitatively monitored in vivo by BLI. This is of great significance for the imaging research and application of stem cells in anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Liu
- Department of MRI, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yupeng Shi
- Department of MRI, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing Han
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of MRI, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhenghao Cao
- Department of MRI, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jingliang Cheng
- Department of MRI, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Radiolabeled Cationic Peptides for Targeted Imaging of Infection. CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2020; 2019:3149249. [PMID: 32063807 PMCID: PMC7008241 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3149249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Molecular probes targeting bacteria provide opportunities to target bacterial infections in vivo for both imaging and therapy. In the current study, we report the development of positron emission tomography (PET) probes for imaging of live bacterial infection based on the small molecules HLys-DOTA, a polycationic peptide synthesized as the D-isomer (RYWVAWRNRG) conjugated to 1, 4, 7, 10-tetraazacyclododecane-N',N″,N‴,N-tetraacetic acid (DOTA) and AB1-HLys-DOTA, which includes an unnatural amino acid AB1 that preferentially binds to bacteria membrane lipids with amine groups via formation of iminoboronates. HLys-DOTA and AB1-HLys-DOTA peptides were radiolabeled with 64Cu and investigated as PET imaging agents to track bacterial infection in vitro and in intramuscularly infected (IM) mice models. Cell uptake studies at 37°C in Staphylococcus aureus (SA) show higher uptake of 64Cu-AB1-HLys-DOTA; 98.47 ± 3.54% vs 64Cu-HLys-DOTA; 39.12 ± 3.27% at 24 h. Standard uptake values (SUV) analysis of the PET images resulted in mean SUV of 0.70 ± 0.08, 0.49 ± 0.04, and 0.31 ± 0.01 for 64Cu-AB1-HLys-DOTA and 0.17 ± 0.06, 0.16 ± 0.02, and 0.13 ± 0.01 for 64Cu-HLys-DOTA at 1, 4, and 24 h post injection, respectively, in the infected muscles. Similarly, in the biodistribution studies, dose uptake in the infected muscles was 4 times higher in the targeted 64Cu-AB1-HLys-DOTA group than in the 64Cu-HLys-DOTA group and 2-3 times higher than in the PBS control group at 1, 4, and 24 h post injection. 64Cu-AB1-HLys-DOTA was able to distinguish between SA-infected muscle and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) infected muscle with lower mean SUV of 0.28 ± 0.10 at 1 h post injection. This illustrates the utility of the AB1 covalently targeting group in synergy with the HLys peptide, which noncovalently binds to bacterial membranes. These results suggest that 64Cu-labeled AB1-HLys-DOTA peptide could be used as an imaging probe for detection of bacterial infection in vivo with specificity for Gram-positive bacteria.
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Frickenstein AN, Jones MA, Behkam B, McNally LR. Imaging Inflammation and Infection in the Gastrointestinal Tract. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010243. [PMID: 31905812 PMCID: PMC6981656 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A variety of seemingly non-specific symptoms manifest within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, particularly in the colon, in response to inflammation, infection, or a combination thereof. Differentiation between symptom sources can often be achieved using various radiologic studies. Although it is not possible to provide a comprehensive survey of imaging gastrointestinal GI tract infections in a single article, the purpose of this review is to survey several topics on imaging of GI tract inflammation and infections. The review discusses such modalities as computed tomography, positron emission tomography, ultrasound, endoscopy, and magnetic resonance imaging while looking at up-an-coming technologies that could improve diagnoses and patient comfort. The discussion is accomplished through examining a combination of organ-based and organism-based approaches, with accompanying selected case examples. Specific focus is placed on the bacterial infections caused by Shigella spp., Escherichia coli, Clostridium difficile, Salmonella, and inflammatory conditions of diverticulitis and irritable bowel disease. These infectious and inflammatory diseases and their detection via molecular imaging will be compared including the appropriate differential diagnostic considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex N. Frickenstein
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, USA; (A.N.F.); (M.A.J.)
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Meredith A. Jones
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, USA; (A.N.F.); (M.A.J.)
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Bahareh Behkam
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA;
| | - Lacey R. McNally
- Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK 73019, USA; (A.N.F.); (M.A.J.)
- Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
- Correspondence:
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Abstract
Molecular imaging is an emerging technology that enables the noninvasive visualization, characterization, and quantification of molecular events within living subjects. Positron emission tomography (PET) is a clinically available molecular imaging tool with significant potential to study pathogenesis of infections in humans. Molecular imaging is an emerging technology that enables the noninvasive visualization, characterization, and quantification of molecular events within living subjects. Positron emission tomography (PET) is a clinically available molecular imaging tool with significant potential to study pathogenesis of infections in humans. PET enables dynamic assessment of infectious processes within the same subject with high temporal and spatial resolution and obviates the need for invasive tissue sampling, which is difficult in patients and generally limited to a single time point, even in animal models. This review presents current state-of-the-art concepts on the application of molecular imaging for infectious diseases and details how PET imaging can facilitate novel insights into infectious processes, ongoing development of pathogen-specific imaging, and simultaneous in situ measurements of intralesional antimicrobial pharmacokinetics in multiple compartments, including privileged sites. Finally, the potential clinical applications of this promising technology are also discussed.
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Kendall LV, Owiny JR, Dohm ED, Knapek KJ, Lee ES, Kopanke JH, Fink M, Hansen SA, Ayers JD. Replacement, Refinement, and Reduction in Animal Studies With Biohazardous Agents. ILAR J 2019; 59:177-194. [DOI: 10.1093/ilar/ily021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Animal models are critical to the advancement of our knowledge of infectious disease pathogenesis, diagnostics, therapeutics, and prevention strategies. The use of animal models requires thoughtful consideration for their well-being, as infections can significantly impact the general health of an animal and impair their welfare. Application of the 3Rs—replacement, refinement, and reduction—to animal models using biohazardous agents can improve the scientific merit and animal welfare. Replacement of animal models can use in vitro techniques such as cell culture systems, mathematical models, and engineered tissues or invertebrate animal hosts such as amoeba, worms, fruit flies, and cockroaches. Refinements can use a variety of techniques to more closely monitor the course of disease. These include the use of biomarkers, body temperature, behavioral observations, and clinical scoring systems. Reduction is possible using advanced technologies such as in vivo telemetry and imaging, allowing longitudinal assessment of animals during the course of disease. While there is no single method to universally replace, refine, or reduce animal models, the alternatives and techniques discussed are broadly applicable and they should be considered when infectious disease animal models are developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lon V Kendall
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, and Laboratory Animal Resources, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - James R Owiny
- Laboratory Animal Resources, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Erik D Dohm
- Animal Resources Program, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Katie J Knapek
- Comparative Medicine Training Program, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Erin S Lee
- Animal Resource Center, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Jennifer H Kopanke
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Michael Fink
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Sarah A Hansen
- Office of Animal Resources, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Jessica D Ayers
- Laboratory Animal Resources, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
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14
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15
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Lauber DT, Fülöp A, Kovács T, Szigeti K, Máthé D, Szijártó A. State of the art in vivo imaging techniques for laboratory animals. Lab Anim 2017; 51:465-478. [PMID: 28948893 DOI: 10.1177/0023677217695852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
In recent decades, imaging devices have become indispensable tools in the basic sciences, in preclinical research and in modern drug development. The rapidly evolving high-resolution in vivo imaging technologies provide a unique opportunity for studying biological processes of living organisms in real time on a molecular level. State of the art small-animal imaging modalities provide non-invasive images rich in quantitative anatomical and functional information, which renders longitudinal studies possible allowing precise monitoring of disease progression and response to therapy in models of different diseases. The number of animals in a scientific investigation can be substantially reduced using imaging techniques, which is in full compliance with the ethical endeavours for the 3R (reduction, refinement, replacement) policies formulated by Russell and Burch; furthermore, biological variability can be alleviated, as each animal serves as its own control. The most suitable and commonly used imaging modalities for in vivo small-animal imaging are optical imaging (OI), ultrasonography (US), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and finally the methods of nuclear medicine: positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT).
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Affiliation(s)
- David Tibor Lauber
- 1 Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Surgery Research Center Hungary, 1st Department of Surgery, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Fülöp
- 1 Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Surgery Research Center Hungary, 1st Department of Surgery, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tibor Kovács
- 1 Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Surgery Research Center Hungary, 1st Department of Surgery, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- 2 Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Krisztián Szigeti
- 2 Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Domokos Máthé
- 2 Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- 3 CROmed Translational Research Centers Ltd, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Attila Szijártó
- 1 Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Surgery Research Center Hungary, 1st Department of Surgery, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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16
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de Miranda AS, Brant F, Vieira LB, Rocha NP, Vieira ÉLM, Rezende GHS, de Oliveira Pimentel PM, Moraes MFD, Ribeiro FM, Ransohoff RM, Teixeira MM, Machado FS, Rachid MA, Teixeira AL. A Neuroprotective Effect of the Glutamate Receptor Antagonist MK801 on Long-Term Cognitive and Behavioral Outcomes Secondary to Experimental Cerebral Malaria. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:7063-7082. [PMID: 27796746 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0226-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral malaria (CM) is a life-threatening complication of Plasmodium falciparum infection, which can result in long-term cognitive and behavioral deficits despite successful anti-malarial therapy. Due to the substantial social and economic burden of CM, the development of adjuvant therapies is a scientific goal of highest priority. Apart from vascular and immune responses, changes in glutamate system have been reported in CM pathogenesis suggesting a potential therapeutic target. Based on that, we hypothesized that interventions in the glutamatergic system induced by blockage of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors could attenuate experimental CM long-term cognitive and behavioral outcomes. Before the development of evident CM signs, susceptible mice infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA (PbA) strain were initiated on treatment with dizocilpine maleate (MK801, 0.5 mg/kg), a noncompetitive NMDA receptor antagonist. On day 5 post-infection, mice were treated orally with a 10-day course chloroquine (CQ, 30 mg/kg). Control mice also received saline, CQ or MK801 + CQ therapy. After 10 days of cessation of CQ treatment, magnetic resonance images (MRI), behavioral and immunological assays were performed. Indeed, MK801 combined with CQ prevented long-term memory impairment and depressive-like behavior following successful PbA infection resolution. In addition, MK801 also modulated the immune system by promoting a balance of TH1/TH2 response and upregulating neurotrophic factors levels in the frontal cortex and hippocampus. Moreover, hippocampus abnormalities observed by MRI were partially prevented by MK801 treatment. Our results indicate that NMDA receptor antagonists can be neuroprotective in CM and could be a valuable adjuvant strategy for the management of the long-term impairment observed in CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Silva de Miranda
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences: Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. .,Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. .,Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Investigation, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. .,Departamento de Morfologia, ICB, UFMG, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Fátima Brant
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences: Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Luciene Bruno Vieira
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Natália Pessoa Rocha
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Investigation, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Érica Leandro Marciano Vieira
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Investigation, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Henrique Souza Rezende
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Marcio F D Moraes
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Fabíola Mara Ribeiro
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Mauro Martins Teixeira
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences: Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Investigation, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Simão Machado
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences: Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Milene Alvarenga Rachid
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Antônio Lúcio Teixeira
- Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences: Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Medical Investigation, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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17
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Adipocytes in both brown and white adipose tissue of adult mice are functionally connected via gap junctions: implications for Chagas disease. Microbes Infect 2014; 16:893-901. [PMID: 25150689 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2014.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Revised: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 08/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Adipose tissue serves as a host reservoir for the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative organism in Chagas disease. Gap junctions interconnect cells of most tissues, serving to synchronize cell activities including secretion in glandular tissue, and we have previously demonstrated that gap junctions are altered in various tissues and cells infected with T. cruzi. Herein, we examined the gap junction protein connexin 43 (Cx43) expression in infected adipose tissues. Adipose tissue is the largest endocrine organ of the body and is also involved in other physiological functions. In mammals, it is primarily composed of white adipocytes. Although gap junctions are a prominent feature of brown adipocytes, they have not been explored extensively in white adipocytes, especially in the setting of infection. Thus, we examined functional coupling in both white and brown adipocytes in mice. Injection of electrical current or the dye Lucifer Yellow into adipocytes within fat tissue spread to adjacent cells, which was reduced by treatment with agents known to block gap junctions. Moreover, Cx43 was detected in both brown and white fat tissue. At thirty and ninety days post-infection, Cx43 was downregulated in brown adipocytes and upregulated in white adipocytes. Gap junction-mediated intercellular communication likely contributes to hormone secretion and other functions in white adipose tissue and to nonshivering thermogenesis in brown fat, and modulation of the coupling by T. cruzi infection is expected to impact these functions.
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18
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Hoerr V, Faber C. Magnetic resonance imaging characterization of microbial infections. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2013; 93:136-46. [PMID: 24257444 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2013.10.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2013] [Revised: 10/19/2013] [Accepted: 10/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The investigation of microbial infections relies to a large part on animal models of infection, if host pathogen interactions or the host response are considered. Especially for the assessment of novel therapeutic agents, animal models are required. Non-invasive imaging methods to study such models have gained increasing importance over the recent years. In particular, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) affords a variety of diagnostic options, and can be used for longitudinal studies. In this review, we introduce the most important MRI modalities that show how MRI has been used for the investigation of animal models of infection previously and how it may be applied in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Hoerr
- Department of Clinical Radiology, University Hospital of Muenster, 48149 Muenster, Germany.
| | - Cornelius Faber
- Department of Clinical Radiology, University Hospital of Muenster, 48149 Muenster, Germany
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