1
|
Yao R, Xie C, Xia X. Recent progress in mRNA cancer vaccines. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2307187. [PMID: 38282471 PMCID: PMC10826636 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2307187] [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: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The research and development of messenger RNA (mRNA) cancer vaccines have gradually overcome numerous challenges through the application of personalized cancer antigens, structural optimization of mRNA, and the development of alternative RNA-based vectors and efficient targeted delivery vectors. Clinical trials are currently underway for various cancer vaccines that encode tumor-associated antigens (TAAs), tumor-specific antigens (TSAs), or immunomodulators. In this paper, we summarize the optimization of mRNA and the emergence of RNA-based expression vectors in cancer vaccines. We begin by reviewing the advancement and utilization of state-of-the-art targeted lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), followed by presenting the primary classifications and clinical applications of mRNA cancer vaccines. Collectively, mRNA vaccines are emerging as a central focus in cancer immunotherapy, offering the potential to address multiple challenges in cancer treatment, either as standalone therapies or in combination with current cancer treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruhui Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunyuan Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojun Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
McGee JE, Kirsch JR, Kenney D, Cerbo F, Chavez EC, Shih TY, Douam F, Wong WW, Grinstaff MW. Complete substitution with modified nucleotides in self-amplifying RNA suppresses the interferon response and increases potency. Nat Biotechnol 2024:10.1038/s41587-024-02306-z. [PMID: 38977924 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-024-02306-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The use of modified nucleotides to suppress the interferon response and maintain translation of self-amplifying RNA (saRNA), which has been achieved for mRNA, has not yet succeeded. We identify modified nucleotides that, when substituted at 100% in saRNA, confer innate immune evasion and robust long-term protein expression, and when formulated as a vaccine, protect against lethal SARS-CoV-2 challenge in mice. This discovery advances saRNA therapeutics by enabling prolonged protein expression at low doses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua E McGee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
- Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jack R Kirsch
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Devin Kenney
- Department of Virology, Immunology and Microbiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories (NEIDL), Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Faith Cerbo
- Department of Virology, Immunology and Microbiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories (NEIDL), Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth C Chavez
- Department of Virology, Immunology and Microbiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories (NEIDL), Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ting-Yu Shih
- Department of Chemistry, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Florian Douam
- Department of Virology, Immunology and Microbiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories (NEIDL), Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Wilson W Wong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.
- Biological Design Center, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Mark W Grinstaff
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Chemistry, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wang C, Yuan F. A comprehensive comparison of DNA and RNA vaccines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 210:115340. [PMID: 38810703 PMCID: PMC11181159 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Nucleic acid technology has revolutionized vaccine development, enabling rapid design and production of RNA and DNA vaccines for prevention and treatment of diseases. The successful deployment of mRNA and plasmid DNA vaccines against COVID-19 has further validated the technology. At present, mRNA platform is prevailing due to its higher efficacy, while DNA platform is undergoing rapid evolution because it possesses unique advantages that can potentially overcome the problems associated with the mRNA platform. To help understand the recent performances of the two vaccine platforms and recognize their clinical potentials in the future, this review compares the advantages and drawbacks of mRNA and DNA vaccines that are currently known in the literature, in terms of development timeline, financial cost, ease of distribution, efficacy, safety, and regulatory approval of products. Additionally, the review discusses the ongoing clinical trials, strategies for improvement, and alternative designs of RNA and DNA platforms for vaccination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunxi Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, United States
| | - Fan Yuan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27705, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hồ NT, Hughes SG, Ta VT, Phan LT, Đỗ Q, Nguyễn TV, Phạm ATV, Thị Ngọc Đặng M, Nguyễn LV, Trịnh QV, Phạm HN, Chử MV, Nguyễn TT, Lương QC, Tường Lê VT, Nguyễn TV, Trần LTL, Thi Van Luu A, Nguyen AN, Nguyen NTH, Vu HS, Edelman JM, Parker S, Sullivan B, Sullivan S, Ruan Q, Clemente B, Luk B, Lindert K, Berdieva D, Murphy K, Sekulovich R, Greener B, Smolenov I, Chivukula P, Nguyễn VT, Nguyen XH. Safety, immunogenicity and efficacy of the self-amplifying mRNA ARCT-154 COVID-19 vaccine: pooled phase 1, 2, 3a and 3b randomized, controlled trials. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4081. [PMID: 38744844 PMCID: PMC11094049 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47905-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Combination of waning immunity and lower effectiveness against new SARS-CoV-2 variants of approved COVID-19 vaccines necessitates new vaccines. We evaluated two doses, 28 days apart, of ARCT-154, a self-amplifying mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, compared with saline placebo in an integrated phase 1/2/3a/3b controlled, observer-blind trial in Vietnamese adults (ClinicalTrial.gov identifier: NCT05012943). Primary safety and reactogenicity outcomes were unsolicited adverse events (AE) 28 days after each dose, solicited local and systemic AE 7 days after each dose, and serious AEs throughout the study. Primary immunogenicity outcome was the immune response as neutralizing antibodies 28 days after the second dose. Efficacy against COVID-19 was assessed as primary and secondary outcomes in phase 3b. ARCT-154 was well tolerated with generally mild-moderate transient AEs. Four weeks after the second dose 94.1% (95% CI: 92.1-95.8) of vaccinees seroconverted for neutralizing antibodies, with a geometric mean-fold rise from baseline of 14.5 (95% CI: 13.6-15.5). Of 640 cases of confirmed COVID-19 eligible for efficacy analysis most were due to the Delta (B.1.617.2) variant. Efficacy of ARCT-154 was 56.6% (95% CI: 48.7- 63.3) against any COVID-19, and 95.3% (80.5-98.9) against severe COVID-19. ARCT-154 vaccination is well tolerated, immunogenic and efficacious, particularly against severe COVID-19 disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nhân Thị Hồ
- Vinmec-VinUni Institute of Immunology, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | | | | | - Quyết Đỗ
- Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mến Văn Chử
- Vietnam Military Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | | | | | | | - Lý-Thi-Lê Trần
- Hi-tech Center, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Vietnam Biocare Biotechnology Jointstock Company, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Anh Thi Van Luu
- Vietnam Biocare Biotechnology Jointstock Company, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Anh Ngoc Nguyen
- Vietnam Biocare Biotechnology Jointstock Company, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Hai-Son Vu
- Vinmec-VinUni Institute of Immunology, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | | | | | | | - Qian Ruan
- Arcturus Therapeutics, Inc, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Brian Luk
- Arcturus Therapeutics, Inc, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Kat Murphy
- Arcturus Therapeutics, Inc, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Vân Thu Nguyễn
- Vietnam Biocare Biotechnology Jointstock Company, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Xuan-Hung Nguyen
- Vinmec-VinUni Institute of Immunology, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam.
- Hi-tech Center, Vinmec Healthcare System, Hanoi, Vietnam.
- College of Health Sciences, Vin University, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Del Moral-Sánchez I, Wee EG, Xian Y, Lee WH, Allen JD, Torrents de la Peña A, Fróes Rocha R, Ferguson J, León AN, Koekkoek S, Schermer EE, Burger JA, Kumar S, Zwolsman R, Brinkkemper M, Aartse A, Eggink D, Han J, Yuan M, Crispin M, Ozorowski G, Ward AB, Wilson IA, Hanke T, Sliepen K, Sanders RW. Triple tandem trimer immunogens for HIV-1 and influenza nucleic acid-based vaccines. NPJ Vaccines 2024; 9:74. [PMID: 38582771 PMCID: PMC10998906 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-024-00862-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Recombinant native-like HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) trimers are used in candidate vaccines aimed at inducing broadly neutralizing antibodies. While state-of-the-art SOSIP or single-chain Env designs can be expressed as native-like trimers, undesired monomers, dimers and malformed trimers that elicit non-neutralizing antibodies are also formed, implying that these designs could benefit from further modifications for gene-based vaccination approaches. Here, we describe the triple tandem trimer (TTT) design, in which three Env protomers are genetically linked in a single open reading frame and express as native-like trimers. Viral vectored Env TTT induced similar neutralization titers but with a higher proportion of trimer-specific responses. The TTT design was also applied to generate influenza hemagglutinin (HA) trimers without the need for trimerization domains. Additionally, we used TTT to generate well-folded chimeric Env and HA trimers that harbor protomers from three different strains. In summary, the TTT design is a useful platform for the design of HIV-1 Env and influenza HA immunogens for a multitude of vaccination strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iván Del Moral-Sánchez
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Edmund G Wee
- The Jenner Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Yuejiao Xian
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Wen-Hsin Lee
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Joel D Allen
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Alba Torrents de la Peña
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Rebeca Fróes Rocha
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - James Ferguson
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - André N León
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Sylvie Koekkoek
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Edith E Schermer
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Judith A Burger
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sanjeev Kumar
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Robby Zwolsman
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mitch Brinkkemper
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Aafke Aartse
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Virology, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Rijswijk, Netherlands
| | - Dirk Eggink
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Julianna Han
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Meng Yuan
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Max Crispin
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Gabriel Ozorowski
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Andrew B Ward
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Ian A Wilson
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Tomáš Hanke
- The Jenner Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Joint Research Center for Human Retrovirus Infection, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Kwinten Sliepen
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Rogier W Sanders
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mobasher M, Ansari R, Castejon AM, Barar J, Omidi Y. Advanced nanoscale delivery systems for mRNA-based vaccines. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2024; 1868:130558. [PMID: 38185238 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2024.130558] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
The effectiveness of messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines, especially those designed for COVID-19, relies heavily on sophisticated delivery systems that ensure efficient delivery of mRNA to target cells. A variety of nanoscale vaccine delivery systems (VDSs) have been explored for this purpose, including lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), liposomes, and polymeric nanoparticles made from biocompatible polymers such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), as well as viral vectors and lipid-polymer hybrid complexes. Among these, LNPs are particularly notable for their efficiency in encapsulating and protecting mRNA. These nanoscale VDSs can be engineered to enhance stability and facilitate uptake by cells. The choice of delivery system depends on factors like the specific mRNA vaccine, target cell types, stability requirements, and desired immune response. In this review, we shed light on recent advances in delivery mechanisms for self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) vaccines, emphasizing groundbreaking studies on nanoscale delivery systems aimed at improving the efficacy and safety of mRNA/saRNA vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maha Mobasher
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Rais Ansari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Ana M Castejon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Jaleh Barar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Yadollah Omidi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hromić-Jahjefendić A, Lundstrom K, Adilović M, Aljabali AAA, Tambuwala MM, Serrano-Aroca Á, Uversky VN. Autoimmune response after SARS-CoV-2 infection and SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103508. [PMID: 38160960 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103508] [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: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The complicated relationships between autoimmunity, COVID-19, and COVID-19 vaccinations are described, giving insight into their intricacies. Antinuclear antibodies (ANA), anti-Ro/SSA, rheumatoid factor, lupus anticoagulant, and antibodies against interferon (IFN)-I have all been consistently found in COVID-19 patients, indicating a high prevalence of autoimmune reactions following viral exposure. Furthermore, the discovery of human proteins with structural similarities to SARS-CoV-2 peptides as possible autoantigens highlights the complex interplay between the virus and the immune system in initiating autoimmunity. An updated summary of the current status of COVID-19 vaccines is presented. We present probable pathways underpinning the genesis of COVID-19 autoimmunity, such as bystander activation caused by hyperinflammatory conditions, viral persistence, and the creation of neutrophil extracellular traps. These pathways provide important insights into the development of autoimmune-related symptoms ranging from organ-specific to systemic autoimmune and inflammatory illnesses, demonstrating the wide influence of COVID-19 on the immune system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Altijana Hromić-Jahjefendić
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, International University of Sarajevo, Hrasnicka cesta 15, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
| | | | - Muhamed Adilović
- Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, International University of Sarajevo, Hrasnicka cesta 15, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
| | - Alaa A A Aljabali
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, P.O. Box 566, Irbid 21163, Jordan.
| | - Murtaza M Tambuwala
- Lincoln Medical School, Brayford Pool Campus, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7TS, UK.
| | - Ángel Serrano-Aroca
- Biomaterials and Bioengineering Laboratory, Centro de Investigación Traslacional San Alberto Magno, Universidad Católica de Valencia San Vicente Mártir, c/Guillem de Castro 94, 46001, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Vladimir N Uversky
- Department of Molecular Medicine and USF Health Byrd Alzheimer's Institute, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Aboshi M, Matsuda K, Kawakami D, Kono K, Kazami Y, Sekida T, Komori M, Morey AL, Suga S, Smith JF, Fukuhara T, Iwatani Y, Yamamoto T, Sato N, Akahata W. Safety and immunogenicity of VLPCOV-02, a SARS-CoV-2 self-amplifying RNA vaccine with a modified base, 5-methylcytosine. iScience 2024; 27:108964. [PMID: 38352232 PMCID: PMC10863314 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.108964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Continuing emergence of variants of concern resulting in reduced SARS-CoV-2 vaccine efficacy necessitates additional prevention strategies. The structure of VLPCOV-01, a lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated, self-amplifying RNA COVID-19 vaccine with a comparable immune response to BNT162b2, was revised by incorporating a modified base, 5-methylcytosine, to reduce reactogenicity, and an updated receptor-binding domain derived from the Brazil (gamma) variant. Interim analyses of a phase 1 dose-escalation booster vaccination study with the resulting construct, VLPCOV-02, in healthy, previously vaccinated Japanese individuals (N = 96) are reported (jRCT2051230005). A dose-related increase in solicited local and systemic adverse events was observed, which were generally rated mild or moderate. The most commonly occurring events were tenderness, pain, fatigue, and myalgia. Serum SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin titers increased during the 4 weeks post-immunization. VLPCOV-02 demonstrated a favorable safety profile compared with VLPCOV-01, with reduced adverse events and fewer fever events at an equivalent dose. These findings support further study of VLPCOV-02.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masayuki Aboshi
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc., 1-16-4 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0003, Japan
| | | | - Daisuke Kawakami
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc., 1-16-4 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0003, Japan
| | - Kaoru Kono
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc., 1-16-4 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0003, Japan
| | - Yoko Kazami
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc., 1-16-4 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0003, Japan
| | - Takashi Sekida
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc., 1-16-4 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0003, Japan
| | - Mai Komori
- VLP Therapeutics, Inc., Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
| | | | - Shigeru Suga
- National Hospital Organization, Mie National Hospital, Tsu, Mie 514-0125, Japan
| | | | - Takasuke Fukuhara
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0815, Japan
- Laboratory of Virus Control, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yasumasa Iwatani
- Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization Nagoya Medical Center, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0001, Japan
- Division of Basic Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Takuya Yamamoto
- Laboratory of Precision Immunology, Center for Intractable Diseases and ImmunoGenomics, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0085, Japan
| | - Nobuaki Sato
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc., 1-16-4 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0003, Japan
| | - Wataru Akahata
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc., 1-16-4 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0003, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Shi Y, Zhen X, Zhang Y, Li Y, Koo S, Saiding Q, Kong N, Liu G, Chen W, Tao W. Chemically Modified Platforms for Better RNA Therapeutics. Chem Rev 2024; 124:929-1033. [PMID: 38284616 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
RNA-based therapies have catalyzed a revolutionary transformation in the biomedical landscape, offering unprecedented potential in disease prevention and treatment. However, despite their remarkable achievements, these therapies encounter substantial challenges including low stability, susceptibility to degradation by nucleases, and a prominent negative charge, thereby hindering further development. Chemically modified platforms have emerged as a strategic innovation, focusing on precise alterations either on the RNA moieties or their associated delivery vectors. This comprehensive review delves into these platforms, underscoring their significance in augmenting the performance and translational prospects of RNA-based therapeutics. It encompasses an in-depth analysis of various chemically modified delivery platforms that have been instrumental in propelling RNA therapeutics toward clinical utility. Moreover, the review scrutinizes the rationale behind diverse chemical modification techniques aiming at optimizing the therapeutic efficacy of RNA molecules, thereby facilitating robust disease management. Recent empirical studies corroborating the efficacy enhancement of RNA therapeutics through chemical modifications are highlighted. Conclusively, we offer profound insights into the transformative impact of chemical modifications on RNA drugs and delineates prospective trajectories for their future development and clinical integration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yesi Shi
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, National Innovation Platform for Industry-Education Integration in Vaccine Research, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Xueyan Zhen
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Yiming Zhang
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Yongjiang Li
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Seyoung Koo
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Qimanguli Saiding
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Na Kong
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Gang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, National Innovation Platform for Industry-Education Integration in Vaccine Research, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Center for Molecular Imaging and Translational Medicine, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Wei Tao
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lundstrom K. COVID-19 Vaccines: Where Did We Stand at the End of 2023? Viruses 2024; 16:203. [PMID: 38399979 PMCID: PMC10893040 DOI: 10.3390/v16020203] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaccine development against SARS-CoV-2 has been highly successful in slowing down the COVID-19 pandemic. A wide spectrum of approaches including vaccines based on whole viruses, protein subunits and peptides, viral vectors, and nucleic acids has been developed in parallel. For all types of COVID-19 vaccines, good safety and efficacy have been obtained in both preclinical animal studies and in clinical trials in humans. Moreover, emergency use authorization has been granted for the major types of COVID-19 vaccines. Although high safety has been demonstrated, rare cases of severe adverse events have been detected after global mass vaccinations. Emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants possessing enhanced infectivity have affected vaccine protection efficacy requiring re-design and re-engineering of novel COVID-19 vaccine candidates. Furthermore, insight is given into preparedness against emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Collapse
|
11
|
Ulrichs T, Rolland M, Wu J, Nunes MC, El Guerche-Séblain C, Chit A. Changing epidemiology of COVID-19: potential future impact on vaccines and vaccination strategies. Expert Rev Vaccines 2024; 23:510-522. [PMID: 38656834 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2024.2346589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION COVID-19 was an unprecedented challenge worldwide; however, disease epidemiology has evolved, and COVID-19 no longer constitutes a public health emergency of international concern. Nonetheless, COVID-19 remains a global threat and uncertainties remain, including definition of the end of the pandemic and transition to endemicity, and understanding true rates of SARS-CoV-2 infection/transmission. AREAS COVERED Six international experts convened (April 2023) to interpret changing COVID-19 epidemiology and public health challenges. We report the panel's recommendations and knowledge gaps in COVID-19 epidemiology, SARS-CoV-2 evolution, and future vaccination strategies, informed by peer-reviewed publications, surveillance data, health authority assessments, and clinical experience. EXPERT OPINION High population SARS-CoV-2 immunity indicates the likely end to the pandemic's acute phase. Continued emergence of variants/sublineages that can evade the vaccine-induced antibody response are likely, but widespread immunity reduces the risk of disease severity. Continued surveillance is required to capture transition to endemicity, seasonality, and emergence of novel variants/sublineages, to inform future vaccination strategies. COVID-19 vaccination should be integrated into routine vaccination programs throughout life. Co-circulation with other respiratory viruses should be monitored to avoid a combined peak, which could overrun healthcare systems. Effective, combined vaccines and improved education may help overcome vaccine hesitancy/booster fatigue and increase vaccination uptake.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timo Ulrichs
- Department of Global Health, Akkon University for Human Sciences, Berlin, Germany
| | - Morgane Rolland
- U.S. Military HIV Research Program, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
- Viral Genomics Section & Systems Serology Core Laboratory, Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine Inc, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jianhong Wu
- York Emergency Mitigation, Engagement, Response, and Governance Institute, York University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Marta C Nunes
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon, Lyon, France
- University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zimmermann L, Erbar S. Trans-Amplifying RNA Vaccines Against Infectious Diseases: A Comparison with Non-Replicating and Self-Amplifying RNA. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2786:135-144. [PMID: 38814392 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3770-8_5] [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: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
The recent COVID-19 pandemic as well as other past and recent outbreaks of newly or re-emerging viruses show the urgent need to develop potent new vaccine approaches, that enable a quick response to prevent global spread of infectious diseases. The breakthrough of first messenger RNA (mRNA)-based vaccines 2019 approved only months after identification of the causative virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), opens a big new field for vaccine engineering. Currently, two major types of mRNA are being pursued as vaccines for the prevention of infectious diseases. One is non-replicating mRNA, including nucleoside-modified mRNA, used in the current COVID-19 vaccines of Moderna and BioNTech (Sahin et al., Nat Rev Drug Discov 13(10):759-780, 2014; Baden et al., N Engl J Med 384(5):403-416, 2021; Polack et al., N Engl J Med 383(27):2603-2615, 2020), the other is self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) derived from RNA viruses. Recently, trans-amplifying RNA, a split vector system, has been described as a third class of mRNA (Spuul et al., J Virol 85(10):4739-4751, 2011; Blakney et al., Front Mol Biosci 5:71, 2018; Beissert et al., Mol Ther 28(1):119-128, 2020). In this chapter we review the different types of mRNA currently used for vaccine development with focus on trans-amplifying RNA.
Collapse
|
13
|
Law MCY, Zhang K, Tan YB, Nguyen TM, Luo D. Chikungunya virus nonstructural protein 1 is a versatile RNA capping and decapping enzyme. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105415. [PMID: 37918803 PMCID: PMC10687048 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) nonstructural protein 1 (nsP1) contains both the N7-guanine methyltransferase and guanylyltransferase activities and catalyzes the 5' end cap formation of viral RNAs. To further understand its catalytic activity and role in virus-host interaction, we demonstrate that purified recombinant CHIKV nsP1 can reverse the guanylyl transfer reaction and remove the m7GMP from a variety of capped RNA substrates including host mRNAs. We then provide the structural basis of this function with a high-resolution cryo-EM structure of nsP1 in complex with the unconventional cap-1 substrate RNA m7GpppAmU. We show that the 5'ppRNA species generated by decapping can trigger retinoic acid-inducible gene I-mediated interferon response. We further demonstrate that the decapping activity is conserved among the alphaviral nsP1s. To our knowledge, this is a new mechanism through which alphaviruses activate the antiviral immune response. This decapping activity could promote cellular mRNA degradation and facilitate viral gene expression, which is functionally analogous to the cap-snatching mechanism by influenza virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Cheok Yien Law
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kuo Zhang
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yaw Bia Tan
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Trinh Mai Nguyen
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Dahai Luo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore; National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Singapore, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Dominguez F, Palchevska O, Frolova EI, Frolov I. Alphavirus-based replicons demonstrate different interactions with host cells and can be optimized to increase protein expression. J Virol 2023; 97:e0122523. [PMID: 37877718 PMCID: PMC10688356 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01225-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Alphavirus replicons are being developed as self-amplifying RNAs aimed at improving the efficacy of mRNA vaccines. These replicons are convenient for genetic manipulations and can express heterologous genetic information more efficiently and for a longer time than standard mRNAs. However, replicons mimic many aspects of viral replication in terms of induction of innate immune response, modification of cellular transcription and translation, and expression of nonstructural viral genes. Moreover, all replicons used in this study demonstrated expression of heterologous genes in cell- and replicon's origin-specific modes. Thus, many aspects of the interactions between replicons and the host remain insufficiently investigated, and further studies are needed to understand the biology of the replicons and their applicability for designing a new generation of mRNA vaccines. On the other hand, our data show that replicons are very flexible expression systems, and additional modifications may have strong positive impacts on protein expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Dominguez
- Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Oksana Palchevska
- Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Elena I. Frolova
- Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Ilya Frolov
- Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Koseki T, Teramachi M, Koga M, Ko MSH, Amano T, Yu H, Amano M, Leyder E, Badiola M, Ray P, Kim J, Ko AC, Achour A, Weng NP, Imai T, Yoshida H, Taniuchi S, Shintani A, Fujigaki H, Kondo M, Doi Y. A Phase I/II Clinical Trial of Intradermal, Controllable Self-Replicating Ribonucleic Acid Vaccine EXG-5003 against SARS-CoV-2. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1767. [PMID: 38140172 PMCID: PMC10747308 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11121767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have played a key role in reducing morbidity and mortality from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled phase I/II trial to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of EXG-5003, a two-dose, controllable self-replicating RNA vaccine against SARS-CoV-2. EXG-5003 encodes the receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 and was administered intradermally without lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). The participants were followed for 12 months. Forty healthy participants were enrolled in Cohort 1 (5 µg per dose, n = 16; placebo, n = 4) and Cohort 2 (25 µg per dose, n = 16; placebo, n = 4). No safety concerns were observed with EXG-5003 administration. SARS-CoV-2 RBD antibody titers and neutralizing antibody titers were not elevated in either cohort. Elicitation of antigen-specific cellular immunity was observed in the EXG-5003 recipients in Cohort 2. At the 12-month follow-up, participants who had received an approved mRNA vaccine (BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273) >1 month after receiving the second dose of EXG-5003 showed higher cellular responses compared with equivalently vaccinated participants in the placebo group. The findings suggest a priming effect of EXG-5003 on the long-term cellular immunity of approved SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takenao Koseki
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics and Informatics, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, Toyoake 470-1192, Japan;
| | - Mayumi Teramachi
- Center for Clinical Trial and Research Support, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, Toyoake 470-1192, Japan; (M.T.); (M.K.)
| | - Minako Koga
- KM Pharmaceutical Consulting, Washington, DC 20006, USA;
| | - Minoru S. H. Ko
- Elixirgen Therapeutics, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (M.S.H.K.); (T.A.); (H.Y.); (M.A.); (E.L.); (M.B.); (P.R.); (J.K.); (A.C.K.)
| | - Tomokazu Amano
- Elixirgen Therapeutics, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (M.S.H.K.); (T.A.); (H.Y.); (M.A.); (E.L.); (M.B.); (P.R.); (J.K.); (A.C.K.)
| | - Hong Yu
- Elixirgen Therapeutics, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (M.S.H.K.); (T.A.); (H.Y.); (M.A.); (E.L.); (M.B.); (P.R.); (J.K.); (A.C.K.)
| | - Misa Amano
- Elixirgen Therapeutics, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (M.S.H.K.); (T.A.); (H.Y.); (M.A.); (E.L.); (M.B.); (P.R.); (J.K.); (A.C.K.)
| | - Erica Leyder
- Elixirgen Therapeutics, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (M.S.H.K.); (T.A.); (H.Y.); (M.A.); (E.L.); (M.B.); (P.R.); (J.K.); (A.C.K.)
| | - Maria Badiola
- Elixirgen Therapeutics, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (M.S.H.K.); (T.A.); (H.Y.); (M.A.); (E.L.); (M.B.); (P.R.); (J.K.); (A.C.K.)
| | - Priyanka Ray
- Elixirgen Therapeutics, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (M.S.H.K.); (T.A.); (H.Y.); (M.A.); (E.L.); (M.B.); (P.R.); (J.K.); (A.C.K.)
| | - Jiyoung Kim
- Elixirgen Therapeutics, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (M.S.H.K.); (T.A.); (H.Y.); (M.A.); (E.L.); (M.B.); (P.R.); (J.K.); (A.C.K.)
| | - Akihiro C. Ko
- Elixirgen Therapeutics, Inc., Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; (M.S.H.K.); (T.A.); (H.Y.); (M.A.); (E.L.); (M.B.); (P.R.); (J.K.); (A.C.K.)
| | - Achouak Achour
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Immunology, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 20892, USA; (A.A.); (N.-p.W.)
| | - Nan-ping Weng
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Immunology, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 20892, USA; (A.A.); (N.-p.W.)
| | - Takumi Imai
- Department of Medical Statistics, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka 545-8585, Japan; (T.I.); (H.Y.); (S.T.); (A.S.)
| | - Hisako Yoshida
- Department of Medical Statistics, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka 545-8585, Japan; (T.I.); (H.Y.); (S.T.); (A.S.)
| | - Satsuki Taniuchi
- Department of Medical Statistics, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka 545-8585, Japan; (T.I.); (H.Y.); (S.T.); (A.S.)
| | - Ayumi Shintani
- Department of Medical Statistics, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka 545-8585, Japan; (T.I.); (H.Y.); (S.T.); (A.S.)
| | - Hidetsugu Fujigaki
- Department of Advanced Diagnostic System Development, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Fujita Health University, Toyoake 470-1192, Japan
| | - Masashi Kondo
- Center for Clinical Trial and Research Support, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, Toyoake 470-1192, Japan; (M.T.); (M.K.)
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, Toyoake 470-1192, Japan
| | - Yohei Doi
- Departments of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Fujita Health University, Toyoake 470-1192, Japan
- Center for Infectious Disease Research, Fujita Health University, Toyoake 470-1192, Japan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Shukla N, Shamim U, Agarwal P, Pandey R, Narayan J. From bench to bedside: potential of translational research in COVID-19 and beyond. Brief Funct Genomics 2023:elad051. [PMID: 37986554 DOI: 10.1093/bfgp/elad051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been around for more than 3 years now. However, due to constant viral evolution, novel variants are emerging, leaving old treatment protocols redundant. As treatment options dwindle, infection rates continue to rise and seasonal infection surges become progressively common across the world, rapid solutions are required. With genomic and proteomic methods generating enormous amounts of data to expand our understanding of SARS-CoV-2 biology, there is an urgent requirement for the development of novel therapeutic methods that can allow translational research to flourish. In this review, we highlight the current state of COVID-19 in the world and the effects of post-infection sequelae. We present the contribution of translational research in COVID-19, with various current and novel therapeutic approaches, including antivirals, monoclonal antibodies and vaccines, as well as alternate treatment methods such as immunomodulators, currently being studied and reiterate the importance of translational research in the development of various strategies to contain COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nityendra Shukla
- CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Mall Road, Near Jubilee Hall, New Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Uzma Shamim
- CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Mall Road, Near Jubilee Hall, New Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Preeti Agarwal
- CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Mall Road, Near Jubilee Hall, New Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Rajesh Pandey
- CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Mall Road, Near Jubilee Hall, New Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Jitendra Narayan
- CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), Mall Road, Near Jubilee Hall, New Delhi, 110007, India
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Huang P, Deng H, Wang C, Zhou Y, Chen X. Cellular Trafficking of Nanotechnology-Mediated mRNA Delivery. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023:e2307822. [PMID: 37929780 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202307822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA)-based therapy has emerged as a powerful, safe, and rapidly scalable therapeutic approach that involves technologies for both mRNA itself and the delivery vehicle. Although there are some unique challenges for different applications of mRNA therapy, a common challenge for all mRNA therapeutics is the transport of mRNA into the target cell cytoplasm for sufficient protein expression. This review is focused on the behaviors at the cellular level of nanotechnology-mediated mRNA delivery systems, which have not been comprehensively reviewed yet. First, the four main therapeutic applications of mRNA are introduced, including immunotherapy, protein replacement therapy, genome editing, and cellular reprogramming. Second, common types of mRNA cargos and mRNA delivery systems are summarized. Third, strategies to enhance mRNA delivery efficiency during the cellular trafficking process are highlighted, including accumulation to the cell, internalization into the cell, endosomal escape, release of mRNA from the nanocarrier, and translation of mRNA into protein. Finally, the challenges and opportunities for the development of nanotechnology-mediated mRNA delivery systems are presented. This review can provide new insights into the future fabrication of mRNA nanocarriers with desirable cellular trafficking performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pei Huang
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Hongzhang Deng
- School of Life Science and Technology and Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging, Ministry of Education, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710126, China
| | - Changrong Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology and Engineering Research Center of Molecular and Neuro Imaging, Ministry of Education, Xidian University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710126, China
| | - Yongfeng Zhou
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Frontiers Science Center for Transformative Molecules, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and College of Design and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119074, Singapore
- Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Clinical Imaging Research Centre, Centre for Translational Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive Proteos, Singapore, 138673, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Deo S, Desai K, Patare A, Wadapurkar R, Rade S, Mahudkar S, Sathe M, Srivastava S, Prasanna P, Singh A. Evaluation of self-amplifying mRNA platform for protein expression and genetic stability: Implication for mRNA therapies. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 680:108-118. [PMID: 37738900 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
The consecutive launch of mRNA vaccines like mRNA-1273, BNT 162b2, and GEMCOVAC®-19 against COVID-19 has triggered the debate of long-term expression, safety, and genomic integration of the mRNA vaccine platforms. In the present study, we examined the longevity of antigenic protein expression of mRNA-614 and mRNA-S1LC based on self-amplifying mRNA (SAM) in Expi-293F™, HEK-293 T, and ARPE-19 cells. The protein expression was checked by sandwich-ELISA, FACS, luciferase activity assay, and Western blot. The transcribed antigenic mRNA was sequenced and found to be un-mutated. Additionally, no genomic integration of the reverse transcribed mRNA was observed even up to 7 days post-transfection as verified by PCR. Furthermore, we have generated high-quality 3D structures of non-structural proteins (nsPs) in silico and the genes encoding for the nsPs were cloned and expressed using the T7 system. Findings from the current study have strengthened the fact that the alphavirus-based SAM platform has the potential to become a modality in the upcoming years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Swarda Deo
- Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. ITBT Park, Hinjawadi Phase 2 Road, Hinjawadi Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawadi, Pune, Maharashtra, 411057, India
| | - Kaushik Desai
- Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. ITBT Park, Hinjawadi Phase 2 Road, Hinjawadi Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawadi, Pune, Maharashtra, 411057, India
| | - Aishwarya Patare
- Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. ITBT Park, Hinjawadi Phase 2 Road, Hinjawadi Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawadi, Pune, Maharashtra, 411057, India
| | - Rucha Wadapurkar
- Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. ITBT Park, Hinjawadi Phase 2 Road, Hinjawadi Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawadi, Pune, Maharashtra, 411057, India
| | - Saniya Rade
- Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. ITBT Park, Hinjawadi Phase 2 Road, Hinjawadi Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawadi, Pune, Maharashtra, 411057, India
| | - Siddhi Mahudkar
- Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. ITBT Park, Hinjawadi Phase 2 Road, Hinjawadi Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawadi, Pune, Maharashtra, 411057, India
| | - Madhura Sathe
- Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. ITBT Park, Hinjawadi Phase 2 Road, Hinjawadi Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawadi, Pune, Maharashtra, 411057, India
| | - Shalini Srivastava
- Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. ITBT Park, Hinjawadi Phase 2 Road, Hinjawadi Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawadi, Pune, Maharashtra, 411057, India
| | - Pragya Prasanna
- Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. ITBT Park, Hinjawadi Phase 2 Road, Hinjawadi Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawadi, Pune, Maharashtra, 411057, India
| | - Ajay Singh
- Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. ITBT Park, Hinjawadi Phase 2 Road, Hinjawadi Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawadi, Pune, Maharashtra, 411057, India.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Casmil IC, Huang C, Blakney AK. A duplex droplet digital PCR assay for absolute quantification and characterization of long self-amplifying RNA. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19050. [PMID: 37923834 PMCID: PMC10624827 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46314-6] [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: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-amplifying messenger ribonucleic acid (saRNA) provides extended expression of genes of interest by encoding an alphavirus-derived RNA replicase and thus is 2-3 times larger than conventional messenger RNA. However, quality assessment of long RNA transcripts is challenging using standard techniques. Here, we utilized a multiplex droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) assay to assess the quality of saRNA produced from an in vitro transcription reaction and the replication kinetics in human cell lines. Using the one-step reverse transcription ddPCR, we show that an in vitro transcription generates 50-60% full-length saRNA transcripts. However, we note that the two-step reverse transcription ddPCR assay results in a 20% decrease from results obtained using the one-step and confirmed using capillary gel electrophoresis. Additionally, we provided three formulas that differ in the level of stringency and assumptions made to calculate the fraction of intact saRNA. Using ddPCR, we also showed that subgenomic transcripts of saRNA were 19-to-108-fold higher than genomic transcripts at different hours post-transfection of mammalian cells in copies. Therefore, we demonstrate that multiplex ddPCR is well suited for quality assessment of long RNA and replication kinetics of saRNA based on absolute quantification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irafasha C Casmil
- Michael Smith Laboratories, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Cynthia Huang
- Michael Smith Laboratories, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Anna K Blakney
- Michael Smith Laboratories, School of Biomedical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Komori M, Morey AL, Quiñones-Molina AA, Fofana J, Romero L, Peters E, Matsuda K, Gummuluru S, Smith JF, Akahata W, Akiyama H. Incorporation of 5 methylcytidine alleviates innate immune response to self-amplifying RNA vaccine. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.01.565056. [PMID: 37961509 PMCID: PMC10634970 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.01.565056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
In order to improve vaccine effectiveness and safety profile of existing synthetic RNA-based vaccines, we have developed a self-amplifying RNA (saRNA)-based vaccine expressing membrane-anchored receptor binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 S protein (S-RBD) and have demonstrated that a minimal dose of this saRNA vaccine elicits robust immune responses. Results from a recent clinical trial with 5-methylcytidine (5mC) incorporating saRNA vaccine demonstrated reduced vaccine-induced adverse effects while maintaining robust humoral responses. In this study, we investigate the mechanisms accounting for induction of efficient innate and adaptive immune responses and attenuated adverse effects induced by the 5mC-incorporated saRNA. We show that the 5mC-incorporating saRNA platform leads to prolonged and robust expression of antigen, while induction of type-I interferon (IFN-I), a key driver of reactogenicity, is attenuated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), but not in macrophages and dendritic cells. Interestingly, we find that the major cellular source of IFN-I production in PBMCs is plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), which is attenuated upon 5mC incorporation in saRNA. In addition, we demonstrate that monocytes also play an important role in amplifying proinflammatory responses. Furthermore, we show that the detection of saRNA is mediated by a host cytosolic RNA sensor, RIG-I. Importantly, 5mC-incorporating saRNA vaccine candidate produced robust IgG responses against S-RBD upon injection in mice, thus providing strong support for the potential clinical use of 5mC-incorporating saRNA vaccines.
Collapse
|
21
|
Wagner A, Mutschler H. Design principles and applications of synthetic self-replicating RNAs. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2023; 14:e1803. [PMID: 37264531 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
With the advent of ever more sophisticated methods for the in vitro synthesis and the in vivo delivery of RNAs, synthetic mRNAs have gained substantial interest both for medical applications, as well as for biotechnology. However, in most biological systems exogeneous mRNAs possess only a limited half-life, especially in fast dividing cells. In contrast, viral RNAs can extend their lifetime by actively replicating inside their host. As such they may serve as scaffolds for the design of synthetic self-replicating RNAs (srRNA), which can be used to increase both the half-life and intracellular concentration of coding RNAs. Synthetic srRNAs may be used to enhance recombinant protein expression or induce the reprogramming of differentiated cells into pluripotent stem cells but also to create cell-free systems for research based on experimental evolution. In this article, we discuss the applications and design principles of srRNAs used for cellular reprogramming, mRNA-based vaccines and tools for synthetic biology. This article is categorized under: RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Development RNA Evolution and Genomics > RNA and Ribonucleoprotein Evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Wagner
- Biomimetic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Hannes Mutschler
- Biomimetic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Hu C, Liu J, Cheng F, Bai Y, Mao Q, Xu M, Liang Z. Amplifying mRNA vaccines: potential versatile magicians for oncotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1261243. [PMID: 37936701 PMCID: PMC10626473 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1261243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer vaccines drive the activation and proliferation of tumor-reactive immune cells, thereby eliciting tumor-specific immunity that kills tumor cells. Accordingly, they possess immense potential in cancer treatment. However, such vaccines are also faced with challenges related to their design and considerable differences among individual tumors. The success of messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines against coronavirus disease 2019 has prompted the application of mRNA vaccine technology platforms to the field of oncotherapy. These platforms include linear, circular, and amplifying mRNA vaccines. In particular, amplifying mRNA vaccines are characterized by high-level and prolonged antigen gene expression at low doses. They can also stimulate specific cellular immunity, making them highly promising in cancer vaccine research. In this review, we summarize the research progress in amplifying mRNA vaccines and provide an outlook of their prospects and future directions in oncotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chaoying Hu
- Division of Hepatitis and Enterovirus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
- National Health Commission (NHC), Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Biological Products, Institute of Biological Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Jianyang Liu
- Division of Hepatitis and Enterovirus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
- National Health Commission (NHC), Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Biological Products, Institute of Biological Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Feiran Cheng
- Division of Hepatitis and Enterovirus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
- National Health Commission (NHC), Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Biological Products, Institute of Biological Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Bai
- Division of Hepatitis and Enterovirus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
- National Health Commission (NHC), Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Biological Products, Institute of Biological Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Qunying Mao
- Division of Hepatitis and Enterovirus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
- National Health Commission (NHC), Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Biological Products, Institute of Biological Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Miao Xu
- Division of Hepatitis and Enterovirus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
- National Health Commission (NHC), Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Biological Products, Institute of Biological Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenglun Liang
- Division of Hepatitis and Enterovirus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
- National Health Commission (NHC), Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
- National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Biological Products, Institute of Biological Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Perenkov AD, Sergeeva AD, Vedunova MV, Krysko DV. In Vitro Transcribed RNA-Based Platform Vaccines: Past, Present, and Future. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1600. [PMID: 37897003 PMCID: PMC10610676 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11101600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA was discovered in 1961, but it was not used as a vaccine until after three decades. Recently, the development of mRNA vaccine technology gained great impetus from the pursuit of vaccines against COVID-19. To improve the properties of RNA vaccines, and primarily their circulation time, self-amplifying mRNA and trans-amplifying mRNA were developed. A separate branch of mRNA technology is circular RNA vaccines, which were developed with the discovery of the possibility of translation on their protein matrix. Circular RNA has several advantages over mRNA vaccines and is considered a fairly promising platform, as is trans-amplifying mRNA. This review presents an overview of the mRNA platform and a critical discussion of the more modern self-amplifying mRNA, trans-amplifying mRNA, and circular RNA platforms created on its basis. Finally, the main features, advantages, and disadvantages of each of the presented mRNA platforms are discussed. This discussion will facilitate the decision-making process in selecting the most appropriate platform for creating RNA vaccines against cancer or viral diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexey D Perenkov
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Alena D Sergeeva
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Maria V Vedunova
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Dmitri V Krysko
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
- Cell Death Investigation and Therapy (CDIT) Laboratory, Anatomy and Embryology Unit, Department of Human Structure and Repair, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Wang YS, Kumari M, Chen GH, Hong MH, Yuan JPY, Tsai JL, Wu HC. mRNA-based vaccines and therapeutics: an in-depth survey of current and upcoming clinical applications. J Biomed Sci 2023; 30:84. [PMID: 37805495 PMCID: PMC10559634 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-023-00977-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA-based drugs have tremendous potential as clinical treatments, however, a major challenge in realizing this drug class will promise to develop methods for safely delivering the bioactive agents with high efficiency and without activating the immune system. With regard to mRNA vaccines, researchers have modified the mRNA structure to enhance its stability and promote systemic tolerance of antigenic presentation in non-inflammatory contexts. Still, delivery of naked modified mRNAs is inefficient and results in low levels of antigen protein production. As such, lipid nanoparticles have been utilized to improve delivery and protect the mRNA cargo from extracellular degradation. This advance was a major milestone in the development of mRNA vaccines and dispelled skepticism about the potential of this technology to yield clinically approved medicines. Following the resounding success of mRNA vaccines for COVID-19, many other mRNA-based drugs have been proposed for the treatment of a variety of diseases. This review begins with a discussion of mRNA modifications and delivery vehicles, as well as the factors that influence administration routes. Then, we summarize the potential applications of mRNA-based drugs and discuss further key points pertaining to preclinical and clinical development of mRNA drugs targeting a wide range of diseases. Finally, we discuss the latest market trends and future applications of mRNA-based drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Shiuan Wang
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Monika Kumari
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Guan-Hong Chen
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hsiang Hong
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Joyce Pei-Yi Yuan
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Ling Tsai
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Han-Chung Wu
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan.
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Liu Z, Alexander JL, Le K, Zhou X, Ibraheim H, Anandabaskaran S, Saifuddin A, Lin KW, McFarlane LR, Constable L, Seoane RC, Anand N, Bewshea C, Nice R, D'Mello A, Jones GR, Balarajah S, Fiorentino F, Sebastian S, Irving PM, Hicks LC, Williams HRT, Kent AJ, Linger R, Parkes M, Kok K, Patel KV, Teare JP, Altmann DM, Boyton RJ, Hart AL, Lees CW, Goodhand JR, Kennedy NA, Pollock KM, Ahmad T, Powell N. Neutralising antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.4/5 and wild-type virus in patients with inflammatory bowel disease following three doses of COVID-19 vaccine (VIP): a prospective, multicentre, cohort study. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 64:102249. [PMID: 37842172 PMCID: PMC10570718 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) receiving anti-TNF and JAK-inhibitor therapy have attenuated responses to COVID-19 vaccination. We aimed to determine how IBD treatments affect neutralising antibody responses against the Omicron BA.4/5 variant. Methods In this multicentre cohort study, we prospectively recruited 340 adults (69 healthy controls and 271 IBD) at nine UK hospitals between May 28, 2021 and March 29, 2022. The IBD study population was established (>12 weeks therapy) on either thiopurine (n = 63), infliximab (n = 45), thiopurine and infliximab combination therapy (n = 48), ustekinumab (n = 45), vedolizumab (n = 46) or tofacitinib (n = 24). Patients were excluded if they were being treated with any other immunosuppressive therapies. Participants had two doses of either ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 or BNT162b2 vaccines, followed by a third dose of either BNT162b2 or mRNA1273. Pseudo-neutralisation assays against SARS-CoV-2 wild-type and BA.4/5 were performed. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (NT50) of participant sera was calculated. The primary outcome was anti-SARS-CoV-2 neutralising response against wild-type virus and Omicron BA.4/5 variant after the second and third doses of anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, stratified by immunosuppressive therapy, adjusting for prior infection, vaccine type, age, and interval between vaccination and blood collection. This study is registered with ISRCTN (No. 13495664). Findings Both heterologous (first two doses adenovirus vaccine, third dose mRNA vaccine) and homologous (three doses mRNA vaccine) vaccination strategies significantly increased neutralising titres against both wild-type SARS-CoV-2 virus and the Omicron BA.4/5 variant in healthy participants and patients with IBD. Antibody titres against BA.4/5 were significantly lower than antibodies against wild-type virus in both healthy participants and patients with IBD (p < 0.0001). Multivariable models demonstrated that neutralising antibodies against BA.4/5 after three doses of vaccine were significantly lower in patients with IBD on infliximab (Geometric Mean Ratio (GMR) 0.19 [0.10, 0.36], p < 0.0001), infliximab and thiopurine combination (GMR 0.25 [0.13, 0.49], p < 0.0001) or tofacitinib (GMR 0.43 [0.20, 0.91], p = 0.028), but not in patients on thiopurine monotherapy, ustekinumab, or vedolizumab. Breakthrough infection was associated with lower neutralising antibodies against wild-type (p = 0.037) and BA.4/5 (p = 0.045). Interpretation A third dose of a COVID-19 mRNA vaccine based on the wild-type spike glycoprotein significantly boosts neutralising antibody titres in patients with IBD. However, responses are lower against the Omicron variant BA.4/5, particularly in patients taking anti-TNF and JAK-inhibitor therapy. Breakthrough infections are associated with lower neutralising antibodies and immunosuppressed patients with IBD may receive additional benefit from bivalent vaccine boosters which target Omicron variants. Funding Pfizer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhigang Liu
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - James L. Alexander
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Kaixing Le
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Xin Zhou
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Hajir Ibraheim
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Sulak Anandabaskaran
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Marks Hospital and Academic Institute, Gastroenterology, London, UK
| | - Aamir Saifuddin
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Marks Hospital and Academic Institute, Gastroenterology, London, UK
| | - Kathy Weitung Lin
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Leon R. McFarlane
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Laura Constable
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Rocio Castro Seoane
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Nikhil Anand
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Claire Bewshea
- Exeter Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Pharmacogenetics Research Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Rachel Nice
- Exeter Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Pharmacogenetics Research Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Exeter Clinical Laboratory International, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK
| | - Andrea D'Mello
- Division of Medicine & Integrated Care, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Gareth R. Jones
- Department of Gastroenterology, Western General Hospital, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sharmili Balarajah
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Francesca Fiorentino
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Nightingale-Saunders Clinical Trials & Epidemiology Unit (King’s Clinical Trials Unit), King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Shaji Sebastian
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Hull, UK
- Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Peter M. Irving
- Department of Gastroenterology, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- School of Immunology & Microbial Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Lucy C. Hicks
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Horace RT. Williams
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Rachel Linger
- The NIHR Bioresource, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Miles Parkes
- The NIHR Bioresource, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Klaartje Kok
- Department of Gastroenterology, Bart's Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Kamal V. Patel
- Department of Gastroenterology, St George's Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Julian P. Teare
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Daniel M. Altmann
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Rosemary J. Boyton
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Lung Division, Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Ailsa L. Hart
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Marks Hospital and Academic Institute, Gastroenterology, London, UK
| | - Charlie W. Lees
- Department of Gastroenterology, Western General Hospital, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - James R. Goodhand
- Exeter Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Pharmacogenetics Research Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK
| | - Nicholas A. Kennedy
- Exeter Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Pharmacogenetics Research Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK
| | - Katrina M. Pollock
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, UK
- NIHR Imperial Clinical Research Facility and NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Tariq Ahmad
- Exeter Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Pharmacogenetics Research Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK
| | - Nick Powell
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zhang W, Jiang Y, He Y, Boucetta H, Wu J, Chen Z, He W. Lipid carriers for mRNA delivery. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:4105-4126. [PMID: 37799378 PMCID: PMC10547918 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) is the template for protein biosynthesis and is emerging as an essential active molecule to combat various diseases, including viral infection and cancer. Especially, mRNA-based vaccines, as a new type of vaccine, have played a leading role in fighting against the current global pandemic of COVID-19. However, the inherent drawbacks, including large size, negative charge, and instability, hinder its use as a therapeutic agent. Lipid carriers are distinguishable and promising vehicles for mRNA delivery, owning the capacity to encapsulate and deliver negatively charged drugs to the targeted tissues and release cargoes at the desired time. Here, we first summarized the structure and properties of different lipid carriers, such as liposomes, liposome-like nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, exosomes and lipoprotein particles, and their applications in delivering mRNA. Then, the development of lipid-based formulations as vaccine delivery systems was discussed and highlighted. Recent advancements in the mRNA vaccine of COVID-19 were emphasized. Finally, we described our future vision and perspectives in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wanting Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yuxin Jiang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yonglong He
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Hamza Boucetta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Jun Wu
- Department of Geriatric Cardiology, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Zhongjian Chen
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| | - Wei He
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
- Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
McGee JE, Kirsch JR, Kenney D, Chavez E, Shih TY, Douam F, Wong WW, Grinstaff MW. Complete substitution with modified nucleotides suppresses the early interferon response and increases the potency of self-amplifying RNA. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.15.557994. [PMID: 37745375 PMCID: PMC10516017 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.15.557994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) will revolutionize vaccines and in situ therapeutics by enabling protein expression for longer duration at lower doses. However, a major barrier to saRNA efficacy is the potent early interferon response triggered upon cellular entry, resulting in saRNA degradation and translational inhibition. Substitution of mRNA with modified nucleotides (modNTPs), such as N1-methylpseudouridine (N1mΨ), reduce the interferon response and enhance expression levels. Multiple attempts to use modNTPs in saRNA have been unsuccessful, leading to the conclusion that modNTPs are incompatible with saRNA, thus hindering further development. Here, contrary to the common dogma in the field, we identify multiple modNTPs that when incorporated into saRNA at 100% substitution confer immune evasion and enhance expression potency. Transfection efficiency enhances by roughly an order of magnitude in difficult to transfect cell types compared to unmodified saRNA, and interferon production reduces by >8 fold compared to unmodified saRNA in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Furthermore, we demonstrate expression of viral antigens in vitro and observe significant protection against lethal challenge with a mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2 strain in vivo . A modified saRNA vaccine, at 100-fold lower dose than a modified mRNA vaccine, results in a statistically improved performance to unmodified saRNA and statistically equivalent performance to modified mRNA. This discovery considerably broadens the potential scope of self-amplifying RNA, enabling entry into previously impossible cell types, as well as the potential to apply saRNA technology to non-vaccine modalities such as cell therapy and protein replacement.
Collapse
|
28
|
Tregoning JS. LION: Taming RNA vaccine inflammation. Mol Ther 2023; 31:2557. [PMID: 37541255 PMCID: PMC10492017 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- John S Tregoning
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Ye Z, Harmon J, Ni W, Li Y, Wich D, Xu Q. The mRNA Vaccine Revolution: COVID-19 Has Launched the Future of Vaccinology. ACS NANO 2023; 17:15231-15253. [PMID: 37535899 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c12584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, mRNA (mRNA) vaccines emerged as leading vaccine candidates in a record time. Nonreplicating mRNA (NRM) and self-amplifying mRNA (SAM) technologies have been developed into high-performing and clinically viable vaccines against a range of infectious agents, notably SARS-CoV-2. mRNA vaccines demonstrate efficient in vivo delivery, long-lasting stability, and nonexistent risk of infection. The stability and translational efficiency of in vitro transcription (IVT)-mRNA can be further increased by modulating its structural elements. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the recent advances, key applications, and future challenges in the field of mRNA-based vaccinology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhongfeng Ye
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Joseph Harmon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Wei Ni
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, United States
| | - Yamin Li
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
| | - Douglas Wich
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Qiaobing Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Zhou W, Jiang L, Liao S, Wu F, Yang G, Hou L, Liu L, Pan X, Jia W, Zhang Y. Vaccines' New Era-RNA Vaccine. Viruses 2023; 15:1760. [PMID: 37632102 PMCID: PMC10458896 DOI: 10.3390/v15081760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA vaccines, including conventional messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines, circular RNA (circRNA) vaccines, and self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) vaccines, have ushered in a promising future and revolutionized vaccine development. The success of mRNA vaccines in combating the COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus that emerged in 2019 has highlighted the potential of RNA vaccines. These vaccines possess several advantages, such as high efficacy, adaptability, simplicity in antigen design, and the ability to induce both humoral and cellular immunity. They also offer rapid and cost-effective manufacturing, flexibility to target emerging or mutant pathogens and a potential approach for clearing immunotolerant microbes by targeting bacterial or parasitic survival mechanisms. The self-adjuvant effect of mRNA-lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations or circular RNA further enhances the potential of RNA vaccines. However, some challenges need to be addressed. These include the technology's immaturity, high research expenses, limited duration of antibody response, mRNA instability, low efficiency of circRNA cyclization, and the production of double-stranded RNA as a side product. These factors hinder the widespread adoption and utilization of RNA vaccines, particularly in developing countries. This review provides a comprehensive overview of mRNA, circRNA, and saRNA vaccines for infectious diseases while also discussing their development, current applications, and challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenshuo Zhou
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - Linglei Jiang
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - Shimiao Liao
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - Feifei Wu
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - Guohuan Yang
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - Li Hou
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - Lan Liu
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - Xinping Pan
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
| | - William Jia
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
- Shanghai-Virogin Biotech Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China
| | - Yuntao Zhang
- CNBG-Virogin Biotech (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201800, China; (W.Z.); (L.J.); (S.L.); (F.W.); (G.Y.); (L.H.); (L.L.); (X.P.); (W.J.)
- Sinopharm Group China National Biotech Group (CNBG) Co., Ltd., Beijing 100124, China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Akahata W, Sekida T, Nogimori T, Ode H, Tamura T, Kono K, Kazami Y, Washizaki A, Masuta Y, Suzuki R, Matsuda K, Komori M, Morey AL, Ishimoto K, Nakata M, Hasunuma T, Fukuhara T, Iwatani Y, Yamamoto T, Smith JF, Sato N. Safety and immunogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 self-amplifying RNA vaccine expressing an anchored RBD: A randomized, observer-blind phase 1 study. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101134. [PMID: 37586325 PMCID: PMC10439244 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
VLPCOV-01 is a lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) vaccine that expresses a membrane-anchored receptor-binding domain (RBD) derived from the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein. A phase 1 study of VLPCOV-01 is conducted (jRCT2051210164). Participants who completed two doses of the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine previously are randomized to receive one intramuscular vaccination of 0.3, 1.0, or 3.0 μg VLPCOV-01, 30 μg BNT162b2, or placebo. No serious adverse events have been reported. VLPCOV-01 induces robust immunoglobulin G (IgG) titers against the RBD protein that are maintained up to 26 weeks in non-elderly participants, with geometric means ranging from 5,037 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1,272-19,940) at 0.3 μg to 12,873 (95% CI 937-17,686) at 3 μg compared with 3,166 (95% CI 1,619-6,191) with 30 μg BNT162b2. Neutralizing antibody titers against all variants of SARS-CoV-2 tested are induced. VLPCOV-01 is immunogenic following low-dose administration. These findings support the potential for saRNA as a vaccine platform.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wataru Akahata
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc., Marunouchi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0003, Japan.
| | - Takashi Sekida
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc., Marunouchi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0003, Japan
| | - Takuto Nogimori
- Laboratory of Precision Immunology, Center for Intractable Diseases and ImmunoGenomics, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0085, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Ode
- Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization Nagoya Medical Center, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0001, Japan
| | - Tomokazu Tamura
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Kaoru Kono
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc., Marunouchi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0003, Japan
| | - Yoko Kazami
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc., Marunouchi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0003, Japan
| | - Ayaka Washizaki
- Laboratory of Precision Immunology, Center for Intractable Diseases and ImmunoGenomics, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0085, Japan
| | - Yuji Masuta
- Laboratory of Precision Immunology, Center for Intractable Diseases and ImmunoGenomics, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0085, Japan
| | - Rigel Suzuki
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | - Mai Komori
- VLP Therapeutics, Inc., Gaithersburg, MD 20878, USA
| | | | | | - Misako Nakata
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc., Marunouchi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0003, Japan
| | - Tomoko Hasunuma
- Department of Research, Kitasato University, Kitasato Institute Hospital, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0072, Japan
| | - Takasuke Fukuhara
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan; Laboratory of Virus Control, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yasumasa Iwatani
- Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization Nagoya Medical Center, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0001, Japan; Division of Basic Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Takuya Yamamoto
- Laboratory of Precision Immunology, Center for Intractable Diseases and ImmunoGenomics, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0085, Japan
| | | | - Nobuaki Sato
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc., Marunouchi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0003, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Liu H, Liu D. Development of novel SARS-CoV-2 viral vectors. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13053. [PMID: 37567900 PMCID: PMC10421939 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40370-8] [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: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The authentic SARS-CoV-2 requires to be handled in Biosafety Level 3 laboratories, which restrains investigation by the broader scientific community. Here, we report the development of a novel SARS-CoV-2 viral vector composed of all 4 SARS-CoV-2 structural proteins, the packaging signal sequence of SARS-CoV-2, a reporter gene, and an RNA amplification component of Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV). This VEE-SARS-CoV-2 viral vector transduces target cells in an ACE2-dependent manner, and all 4 structural proteins of SARS-CoV-2 are indispensable for its transduction activity. Comparative studies show that the incorporation of the VEEV self-amplification mechanism increases the gene expression level by ~ 65-fold and extends the transgene expression up to 11 days in transduced cells. Additionally, we demonstrated the significant applications of this new VEE-SARS-CoV-2 vector for neutralizing antibody quantification and antiviral drug testing. The VEE-SARS-CoV-2 vectors developed will be an important and versatile tool for investigating SARS-CoV-2 molecular virology, developing antiviral agents targeting receptor binding, and studying RNA genome packaging and function of the essential but not well studied structural proteins of SARS-CoV-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huan Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, 250 West Green Street, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Dexi Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, 250 West Green Street, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Kimura T, Leal JM, Simpson A, Warner NL, Berube BJ, Archer JF, Park S, Kurtz R, Hinkley T, Nicholes K, Sharma S, Duthie MS, Berglund P, Reed SG, Khandhar AP, Erasmus JH. A localizing nanocarrier formulation enables multi-target immune responses to multivalent replicating RNA with limited systemic inflammation. Mol Ther 2023; 31:2360-2375. [PMID: 37403357 PMCID: PMC10422015 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA vaccines possess significant clinical promise in counteracting human diseases caused by infectious or cancerous threats. Self-amplifying replicon RNA (repRNA) has been thought to offer the potential for enhanced potency and dose sparing. However, repRNA is a potent trigger of innate immune responses in vivo, which can cause reduced transgene expression and dose-limiting reactogenicity, as highlighted by recent clinical trials. Here, we report that multivalent repRNA vaccination, necessitating higher doses of total RNA, could be safely achieved in mice by delivering multiple repRNAs with a localizing cationic nanocarrier formulation (LION). Intramuscular delivery of multivalent repRNA by LION resulted in localized biodistribution accompanied by significantly upregulated local innate immune responses and the induction of antigen-specific adaptive immune responses in the absence of systemic inflammatory responses. In contrast, repRNA delivered by lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) showed generalized biodistribution, a systemic inflammatory state, an increased body weight loss, and failed to induce neutralizing antibody responses in a multivalent composition. These findings suggest that in vivo delivery of repRNA by LION is a platform technology for safe and effective multivalent vaccination through mechanisms distinct from LNP-formulated repRNA vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taishi Kimura
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA.
| | - Joseph M Leal
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Adrian Simpson
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Nikole L Warner
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Bryan J Berube
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Jacob F Archer
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Stephanie Park
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Ryan Kurtz
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Troy Hinkley
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | | | - Shibbu Sharma
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | | | - Peter Berglund
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Steven G Reed
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Amit P Khandhar
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Jesse H Erasmus
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E #280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA; Department of Microbiology, University of Washington, 750 Republican Street, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Kitonsa J, Kamacooko O, Ruzagira E, Nambaziira F, Abaasa A, Serwanga J, Gombe B, Lunkuse J, Naluyinda H, Tukamwesiga N, Namata T, Kigozi A, Kafeero P, Basajja V, Joseph S, Pierce BF, Shattock R, Kaleebu P. A phase I COVID-19 vaccine trial among SARS-CoV-2 seronegative and seropositive individuals in Uganda utilizing a self-amplifying RNA vaccine platform: Screening and enrollment experiences. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2240690. [PMID: 37553178 PMCID: PMC10411305 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2240690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
We report the screening and enrollment process for a phase I vaccine trial in Masaka, Uganda that investigated the safety and immunogenicity of a self-amplifying SARS-CoV-2 RNA vaccine amongst individuals with and without antibodies to SARS-CoV-2. Participant screening and enrollment were conducted between December 2021 and April 2022. Individuals were eligible if they were aged between 18 and 45 years, healthy, and never vaccinated against COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 antibody status was determined using two point-of-care rapid tests, i.e. Multi G (MGFT3) and Standard Q (Standard Q COVID-19 IgM/IgG Plus). Data were entered and managed in OpenClinica. Analyses were performed and presented descriptively. A total of 212 individuals were screened and 43(20.3%) enrolled. The most common reasons for exclusion were ≥ grade 1 laboratory abnormalities (39, 18.4%), followed by discordant SARS-CoV-2 antibody results (23, 10.9%). While the first 38 participants were quickly enrolled over a period of 9 weeks, it took another 9 weeks to enroll the remaining five, as antibody negative participants became scarce during the surge of the Omicron variant. The SARS-CoV-2 antibody positivity rate was determined to be 60.8% and 84.4% in each half of the 18 months of screening respectively. The mean age (±Standard Deviation, SD) of screened and enrolled participants was 27.7 (±8.1) and 30.2 (±8.3) years respectively. We demonstrated that it is feasible to successfully screen and enroll participants for COVID-19 vaccine trials in Uganda in the time of a pandemic. Our experiences may be useful for investigators planning to undertake similar work in Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Kitonsa
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Onesmus Kamacooko
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Eugene Ruzagira
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Florence Nambaziira
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Andrew Abaasa
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jennifer Serwanga
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Ben Gombe
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Jane Lunkuse
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Hadijah Naluyinda
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Naboth Tukamwesiga
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Tamara Namata
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Antony Kigozi
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Paddy Kafeero
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Vincent Basajja
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Sarah Joseph
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Robin Shattock
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Pontiano Kaleebu
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Liu Y, Li Y, Hu Q. Advances in saRNA Vaccine Research against Emerging/Re-Emerging Viruses. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1142. [PMID: 37514957 PMCID: PMC10383046 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11071142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Although conventional vaccine approaches have proven to be successful in preventing infectious diseases in past decades, for vaccine development against emerging/re-emerging viruses, one of the main challenges is rapid response in terms of design and manufacture. mRNA vaccines can be designed and produced within days, representing a powerful approach for developing vaccines. Furthermore, mRNA vaccines can be scaled up and may not have the risk of integration. mRNA vaccines are roughly divided into non-replicating mRNA vaccines and self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) vaccines. In this review, we provide an overview of saRNA vaccines, and discuss future directions and challenges in advancing this promising vaccine platform to combat emerging/re-emerging viruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yalan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
- Hubei Jiangxia Laboratory, Wuhan 430200, China
| | - Yuncheng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
- Savaid Medical School, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Qinxue Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Han L, Song S, Feng H, Ma J, Wei W, Si F. A roadmap for developing Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) vaccines: Lessons from the past, strategies for the future. Int J Biol Macromol 2023:125514. [PMID: 37353130 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Venezuelan equine encephalitis (VEE) is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by the Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV), which can lead to severe central nervous system infections in both humans and animals. At present, the medical community does not possess a viable means of addressing VEE, rendering the prevention of the virus a matter of paramount importance. Regarding the prevention and control of VEEV, the implementation of a vaccination program has been recognized as the most efficient strategy. Nevertheless, there are currently no licensed vaccines or drugs available for human use against VEEV. This imperative has led to a surge of interest in vaccine research, with VEEV being a prime focus for researchers in the field. In this paper, we initially present a comprehensive overview of the current taxonomic classification of VEEV and the cellular infection mechanism of the virus. Subsequently, we provide a detailed introduction of the prominent VEEV vaccine types presently available, including inactivated vaccines, live attenuated vaccines, genetic, and virus-like particle vaccines. Moreover, we emphasize the challenges that current VEEV vaccine development faces and suggest urgent measures that must be taken to overcome these obstacles. Notably, based on our latest research, we propose the feasibility of incorporation codon usage bias strategies to create the novel VEEV vaccine. Finally, we prose several areas that future VEEV vaccine development should focus on. Our objective is to encourage collaboration between the medical and veterinary communities, expedite the translation of existing vaccines from laboratory to clinical applications, while also preparing for future outbreaks of new VEEV variants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Han
- Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Breeding Pig, Shanghai 201106, China; Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Clinical Medical College of Henan University, Kai Feng 475000, China
| | - Shuai Song
- Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Livestock Disease Prevention of Guangdong Province, Scientific Observation and Experiment Station of Veterinary Drugs and Diagnostic Techniques of Guangdong Province, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou 510640, PR China
| | - Huilin Feng
- Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Infection and Biological Safety, School of Basic Medical Sciences of Henan University, Kai Feng 475000, China
| | - Jing Ma
- Huaihe Hospital of Henan University, Clinical Medical College of Henan University, Kai Feng 475000, China
| | - Wenqiang Wei
- Kaifeng Key Laboratory of Infection and Biological Safety, School of Basic Medical Sciences of Henan University, Kai Feng 475000, China.
| | - Fusheng Si
- Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Breeding Pig, Shanghai 201106, China.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Palmer CD, Scallan CD, Kraemer Tardif LD, Kachura MA, Rappaport AR, Koralek DO, Uriel A, Gitlin L, Klein J, Davis MJ, Venkatraman H, Hart MG, Jaroslavsky JR, Kounlavouth S, Marrali M, Nganje CN, Bae K, Yan T, Leodones K, Egorova M, Hong SJ, Kuan J, Grappi S, Garbes P, Jooss K, Ustianowski A. GRT-R910: a self-amplifying mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccine boosts immunity for ≥6 months in previously-vaccinated older adults. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3274. [PMID: 37280238 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39053-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has resulted in high levels of morbidity and mortality world-wide, and severe complications can occur in older populations. Humoral immunity induced by authorized vaccines wanes within 6 months, and frequent boosts may only offer transient protection. GRT-R910 is an investigational self-amplifying mRNA (samRNA)-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccine delivering full-length Spike and selected conserved non-Spike T cell epitopes. This study reports interim analyses for a phase I open-label dose-escalation trial evaluating GRT-R910 in previously vaccinated healthy older adults (NCT05148962). Primary endpoints of safety and tolerability were assessed. Most solicited local and systemic adverse events (AEs) following GRT-R910 dosing were mild to moderate and transient, and no treatment-related serious AEs were observed. The secondary endpoint of immunogenicity was assessed via IgG binding assays, neutralization assays, interferon-gamma ELISpot, and intracellular cytokine staining. Neutralizing antibody titers against ancestral Spike and variants of concern were boosted or induced by GRT-R910 and, contrasting to authorized vaccines, persisted through at least 6 months after the booster dose. GRT-R910 increased and/or broadened functional Spike-specific T cell responses and primed functional T cell responses to conserved non-Spike epitopes. This study is limited due to small sample size, and additional data from ongoing studies will be required to corroborate these interim findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Alison Uriel
- North Manchester General Hospital & University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Andrew Ustianowski
- North Manchester General Hospital & University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Komori M, Nogimori T, Morey AL, Sekida T, Ishimoto K, Hassett MR, Masuta Y, Ode H, Tamura T, Suzuki R, Alexander J, Kido Y, Matsuda K, Fukuhara T, Iwatani Y, Yamamoto T, Smith JF, Akahata W. saRNA vaccine expressing membrane-anchored RBD elicits broad and durable immunity against SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2810. [PMID: 37208330 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38457-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Several vaccines have been widely used to counteract the global pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2. However, due to the rapid emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs), further development of vaccines that confer broad and longer-lasting protection against emerging VOCs are needed. Here, we report the immunological characteristics of a self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) vaccine expressing the SARS-CoV-2 Spike (S) receptor binding domain (RBD), which is membrane-anchored by fusing with an N-terminal signal sequence and a C-terminal transmembrane domain (RBD-TM). Immunization with saRNA RBD-TM delivered in lipid nanoparticles (LNP) efficiently induces T-cell and B-cell responses in non-human primates (NHPs). In addition, immunized hamsters and NHPs are protected against SARS-CoV-2 challenge. Importantly, RBD-specific antibodies against VOCs are maintained for at least 12 months in NHPs. These findings suggest that this saRNA platform expressing RBD-TM will be a useful vaccine candidate inducing durable immunity against emerging SARS-CoV-2 strains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mai Komori
- VLP Therapeutics, Inc. 704 Quince Orchard Rd. #110, Gaithersburg, MD, 20878, USA
| | - Takuto Nogimori
- Laboratory of Precision Immunology, Center for Intractable Diseases and ImmunoGenomics, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, Osaka, 567-0085, Japan
| | - Amber L Morey
- VLP Therapeutics, Inc. 704 Quince Orchard Rd. #110, Gaithersburg, MD, 20878, USA
| | - Takashi Sekida
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc. 1-16-4 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 100-0003, Japan
| | - Keiko Ishimoto
- VLP Therapeutics, Inc. 704 Quince Orchard Rd. #110, Gaithersburg, MD, 20878, USA
| | - Matthew R Hassett
- VLP Therapeutics, Inc. 704 Quince Orchard Rd. #110, Gaithersburg, MD, 20878, USA
| | - Yuji Masuta
- Laboratory of Precision Immunology, Center for Intractable Diseases and ImmunoGenomics, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, Osaka, 567-0085, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Ode
- Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization Nagoya Medical Center, Nagoya, Aichi, 460-0001, Japan
| | - Tomokazu Tamura
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, 060-8638, Japan
| | - Rigel Suzuki
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, 060-8638, Japan
| | - Jeff Alexander
- VLP Therapeutics, Inc. 704 Quince Orchard Rd. #110, Gaithersburg, MD, 20878, USA
| | - Yasutoshi Kido
- Department of Virology & Parasitology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, 545-0051, Japan
| | - Kenta Matsuda
- VLP Therapeutics, Inc. 704 Quince Orchard Rd. #110, Gaithersburg, MD, 20878, USA
| | - Takasuke Fukuhara
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, 060-8638, Japan
| | - Yasumasa Iwatani
- Clinical Research Center, National Hospital Organization Nagoya Medical Center, Nagoya, Aichi, 460-0001, Japan
- Division of Basic Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Takuya Yamamoto
- Laboratory of Precision Immunology, Center for Intractable Diseases and ImmunoGenomics, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health, and Nutrition, Osaka, 567-0085, Japan.
- Laboratory of Aging and Immune Regulation, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
- Department of Virology and Immunology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Jonathan F Smith
- VLP Therapeutics, Inc. 704 Quince Orchard Rd. #110, Gaithersburg, MD, 20878, USA.
| | - Wataru Akahata
- VLP Therapeutics Japan, Inc. 1-16-4 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 100-0003, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Mahboob T, Ismail AA, Shah MR, Rahmatullah M, Paul AK, Pereira MDL, Wiart C, Wilairatana P, Rajagopal M, Dolma KG, Nissapatorn V. Development of SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine: Challenges and Prospects. Diseases 2023; 11:64. [PMID: 37092446 PMCID: PMC10123684 DOI: 10.3390/diseases11020064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The WHO declared coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) a pandemic in March 2020, which was caused by novel coronavirus severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). SARS-CoV-2 made its first entry into the world in November 2019, and the first case was detected in Wuhan, China. Mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 genome distressed life in almost every discipline by the extended production of novel viral variants. In this article, authorized SARS-CoV-2 vaccines including mRNA vaccines, DNA vaccines, subunit vaccines, inactivated virus vaccines, viral vector vaccine, live attenuated virus vaccines and mix and match vaccines will be discussed based on their mechanism, administration, storage, stability, safety and efficacy. The information was collected from various journals via electronic searches including PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar and the WHO platform. This review article includes a brief summary on the pathophysiology, epidemiology, mutant variants and management strategies related to COVID-19. Due to the continuous production and unsatisfactory understanding of novel variants of SARS-CoV-2, it is important to design an effective vaccine along with long-lasting protection against variant strains by eliminating the gaps through practical and theoretical knowledge. Consequently, it is mandatory to update the literature through previous and ongoing trials of vaccines tested among various ethnicities and age groups to gain a better insight into management strategies and combat complications associated with upcoming novel variants of SARS-CoV-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tooba Mahboob
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Amni Adilah Ismail
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Raza Shah
- H.E.J. Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Mohammed Rahmatullah
- Department of Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering, University of Development Alternative, Lalmatia, Dhaka 1209, Bangladesh
| | - Alok K. Paul
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005, Australia
| | - Maria de Lourdes Pereira
- CICECO—Aveiro Institute of Materials & Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Christophe Wiart
- Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation, University Malaysia, Sabah 88400, Malaysia
| | - Polrat Wilairatana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Mogana Rajagopal
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Karma G. Dolma
- Department of Microbiology, Sikkim Manipal Institute of Medical Sciences, Sikkim Manipal University, Gangtok 737102, Sikkim, India
| | - Veeranoot Nissapatorn
- School of Allied Health Sciences and World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery (WUHeDD), Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Khandhar AP, Landon CD, Archer J, Krieger K, Warner NL, Randall S, Berube BJ, Erasmus JH, Sather DN, Staats HF. Evaluation of repRNA vaccine for induction and in utero transfer of maternal antibodies in a pregnant rabbit model. Mol Ther 2023; 31:1046-1058. [PMID: 36965482 PMCID: PMC10124083 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Mother-to-child transmission is a major route for infections in newborns. Vaccination in mothers to leverage the maternal immune system is a promising approach to vertically transfer protective immunity. During infectious disease outbreaks, such as the 2016 Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak, rapid availability of vaccines can prove critical in reducing widespread disease burden. The recent successes of mRNA vaccines support their evaluation in pregnant animal models to justify their use in neonatal settings. Here we evaluated immunogenicity of self-amplifying replicon (repRNA) vaccines, delivered with our clinical-stage LION nanoparticle formulation, in pregnant rabbits using ZIKV and HIV-1 as model disease targets. We showed that LION/repRNA vaccines induced robust antigen-specific antibody responses in adult pregnant rabbits that passively transferred to newborn kits in utero. Using a matrixed study design, we further elucidate the effect of vaccination in kits on the presence of pre-existing maternal antibodies. Our findings showed that timing of maternal vaccination is critical in maximizing in utero antibody transfer, and subsequent vaccination in newborns maintained elevated antibody levels compared with no vaccination. Overall, our results support further development of the LION/repRNA vaccine platform for maternal and neonatal settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amit P Khandhar
- HDT Bio Corp, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E, Suite 280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA; PAI Life Sciences Inc., 1616 Eastlake Avenue E, Suite 250, Seattle, WA 98102, USA.
| | - Chelsea D Landon
- Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Jacob Archer
- HDT Bio Corp, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E, Suite 280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Kyle Krieger
- HDT Bio Corp, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E, Suite 280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Nikole L Warner
- HDT Bio Corp, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E, Suite 280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Samantha Randall
- HDT Bio Corp, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E, Suite 280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Bryan J Berube
- HDT Bio Corp, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E, Suite 280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - Jesse H Erasmus
- HDT Bio Corp, 1616 Eastlake Avenue E, Suite 280, Seattle, WA 98102, USA
| | - D Noah Sather
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Herman F Staats
- Department of Pathology, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Kyaw T, Drummond G, Bobik A, Peter K. Myocarditis: causes, mechanisms, and evolving therapies. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:225-238. [PMID: 36946552 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2193330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Myocarditis is a severe lymphocyte-mediated inflammatory disorder of the heart, mostly caused by viruses and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Recently, myocarditis as a rare adverse event of mRNA vaccines for SARS-CoV-2 has caused global attention. The clinical consequences of myocarditis can be very severe, but specific treatment options are lacking or not yet clinically proven. AREAS COVERED This paper offers a brief overview of the biology of viruses that frequently cause myocarditis, focusing on mechanisms important for viral entry and replication following host infection. Current and new potential therapeutic targets/strategies especially for viral myocarditis are reviewed systematically. In particular, the immune system in myocarditis is dissected with respect to infective viral and non-infective, ICI-induced myocarditis. EXPERT OPINION Vaccination is an excellent emerging preventative strategy for viral myocarditis, but most vaccines still require further development. Anti-viral treatments that inhibit viral replication need to be considered following viral infection in host myocardium, as lower viral load reduces inflammation severity. Understanding how the immune system continues to damage the heart even after viral clearance will define novel therapeutic targets/strategies. We propose that viral myocarditis can be best treated using a combination of antiviral agents and immunotherapies that control cytotoxic T cell activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tin Kyaw
- Inflammation and Cardiovascular Disease Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute
- Centre for Inflammatory Diseases, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne Melbourne Australia
| | - Grant Drummond
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, La Trobe University Melbourne Australia
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alex Bobik
- Inflammation and Cardiovascular Disease Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute
- Centre for Inflammatory Diseases, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne Melbourne Australia
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Heart Centre, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Karlheinz Peter
- Inflammation and Cardiovascular Disease Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute
- Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne Melbourne Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, La Trobe University Melbourne Australia
- Heart Centre, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Immunology, Monash University Melbourne Australia
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Lundstrom K. Application of DNA Replicons in Gene Therapy and Vaccine Development. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030947. [PMID: 36986808 PMCID: PMC10054396 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA-based gene therapy and vaccine development has received plenty of attention lately. DNA replicons based on self-replicating RNA viruses such as alphaviruses and flaviviruses have been of particular interest due to the amplification of RNA transcripts leading to enhanced transgene expression in transfected host cells. Moreover, significantly reduced doses of DNA replicons compared to conventional DNA plasmids can elicit equivalent immune responses. DNA replicons have been evaluated in preclinical animal models for cancer immunotherapy and for vaccines against infectious diseases and various cancers. Strong immune responses and tumor regression have been obtained in rodent tumor models. Immunization with DNA replicons has provided robust immune responses and protection against challenges with pathogens and tumor cells. DNA replicon-based COVID-19 vaccines have shown positive results in preclinical animal models.
Collapse
|
43
|
Liu Z, Alexander JL, Lin KW, Ahmad T, Pollock KM, Powell N. Infliximab and Tofacitinib Attenuate Neutralizing Antibody Responses Against SARS-CoV-2 Ancestral and Omicron Variants in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients After 3 Doses of COVID-19 Vaccine. Gastroenterology 2023; 164:300-303.e3. [PMID: 36270334 PMCID: PMC9578965 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2022.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhigang Liu
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - James L Alexander
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom, and, Department of Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kathy Weitung Lin
- Department of Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tariq Ahmad
- Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Katrina M Pollock
- Department of Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nick Powell
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom, and, Department of Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Aljabali AAA, Bashatwah RM, Obeid MA, Mishra V, Mishra Y, Serrano-Aroca Á, Lundstrom K, Tambuwala MM. Current state of, prospects for, and obstacles to mRNA vaccine development. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103458. [PMID: 36427779 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.103458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Given their superior efficacy, rapid engineering, low-cost manufacturing, and safe delivery prospects, mRNA vaccines offer an intriguing alternative to conventional vaccination technologies. Several mRNA vaccine platforms targeting infectious diseases and various types of cancer have exhibited beneficial results both in vivo and in vitro. Issues related to mRNA stability and immunogenicity have been addressed. Current mRNA vaccines can generate robust immune responses, without being constrained by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) haplotype of the recipient. Given that mRNA vaccinations are the only transient genetic information carriers, they are also safe. In this review, we provide an update and overview on mRNA vaccines, including their current state, and the problems that have prevented them from being used in more general therapeutic ways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alaa A A Aljabali
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid 21163, Jordan.
| | - Rasha M Bashatwah
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid 21163, Jordan
| | - Mohammad A Obeid
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid 21163, Jordan.
| | - Vijay Mishra
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Yachana Mishra
- Department of Zoology, School of Bioengineering and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Ángel Serrano-Aroca
- Biomaterials & Bioengineering Lab, Centro de Investigación Traslacional San Alberto Magno, Universidad Católica de Valencia, San Vicente Mártir, Valencia 46001, Spain
| | | | - Murtaza M Tambuwala
- Lincoln Medical School, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool Campus, Lincoln LN6 7TS, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Liu Z, Le K, Zhou X, Alexander JL, Lin S, Bewshea C, Chanchlani N, Nice R, McDonald TJ, Lamb CA, Sebastian S, Kok K, Lees CW, Hart AL, Pollok RC, Boyton RJ, Altmann DM, Pollock KM, Goodhand JR, Kennedy NA, Ahmad T, Powell N. Neutralising antibody potency against SARS-CoV-2 wild-type and omicron BA.1 and BA.4/5 variants in patients with inflammatory bowel disease treated with infliximab and vedolizumab after three doses of COVID-19 vaccine (CLARITY IBD): an analysis of a prospective multicentre cohort study. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 8:145-156. [PMID: 36481043 PMCID: PMC9757903 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(22)00389-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anti-TNF drugs, such as infliximab, are associated with attenuated antibody responses after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. We aimed to determine how the anti-TNF drug infliximab and the anti-integrin drug vedolizumab affect vaccine-induced neutralising antibodies against highly transmissible omicron (B.1.1.529) BA.1, and BA.4 and BA.5 (hereafter BA.4/5) SARS-CoV-2 variants, which possess the ability to evade host immunity and, together with emerging sublineages, are now the dominating variants causing current waves of infection. METHODS CLARITY IBD is a prospective, multicentre, observational cohort study investigating the effect of infliximab and vedolizumab on SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Patients aged 5 years and older with a diagnosis of IBD and being treated with infliximab or vedolizumab for 6 weeks or longer were recruited from infusion units at 92 hospitals in the UK. In this analysis, we included participants who had received uninterrupted biological therapy since recruitment and without a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. The primary outcome was neutralising antibody responses against SARS-CoV-2 wild-type and omicron subvariants BA.1 and BA.4/5 after three doses of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. We constructed Cox proportional hazards models to investigate the risk of breakthrough infection in relation to neutralising antibody titres. The study is registered with the ISRCTN registry, ISRCTN45176516, and is closed to accrual. FINDINGS Between Sept 22 and Dec 23, 2020, 7224 patients with IBD were recruited to the CLARITY IBD study, of whom 1288 had no previous SARS-CoV-2 infection after three doses of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine and were established on either infliximab (n=871) or vedolizumab (n=417) and included in this study (median age was 46·1 years [IQR 33·6-58·2], 610 [47·4%] were female, 671 [52·1%] were male, 1209 [93·9%] were White, and 46 [3·6%] were Asian). After three doses of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, 50% neutralising titres (NT50s) were significantly lower in patients treated with infliximab than in those treated with vedolizumab, against wild-type (geometric mean 2062 [95% CI 1720-2473] vs 3440 [2939-4026]; p<0·0001), BA.1 (107·3 [86·40-133·2] vs 648·9 [523·5-804·5]; p<0·0001), and BA.4/5 (40·63 [31·99-51·60] vs 223·0 [183·1-271·4]; p<0·0001) variants. Breakthrough infection was significantly more frequent in patients treated with infliximab (119 [13·7%; 95% CI 11·5-16·2] of 871) than in those treated with vedolizumab (29 [7·0% [4·8-10·0] of 417; p=0·00040). Cox proportional hazards models of time to breakthrough infection after the third dose of vaccine showed infliximab treatment to be associated with a higher hazard risk than treatment with vedolizumab (hazard ratio [HR] 1·71 [95% CI 1·08-2·71]; p=0·022). Among participants who had a breakthrough infection, we found that higher neutralising antibody titres against BA.4/5 were associated with a lower hazard risk and, hence, a longer time to breakthrough infection (HR 0·87 [0·79-0·95]; p=0·0028). INTERPRETATION Our findings underline the importance of continued SARS-CoV-2 vaccination programmes, including second-generation bivalent vaccines, especially in patient subgroups where vaccine immunogenicity and efficacy might be reduced, such as those on anti-TNF therapies. FUNDING Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust; Hull University Teaching Hospital NHS Trust; NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre; Crohn's and Colitis UK; Guts UK; National Core Studies Immunity Programme, UK Research and Innovation; and unrestricted educational grants from F Hoffmann-La Roche, Biogen, Celltrion Healthcare, Takeda, and Galapagos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhigang Liu
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Kaixing Le
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Xin Zhou
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - James L Alexander
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK; Department of Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Simeng Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK; Exeter Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Pharmacogenetics Research Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Claire Bewshea
- Exeter Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Pharmacogenetics Research Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Neil Chanchlani
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK; Exeter Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Pharmacogenetics Research Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Rachel Nice
- Department of Biochemistry, Exeter Clinical Laboratory International, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK; Exeter Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Pharmacogenetics Research Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Timothy J McDonald
- Department of Biochemistry, Exeter Clinical Laboratory International, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK
| | - Christopher A Lamb
- Department of Gastroenterology, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Shaji Sebastian
- Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK; Department of Gastroenterology, Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Hull, UK
| | - Klaartje Kok
- Department of Gastroenterology, Bart's Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Charlie W Lees
- Department of Gastroenterology, Western General Hospital, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK; Centre for Inflammation Research, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ailsa L Hart
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Marks Hospital and Academic Institute, London, UK
| | - Richard C Pollok
- Department of Gastroenterology, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Rosemary J Boyton
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, UK; Lung Division, Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Daniel M Altmann
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Katrina M Pollock
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, UK; NIHR Imperial Clinical Research Facility and NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - James R Goodhand
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK; Exeter Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Pharmacogenetics Research Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Nicholas A Kennedy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK; Exeter Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Pharmacogenetics Research Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Tariq Ahmad
- Department of Gastroenterology, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Exeter, UK; Exeter Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Pharmacogenetics Research Group, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Nick Powell
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK; Department of Gastroenterology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Szubert AJ, Pollock KM, Cheeseman HM, Alagaratnam J, Bern H, Bird O, Boffito M, Byrne R, Cole T, Cosgrove CA, Faust SN, Fidler S, Galiza E, Hassanin H, Kalyan M, Libri V, McFarlane LR, Milinkovic A, O'Hara J, Owen DR, Owens D, Pacurar M, Rampling T, Skene S, Winston A, Woolley J, Yim YTN, Dunn DT, McCormack S, Shattock RJ. COVAC1 phase 2a expanded safety and immunogenicity study of a self-amplifying RNA vaccine against SARS-CoV-2. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 56:101823. [PMID: 36684396 PMCID: PMC9837478 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) encapsulated self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) is well tolerated and immunogenic in SARS-CoV-2 seronegative and seropositive individuals aged 18-75. Methods A phase 2a expanded safety and immunogenicity study of a saRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidate LNP-nCoVsaRNA, was conducted at participating centres in the UK between 10th August 2020 and 30th July 2021. Participants received 1 μg then 10 μg of LNP-nCoVsaRNA, ∼14 weeks apart. Solicited adverse events (AEs) were collected for one week post-each vaccine, and unsolicited AEs throughout. Binding and neutralisating anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody raised in participant sera was measured by means of an anti-Spike (S) IgG ELISA, and SARS-CoV-2 pseudoneutralisation assay. (The trial is registered: ISRCTN17072692, EudraCT 2020-001646-20). Findings 216 healthy individuals (median age 51 years) received 1.0 μg followed by 10.0 μg of the vaccine. 28/216 participants were either known to have previous SARS-CoV2 infection and/or were positive for anti-Spike (S) IgG at baseline. Reactogenicity was as expected based on the reactions following licensed COVID-19 vaccines, and there were no serious AEs related to vaccination. 80% of baseline SARS-CoV-2 naïve individuals (147/183) seroconverted two weeks post second immunization, irrespective of age (18-75); 56% (102/183) had detectable neutralising antibodies. Almost all (28/31) SARS-CoV-2 positive individuals had increased S IgG binding antibodies following their first 1.0 μg dose with a ≥0.5log10 increase in 71% (22/31). Interpretation Encapsulated saRNA was well tolerated and immunogenic in adults aged 18-75 years. Seroconversion rates in antigen naïve were higher than those reported in our dose-ranging study. Further work is required to determine if this difference is related to a longer dosing interval (14 vs. 4 weeks) or dosing with 1.0 μg followed by 10.0 μg. Boosting of S IgG antibodies was observed with a single 1.0 μg injection in those with pre-existing immune responses. Funding Grants and gifts from the Medical Research Council UKRI (MC_PC_19076), the National Institute for Health Research/Vaccine Task Force, Partners of Citadel and Citadel Securities, Sir Joseph Hotung Charitable Settlement, Jon Moulton Charity Trust, Pierre Andurand, and Restore the Earth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Katrina M. Pollock
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, UK
- NIHR Imperial Clinical Research Facility and NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | | | | | - Henry Bern
- cMRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCL, London, UK
| | - Olivia Bird
- St George's Vaccine Institute, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, UK
| | | | - Ruth Byrne
- Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London, UK
| | - Tom Cole
- NIHR Imperial Clinical Research Facility and NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Catherine A. Cosgrove
- St George's Vaccine Institute, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, UK
| | - Saul N. Faust
- NIHR Southampton Clinical Research Facility and Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Faculty of Medicine and Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Sarah Fidler
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Eva Galiza
- St George's Vaccine Institute, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, UK
| | - Hana Hassanin
- Surrey Clinical Research Facility, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Mohini Kalyan
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Vincenzo Libri
- dNIHR UCLH Clinical Research Facility and NIHR UCLH Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | | | | | - Jessica O'Hara
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, UK
| | - David R. Owen
- NIHR Imperial Clinical Research Facility and NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Daniel Owens
- NIHR Southampton Clinical Research Facility and Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Faculty of Medicine and Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Mihaela Pacurar
- NIHR Southampton Clinical Research Facility and Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Faculty of Medicine and Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Tommy Rampling
- dNIHR UCLH Clinical Research Facility and NIHR UCLH Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Simon Skene
- Surrey Clinical Research Facility, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Alan Winston
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, UK
| | - James Woolley
- Surrey Clinical Research Facility, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Yee Ting N. Yim
- dNIHR UCLH Clinical Research Facility and NIHR UCLH Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - COVAC 1 Study Teaml
- cMRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCL, London, UK
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, UK
- St George's Vaccine Institute, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, UK
- Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London, UK
- NIHR Southampton Clinical Research Facility and Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Faculty of Medicine and Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Surrey Clinical Research Facility, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
- dNIHR UCLH Clinical Research Facility and NIHR UCLH Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
- NIHR Imperial Clinical Research Facility and NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Targeting the alphavirus virus replication process for antiviral development. Antiviral Res 2023; 210:105494. [PMID: 36574906 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2022.105494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Many alphaviruses, including chikungunya virus (CHIKV) are known human pathogens that lack specific and effective antivirals or vaccines available. The upstream portion of the positive-sense single-stranded RNA genome of alphaviruses encodes four nonstructural proteins: nsP1 to nsP4. They are expressed and autoprocessed to nonstructural proteins which assemble into a replication complex (RC) playing multiple essential roles on viral RNA replication and communication with the host components. The assembly of alphavirus RC and its RNA genome initiates the membrane-derived ultrastructure known as spherule which facilitates viral RNA synthesis protected from host immune responses. Recent advances in the molecular understanding of the high-resolution CHIKV RC heteromeric ultrastructure have provided new insights into the viral replication process. Hence, alphavirus RC presents as an ideal multi-enzyme target for the development of structure-based antiviral drugs. Moreover, the alphavirus RC has therapeutic potential in the form of self-amplifying RNA technology against both infectious and non-infectious diseases.
Collapse
|
48
|
Schmidt C, Schnierle BS. Self-Amplifying RNA Vaccine Candidates: Alternative Platforms for mRNA Vaccine Development. Pathogens 2023; 12:138. [PMID: 36678486 PMCID: PMC9863218 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12010138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The present use of mRNA vaccines against COVID-19 has shown for the first time the potential of mRNA vaccines for infectious diseases. Here we will summarize the current knowledge about improved mRNA vaccines, i.e., the self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA) vaccines. This approach may enhance antigen expression by amplification of the antigen-encoding RNA. RNA design, RNA delivery, and the innate immune responses induced by RNA will be reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christin Schmidt
- Section AIDS and Newly Emerging Pathogens, Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, 63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Barbara S. Schnierle
- Section AIDS and Newly Emerging Pathogens, Department of Virology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, 63225 Langen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Lee KM, Lin SJ, Wu CJ, Kuo RL. Race with virus evolution: The development and application of mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2. Biomed J 2023; 46:70-80. [PMID: 36642222 PMCID: PMC9837160 DOI: 10.1016/j.bj.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 have been urgently developed around the world. On the basis of the mRNA vaccine technology developed previously, COVID-19 mRNA vaccines were promptly tested in animals, advanced to clinical trials, and then authorized for emergency use in humans. The administration of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines has successfully reduced the hospitalization and mortality caused by the viral infection, although the virus continuously evolves with its transmission. Therefore, the development of mRNA vaccine technology, including RNA modification and delivery systems, is well recognized for its contribution to moderating the harms caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The scientists who developed these technologies, Katalin Karikó, Drew Weissman, and Pieter Cullis, were awarded the 2022 Tang Prize in Biopharmaceutical Science. In this review, we summarize the principles, safety and efficacy of as well as the immune response to COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. Since mRNA vaccine approaches could be practical for the prevention of infectious diseases, we also briefly describe mRNA vaccines against other human viral pathogens in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Ming Lee
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan,International Master Degree Program for Molecular Medicine in Emerging Viral Infections, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Linkou, Taiwan
| | - Syh-Jae Lin
- Division of Allergy, Asthma, and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Linkou, Taiwan,School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Jung Wu
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Rei-Lin Kuo
- Research Center for Emerging Viral Infections, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; International Master Degree Program for Molecular Medicine in Emerging Viral Infections, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Division of Allergy, Asthma, and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Linkou, Taiwan; Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Madi S, Xie F, Farhangi K, Hsu CY, Cheng SH, Aweda T, Radaram B, Slania S, Lambert T, Rambo M, Skedzielewski T, Cole A, Sherina V, McKearnan S, Tran H, Alsaid H, Doan M, Stokes AH, O’Hagan DT, Maruggi G, Bertholet S, Temmerman ST, Johnson R, Jucker BM. MRI/PET multimodal imaging of the innate immune response in skeletal muscle and draining lymph node post vaccination in rats. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1081156. [PMID: 36713458 PMCID: PMC9874296 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1081156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The goal of this study was to utilize a multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging approach to assess the local innate immune response in skeletal muscle and draining lymph node following vaccination in rats using two different vaccine platforms (AS01 adjuvanted protein and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) encapsulated Self-Amplifying mRNA (SAM)). MRI and 18FDG PET imaging were performed temporally at baseline, 4, 24, 48, and 72 hr post Prime and Prime-Boost vaccination in hindlimb with Cytomegalovirus (CMV) gB and pentamer proteins formulated with AS01, LNP encapsulated CMV gB protein-encoding SAM (CMV SAM), AS01 or with LNP carrier controls. Both CMV AS01 and CMV SAM resulted in a rapid MRI and PET signal enhancement in hindlimb muscles and draining popliteal lymph node reflecting innate and possibly adaptive immune response. MRI signal enhancement and total 18FDG uptake observed in the hindlimb was greater in the CMV SAM vs CMV AS01 group (↑2.3 - 4.3-fold in AUC) and the MRI signal enhancement peak and duration were temporally shifted right in the CMV SAM group following both Prime and Prime-Boost administration. While cytokine profiles were similar among groups, there was good temporal correlation only between IL-6, IL-13, and MRI/PET endpoints. Imaging mass cytometry was performed on lymph node sections at 72 hr post Prime and Prime-Boost vaccination to characterize the innate and adaptive immune cell signatures. Cell proximity analysis indicated that each follicular dendritic cell interacted with more follicular B cells in the CMV AS01 than in the CMV SAM group, supporting the stronger humoral immune response observed in the CMV AS01 group. A strong correlation between lymph node MRI T2 value and nearest-neighbor analysis of follicular dendritic cell and follicular B cells was observed (r=0.808, P<0.01). These data suggest that spatiotemporal imaging data together with AI/ML approaches may help establish whether in vivo imaging biomarkers can predict local and systemic immune responses following vaccination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Fang Xie
- Bioimaging, GSK, Collegeville, PA, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Tammy Lambert
- Non Clinical Safety, GSK, Collegeville, PA, United States
| | - Mary Rambo
- Bioimaging, GSK, Collegeville, PA, United States
| | | | - Austin Cole
- Research Statistics, GSK, Collegeville, PA, United States
| | | | | | - Hoang Tran
- Research Statistics, GSK, Collegeville, PA, United States
| | - Hasan Alsaid
- Bioimaging, GSK, Collegeville, PA, United States
| | - Minh Doan
- Bioimaging, GSK, Collegeville, PA, United States
| | - Alan H. Stokes
- Non Clinical Safety, GSK, Collegeville, PA, United States
| | - Derek T. O’Hagan
- Vaccines Research & Development, GSK, Rockville, MD, United States
| | | | - Sylvie Bertholet
- Vaccines Research & Development, GSK, Rockville, MD, United States
| | | | - Russell Johnson
- Vaccines Research & Development, GSK, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Beat M. Jucker
- Clinical Imaging, GSK, Collegeville, PA, United States,*Correspondence: Beat M. Jucker,
| |
Collapse
|