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Dobrowolska K, Brzdęk M, Rzymski P, Flisiak R, Pawłowska M, Janczura J, Brzdęk K, Zarębska-Michaluk D. Revolutionizing hepatitis C treatment: next-gen direct-acting antivirals. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024; 25:833-852. [PMID: 38768013 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2358139] [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: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With the introduction of highly effective and safe therapies with next-generation direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), that act without interferon, hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains the only treatable chronic infectious disease. AREAS COVERED The review aims to provide an overview of the therapy revolution with a description of specific DAAs, their mechanisms of action, a summary of the safety and efficacy of specific regimens, and a discussion of populations requiring special therapeutic approaches. EXPERT OPINION DAAs are highly effective, safe, and easy to use. However, challenges such as access to health services and loss of patients from the cascade of care, especially in groups disproportionately affected by HCV infection, such as substance abusers, make it difficult to achieve the WHO's goal of HCV elimination. The proposed strategy to combat these difficulties involves a one-step approach to diagnosing and treating the infection, the availability of long-lasting forms of medication, and the development of an effective vaccine. The aforementioned opportunities are all the more important as the world is facing an opioid epidemic that is translating into an increase in HCV prevalence. This phenomenon is of greatest concern in women of childbearing age and in those already pregnant due to treatment limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michał Brzdęk
- Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, Kielce, Poland
| | - Piotr Rzymski
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Robert Flisiak
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Białystok, Białystok, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Pawłowska
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland
| | - Jakub Janczura
- Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, Kielce, Poland
| | - Kinga Brzdęk
- Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, Kielce, Poland
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Mellid-Carballal R, Gutierrez-Gutierrez S, Rivas C, Garcia-Fuentes M. Viral protein-based nanoparticles (part 2): Pharmaceutical applications. Eur J Pharm Sci 2023; 189:106558. [PMID: 37567394 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2023.106558] [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: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Viral protein nanoparticles (ViP NPs) such as virus-like particles and virosomes are structures halfway between viruses and synthetic nanoparticles. The biological nature of ViP NPs endows them with the biocompatibility, biodegradability, and functional properties that many synthetic nanoparticles lack. At the same time, the absence of a viral genome avoids the safety concerns of viruses. Such characteristics of ViP NPs offer a myriad of opportunities for theirapplication at several points across disease development: from prophylaxis to diagnosis and treatment. ViP NPs present remarkable immunostimulant properties, and thus the vaccination field has benefited the most from these platforms capable of overcoming the limitations of both traditional and subunit vaccines. This was reflected in the marketing authorization of several VLP- and virosome-based vaccines. Besides, ViP NPs inherit the ability of viruses to deliver their cargo to target cells. Because of that, ViP NPs are promising candidates as vectors for drug and gene delivery, and for diagnostic applications. In this review, we analyze the pharmaceutical applications of ViP NPs, describing the products that are commercially available or under clinical evaluation, but also the advances that scientists are making toward the implementation of ViP NPs in other areas of major pharmaceutical interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocio Mellid-Carballal
- CiMUS Research Center, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Sara Gutierrez-Gutierrez
- CiMUS Research Center, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Carmen Rivas
- CiMUS Research Center, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Departamento de Biología Molecular y Celular, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB)-CSIC, Spain
| | - Marcos Garcia-Fuentes
- CiMUS Research Center, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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Osmani Z, Boonstra A. Recent Insights into the Role of B Cells in Chronic Hepatitis B and C Infections. Pathogens 2023; 12:815. [PMID: 37375505 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12060815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic viral hepatitis infections, caused by the hepatitis B or C virus, are a major global health problem causing an estimated one million deaths each year. Immunological studies have classically focused on T cells, while B cells have largely been neglected. Emerging evidence, however, highlights a role for B cells in the immunopathogenesis of chronic hepatitis B and C infections. B cell responses appear to be altered across different clinical phases of chronic HBV infection and across stages of disease in chronic HCV infection. These B cell responses show signs of a more activated state with a simultaneous enrichment of phenotypically exhausted atypical memory B cells. Despite the fact that studies show an activating B cell signature in chronic viral hepatitis infection, antibody responses to HBsAg remain impaired in chronic HBV infection, and glycoprotein E2-specific neutralizing antibody responses remain delayed in the acute phase of HCV infection. At the same time, studies have reported that a subset of HBV- and HCV-specific B cells exhibit an exhausted phenotype. This may, at least in part, explain why antibody responses in chronic HBV and HCV patients are suboptimal. Here, we summarize recent findings and discuss upcoming research questions while looking forward to how new single-cell technologies could provide novel insights into the role of B cells in chronic viral hepatitis infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zgjim Osmani
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andre Boonstra
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Feng T, Li M, Zhang L, Li S, Yang Z, Kang L, Guo Y, Kong L, Wang T. Immunity of two novel hepatitis C virus polyepitope vaccines. Vaccine 2022; 40:6277-6287. [PMID: 36150975 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains a serious public health burden around the world. So far there is no effective vaccine against this virus. Neutralizing antibody (NAb) responses to the epitopes within HCV E1 and E2 proteins are related to the resolution of hepatitis C infection. E. coli heat-labile enterotoxin B subunit (LTB) has been described as potent immunity adjuvants. In this study, we constructed recombinant pET vectors: pET-R9-Bp (B cell polyepitopes) expressing 7 epitopes from HCV E1 and E2 proteins including R9 (E2384-411aa)-Bp (E1313-327aa-E2396-424aa-E2436-447aa-E2523-540aa-E2610-627aa-E2631-648aa) and pET-LTB-R9-Bp expressing LTB adjuvant in combination with R9-Bp. Recombinant proteins R9-Bp and LTB-R9-Bp were expressed successfully in E. coli and purified by the Ni-NTA column. Both R9-Bp and LTB-R9-Bp in BALB/c mice induced robust humoral immune response in the context of intraperitoneal or intramuscular immunization but not oral immunization. Intraperitoneal administration of LTB-R9-Bp induced a higher antibody titer (peak titer: 1:341000) than that of R9-Bp (peak titer: 1:85000) after the second boost (P = 0.0036 or 0.0002). However, comparable antibody peak titers were elicited for both R9-Bp and LTB-R9-Bp in intramuscular immunization albeit with significant difference (P = 0.0032) a week after the second boost. In addition, both R9-Bp and LTB-R9-Bp induced the secretion of cytokines including IFN-γ and IL-4 at similar levels. anti-sera induced by both R9-Bp and LTB-R9-Bp recognized native HCV E1 and E2 proteins. Moreover, these HCV-specific antisera inhibited significantly the entry of HCV (P < 0.0001). Taken together, these findings showed that E. coli-based both R9-Bp and LTB-R9-Bp could become promising HCV vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Feng
- Nanchang City Key Laboratory of Animal Virus and Genetic Engineering, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Institute of Pathogenic Microorganism, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; College of Bioscience and Engineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Mingzhi Li
- Nanchang City Key Laboratory of Animal Virus and Genetic Engineering, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Institute of Pathogenic Microorganism, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; College of Bioscience and Engineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Lirong Zhang
- Nanchang City Key Laboratory of Animal Virus and Genetic Engineering, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Institute of Pathogenic Microorganism, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; College of Bioscience and Engineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Sha Li
- Nanchang City Key Laboratory of Animal Virus and Genetic Engineering, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Institute of Pathogenic Microorganism, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; College of Bioscience and Engineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zibing Yang
- Nanchang City Key Laboratory of Animal Virus and Genetic Engineering, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Institute of Pathogenic Microorganism, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; College of Bioscience and Engineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Lumei Kang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Center for Laboratory Animal Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yunli Guo
- Nanchang City Key Laboratory of Animal Virus and Genetic Engineering, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Institute of Pathogenic Microorganism, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Lingbao Kong
- Nanchang City Key Laboratory of Animal Virus and Genetic Engineering, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Institute of Pathogenic Microorganism, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; College of Bioscience and Engineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Ting Wang
- Nanchang City Key Laboratory of Animal Virus and Genetic Engineering, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; Institute of Pathogenic Microorganism, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China; College of Bioscience and Engineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.
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Echeverría N, Comas V, Aldunate F, Perbolianachis P, Moreno P, Cristina J. In the era of rapid mRNA-based vaccines: Why is there no effective hepatitis C virus vaccine yet? World J Hepatol 2021; 13:1234-1268. [PMID: 34786164 PMCID: PMC8568586 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v13.i10.1234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is responsible for no less than 71 million people chronically infected and is one of the most frequent indications for liver transplantation worldwide. Despite direct-acting antiviral therapies fuel optimism in controlling HCV infections, there are several obstacles regarding treatment accessibility and reinfection continues to remain a possibility. Indeed, the majority of new HCV infections in developed countries occur in people who inject drugs and are more plausible to get reinfected. To achieve global epidemic control of this virus the development of an effective prophylactic or therapeutic vaccine becomes a must. The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic led to auspicious vaccine development against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, which has renewed interest on fighting HCV epidemic with vaccination. The aim of this review is to highlight the current situation of HCV vaccine candidates designed to prevent and/or to reduce HCV infectious cases and their complications. We will emphasize on some of the crossroads encountered during vaccine development against this insidious virus, together with some key aspects of HCV immunology which have, so far, hampered the progress in this area. The main focus will be on nucleic acid-based as well as recombinant viral vector-based vaccine candidates as the most novel vaccine approaches, some of which have been recently and successfully employed for SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Finally, some ideas will be presented on which methods to explore for the design of live-attenuated vaccines against HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Echeverría
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, Centro de Investigaciones Nucleares, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay
| | - Victoria Comas
- Departamento de Desarrollo Biotecnológico, Instituto de Higiene, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11600, Uruguay
| | - Fabián Aldunate
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, Centro de Investigaciones Nucleares, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay
| | - Paula Perbolianachis
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, Centro de Investigaciones Nucleares, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay
| | - Pilar Moreno
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, Centro de Investigaciones Nucleares, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay
| | - Juan Cristina
- Laboratorio de Virología Molecular, Centro de Investigaciones Nucleares, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay.
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Dar GA, Yattoo GN, Gulzar GM, Sodhi JS, Gorka S, Laway MA. Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C Genotype 3 With Ledipasvir and Sofosbuvir: An Observational Study. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2021; 11:227-231. [PMID: 33746448 PMCID: PMC7953013 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2020.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sofosbuvir/ledipasvir (SOF/LED) is recommended for treatment of genotypes 1, 4, 5 and 6. Despite some preliminary data from the ELECTRON-2 trial regarding use of SOF/LED combination in chronic hepatitis C genotype 3, there are no guidelines recommending this combination in such patients. We conducted this study to evaluate the efficacy of the overall sustained virologic response at 12 weeks (SVR 12) and safety of SOF/LED in chronic hepatitis C genotype 3 infection in our population. METHODS It was a prospective, hospital-based observational study. All patients with chronic hepatitis C genotype 3 treated with SOF/LED were divided into two groups: patients with cirrhosis and without cirrhosis. Patients without cirrhosis received SOF/LED (90/400 mg) for 12 weeks; however, patients with cirrhosis received treatment for 24 weeks. RESULTS We enrolled 104 patients with chronic hepatitis C over a period of 24 months. Of the total, 66 were women (63.5%) and 38 were men (36.5%). The average age was 40 years (range: 18-76 years). Of 104 patients, 86 (82.7%) were of genotype 3, 15 (14.9%) were of genotype 1 and 3 (2.9%) were of genotype 4. Ninety-two (88%) were noncirrhotic and 12 (11.5%) were cirrhotic. Ninety-five (95.2%) were treatment naïve. Among genotype 1 and 4, all patients achieved rapid virologic response and SVR 12. Of 86 genotype 3 patients, 78 (90.6%) were noncirrhotic and 8 (9.3%) were cirrhotic. Among genotype 3 patients without cirrhosis, 75 (96%) achieved SVR 12 while 6 (75%) with cirrhosis achieved SVR 12. All patients tolerated the combination well; however, some patients experienced nausea (26%), headache (25%) and fatigue (21%). No patient had to discontinue therapy due to adverse drug reactions. CONCLUSIONS Single tablet LED and SOF combination is safe and effective in genotype 3 patients without cirrhosis even without ribavirin. Being effective in genotype 3, the combination can be used as a pangenotypic drug in patients without cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulzar A. Dar
- Department of Gastroenterology, SKIMS, Srinagar, India
| | | | | | | | - Suresh Gorka
- Department of Gastroenterology, SKIMS, Srinagar, India
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Kardani K, Basimi P, Fekri M, Bolhassani A. Antiviral therapy for the sexually transmitted viruses: recent updates on vaccine development. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2020; 13:1001-1046. [PMID: 32838584 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2020.1814743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The sexually transmitted infections (STIs) caused by viruses including human T cell leukemia virus type-1 (HTLV-1), human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1), human simplex virus-2 (HSV-2), hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and human papillomavirus (HPV) are major public health issues. These infections can cause cancer or result in long-term health problems. Due to high prevalence of STIs, a safe and effective vaccine is required to overcome these fatal viruses. AREAS COVERED This review includes a comprehensive overview of the literatures relevant to vaccine development against the sexually transmitted viruses (STVs) using PubMed and Sciencedirect electronic search engines. Herein, we discuss the efforts directed toward development of effective vaccines using different laboratory animal models including mice, guinea pig or non-human primates in preclinical trials, and human in clinical trials with different phases. EXPERT OPINION There is no effective FDA approved vaccine against the sexually transmitted viruses (STVs) except for HBV and HPV as prophylactic vaccines. Many attempts are underway to develop vaccines against these viruses. There are several approaches for improving prophylactic or therapeutic vaccines such as heterologous prime/boost immunization, delivery system, administration route, adjuvants, etc. In this line, further studies can be helpful for understanding the immunobiology of STVs in human. Moreover, development of more relevant animal models is a worthy goal to induce effective immune responses in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimia Kardani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran, Iran
| | - Parya Basimi
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrshad Fekri
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Bolhassani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran, Iran
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Mohammadzadeh S, Roohvand F, Ehsani P, Salmanian AH, Ajdary S. Canola oilseed- and Escherichia coli- derived hepatitis C virus (HCV) core proteins adjuvanted with oil bodies, induced robust Th1-oriented immune responses in immunized mice. APMIS 2020; 128:593-602. [PMID: 32870528 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Induction of broad Th1 cellular immune responses and cytokines is crucial characteristics for vaccines against intracellular infections such as hepatitis C virus (HCV). Plants (especially oilseed tissues) and plant-immunomodulators (like oil bodies) offer cost-effective and scalable possibilities for the production of immunologically relevant and safe vaccine antigens and adjuvants, respectively. Herein, we provide data of the murine immunization by transgenic canola oilseed-derived HCV core protein (HCVcp) soluble extract (TSE) and Escherichia coli- derived rHCVcp in combination with Canola oil bodies (oil) compared to that of the Freund's (FA) adjuvant. Mice immunized by TSE+ oil developed both strong humeral (IgG) and Th1-biased cellular responses, manifested by high levels of IFN-γ and lower IgG1/IgG2a ratio and IL-4 secretion. Results of the intracellular cytokine staining indicated that TSE+ oil immunization in mice triggered both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells to release IFN-γ, while CD4+ cells were mostly triggered when FA was used. Analyses by qRT-PCR indicated that a combination of rHCVcp/TSE with oil body induced high levels of IL-10 cytokines compared to that of the FA adjuvant. These characteristics are important properties for the design of an HCV vaccine candidate and indicate the potential of Canola-derived antigen and oil bodies in addressing these concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Mohammadzadeh
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.,Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzin Roohvand
- Department of Virology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parastoo Ehsani
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Hatef Salmanian
- Department Plant Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soheila Ajdary
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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A Flow-Through Chromatographic Strategy for Hepatitis C Virus-Like Particles Purification. Processes (Basel) 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/pr8010085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Biopharmaceuticals are currently becoming one of the fastest growing segments of the global pharmaceutical industry, being used in practically all branches of medicine from disease treatment to prevention. Virus-like particles (VLP) hold tremendous potential as a vaccine candidate due to their anticipated immunogenicity and safety profile when compared to inactivated or live attenuated viral vaccines. Nevertheless, there are several challenges yet to be solved in the development and manufacturing of these products, which ultimately can increase time to market. Suchlike virus-based products, the development of a platform approach is often hindered due to diversity and inherent variability of physicochemical properties of the product. In the present work, a flow-through chromatographic purification strategy for hepatitis C VLP expressed using the baculovirus-insect cell expression system was developed. The impact of operational parameters, such as residence time and ionic strength were studied using scaled-down models and their influence on the purification performance was described. The flow-through strategy herein reported made use of radial-flow chromatography columns packed with an anion exchanger and was compared with a bind and elute approach using the same chromatography media. Overall, by selecting the optimal operational setpoints, we were able to achieve higher VLP recoveries in the flow-through process (66% versus 37%) with higher removal of DNA, baculovirus and host-cell protein (92%, 99% and 50% respectively).
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Dawood RM, Moustafa RI, Abdelhafez TH, El-Shenawy R, El-Abd Y, Bader El Din NG, Dubuisson J, El Awady MK. A multiepitope peptide vaccine against HCV stimulates neutralizing humoral and persistent cellular responses in mice. BMC Infect Dis 2019; 19:932. [PMID: 31690267 PMCID: PMC6833294 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-019-4571-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although DAAs hold promise to significantly reduce rates of chronic HCV infections, its eradication still requires development of an effective vaccine. Prolonged T cell responses and cross neutralizing antibodies are ideal for vaccination against the infection. We aimed to design and synthesize a 6 multi epitope peptide vaccine candidate and provide evidence for production of extended cellular and neutralizing Abs in mice. METHODS Six peptides derived from conserved epitopes in E1, E2 (n = 2),NS4B, NS5A and NS5B were designed, synthesized in a multiple antigenic peptide (MAP) form and administered w/o adjuvant to BALB/c mice as HCVp6-MAP at doses ranging from 800 ng to 16 μg. Humoral responses to structural epitopes were assayed by ELISA at different times after injection. ELISpot assay was used to evaluate IFN ɣ producing CD4+/ CD8+ T- lymphocytes at extended durations i.e. > 20 weeks. Viral neutralization by mice sera was tested for genotypes 2a (JFH1) and a chimeric 2a/4a virus (ED43/JFH1) in HCVcc culture. RESULTS HCVp6-MAP confers potent viral neutralization and specific cellular responses at > 1600 ng/ animal for at least 20 weeks. CONCLUSION We report on a promising anti HCV vaccine for future studies on permissive hosts and in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reham M Dawood
- Micrbial Biotechnology Department, National Research Center, 33 Tahrir street, Dokki, Cairo, 12622, Egypt.
| | - Rehab I Moustafa
- Micrbial Biotechnology Department, National Research Center, 33 Tahrir street, Dokki, Cairo, 12622, Egypt
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL- Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, F-59000, Lille, France
| | - Tawfeek H Abdelhafez
- Micrbial Biotechnology Department, National Research Center, 33 Tahrir street, Dokki, Cairo, 12622, Egypt
| | - Reem El-Shenawy
- Micrbial Biotechnology Department, National Research Center, 33 Tahrir street, Dokki, Cairo, 12622, Egypt
| | - Yasmine El-Abd
- Micrbial Biotechnology Department, National Research Center, 33 Tahrir street, Dokki, Cairo, 12622, Egypt
| | - Noha G Bader El Din
- Micrbial Biotechnology Department, National Research Center, 33 Tahrir street, Dokki, Cairo, 12622, Egypt
| | - Jean Dubuisson
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 - UMR 8204 - CIIL- Centre d'Infection et d'Immunité de Lille, F-59000, Lille, France
| | - Mostafa K El Awady
- Micrbial Biotechnology Department, National Research Center, 33 Tahrir street, Dokki, Cairo, 12622, Egypt
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Masavuli MG, Wijesundara DK, Underwood A, Christiansen D, Earnest-Silveira L, Bull R, Torresi J, Gowans EJ, Grubor-Bauk B. A Hepatitis C Virus DNA Vaccine Encoding a Secreted, Oligomerized Form of Envelope Proteins Is Highly Immunogenic and Elicits Neutralizing Antibodies in Vaccinated Mice. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1145. [PMID: 31178869 PMCID: PMC6543710 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) persistently infects approximately 71 million people globally. To prevent infection a vaccine which elicits neutralizing antibodies against the virus envelope proteins (E1/E2) which are required for entry into host cells is desirable. DNA vaccines are cost-effective to manufacture globally and despite recent landmark studies highlighting the therapeutic efficacy of DNA vaccines in humans against cervical cancer, DNA vaccines encoding E1/E2 developed thus far are poorly immunogenic. We now report a novel and highly immunogenic DNA vaccination strategy that incorporates secreted E1 and E2 (sE1 and sE2) into oligomers by fusion with the oligomerization domain of the C4b-binding protein, IMX313P. The FDA approved plasmid, pVax, was used to encode sE1, sE2, or sE1E2 with or without IMX313P, and intradermal prime-boost vaccination studies in BALB/c mice showed that vaccines encoding IMX313P were the most effective in eliciting humoral and cell-mediated immunity against the envelope proteins. Further boosting with recombinant E1E2 proteins but not DNA nor virus-like particles (VLPs) expressing E1E2 increased the immunogenicity of the DNA prime-boost regimen. Nevertheless, the antibodies generated by the homologous DNA prime-boost vaccinations more effectively inhibited the binding of VLPs to target cells and neutralized transduction with HCV pseudoparticles (HCVpp) derived from different genotypes including genotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This report provides the first evidence that IMX313P can be used as an adjuvant for E1/E2-based DNA vaccines and represents a translatable approach for the development of a HCV DNA vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makutiro Ghislain Masavuli
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Medicine, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Danushka K Wijesundara
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Medicine, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Alexander Underwood
- Faculty of Medicine, The Kirby Institute, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Dale Christiansen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Linda Earnest-Silveira
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Rowena Bull
- Faculty of Medicine, The Kirby Institute, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Joseph Torresi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Eric J Gowans
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Medicine, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Branka Grubor-Bauk
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Medicine, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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12
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El-Bendary M, Neamatallah M, Elalfy H, Besheer T, Elkholi A, El-Diasty M, Elsareef M, Zahran M, El-Aarag B, Gomaa A, Elhammady D, El-Setouhy M, Hegazy A, Esmat G. The association of single nucleotide polymorphisms of Toll-like receptor 3, Toll-like receptor 7 and Toll-like receptor 8 genes with the susceptibility to HCV infection. Br J Biomed Sci 2018; 75:175-181. [PMID: 29947302 DOI: 10.1080/09674845.2018.1492186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M El-Bendary
- Tropical Medicine and Hepatology Department, Faculty Of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - M Neamatallah
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - H Elalfy
- Tropical Medicine and Hepatology Department, Faculty Of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - T Besheer
- Tropical Medicine and Hepatology Department, Faculty Of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - A Elkholi
- Gastroenterology Department, Health Insurance Hospital, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - M El-Diasty
- Tropical Medicine and Hepatology Department, Faculty Of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - M Elsareef
- Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Koom, Egypt
| | - M Zahran
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Koom, Egypt
| | - B El-Aarag
- Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Koom, Egypt
| | - A Gomaa
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Alazhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - D Elhammady
- Tropical Medicine and Hepatology Department, Faculty Of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - M El-Setouhy
- Department of Community, Environmental, and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain-Shams University, Cairo, Egypt; Substance Abuse Research Center (SARC), Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - A Hegazy
- Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alazhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - G Esmat
- Endemic Medicine and Endemic Hepatogastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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13
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14
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Guo X, Zhong JY, Li JW. Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Vaccine Development. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2018; 8:195-204. [PMID: 29892184 PMCID: PMC5992307 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the twenty-seven years since the discovery of hepatitis C virus (HCV) the majority of individuals exposed to HCV establish a persistent infection, which is a leading cause of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. In developed nations, the cure rates of HCV infection could be over 90% with direct-acting antiviral (DAA) regimens, which has made the great progress in global eradication. However, the cost of these treatments is so expensive that the patients in developing nations, where the disease burden is the most severe, could not afford it, which highly restricted its access. Additionally, the largely asymptomatic nature of infection facilitates continued transmission in risk groups due to limited surveillance. Consequently a protective vaccine and likely emergence of drug-resistant viral variants call for further studies of HCV biology. In the current review, the development and the progress of preventive and therapeutic vaccines against the HCV have been reviewed in the context of peptide vaccines, recombinant protein vaccines, HCV-like particle, DNA vaccines and viral vectors expressing HCV genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Guo
- Research Institute of Chemical Defense, No.1 Huaiyin Road, Beijing 102205, China
- Department of Environment and Health, Tianjin Institute of Health and Environmental Medicine, No.1 Dali Road, Tianjin 300050, China
| | - Jin-Yi Zhong
- Research Institute of Chemical Defense, No.1 Huaiyin Road, Beijing 102205, China
| | - Jun-Wen Li
- Department of Environment and Health, Tianjin Institute of Health and Environmental Medicine, No.1 Dali Road, Tianjin 300050, China
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15
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Clarke JL, Paruch L, Dobrica M, Caras I, Tucureanu C, Onu A, Ciulean S, Stavaru C, Eerde A, Wang Y, Steen H, Haugslien S, Petrareanu C, Lazar C, Popescu C, Bock R, Dubuisson J, Branza‐Nichita N. Lettuce-produced hepatitis C virus E1E2 heterodimer triggers immune responses in mice and antibody production after oral vaccination. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2017; 15:1611-1621. [PMID: 28419665 PMCID: PMC5698045 DOI: 10.1111/pbi.12743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2016] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major etiologic agent for severe liver diseases (e.g. cirrhosis, fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma). Approximately 140 million people have chronic HCV infections and about 500 000 die yearly from HCV-related liver pathologies. To date, there is no licensed vaccine available to prevent HCV infection and production of a HCV vaccine remains a major challenge. Here, we report the successful production of the HCV E1E2 heterodimer, an important vaccine candidate, in an edible crop (lettuce, Lactuca sativa) using Agrobacterium-mediated transient expression technology. The wild-type dimer (E1E2) and a variant without an N-glycosylation site in the E2 polypeptide (E1E2∆N6) were expressed, and appropriate N-glycosylation pattern and functionality of the E1E2 dimers were demonstrated. The humoral immune response induced by the HCV proteins was investigated in mice following oral administration of lettuce antigens with or without previous intramuscular prime with the mammalian HEK293T cell-expressed HCV dimer. Immunization by oral feeding only resulted in development of weak serum levels of anti-HCV IgM for both antigens; however, the E1E2∆N6 proteins produced higher amounts of secretory IgA, suggesting improved immunogenic properties of the N-glycosylation mutant. The mice group receiving the intramuscular injection followed by two oral boosts with the lettuce E1E2 dimer developed a systemic but also a mucosal immune response, as demonstrated by the presence of anti-HCV secretory IgA in faeces extracts. In summary, our study demonstrates the feasibility of producing complex viral antigens in lettuce, using plant transient expression technology, with great potential for future low-cost oral vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa Paruch
- NIBIO‐Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy ResearchÅsNorway
| | | | - Iuliana Caras
- “Cantacuzino” National Research InstituteBucharestRomania
| | | | - Adrian Onu
- “Cantacuzino” National Research InstituteBucharestRomania
| | - Sonya Ciulean
- “Cantacuzino” National Research InstituteBucharestRomania
| | - Crina Stavaru
- “Cantacuzino” National Research InstituteBucharestRomania
| | - Andre Eerde
- NIBIO‐Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy ResearchÅsNorway
| | - Yanliang Wang
- NIBIO‐Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy ResearchÅsNorway
| | - Hege Steen
- NIBIO‐Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy ResearchÅsNorway
| | | | | | - Catalin Lazar
- Institute of Biochemistry of the Romanian AcademyBucharestRomania
| | | | - Ralph Bock
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant PhysiologyPotsdam‐GolmGermany
| | - Jean Dubuisson
- Center for Infection & Immunity of Lille (CIIL)Inserm U1019CNRS UMR8204Université de LilleInstitut Pasteur de LilleLilleFrance
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16
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Tabll A, El-Shenawy R, Abd YE. Progress in Vaccine Development for HCV Infection. UPDATE ON HEPATITIS C 2017. [DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.70649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
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17
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Hepatitis C cross-genotype immunity and implications for vaccine development. Sci Rep 2017; 7:12326. [PMID: 28951612 PMCID: PMC5615075 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10190-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
While about a quarter of individuals clear their primary hepatitis C (HCV) infections spontaneously, clearance (spontaneous or treatment-induced) does not confer sterilizing immunity against a future infection. Since successful treatment does not prevent future infections either, an effective vaccine is highly desirable in preventing HCV (re)infection. However, development of an effective vaccine has been complicated by the diversity of HCV genotypes, and complexities in HCV immunological responses. Smaller studies on humans and chimpanzees reported seemingly opposing results regarding cross-neutralizing antibodies. We report a lack of cross-genotype immunity in the largest cohort of people to date. In the adjusted Cox proportional hazards model, reinfection with a heterologous HCV genotype (adjusted Hazard Ratio [aHR]: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.25–0.84) was associated with a 55% lower likelihood of re-clearance. Among those who cleared their first infection spontaneously, the likelihood of re-clearance was 49% lower (aHR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.27–0.94) when reinfected with a heterologous HCV genotype. These findings indicate that immunity against a particular HCV genotype does not offer expanded immunity to protect against subsequent infections with a different HCV genotype. A prophylactic HCV vaccine boosted with multiple HCV genotype may offer a broader and more effective protection.
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18
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Lenalidomide acts as an adjuvant for HCV DNA vaccine. Int Immunopharmacol 2017; 48:231-240. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2017.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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19
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Das S, Mullick R, Kumar A, Tandon H, Bose M, Gouthamchandra K, Chandra M, Ravishankar B, Khaja MN, Srinivasan N, Das S, Melkote Subbarao S, Karande AA. Identification of a novel epitope in the C terminus of hepatitis C virus-E2 protein that induces potent and cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies. J Gen Virol 2017; 98:962-976. [PMID: 28221101 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.000735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a leading cause of chronic viral hepatitis, but an effective vaccine is still not available to prevent infection. Use of neutralizing antibodies could be a potential therapeutic option. In this study, the presence of anti-HCV antibodies in HCV-infected patients was assessed from 50 patients and the presence of neutralizing antibodies was examined using 'hepatitis C virus-like particles'. Antibodies from two samples exhibited significant inhibitory activity, suggesting that these may neutralize viral infection. Antigenic determinants generating the neutralizing antibodies from these two samples were delineated by epitope mapping using the core, E1 and E2 regions and a stretch of 45 amino acid peptide (E2C45) derived from the C-terminal region of HCV-E2 protein (aa 634-679) was designed. Results suggest that this hitherto uncharacterized region has the potential to generate neutralizing antibodies against HCV and thus be effective in preventing virus entry into liver cells. Computational analysis of the structure of the modelled peptide (E2C45) suggested high conformational entropy for this region. Furthermore, E2C45 peptide-generated antibodies could block virus entry and monoclonal antibodies generated against this peptide could also significantly reduce virus replication in a cell culture system. It is possible that the inhibition could be partly due to a conformational alteration of the CD81-binding region, preventing virus attachment to liver cells. In conclusion, this work focused on the discovery of a novel epitope at the C terminus of E2 that induces potent neutralizing antibodies in HCV-infected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soma Das
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012, India
| | - Ranajoy Mullick
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012, India
| | - Anuj Kumar
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012, India
| | - Himani Tandon
- Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012, India
| | - Mihika Bose
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012, India
| | - K Gouthamchandra
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012, India
| | - Madhavi Chandra
- Bioviz Technologies Pvt Ltd, Sagar Society, Road No. 2, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad 500 034, India
| | | | - M N Khaja
- Bioviz Technologies Pvt Ltd, Sagar Society, Road No. 2, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad 500 034, India
| | | | - Saumitra Das
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012, India
| | - Shaila Melkote Subbarao
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012, India
| | - Anjali Anoop Karande
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560 012, India
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20
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Kitagawa K, Omoto C, Oda T, Araki A, Saito H, Shigemura K, Katayama T, Hotta H, Shirakawa T. Oral Combination Vaccine, Comprising Bifidobacterium Displaying Hepatitis C Virus Nonstructural Protein 3 and Interferon-α, Induces Strong Cellular Immunity Specific to Nonstructural Protein 3 in Mice. Viral Immunol 2017; 30:196-203. [PMID: 28112593 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2016.0111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We previously generated an oral hepatitis C virus (HCV) vaccine using Bifidobacterium displaying the HCV nonstructural protein 3 (NS3) polypeptide. NS3-specific cellular immunity is important for viral clearance and recovery from HCV infection. In this study, we enhanced the cellular immune responses induced by our oral HCV vaccine, Bifidobacterium longum 2165 (B. longum 2165), by combining interferon-α (IFN-α) as an adjuvant with the vaccine in a mouse experimental model. IFN-α is a widely used cytokine meeting the standard of care (SOC) for HCV infection and plays various immunoregulatory roles. We treated C57BL/6N mice with B. longum 2165 every other day and/or IFN-α twice a week for a month and then analyzed the immune responses using spleen cells. We determined the induction of NS3-specific cellular immunity by cytokine quantification, intracellular cytokine staining, and a cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) assay targeting EL4 tumor cells expressing NS3/4A protein (EL4-NS3/4A). We also treated mice bearing EL4-NS3/4A tumor with the combination therapy in vivo. The results confirmed that the combination therapy of B. longum 2165 and IFN-α induced significantly higher IFN-γ secretion, higher population of CD4+T and CD8+T cells secreting IFN-γ, and higher CTL activity against EL4-NS3/4A cells compared with the control groups of phosphate-buffered saline, B. longum 2165 alone, and IFN-α alone (p < 0.05). We also confirmed that the combination therapy strongly enhanced tumor growth inhibitory effects in vivo with no serious adverse effects (p < 0.05). These results suggest that the combination of B. longum 2165 and IFN-α could induce a strong cellular immunity specific to NS3 protein as a combination therapy augmenting the current SOC immunotherapy against chronic HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koichi Kitagawa
- 1 Division of Translational Research for Biologics, Department of Internal Related, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine , Kobe, Japan
| | - Chika Omoto
- 2 Division of Infectious Disease Control, Department of International Health, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences , Kobe, Japan
| | - Tsugumi Oda
- 2 Division of Infectious Disease Control, Department of International Health, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences , Kobe, Japan
| | - Ayame Araki
- 2 Division of Infectious Disease Control, Department of International Health, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences , Kobe, Japan
| | - Hiroki Saito
- 1 Division of Translational Research for Biologics, Department of Internal Related, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine , Kobe, Japan
| | - Katsumi Shigemura
- 2 Division of Infectious Disease Control, Department of International Health, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences , Kobe, Japan .,3 Division of Urology, Department of Surgery Related, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine , Kobe, Japan
| | - Takane Katayama
- 4 Division of Integrated Life Science, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University , Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hak Hotta
- 2 Division of Infectious Disease Control, Department of International Health, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences , Kobe, Japan
| | - Toshiro Shirakawa
- 1 Division of Translational Research for Biologics, Department of Internal Related, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine , Kobe, Japan .,2 Division of Infectious Disease Control, Department of International Health, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences , Kobe, Japan .,3 Division of Urology, Department of Surgery Related, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine , Kobe, Japan .,5 Department of Advanced Medical Science, Kobe University Graduate School of Science , Technology and Innovation, Kobe, Japan
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21
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Midgard H, Weir A, Palmateer N, Lo Re V, Pineda JA, Macías J, Dalgard O. HCV epidemiology in high-risk groups and the risk of reinfection. J Hepatol 2016; 65:S33-S45. [PMID: 27641987 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Revised: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Injecting risk behaviours among people who inject drugs (PWID) and high-risk sexual practices among men who have sex with men (MSM) are important routes of hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission. Current direct-acting antiviral treatment offers unique opportunities for reductions in HCV-related liver disease burden and epidemic control in high-risk groups, but these prospects could be counteracted by HCV reinfection due to on-going risk behaviours after successful treatment. Based on existing data from small and heterogeneous studies of interferon-based treatment, the incidence of reinfection after sustained virological response range from 2-6/100 person years among PWID to 10-15/100 person years among human immunodeficiency virus-infected MSM. These differences mainly reflect heterogeneity in study populations with regards to risk behaviours, but also reflect variations in study designs and applied virological methods. Increasing levels of reinfection are to be expected as we enter the interferon-free treatment era. Individual- and population-level efforts to address and prevent reinfection should therefore be undertaken when providing HCV care for people with on-going risk behaviour. Constructive strategies include acknowledgement, education and counselling, harm reduction optimization, scaled-up treatment including treatment of injecting networks, post-treatment screening, and rapid retreatment of reinfections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Håvard Midgard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway; Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway; Department of Gastroenterology, Oslo University Hospital, Norway.
| | - Amanda Weir
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, United Kingdom; NHS National Services Scotland, Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Norah Palmateer
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, United Kingdom; NHS National Services Scotland, Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Vincent Lo Re
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Juan A Pineda
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología, Hospital Universitario de Valme, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Juan Macías
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología, Hospital Universitario de Valme, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Olav Dalgard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway; Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway
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22
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Bukh J. The history of hepatitis C virus (HCV): Basic research reveals unique features in phylogeny, evolution and the viral life cycle with new perspectives for epidemic control. J Hepatol 2016; 65:S2-S21. [PMID: 27641985 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.07.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in 1989 permitted basic research to unravel critical components of a complex life cycle for this important human pathogen. HCV is a highly divergent group of viruses classified in 7 major genotypes and a great number of subtypes, and circulating in infected individuals as a continuously evolving quasispecies destined to escape host immune responses and applied antivirals. Despite the inability to culture patient viruses directly in the laboratory, efforts to define the infectious genome of HCV resulted in development of experimental recombinant in vivo and in vitro systems, including replicons and infectious cultures in human hepatoma cell lines. And HCV has become a model virus defining new paradigms in virology, immunology and biology. For example, HCV research discovered that a virus could be completely dependent on microRNA for its replication since microRNA-122 is critical for the HCV life cycle. A number of other host molecules critical for HCV entry and replication have been identified. Thus, basic HCV research revealed important molecules for development of host targeting agents (HTA). The identification and characterization of HCV encoded proteins and their functional units contributed to the development of highly effective direct acting antivirals (DAA) against the NS3 protease, NS5A and the NS5B polymerase. In combination, these inhibitors have since 2014 permitted interferon-free therapy with cure rates above 90% among patients with chronic HCV infection; however, viral resistance represents a challenge. Worldwide control of HCV will most likely require the development of a prophylactic vaccine, and numerous candidates have been pursued. Research characterizing features critical for antibody-based virus neutralization and T cell based virus elimination from infected cells is essential for this effort. If the world community promotes an ambitious approach by applying current DAA broadly, continues to develop alternative viral- and host- targeted antivirals to combat resistant variants, and invests in the development of a vaccine, it would be possible to eradicate HCV. This would prevent about 500 thousand deaths annually. However, given the nature of HCV, the millions of new infections annually, a high chronicity rate, and with over 150 million individuals with chronic infection (which are frequently unidentified), this effort remains a major challenge for basic researchers, clinicians and communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Bukh
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Research Centre, Hvidovre Hospital and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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23
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Omata M, Kanda T, Wei L, Yu ML, Chuang WL, Ibrahim A, Lesmana CRA, Sollano J, Kumar M, Jindal A, Sharma BC, Hamid SS, Dokmeci AK, Al-Mahtab M, McCaughan GW, Wasim J, Crawford DHG, Kao JH, Yokosuka O, Lau GKK, Sarin SK. APASL consensus statements and recommendations for hepatitis C prevention, epidemiology, and laboratory testing. Hepatol Int 2016; 10:681-701. [PMID: 27229718 PMCID: PMC5003900 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-016-9736-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver (APASL) convened an international working party on "APASL consensus statements and recommendations for management of hepatitis C" in March 2015 to revise the "APASL consensus statements and management algorithms for hepatitis C virus infection" (Hepatol Int 6:409-435, 2012). The working party consisted of expert hepatologists from the Asian-Pacific region gathered at the Istanbul Congress Center, Istanbul, Turkey on 13 March 2015. New data were presented, discussed, and debated during the course of drafting a revision. Participants of the consensus meeting assessed the quality of the cited studies. The finalized recommendations for hepatitis C prevention, epidemiology, and laboratory testing are presented in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masao Omata
- Yamanashi Prefectural Central Hospital, 1-1-1 Fujimi, Kofu-shi, Yamanashi, 400-8506, Japan.
- The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
| | - Tatsuo Kanda
- Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Lai Wei
- Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University Hepatology Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Ming-Lung Yu
- Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wang-Long Chuang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Alaaeldin Ibrahim
- GI/Liver Division, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Benha, Banha, Egypt
| | | | - Jose Sollano
- University Santo Tomas Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Ankur Jindal
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Saeed S Hamid
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University and Hospital, Stadium Road, Karachi, 74800, Pakistan
| | - A Kadir Dokmeci
- Department of Gastroenterology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mamun Al-Mahtab
- Department of Hepatology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Geofferey W McCaughan
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Centenary Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jafri Wasim
- Department of Medicine, Aga Khan University and Hospital, Stadium Road, Karachi, 74800, Pakistan
| | - Darrell H G Crawford
- University of Queensland, School of Medicine, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Jia-Horng Kao
- National Taiwan University College of Medicine and National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Osamu Yokosuka
- Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - George K K Lau
- The Institute of Translational Hepatology, Beijing 302 Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shiv Kumar Sarin
- Department of Hepatology, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi, India
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24
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Wan X, Cheng C, Lin Z, Jiang R, Zhao W, Yan X, Tang J, Yao K, Sun B, Chen Y. The attenuated hepatocellular carcinoma-specific Listeria vaccine Lmdd-MPFG prevents tumor occurrence through immune regulation of dendritic cells. Oncotarget 2016; 6:8822-38. [PMID: 25826093 PMCID: PMC4496186 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.3558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2014] [Accepted: 02/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is a promising treatment for liver cancer. Here, we tested the ability of the attenuated hepatocellular carcinoma-specific Listeria vaccine (Lmdd-MPFG) to treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a mouse model. Immunization with the vaccine caused a strong anti-tumor response, especially in mice reinfused with dendritic cells (DCs). In mice that were also administered DCs, tumor suppression was accompanied by the strongest cytotoxic T lymphocyte response of all treatment groups and by induced differentiation of CD4+ T cells, especially Th17 cells. Additionally, the Lmdd-MPFG vaccine caused maturation of DCs in vitro. We demonstrated the synergistic effect of TLR4 and NLRP3 or NOD1 signaling pathways in LM-induced DC activation. These results suggest that the Lmdd-MPFG vaccine is a feasible strategy for preventing HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ci Cheng
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhe Lin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Runqiu Jiang
- Liver Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xin Yan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Junwei Tang
- Liver Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Kun Yao
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Beicheng Sun
- Liver Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yun Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
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Behzadi MA, Alborzi A, Pouladfar G, Dianatpour M, Ziyaeyan M. Expression of NS3/NS4A Proteins of Hepatitis C Virus in Huh7 Cells Following Engineering Its Eukaryotic Expression Vector. Jundishapur J Microbiol 2016; 8:e27355. [PMID: 26862385 PMCID: PMC4741058 DOI: 10.5812/jjm.27355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2015] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the development of novel therapeutic regimens to combat hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection have been speeded up with successful results, no efficient vaccines exist yet. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to construct a eukaryotic expression vector encoding nonstructural proteins, NS3/NS4A, of HCV genotype 3a, and evaluate its expression on Huh7 cell surface. MATERIALS AND METHODS The NS3/NS4A sequence was isolated from a patient with HCV-3a chronic infection, cloned into intermediate vector pTZ57R/T, and then used for engineering a mammalian expression vector, pDisplay, to direct the respective protein to the secretory pathway and anchor it to the plasma membrane. The expression of the protein in Huh7 cell, which was transiently transfected with the vector using Lipofectamine, was determined by immunocytochemical staining assay with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-conjugated antibodies to the HA/myc tags located besides the fusion fragment. RESULTS The results showed that the fragment was successfully amplified and cloned into a eukaryotic expression vector. Sequencing and enzyme digestion analysis confirmed the cloned gene completion and its correct position in the pDisply-NS3/NS4A plasmid. Immunocytochemical staining revealed that the target protein was expressed as a membrane-anchored protein in the Huh7 cells. CONCLUSIONS This study can serve as a fundamental experiment for the construction of a NS3/NS4A eukaryotic expression vector and its expression in mammalian cells. Further research is underway to evaluate the fragment immunogenicity in lab animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Amin Behzadi
- Professor Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, IR Iran
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, IR Iran
| | - Abdolvahab Alborzi
- Professor Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, IR Iran
| | - Gholamreza Pouladfar
- Professor Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, IR Iran
| | - Mehdi Dianatpour
- Stem Cell and Transgenic Technology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, IR Iran
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, IR Iran
| | - Mazyar Ziyaeyan
- Professor Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, IR Iran
- Corresponding author: Mazyar Ziyaeyan, Professor Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, P. O. Box: 7193711351, Shiraz, IR Iran. Tel: +98-7136474304, Fax: +98-7136474303, E-mail:
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26
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Abdelwahab KS, Ahmed Said ZN. Status of hepatitis C virus vaccination: Recent update. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:862-873. [PMID: 26811632 PMCID: PMC4716084 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i2.862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2015] [Revised: 05/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is still a major public health problem worldwide since its first identification in 1989. At the start, HCV infection was post-transfusion viral infection, particularly in developing countries. Recently, due to iv drug abuse, HCV infection became number one health problem in well-developed countries as well. Following acute HCV infection, the innate immune response is triggered in the form of activated coordinated interaction of NK cells, dendritic cells and interferon α. The acquired immune response is then developed in the form of the antibody-mediated immune response (ABIR) and the cell-mediated immune response (CMIR). Both are responsible for clearance of HCV infection in about 15% of infected patients. However, HCV has several mechanisms to evade these antivirus immune reactions. The current review gives an overview of HCV structure, immune response and viral evasion mechanisms. It also evaluates the available preventive and therapeutic vaccines that induce innate, ABIR, CMIR. Moreover, this review highlights the progress in recent HCV vaccination studies either in preclinical or clinical phases. The unsatisfactory identification of HCV infection by the current screening system and the limitations of currently available treatments, including the ineligibility of some chronic HCV patients to such antiviral agents, mandate the development of an effective HCV vaccine.
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27
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Abdelwahab SF. Cellular immune response to hepatitis-C-virus in subjects without viremia or seroconversion: is it important? Infect Agent Cancer 2016; 11:23. [PMID: 27186234 PMCID: PMC4867533 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-016-0070-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) causes chronic infection and represents a global health burden. To date, there is no licensed vaccine for HCV. The high viral replication rate and the existence of several HCV genotypes and quasispecies hamper the development of an effective universal vaccine. In this regard, the current HCV vaccine candidates show genotype-specific protection or narrow cross reactivity against other genotypes. Importantly, HCV spontaneous clearance occurs in 15-50 % of infected subjects, indicating that natural resistance to chronic infection exists. This phenomenon was demonstrated among humans and chimpanzees and continues to motivate researchers attempting to develop an effective HCV vaccine. However, what constitutes a protective immune response or correlate of protection against HCV infection is still vague. Additionally, the mechanisms behind successful HCV clearance suggest the coordination of several arms of the immune system, with cell-mediated immunity (CMI) playing a crucial role in this process. By contrast, although neutralizing antibodies have been identified, they are isolate-specific and poorly correlate with viral clearance. Antigen-specific CD4 T cells, instead, correlate with transient decline in HCV viremia and long-lasting control of the infection. Unfortunately, HCV has been very successful in evading host immune mechanisms, leading to complications such as liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Interestingly, CMI to HCV antigens were shown among exposed individuals without viremia or seroconversion, suggesting the clearance of prior HCV infection(s). These individuals include family members living with HCV-infected subjects, healthcare workers, IV drug users, and sexual contacts. The correlates of protection could be closely monitored among these individuals. This review provides a summary of HCV-specific immune responses in general and of CMI in particular in these cohorts. The importance of these CMI responses are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayed F. Abdelwahab
- Departement of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, 61511 Egypt
- Department of Microbiology, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif, 21974 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Lozano-Sepulveda SA, Bryan-Marrugo OL, Cordova-Fletes C, Gutierrez-Ruiz MC, Rivas-Estilla AM. Oxidative stress modulation in hepatitis C virus infected cells. World J Hepatol 2015; 7:2880-2889. [PMID: 26692473 PMCID: PMC4678374 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i29.2880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Revised: 09/19/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication is associated with the endoplasmic reticulum, where the virus can induce cellular stress. Oxidative cell damage plays an important role in HCV physiopathology. Oxidative stress is triggered when the concentration of oxygen species in the extracellular or intracellular environment exceeds antioxidant defenses. Cells are protected and modulate oxidative stress through the interplay of intracellular antioxidant agents, mainly glutathione system (GSH) and thioredoxin; and antioxidant enzyme systems such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, GSH peroxidase, and heme oxygenase-1. Also, the use of natural and synthetic antioxidants (vitamin C and E, N-acetylcysteine, glycyrrhizin, polyenylphosphatidyl choline, mitoquinone, quercetin, S-adenosylmethionine and silymarin) has already shown promising results as co-adjuvants in HCV therapy. Despite all the available information, it is not known how different agents with antiviral activity can interfere with the modulation of the cell redox state induced by HCV and decrease viral replication. This review describes an evidence-based consensus on molecular mechanisms involved in HCV replication and their relationship with cell damage induced by oxidative stress generated by the virus itself and cell antiviral machinery. It also describes some molecules that modify the levels of oxidative stress in HCV-infected cells.
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Mehrlatifan S, Mirnurollahi SM, Motevalli F, Rahimi P, Soleymani S, Bolhassani A. The structural HCV genes delivered by MPG cell penetrating peptide are directed to enhance immune responses in mice model. Drug Deliv 2015; 23:2852-2859. [PMID: 26559939 DOI: 10.3109/10717544.2015.1108375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the significant problems in vaccination projects is the lack of an effective vaccine against hepatitis C virus (HCV). The goal of the current study is to evaluate and compare two DNA constructs encoding HCV core and coreE1E2 genes alone or complexed with MPG peptide as a delivery system for stimulation of antibody responses and IFN-γ secretion in Balb/c mice model. Indeed, MPG cell penetrating peptide was used to improve DNA immunization in mice. Our results demonstrated that MPG forms stable non-covalent nanoparticles with pcDNA-core and pcDNA-coreE1E2 at an N/P ratio of 10:1. The in vitro transfection efficiency of core or coreE1E2 DNA using MPG and TurboFect delivery systems was confirmed by western blot analysis. The results indicated the expression of the full-length core (∼21 kDa), and coreE1E2 (∼83 kDa) proteins using an anti-His monoclonal antibody. In addition, the expression of HCV core and coreE1E2 proteins was performed in bacteria and the purified recombinant proteins were injected to mice with Montanide 720 adjuvant. Our data showed that the immunized mice with HCV core and coreE1E2 proteins generated the mixture of sera IgG1 and IgG2a isotypes considerably higher than other groups. Furthermore, DNA constructs encoding core and coreE1E2 complexed with MPG could significantly induce IFN-γ secretion in lower concentrations than the naked core and coreE1E2 DNAs. Taken together, the DNA formulations as well as protein regimens used in this study triggered high-level IFN-γ production in mice, an important feature for the development of Th1 immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saloume Mehrlatifan
- a Department of Hepatitis and AIDS , Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran , Iran.,b Department of Biotechnology , Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology, Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University , Tehran , Iran , and
| | | | - Fatemeh Motevalli
- a Department of Hepatitis and AIDS , Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran , Iran
| | - Pooneh Rahimi
- a Department of Hepatitis and AIDS , Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran , Iran
| | - Sepehr Soleymani
- a Department of Hepatitis and AIDS , Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran , Iran
| | - Azam Bolhassani
- a Department of Hepatitis and AIDS , Pasteur Institute of Iran , Tehran , Iran
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Zhu F, Chen T, Zhang Y, Sun H, Cao H, Lu J, Zhao L, Li G. A Novel Adeno-Associated Virus-Based Genetic Vaccine Encoding the Hepatitis C Virus NS3/4 Protein Exhibits Immunogenic Properties in Mice Superior to Those of an NS3-Protein-Based Vaccine. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0142349. [PMID: 26556235 PMCID: PMC4640878 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0142349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
More than 170 million individuals worldwide are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV), and up to an estimated 30% of chronically infected individuals will go on to develop progressive liver disease. Despite the recent advances in antiviral treatment of HCV infection, it remains a major public health problem. Thus, development of an effective vaccine is urgently required. In this study, we constructed novel adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors expressing the full-length NS3 or NS3/4 protein of HCV genotype 1b. The expression of the NS3 or NS3/4 protein in HepG2 cells was confirmed by western blotting. C57BL/6 mice were intramuscularly immunised with a single injection of AAV vectors, and the resultant immune response was investigated. The AAV2/rh32.33.NS3/4 vaccine induced stronger humoral and cellular responses than did the AAV2/rh32.33.NS3 vaccine. Our results demonstrate that AAV-based vaccines exhibit considerable potential for the development of an effective anti-HCV vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengqin Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tian Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yeqiong Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haixia Sun
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hong Cao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianxi Lu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Linshan Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Gang Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail:
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Mohammadzadeh S, Roohvand F, Ajdary S, Ehsani P, Hatef Salmanian A. Heterologous Expression of Hepatitis C Virus Core Protein in Oil Seeds of Brassica napus L. Jundishapur J Microbiol 2015; 8:e25462. [PMID: 26855744 PMCID: PMC4735835 DOI: 10.5812/jjm.25462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2014] [Revised: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Hepatitis c virus (HCV), prevalent among 3% of the world population, is a major worldwide public health concern and an effective vaccination could help to overcome this problem. Plant seeds as low-cost vaccine expression platforms are highly desirable to produce antigens. Objectives: The present study was aimed at investigating the possible expression of recombinant HCV core protein, as a leading HCV vaccine candidate, in canola (Brassica napus) plant seeds in order to be used as an effective immunogen for vaccine researches. Materials and Methods: A codon-optimized gene harboring the Kozak sequence, 6 × His-tag, HCVcp (1 - 122 residues) and KDEL (Lys-Asp-Glu-Leu) peptide in tandem was designed and expressed under the control of the seed specific promoter, fatty acid elongase 1 (FAE1), to accumulate the recombinant protein in canola (B. napus L.) seeds. Transgenic lines were screened and the presence of the transgene was confirmed in the T0 plants by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The quantity and quality of the HCV core protein (HCVcp) in transgenic seeds were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and western blot, respectively. Results: Western blot analysis using anti-His antibody confirmed the presence of a 15 kDa protein in the seeds of T1 transgenic lines. The amount of antigenic protein accumulated in the seeds of these transgenic lines was up to 0.05% of the total soluble protein (TSP). Conclusions: The canola oilseeds could provide a useful expression system to produce HCV core protein as a vaccine candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Mohammadzadeh
- Molecular Biology Department, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Farzin Roohvand
- Virology Department, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Soheila Ajdary
- Immunology Department, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parastoo Ehsani
- Molecular Biology Department, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran
- Corresponding authors: Parastoo Ehsani, Molecular Biology Department, Pasteur Institute of Iran, P. O. Box: 1316943551, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel/Fax: +98-2164112219, E-mail: ; Ali Hatef Salmanian, Plant Biotechnology Department, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, P. O. Box: 14965-161, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel: +98-2144580365, Fax: +98-2144580395, E-mail:
| | - Ali Hatef Salmanian
- Agricultural Biotechnology Department, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, IR Iran
- Corresponding authors: Parastoo Ehsani, Molecular Biology Department, Pasteur Institute of Iran, P. O. Box: 1316943551, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel/Fax: +98-2164112219, E-mail: ; Ali Hatef Salmanian, Plant Biotechnology Department, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, P. O. Box: 14965-161, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel: +98-2144580365, Fax: +98-2144580395, E-mail:
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32
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Tai CJ, Li CL, Tai CJ, Wang CK, Lin LT. Early Viral Entry Assays for the Identification and Evaluation of Antiviral Compounds. J Vis Exp 2015:e53124. [PMID: 26555014 DOI: 10.3791/53124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-based systems are useful for discovering antiviral agents. Dissecting the viral life cycle, particularly the early entry stages, allows a mechanistic approach to identify and evaluate antiviral agents that target specific steps of the viral entry. In this report, the methods of examining viral inactivation, viral attachment, and viral entry/fusion as antiviral assays for such purposes are described, using hepatitis C virus as a model. These assays should be useful for discovering novel antagonists/inhibitors to early viral entry and help expand the scope of candidate antiviral agents for further drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Jei Tai
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University
| | - Chia-Lin Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University
| | - Cheng-Jeng Tai
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital; Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University
| | - Chien-Kai Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University; Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital
| | - Liang-Tzung Lin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University; Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University;
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33
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Intradermal delivery of DNA encoding HCV NS3 and perforin elicits robust cell-mediated immunity in mice and pigs. Gene Ther 2015; 23:26-37. [PMID: 26262584 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2015.86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Revised: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Currently, no vaccine is available against hepatitis C virus (HCV), and although DNA vaccines have considerable potential, this has not been realised. Previously, the efficacy of DNA vaccines for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and HCV was shown to be enhanced by including the gene for a cytolytic protein, viz. perforin. In this study, we examined the mechanism of cell death by this bicistronic DNA vaccine, which encoded the HCV non-structural protein 3 (NS3) under the control of the CMV promoter and perforin is controlled by the SV40 promoter. Compared with a canonical DNA vaccine and a bicistronic DNA vaccine encoding NS3 and the proapoptotic gene NSP4, the perforin-containing vaccine elicited enhanced cell-mediated immune responses against the NS3 protein in vaccinated mice and pigs, as determined by ELISpot and intracellular cytokine staining, whereas a mouse challenge model suggested that the immunity was CD8(+) T-cell-dependent. The results of the study showed that the inclusion of perforin in the DNA vaccine altered the fate of NS3-positive cells from apoptosis to necrosis, and this resulted in more robust immune responses in mice and pigs, the latter of which represents an accepted large animal model in which to test vaccine efficacy.
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34
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Rogalska-Taranta M, Markova AA, Taranta A, Lunemann S, Schlaphoff V, Flisiak R, Manns MP, Cornberg M, Kraft ARM, Wedemeyer H. Altered effector functions of NK cells in chronic hepatitis C are associated with IFNL3 polymorphism. J Leukoc Biol 2015; 98:283-94. [PMID: 26034208 DOI: 10.1189/jlb.4a1014-520r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 04/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Interferon α-mediated effector functions of NK cells may contribute to the control of HCV replication and the pathogenesis of liver disease. The single-nucleotide polymorphism rs12979860 near IFNL3 (previously known as IL28B) is important in response to IFN-α treatment and in spontaneous resolution of acute hepatitis C. The role of the IFNL3 polymorphism in NK cell function is unclear. Thus, we investigated the role of IFNL3 polymorphism in type I IFN-dependent regulation of NK cell functions in patients with cHC and healthy control subjects. We demonstrated a marked polarization of NK cells toward cytotoxicity in response to IFN-α stimulation in patients with hepatitis C. That TRAIL up-regulation was present, particularly in patients with the IFNL3-TT allele, was supported by a shift in the pSTAT-1:pSTAT-4 ratios toward pSTAT-1. In patients bearing the IFNL3-TT allele, NK cell effector function correlated with liver disease activity. In contrast, higher cytokine production of NK cells was observed in healthy individuals with the IFNL3-CC genotype, which may support spontaneous HCV clearance in acute infection. Overall, these findings show that the role of NK cells may differ in chronic infection vs. early antiviral defense and that the IFNL3 genotype differentially influences NK cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Rogalska-Taranta
- *Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; and German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Antoaneta A Markova
- *Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; and German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Andrzej Taranta
- *Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; and German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Sebastian Lunemann
- *Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; and German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Verena Schlaphoff
- *Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; and German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Robert Flisiak
- *Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; and German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Michael P Manns
- *Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; and German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Markus Cornberg
- *Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; and German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Anke R M Kraft
- *Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; and German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- *Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; and German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany
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He L, Zang A, Du M, Ma D, Yuan C, Zhou C, Mu J, Shi H, Li D, Huang X, Deng Q, Xiao J, Yan H, Hui L, Lan K, Xiong S, Li X, Huang Z, Xiao H. mTOR regulates TLR-induced c-fos and Th1 responses to HBV and HCV vaccines. Virol Sin 2015; 30:174-89. [PMID: 26122641 DOI: 10.1007/s12250-015-3606-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Although IL-12 plays a critical role in priming Th1 and cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses, Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling only induces low amounts of IL-12 in dendritic cells and macrophages, implying the existence of stringent regulatory mechanisms. In this study, we sought to uncover the mechanisms underlying TLR-induced IL-12 expression and the Th1 response. By systemic screening, we identified a number of protein kinases involved in the regulation of TLRinduced IL-12 expression. In particular, PI3K, ERK, and mTOR play critical roles in the TLR-induced Th1 response by regulating IL-12 and IL-10 production in innate immune cells. Moreover, we identified c-fos as a key molecule that mediates mTOR-regulated IL-12 and IL-10 expression in TLR signaling. Mechanistically, mTOR plays a crucial role in c-fos expression, thereby modulating NFκB binding to promoters of IL-12 and IL-10. By controlling the expression of a special innate gene program, mTOR can specifically regulate the TLR-induced T cell response in vivo. Furthermore, blockade of mTOR by rapamycin efficiently boosted TLR-induced antigen-specific T and B cell responses to HBV and HCV vaccines. Taken together, these results reveal a novel mechanism through which mTOR regulates TLR-induced IL-12 and IL-10 production, contributing new insights for strategies to improve vaccine efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li He
- Institute of Biology and Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Soochow, 215123, China
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Zabaleta A, D'Avola D, Echeverria I, Llopiz D, Silva L, Villanueva L, Riezu-Boj JI, Larrea E, Pereboev A, Lasarte JJ, Rodriguez-Lago I, Iñarrairaegui M, Sangro B, Prieto J, Sarobe P. Clinical testing of a dendritic cell targeted therapeutic vaccine in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2015; 2:15006. [PMID: 26029717 PMCID: PMC4444996 DOI: 10.1038/mtm.2015.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The lack of antiviral cellular immune responses in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection suggests that T-cell vaccines may provide therapeutic benefit. Due to the central role that dendritic cells (DC) play in the activation of T-cell responses, our aim was to carry out a therapeutic vaccination clinical trial in HCV patients using DC. Five patients with chronic HCV infection were vaccinated with three doses of 5 × 106 or 107 autologous DC transduced with a recombinant adenovirus encoding NS3 using the adapter protein CFh40L, which facilitates DC transduction and maturation. No significant adverse effects were recorded after vaccination. Treatment caused no changes in serum liver enzymes nor in viral load. Vaccination induced weak but consistent expansion of T-cell responses against NS3 and adenoviral antigens. Patients’ DC, as opposed to murine DC or DC from healthy subjects, secreted high IL-10 levels after transduction, inducing the activation of IL-10–producing T cells. IL-10 blockade during vaccine preparation restored its ability to stimulate anti-NS3 Th1 responses. Thus, vaccination with adenovirus-transduced DC is safe and induces weak antiviral immune responses. IL-10 associated with vaccine preparation may be partly responsible for these effects, suggesting that future vaccines should consider concomitant inhibition of this cytokine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aintzane Zabaleta
- Division of Hepatology and Gene Therapy, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain
| | - Delia D'Avola
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain ; Liver Unit, Clínica Universidad de Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Clínica Universidad de Navarra , Pamplona, Spain
| | - Itziar Echeverria
- Division of Hepatology and Gene Therapy, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain
| | - Diana Llopiz
- Division of Hepatology and Gene Therapy, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain
| | - Leyre Silva
- Division of Hepatology and Gene Therapy, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain
| | - Lorea Villanueva
- Division of Hepatology and Gene Therapy, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain
| | - José Ignacio Riezu-Boj
- Division of Hepatology and Gene Therapy, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain
| | - Esther Larrea
- Division of Hepatology and Gene Therapy, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain
| | - Alexander Pereboev
- Division of Hepatology and Gene Therapy, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain ; Division of Human Gene Therapy, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Juan José Lasarte
- Division of Hepatology and Gene Therapy, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain
| | - Iago Rodriguez-Lago
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain ; Liver Unit, Clínica Universidad de Navarra , Pamplona, Spain
| | - Mercedes Iñarrairaegui
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain ; Liver Unit, Clínica Universidad de Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Clínica Universidad de Navarra , Pamplona, Spain
| | - Bruno Sangro
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain ; Liver Unit, Clínica Universidad de Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Clínica Universidad de Navarra , Pamplona, Spain
| | - Jesús Prieto
- Division of Hepatology and Gene Therapy, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain ; Liver Unit, Clínica Universidad de Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en el Área temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (Ciberehd), Clínica Universidad de Navarra , Pamplona, Spain
| | - Pablo Sarobe
- Division of Hepatology and Gene Therapy, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra , Pamplona, Spain ; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA) , Pamplona, Spain
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El-Shenawy R, Tabll A, Bader El Din NG, El Abd Y, Mashaly M, Abdel Malak CA, Dawood R, El-Awady M. Antiviral activity of virocidal peptide derived from NS5A against two different HCV genotypes: an in vitro study. J Immunoassay Immunochem 2015; 36:63-79. [PMID: 24606010 DOI: 10.1080/15321819.2014.896264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed at assessment of the antiviral activity of an amphipathic α-helical peptide derived from the hepatitis C virus NS5A known as C5A virocidal peptide against different HCV genotypes. Two sources of HCV virus for in vitro study: HCV genotype 4 sera samples and JFH-1 infectious culture system genotype 2a were used. Several virocidal peptide concentrations were tested to determine the concentration that inhibits HCV propagation in Huh 7.5 cells according to three different prortocols (pre-infection, coinfection, and post infection). The capacity of the virocidal peptide to block HCV in Huh7.5 cells infected with different 10 individual serum samples was evaluated. In the pre-infection protocol, virocidal concentration (20, 50, and 75 μM) showed no viral RNA. In the co-infection protocol, virocidal concentrations (10, 20, 50, 75 μM) showed no viral RNA while in post-infection protocol, 75 μM was the only concentration that blocked the HCV activity. Results of Huh7.5 cell line transfected with HCV cc J6/JFH and treated with virocidal peptide revealed that only the higher virocidal concentration (75 μM) showed no amplification. The percentage of virocidal blocking in the 10 HCV individual serum samples was 60%. In conclusion, the C5A virocidal peptide has potent antiviral activity against HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem El-Shenawy
- a Department of Microbial Biotechnology , National Research Center , Giza , Egypt
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Young AM, Stephens DB, Khaleel HA, Havens JR. Hepatitis C vaccine clinical trials among people who use drugs: potential for participation and involvement in recruitment. Contemp Clin Trials 2014; 41:9-16. [PMID: 25553715 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2014.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2014] [Revised: 12/20/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Candidate prophylactic HCV vaccines are approaching phase III clinical trial readiness, yet little is known about the potential for participation among target groups or innovative ways to promote enrollment within 'hard-to-reach' populations. This study describes HCV vaccine trial participation willingness among a high-risk sample of people who use drugs and their willingness to assist researchers by promoting the trial among peers. Willingness to participate in and encourage peers' participation in an HCV vaccine trial was assessed among injection and non-injection drug users enrolled in a cohort study in Kentucky using interviewer-administered questionnaires (n=165 and 415, respectively, with willingness to participate assessed among HCV-seronegative participants only). Generalized linear mixed models were used to determine correlates to being "very likely" to participate or encourage participation in a trial. Most reported being likely to participate or encourage participation in a vaccine trial (63% and 87%, respectively). Men were significantly less likely to report willingness to encourage others' participation, while willingness to encourage was higher among lower income, HCV-seropositive, heroin-using, and methamphetamine-using participants. Unemployment, lesser education, receipt of financial support from more peers, and nonmedical prescription drug use were positively associated with willingness to participate. Differential enrollment in HCV vaccine clinical trials by socioeconomic status may occur, underscoring ethical considerations and need for avoiding coercion. Notably, the data suggest that a peer-driven approach to promoting trial participation among people who use drugs could be feasible in this population and that HCV-seropositive individuals and women could be especially instrumental in these efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- April M Young
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States; Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States.
| | - Dustin B Stephens
- Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Hanan A Khaleel
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Jennifer R Havens
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States; Department of Behavioral Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
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Mohammadzadeh S, Khabiri A, Roohvand F, Memarnejadian A, Salmanian AH, Ajdary S, Ehsani P. Enhanced-Transient Expression of Hepatitis C Virus Core Protein in Nicotiana tabacum, a Protein With Potential Clinical Applications. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2014; 14:e20524. [PMID: 25598788 PMCID: PMC4286711 DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.20524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2014] [Revised: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 10/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is major cause of liver cirrhosis in humans. HCV capsid (core) protein (HCVcp) is a highly demanded antigen for various diagnostic, immunization and pathogenesis studies. Plants are considered as an expression system for producing safe and inexpensive biopharmaceutical proteins. Although invention of transgenic (stable) tobacco plants expressing HCVcp with proper antigenic properties was recently reported, no data for "transient-expression" that is currently the method of choice for rapid, simple and lower-priced protein expression in plants is available for HCVcp. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to design a highly codon-optimized HCVcp gene for construction of an efficient transient-plant expression system for production of HCVcp with proper antigenic properties in a regional tobacco plant (Iranian Jafarabadi-cultivar) by evaluation of different classes of vectors and suppression of gene-silencing in tobacco. MATERIALS AND METHODS A codon-optimized gene encoding the Kozak sequence, 6xHis-tag, HCVcp (1-122) and KDEL peptide in tandem (from N- to C-terminal) was designed and inserted into potato virus-X (PVX) and classic pBI121 binary vectors in separate cloning reactions. The resulted recombinant plasmids were transferred into Agrobacterium tumefaciens and vacuum infiltrated into tobacco leaves. The effect of gene silencing suppressor P19 protein derived from tomato bushy stunt virus on the expression yield of HCVcp by each construct was also evaluated by co-infiltration in separate groups. The expressed HCVcp was evaluated by dot and western blotting and ELISA assays. RESULTS The codon-optimized gene had an increased adaptation index value (from 0.65 to 0.85) and reduced GC content (from 62.62 to 51.05) in tobacco and removed the possible deleterious effect of "GGTAAG" splice site in native HCVcp. Blotting assays via specific antibodies confirmed the expression of the 15 kDa HCVcp. The expression level of HCVcp was enhanced by 4-5 times in P19 co-agroinfiltrated plants with better outcomes for PVX, compared to pBI121 vector (0.022% versus 0.019% of the total soluble protein). The plant-derived HCVcp (pHCVcp) could properly identify the HCVcp antibody in HCV-infected human sera compared to Escherichia coli-derived HCVcp (eHCVcp), indicating its potential for diagnostic/immunization applications. CONCLUSIONS By employment of gene optimization strategies, use of viral-based vectors and suppression of plant-derived gene silencing effect, efficient transient expression of HCVcp in tobacco with proper antigenic properties could be possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Mohammadzadeh
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Alireza Khabiri
- Department of Mycology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Farzin Roohvand
- Department of Virology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran
- Corresponding Authors: Parastoo Ehsani, Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel/Fax.: +98 21 6411-2167, E-mail: . Farzin Roohvand, Department of Virology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel/Fax: +98-2166496682, E-mail:
| | - Arash Memarnejadian
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Ali Hatef Salmanian
- Department of Plant Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Soheila Ajdary
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Parastoo Ehsani
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran
- Corresponding Authors: Parastoo Ehsani, Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel/Fax.: +98 21 6411-2167, E-mail: . Farzin Roohvand, Department of Virology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel/Fax: +98-2166496682, E-mail:
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Uliana CV, Riccardi CS, Yamanaka H. Diagnostic tests for hepatitis C: Recent trends in electrochemical immunosensor and genosensor analysis. World J Gastroenterol 2014; 20:15476-15491. [PMID: 25400433 PMCID: PMC4229514 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i42.15476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2013] [Revised: 02/19/2014] [Accepted: 06/13/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C is a liver disease that is transmitted through contact with the blood of an infected person. An estimated 150 million individuals worldwide have been chronically infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Hepatitis C shows significant genetic variation in the global population, due to the high rate of viral RNA mutation. There are six variants of the virus (HCV genotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6), with 15 recorded subtypes that vary in prevalence across different regions of the world. A variety of devices are used to diagnose hepatitis C, including HCV antibody test, HCV viral load test, HCV genotype test and liver biopsy. Rapid, inexpensive, sensitive, and robust analytical devices are therefore essential for effective diagnosis and monitoring of disease treatment. This review provides an overview of current electrochemical immunosensor and genosensor technologies employed in HCV detection. There are a limited number of publications showing electrochemical biosensors being used for the detection of HCV. Due to their simplicity, specificity, and reliability, electrochemical biosensor devices have potential clinical applications in several viral infections.
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Gentile I, Buonomo AR, Zappulo E, Borgia G. Discontinued drugs in 2012 – 2013: hepatitis C virus infection. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2014; 24:239-51. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2015.982274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Gentile
- University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery (Ed. 18), via S. Pansini 5,I-80131, Naples, Italy ;
| | - Antonio Riccardo Buonomo
- University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery (Ed. 18), via S. Pansini 5,I-80131, Naples, Italy ;
| | - Emanuela Zappulo
- University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery (Ed. 18), via S. Pansini 5,I-80131, Naples, Italy ;
| | - Guglielmo Borgia
- University of Naples ‘Federico II’, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery (Ed. 18), via S. Pansini 5,I-80131, Naples, Italy ;
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Gededzha MP, Mphahlele MJ, Selabe SG. Prediction of T-cell epitopes of hepatitis C virus genotype 5a. Virol J 2014; 11:187. [PMID: 25380768 PMCID: PMC4289306 DOI: 10.1186/1743-422x-11-187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 10/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a public health problem with almost 185 million people estimated to be infected worldwide and is one of the leading causes of hepatocellular carcinoma. Currently, there is no vaccine for HCV infection and the current treatment does not clear the infection in all patients. Because of the high diversity of HCV, protective vaccines will have to overcome significant viral antigenic diversities. The objective of this study was to predict T-cell epitopes from HCV genotype 5a sequences. Methods HCV near full-length protein sequences were analyzed to predict T-cell epitopes that bind human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I and HLA class II in HCV genotype 5a using Propred I and Propred, respectively. The Antigenicity score of all the predicted epitopes were analysed using VaxiJen v2.0. All antigenic predicted epitopes were analysed for conservation using the IEDB database in comparison with 406, 221, 98, 33, 45, 45 randomly selected sequences from each of the HCV genotypes 1a, 1b, 2, 3, 4 and 6 respectively, downloaded from the GenBank. For epitope prediction binding to common HLA alleles found in South Africa, the IEDB epitope analysis tool was used. Results A total of 24 and 77 antigenic epitopes that bind HLA class I and HLA class II respectively were predicted. The highest number of HLA class I binding epitopes were predicted within the NS3 (63%), followed by NS5B (21%). For the HLA class II, the highest number of epitopes were predicted in the NS3 (30%) followed by the NS4B (23%) proteins. For conservation analysis, 8 and 31 predicted epitopes were conserved in different genotypes for HLA class I and HLA class II alleles respectively. Several epitopes bind with high affinity for both HLA class I alleles and HLA class II common in South Africa. Conclusion The predicted conserved T-cell epitopes analysed in this study will contribute towards the future design of HCV vaccine candidates which will avoid variation in genotypes, which in turn will be capable of inducing broad HCV specific immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Selokela G Selabe
- HIV and Hepatitis Research Unit, Department of Virology, University of Limpopo, Medunsa Campus/National Health Laboratory Service, Pretoria, South Africa.
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Ward JW. Hepatitis C virus: the 25-year journey from discovery to cure. Hepatology 2014; 60:1479-82. [PMID: 25131647 DOI: 10.1002/hep.27377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2014] [Accepted: 08/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- John W Ward
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Atlanta, GA
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Pishraft Sabet L, Taheri T, Memarnejadian A, Mokhtari Azad T, Asgari F, Rahimnia R, Alavian SM, Rafati S, Samimi Rad K. Immunogenicity of Multi-Epitope DNA and Peptide Vaccine Candidates Based on Core, E2, NS3 and NS5B HCV Epitopes in BALB/c Mice. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2014; 14:e22215. [PMID: 25419219 PMCID: PMC4238154 DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.22215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2014] [Revised: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 09/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypervariability of HCV proteins is an important obstacle to design an efficient vaccine for HCV infection. Multi-epitope vaccines containing conserved epitopes of the virus could be a promising approach for protection against HCV. OBJECTIVES Cellular and humoral immune responses against multi-epitope DNA and peptide vaccines were evaluated in BALB/c mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this experimental study, multi-epitope DNA- and peptide-based vaccines for HCV infection harboring immunodominant CD8+ T cell epitopes (HLA-A2 and H2-Dd) from Core (132-142), NS3 (1073-1081) and NS5B (2727-2735), a Th CD4+ epitope from NS3 (1248-1262) and a B-cell epitope from E2 (412-426) were designed. Multi-epitope DNA and peptide vaccines were tested in two regimens as heterologous DNA/peptide (group 1) and homologous peptide/peptide (group 2) prime/boost vaccine in BALB/c mice model. Electroporation was used for delivery of the DNA vaccine. Peptide vaccine was formulated with Montanide ISA 720 (M720) as adjuvant. Cytokine assay and antibody detection were performed to analyze the immune responses. RESULTS Mice immunized with multi-epitope peptide formulated with M720 developed higher HCV-specific levels of total IgG, IgG1 and IgG2a than those immunized with multi-epitope DNA vaccine. IFN-γ levels in group 2 were significantly higher than group 1 (i.e. 3 weeks after the last immunization; 37.61 ± 2.39 vs. 14.43 ± 0.43, P < 0.05). Moreover, group 2 had a higher IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio compared to group 1, suggesting a shift toward Th1 response. In addition, in the present study, induced immune responses were long lasting and stable after 9 weeks of the last immunization. CONCLUSIONS Evaluation of multi-epitope DNA and peptide-vaccines confirmed their specific immunogenicity in BALB/c mice. However, lower Th1 immune responses in mice immunized with DNA vaccine suggests further investigations to improve the immunogenicity of the multi-epitope DNA vaccine through immune enhancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Pishraft Sabet
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Karaj, IR Iran
| | - Tahereh Taheri
- Molecular Immunology and Vaccine Research Laboratory, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran
| | | | - Talat Mokhtari Azad
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Fatemeh Asgari
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Ramin Rahimnia
- Department of Nano Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Seyed Moayed Alavian
- Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Disease, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
- Middle East Liver Disease Center (MELD), Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Sima Rafati
- Molecular Immunology and Vaccine Research Laboratory, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Katayoun Samimi Rad
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
- Corresponding Author: Katayoun Samimi Rad, Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, P. O. Box: 6446, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel +98-2188950595; Fax: +98-2166462267, E-mail:
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John M, Gaudieri S. Influence of HIV and HCV on T cell antigen presentation and challenges in the development of vaccines. Front Microbiol 2014; 5:514. [PMID: 25352836 PMCID: PMC4195390 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2014.00514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 09/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Some of the central challenges for developing effective vaccines against HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are similar. Both infections are caused by small, highly mutable, rapidly replicating RNA viruses with the ability to establish long-term chronic pathogenic infection in human hosts. HIV has caused 60 million infections globally and HCV 180 million and both viruses may co-exist among certain populations by virtue of common blood-borne, sexual, or vertical transmission. Persistence of both pathogens is achieved by evasion of intrinsic, innate, and adaptive immune defenses but with some distinct mechanisms reflecting their differences in evolutionary history, replication characteristics, cell tropism, and visibility to mucosal versus systemic and hepatic immune responses. A potent and durable antibody and T cell response is a likely requirement of future HIV and HCV vaccines. Perhaps the single biggest difference between the two vaccine design challenges is that in HCV, a natural model of protective immunity can be found in those who resolve acute infection spontaneously. Such spontaneous resolvers exhibit durable and functional CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses (Diepolder et al., 1995; Cooper et al., 1999; Thimme et al., 2001; Grakoui et al., 2003; Lauer et al., 2004; Schulze Zur Wiesch et al., 2012). However, frequent re-infection suggests partial or lack of protective immunity against heterologous HCV strains, possibly indicative of the degree of genetic diversity of circulating HCV genotypes and subtypes. There is no natural model of protective immunity in HIV, however, studies of “elite controllers,” or individuals who have durably suppressed levels of plasma HIV RNA without antiretroviral therapy, has provided the strongest evidence for CD8+ T cell responses in controlling viremia and limiting reservoir burden in established infection. Here we compare and contrast the specific mechanisms of immune evasion used by HIV and HCV, which subvert adaptive human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-restricted T cell immunity in natural infection, and the challenges these pose for designing effective preventative or therapeutic vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina John
- Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Murdoch University Murdoch, WA, Australia ; Department of Clinical Immunology, PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, Royal Perth Hospital Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Silvana Gaudieri
- Institute for Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Murdoch University Murdoch, WA, Australia ; School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, University of Western Australia Crawley, WA, Australia
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Prevalence and Molecular Determination of Hepatitis C Infection in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. ARCHIVES OF CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2014. [DOI: 10.5812/archcid.17275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Di Bisceglie AM, Janczweska-Kazek E, Habersetzer F, Mazur W, Stanciu C, Carreno V, Tanasescu C, Flisiak R, Romero-Gomez M, Fich A, Bataille V, Toh ML, Hennequi M, Zerr P, Honnet G, Inchauspé G, Agathon D, Limacher JM, Wedemeyer H. Efficacy of immunotherapy with TG4040, peg-interferon, and ribavirin in a Phase 2 study of patients with chronic HCV infection. Gastroenterology 2014; 147:119-131.e3. [PMID: 24657484 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2014.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2013] [Revised: 02/19/2014] [Accepted: 03/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS TG4040 is a modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) virus that expresses the hepatitis C virus (HCV) proteins NS3, NS4, and NS5B. We performed a phase II open-label study to determine the efficacy, safety, and immunotherapeutic properties of TG4040 in combination with pegylated interferon α-2a and ribavirin (PEG-IFNα/RBV) in patients with chronic HCV infection. METHODS Treatment-naive patients with HCV genotype 1 infection were assigned randomly to 1 of the following groups: PEG-IFNα/RBV for 48 weeks (group A, n = 31), PEG-IFNα/RBV for 4 weeks followed by PEG-IFNα/RBV for 44 weeks with 6 injections of TG4040 (group B, n = 63), or TG4040 for 12 weeks (7 injections) followed by PEG-IFNα/RBV for 48 weeks with 6 injections of TG4040 (group C, n = 59). The primary end point was complete early virologic response (cEVR), defined as HCV-RNA level less than 10 IU/mL after 12 weeks of PEG-IFNα/RBV treatment. RESULTS In group C, 64.2% of evaluable patients achieved cEVR, compared with 30.0% in group A and 45.9% in group B (P = .0003 for group C vs A). A higher percentage of patients achieved a sustained virologic response 24 weeks after therapy ended in group C (58.2%) than in groups A (48.4%) or B (50.8%). HCV- and MVA-specific T-cell responses were observed predominantly in group C. As expected, most patients given injections of TG4040 developed anti-MVA antibodies. The combination of TG4040 and PEG-IFNα/RBV was reasonably well tolerated. However, PEG-IFNα-associated thrombocytopenia developed in 3 patients who carried the class II HLA allele DRB01*04. CONCLUSIONS A higher percentage of patients with chronic HCV infection who received immunotherapy with TG4040 followed by TG4040 and PEG-IFNα/RBV achieved a cEVR compared with patients who received only PEG-IFNα/RBV therapy. These findings show that immunotherapies that activate T cells are effective in patients with chronic HCV infection. ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01055821.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian M Di Bisceglie
- Department of Internal Medicine, St. Louis University Liver Center, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Ewa Janczweska-Kazek
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of Silesia, Chorzow, Poland
| | - François Habersetzer
- Pôle Hépato-Digestif, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, Strasbourg, France
| | - Wlodzimierz Mazur
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Carol Stanciu
- Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania
| | | | - Coman Tanasescu
- Internal Medicine Clinic, Colentina Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Robert Flisiak
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Manuel Romero-Gomez
- Unit for the Clinical Management of Digestive Diseases and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Valme University Hospital, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Alexander Fich
- Department of Gastroenterology, Soroka Medical Center, Beersheba, Israel
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
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Colombatto P, Brunetto MR, Maina AM, Romagnoli V, Almasio P, Rumi MG, Ascione A, Pinzello G, Mondelli M, Muratori L, Rappuoli R, Rosa D, Houghton M, Abrignani S, Bonino F. HCV E1E2-MF59 vaccine in chronic hepatitis C patients treated with PEG-IFNα2a and Ribavirin: a randomized controlled trial. J Viral Hepat 2014; 21:458-65. [PMID: 24750327 PMCID: PMC4166695 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2012] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) vaccines may be able to increase viral clearance in combination with antiviral therapy. We analysed viral dynamics and HCV-specific immune response during retreatment for experienced patients in a phase Ib study with E1E2MF59 vaccine. Seventy-eight genotype 1a/1b patients [relapsers (30), partial responders (16) and nonresponders (32) to interferon-(IFN)/ribavirin-(RBV)] were randomly assigned to vaccine (V:23), Peg-IFNα2a-180-ug/qw and ribavirin 1000-1200-mg/qd for 48 weeks (P/R:25), or their combination (P/R + V:30). Vaccine (100 μg/0.5 mL) was administered intramuscularly at week 0-4-8-12-24-28-32-36. Neutralizing of binding (NOB) antibodies and lymphocyte proliferation assay (LPA) for E1E2-specific-CD4 + T cells were performed at week 0-12-16-48. Viral kinetics were analysed up to week 16. The vaccine was safe, and a sustained virological response (SVR) was achieved in 4 P/R + V and 2 P/R patients. Higher SVR rates were observed in prior relapsers (P/R + V = 27.3%; P/R = 12.5%). Higher NOB titres and LPA indexes were found at week 12 and 16 in P/R + V as compared to P/R patients (P = 0.023 and 0.025, P = 0.019 and <0.001, respectively). Among the 22 patients with the strongest direct antiviral effects of IFN (ε ≥ 0.800), those treated with P/R + V (10) reached lower HCV-RNA levels (P = 0.026) at week 16. HCV E1E2MF59 vaccine in combination with Peg-IFNα2a + RBV was safe and elicited E1E2 neutralizing antibodies and specific CD4 + T cell proliferation. Upon early response to IFN, vaccinations were associated with an enhanced second phase viral load decline. These results prompt phase II trials in combination with new antiviral therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Colombatto
- Hepatology Unit, University Hospital of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - M R Brunetto
- Hepatology Unit, University Hospital of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - A M Maina
- Hepatology Unit, University Hospital of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - V Romagnoli
- Hepatology Unit, University Hospital of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - P Almasio
- Sezione di Gastroenterologia, Di.Bi.M.I.S., University of PalermoPalermo, Italy
| | - M G Rumi
- 1st Gastroentrology Unit ‘Ca Granda’- IRCCS Foundation, University of MilanoMilano, Italy
| | - A Ascione
- Liver Unit, Cardarelli HospitalNapoli, Italy
| | - G Pinzello
- Medical Department, Niguarda HospitalMilano, Italy
| | - M Mondelli
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of PaviaPavia, Italy
| | - L Muratori
- Department of Clinical Medicine, ‘S.Orsola-Malpighi’ University Hospital of BolognaBologna, Italy
| | | | | | - M Houghton
- Canada Excellence Research Chair in Virology University of AlbertaEdmonton, AB, Canada
| | - S Abrignani
- National Institute of Molecular Genetics (INGM)Milano, Italy
| | - F Bonino
- Liver and Digestive Division, General Medicine 2 Unit, University Hospital of PisaPisa, Italy
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Shasha C, Henley RY, Stoloff DH, Rynearson KD, Hermann T, Wanunu M. Nanopore-based conformational analysis of a viral RNA drug target. ACS NANO 2014; 8:6425-6430. [PMID: 24861167 PMCID: PMC4729693 DOI: 10.1021/nn501969r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Nanopores are single-molecule sensors that show exceptional promise as a biomolecular analysis tool by enabling label-free detection of small amounts of sample. In this paper, we demonstrate that nanopores are capable of detecting the conformation of an antiviral RNA drug target. The hepatitis C virus uses an internal ribosome entry site (IRES) motif in order to initiate translation by docking to ribosomes in its host cell. The IRES is therefore a viable and important drug target. Drug-induced changes to the conformation of the HCV IRES motif, from a bent to a straight conformation, have been shown to inhibit HCV replication. However, there is presently no straightforward method to analyze the effect of candidate small-molecule drugs on the RNA conformation. In this paper, we show that RNA translocation dynamics through a 3 nm diameter nanopore is conformation-sensitive by demonstrating a difference in transport times between bent and straight conformations of a short viral RNA motif. Detection is possible because bent RNA is stalled in the 3 nm pore, resulting in longer molecular dwell times than straight RNA. Control experiments show that binding of a weaker drug does not produce a conformational change, as consistent with independent fluorescence measurements. Nanopore measurements of RNA conformation can thus be useful for probing the structure of various RNA motifs, as well as structural changes to the RNA upon small-molecule binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Shasha
- Departments of Physics and Chemistry/Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Robert Y. Henley
- Departments of Physics and Chemistry/Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Daniel H. Stoloff
- Departments of Physics and Chemistry/Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Kevin D. Rynearson
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Thomas Hermann
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Meni Wanunu
- Departments of Physics and Chemistry/Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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Imran M, Rafique H, Khan A, Malik T. A model of bi-mode transmission dynamics of hepatitis C with optimal control. Theory Biosci 2014; 133:91-109. [PMID: 24374404 PMCID: PMC7091180 DOI: 10.1007/s12064-013-0197-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2013] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In this paper, we present a rigorous mathematical analysis of a deterministic model for the transmission dynamics of hepatitis C. The model is suitable for populations where two frequent modes of transmission of hepatitis C virus, namely unsafe blood transfusions and intravenous drug use, are dominant. The susceptible population is divided into two distinct compartments, the intravenous drug users and individuals undergoing unsafe blood transfusions. Individuals belonging to each compartment may develop acute and then possibly chronic infections. Chronically infected individuals may be quarantined. The analysis indicates that the eradication and persistence of the disease is completely determined by the magnitude of basic reproduction number R(c). It is shown that for the basic reproduction number R(c) < 1, the disease-free equilibrium is locally and globally asymptotically stable. For R(c) > 1, an endemic equilibrium exists and the disease is uniformly persistent. In addition, we present the uncertainty and sensitivity analyses to investigate the influence of different important model parameters on the disease prevalence. When the infected population persists, we have designed a time-dependent optimal quarantine strategy to minimize it. The Pontryagin's Maximum Principle is used to characterize the optimal control in terms of an optimality system which is solved numerically. Numerical results for the optimal control are compared against the constant controls and their efficiency is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mudassar Imran
- Lahore University of Management Sciences, Sector U DHA, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hassan Rafique
- Department of Mathematics, Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL USA
| | - Adnan Khan
- Lahore University of Management Sciences, Sector U DHA, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Tufail Malik
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Sciences, Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research, Abu Dhabi, UAE
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