1
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Mirhassani R, Seyedjafari E, Vaziri B. A validated polyclonal antiserum-based immunoassay for assessment of HPV 16 L1 relative potency. Biologicals 2024; 85:101742. [PMID: 38340596 DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2023.101742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaccine potency is typically evaluated using an assay that acts as a surrogate for biological activity. Although in vivo vaccines better represent human immunological responses, in vitro assays are preferred due to lower variability, higher throughput, easier validation and ethical considerations. In in vitro determination of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine potency currently depends on monoclonal antibody assays. However, these reagents are hard to obtain and currently are not available commercially. In this work, a polyclonal antiserum-based immunoassay was developed to evaluate the relative potency of Alhydrogel formulated HPV 16 VLPs. The repeatability and specificity were evaluated, and found that the assay was sensitive to small amounts of non-VLP HPV 16 L1 proteins. Finally, the assay was tested in comparison to the mouse effective dose 50 (ED50) assay on a limited number of batches. The agreement between these results suggests this test as a suitable surrogate for the in vivo test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reihaneh Mirhassani
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Seyedjafari
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Behrouz Vaziri
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
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2
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Laera D, HogenEsch H, O'Hagan DT. Aluminum Adjuvants-'Back to the Future'. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1884. [PMID: 37514070 PMCID: PMC10383759 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15071884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Aluminum-based adjuvants will continue to be a key component of currently approved and next generation vaccines, including important combination vaccines. The widespread use of aluminum adjuvants is due to their excellent safety profile, which has been established through the use of hundreds of millions of doses in humans over many years. In addition, they are inexpensive, readily available, and are well known and generally accepted by regulatory agencies. Moreover, they offer a very flexible platform, to which many vaccine components can be adsorbed, enabling the preparation of liquid formulations, which typically have a long shelf life under refrigerated conditions. Nevertheless, despite their extensive use, they are perceived as relatively 'weak' vaccine adjuvants. Hence, there have been many attempts to improve their performance, which typically involves co-delivery of immune potentiators, including Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists. This approach has allowed for the development of improved aluminum adjuvants for inclusion in licensed vaccines against HPV, HBV, and COVID-19, with others likely to follow. This review summarizes the various aluminum salts that are used in vaccines and highlights how they are prepared. We focus on the analytical challenges that remain to allowing the creation of well-characterized formulations, particularly those involving multiple antigens. In addition, we highlight how aluminum is being used to create the next generation of improved adjuvants through the adsorption and delivery of various TLR agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatello Laera
- Technical Research & Development, Drug Product, GSK, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Global Manufacturing Division, Corporate Industrial Analytics, Chiesi Pharmaceuticals, 43122 Parma, Italy
| | - Harm HogenEsch
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47906, USA
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3
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Hu G, Varisco DJ, Das S, Middaugh CR, Gardner F, Ernst RK, Picking WL, Picking WD. Physicochemical characterization of biological and synthetic forms of two lipid A-based TLR4 agonists. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18119. [PMID: 37483830 PMCID: PMC10362264 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists are recognized as potential immune-enhancing adjuvants and are included in several licensed vaccines. Monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL®, GlaxoSmithKline) is one such TLR4 agonist that has been approved for use in human vaccines, such as Cervarix and Shingrix. Due to the heterogeneous nature of biologically derived MPL and the need for safer and more potent adjuvants, our groups have developed the novel TLR4 agonist candidates, BECC438 and BECC470 using the Bacterial Enzymatic Combinatorial Chemistry (BECC) platform. BECC438 and BECC470 have been included in studies to test their adjuvant potential and found to be effective in vaccines against both viral and bacterial disease agents. Here, we report detailed biophysical characterization of BECC438 and BECC470 purified from a biological source (BECC438b and BECC470b, respectively) and synthesized chemically (BECC438s and BECC470s, respectively). Both BECC438s and BECC470s have identical acyl chain configurations, BECC438s is bis-phosphorylated and BECC470s is mono-phosphorylated with the removal of the 4' phosphate moiety. We determined the phase transition temperatures for the acyl chains of BECC438b and BECC470b and found them to be different from those exhibited by their synthetic counterparts. Furthermore, the phosphate groups of BECC438b and BECC470b are more highly hydrated than are those of BECC438s and BECC470s. In addition to exploring the BECC molecules' biophysical features in aqueous solution, we explored potential formulation of BECC438 and BECC470 with the aluminum-based adjuvant Alhydrogel and as part of an oil-in-water emulsion (Medimmune Emulsion or ME). All of the lipid A analogues could be fully absorbed to Alhydrogel or incorporated onto ME. Surprisingly, the BECC470s molecule, unlike the others, displayed a nearly baseline signal when monitored using a Limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) endotoxin detection system. Despite this, it was shown to behave as an agonist for human and mouse TLR4 when tested using multiple cell-based systems. This work paves the way for further formulation optimization of two chemically defined TLR4 agonists that are showing great promise as vaccine adjuvants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Hu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - David J. Varisco
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Sayan Das
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - C. Russell Middaugh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Francesca Gardner
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Robert K. Ernst
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Wendy L. Picking
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - William D. Picking
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
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4
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Maxime V, Isabelle F, Antoine F, Hassall L, Lorenzo T, Wim VM, Romain P, Thierry L, Charline H, Paul S, Alexandre D. Development of a multiplex-based immunoassay for the characterization of diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis antigens in human combined DTaP vaccines. J Immunol Methods 2023; 517:113483. [PMID: 37100343 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2023.113483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Routine batch quality testing before vaccine release, notably for potency evaluation, still relies on animal use for several animal and human vaccines. In this context, the VAC2VAC project is a public-private consortium of 22 partners funded by EU whose the main objective is to reduce the number of animal used for batch testing by developing immunoassays that could be implemented for routine potency assessment of vaccines. This paper focused on the development of a Luminex-based multiplex assay to monitor the consistency of antigen quantity and quality throughout the production process of DTaP vaccines from two human vaccine manufacturers. Indepth characterized monoclonal antibody pairs were used for development and optimization of the Luminex assay with non-adsorbed and adsorbed antigens and with complete vaccine formulations from both manufacturers. The multiplex assay demonstrated good specificity, reproducibility and absence of cross-reactivity. Analysis of over and underdosed formulations, heat and H2O2-degraded products as well as batch to batch consistency of vaccines from both manufacturers brought the proof of concept for a future application of the multiplex immunoassay as a useful tool in the frame of DTaP vaccine quality control.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Feck Isabelle
- Sciensano, Quality of Vaccines and Blood Products, Belgium
| | | | - Laura Hassall
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, United Kingdom
| | | | - Van Molle Wim
- Sciensano, Quality of Vaccines and Blood Products, Belgium
| | | | | | - Hoebreck Charline
- Jefferson Wells consultant on assignment at GlaxoSmithKline, Belgium
| | - Stickings Paul
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, United Kingdom
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5
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Jerajani K, Wan Y, Hickey JM, Kumru OS, Sharma N, Pullagurla SR, Ogun O, Mapari S, Whitaker N, Brendle S, Christensen ND, Batwal S, Mahedvi M, Rao H, Dogar V, Chandrasekharan R, Shaligram U, Joshi SB, Volkin DB. Analytical and Preformulation Characterization Studies of Human Papillomavirus Virus-Like Particles to Enable Quadrivalent Multi-Dose Vaccine Formulation Development. J Pharm Sci 2022; 111:2983-2997. [PMID: 35914546 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2022.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Introducing multi-dose formulations of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines will reduce costs and enable improved global vaccine coverage, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This work describes the development of key analytical methods later utilized for HPV vaccine multi-dose formulation development. First, down-selection of physicochemical methods suitable for multi-dose formulation development of four HPV (6, 11, 16, and 18) Virus-Like Particles (VLPs) adsorbed to an aluminum adjuvant (Alhydrogel®, AH) was performed. The four monovalent AH-adsorbed HPV VLPs were then characterized using these down-selected methods. Second, stability-indicating competitive ELISA assays were developed using HPV serotype-specific neutralizing mAbs, to monitor relative antibody binding profiles of the four AH-adsorbed VLPs during storage. Third, concentration-dependent preservative-induced destabilization of HPV16 VLPs was demonstrated by addition of eight preservatives found in parenterally administered pharmaceuticals and vaccines, as measured by ELISA, dynamic light scattering, and differential scanning calorimetry. Finally, preservative stability and effectiveness in the presence of vaccine components were evaluated using a combination of RP-UHPLC, a microbial growth inhibition assay, and a modified version of the European Pharmacopoeia assay (Ph. Eur. 5.1.3). Results are discussed in terms of analytical challenges encountered to identify and develop high-throughput methods that facilitate multi-dose formulation development of aluminum-adjuvanted protein-based vaccine candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaushal Jerajani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Ying Wan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - John M Hickey
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Ozan S Kumru
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Nitya Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Swathi R Pullagurla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Oluwadara Ogun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Shweta Mapari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Neal Whitaker
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - Sarah Brendle
- Department of Pathology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | - Neil D Christensen
- Department of Pathology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | | | | | - Harish Rao
- Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd., Pune, India
| | - Vikas Dogar
- Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd., Pune, India
| | | | | | - Sangeeta B Joshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA
| | - David B Volkin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vaccine Analytics and Formulation Center, University of Kansas, 2030 Becker Drive, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA.
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6
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Li M, Liang Z, Chen C, Yu G, Yao Z, Guo Y, Zhang L, Bao H, Fu D, Yang X, Wang H, Xue C, Sun B. Virus-Like Particle-Templated Silica-Adjuvanted Nanovaccines with Enhanced Humoral and Cellular Immunity. ACS NANO 2022; 16:10482-10495. [PMID: 35763693 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c01283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Virus-like particles (VLPs) are self-assembled viral proteins that represent a superior form of antigens in vaccine formulations. To enhance immunogenicity, adjuvants, especially the aluminum salts (Alum), are essentially formulated in VLP vaccines. However, Alum only induce biased humoral immune responses that limits further applications of VLP-based vaccines. To stimulate more balanced immunity, we, herein, develop a one-step strategy of using VLPs as the biotemplates to synthesize raspberry-like silica-adjuvanted VLP@Silica nanovaccines. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) VLPs and human papillomavirus type 18 (HPV 18) VLPs are selected as model templates. Circular dichroism (CD) and affinity analyses demonstrate that HBsAg VLPs in the nanovaccines maintain their secondary structure and immunogenicity, respectively. VLP@Silica promote silica dissolution-induced lysosomal escape and cytosolic delivery of antigens, and enhance the secretion of both Th1 and Th2 type cytokines in murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs). Additionally, they could improve antigen trafficking and mediate DC activation in draining lymph nodes (DLNs). Vaccination study demonstrate that both HBsAg VLP@Silica and HPV 18 VLP@Silica nanovaccines induce enhanced antigen-specific antibody productions and T-cell mediated adaptive immune responses. This design strategy can utilize VLPs derived from a diversity of viruses or their variants as templates to construct both prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines with improved immunogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Li
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
- School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
| | - Zhihui Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
- School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
| | - Chen Chen
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
| | - Ge Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
- School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
| | - Zhiying Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
- School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
| | - Yiyang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
- School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
- School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
| | - Hang Bao
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
| | - Duo Fu
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
| | - Xuecheng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
- School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
| | - Huiyang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
- School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
| | - Changying Xue
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
| | - Bingbing Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
- School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, 116024, Dalian, China
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7
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van der Maas L, Danial M, Kersten GFA, Metz B, Meiring HD. Mass Spectrometry-Based Quantification of the Antigens in Aluminum Hydroxide-Adjuvanted Diphtheria-Tetanus-Acellular-Pertussis Combination Vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10071078. [PMID: 35891242 PMCID: PMC9323524 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10071078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccines undergo stringent batch-release testing, most often including in-vivo assays for potency. For combination vaccines, such as diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTaP), chemical modification induced by formaldehyde inactivation, as well as adsorption to aluminum-based adjuvants, complicates antigen-specific in-vitro analysis. Here, a mass spectrometric method was developed that allows the identification and quantitation of DTaP antigens in a combination vaccine. Isotopically labeled, antigen-specific internal standard peptides were employed that permitted absolute quantitation of their antigen-derived peptide counterparts and, consequently, the individual antigens. We evaluated the applicability of the method on monovalent non-adjuvanted antigens, on final vaccine lots and on experimental vaccine batches, where certain antigens were omitted from the drug product. Apart from the applicability for final batch release, we demonstrated the suitability of the approach for in-process control monitoring. The peptide quantification method facilitates antigen-specific identification and quantification of combination vaccines in a single assay. This may contribute, as part of the consistency approach, to a reduction in the number of animal tests required for vaccine-batch release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa van der Maas
- Intravacc, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (M.D.); (G.F.A.K.); (B.M.); (H.D.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Maarten Danial
- Intravacc, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (M.D.); (G.F.A.K.); (B.M.); (H.D.M.)
| | - Gideon F. A. Kersten
- Intravacc, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (M.D.); (G.F.A.K.); (B.M.); (H.D.M.)
- Division of BioTherapeutics, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR), Leiden University, 2333 CC Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Bernard Metz
- Intravacc, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (M.D.); (G.F.A.K.); (B.M.); (H.D.M.)
| | - Hugo D. Meiring
- Intravacc, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands; (M.D.); (G.F.A.K.); (B.M.); (H.D.M.)
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8
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Nie M, Liu Y, Huang X, Zhang Z, Zhao Q. Microtiter plate-based differential scanning fluorimetry: a high-throughput method for efficient formulation development. J Pharm Sci 2022; 111:2397-2403. [DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2022.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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9
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Ranade D, Jena R, Sancheti S, Deore V, Dogar V, Gairola S. Rapid, high throughput protein estimation method for saponin and alhydrogel adjuvanted R21 VLP Malaria vaccine based on intrinsic fluorescence. Vaccine 2021; 40:601-611. [PMID: 34933766 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Protein content estimation of recombinant vaccines at drug product (DP) stage is a crucial lot release and stability indicating assay in biopharmaceutical industries. Regulatory bodies such as US-FDA and WHO necessitates the quantitation of protein content to assess process parameters as well as formulation losses. Estimation of protein content at DP stage in presence of adjuvants (e.g AlOOH, AlPO4, saponin and squalene) is quite challenging, and the challenge intensifies when the target protein is in Virus like particles (VLP) form, owing to its size and structural complexity. Methods available for protein estimation of adjuvanted vaccines mostly suffer from inaccuracy at lower protein concentrations and in most cases require antigen desorption before analysis. Present research work is based on the development of a rapid plate-based method for protein estimation through intrinsic fluorescence by using Malaria vaccine R21 VLP as a model protein. Present method exhibited linearity for protein estimation of R21, in the range of 5-30 µg/mL in Alhydrogel and 4-20 µg/mL for Matrix M adjuvant. The method was validated as per ICH guidelines. The limit of quantification was found to be 0.94 µg/mL for both Alhydrogel and Matrix M adjuvanted R21. The method was found specific, precise and repeatable. This method is superior in terms of less sample quantity requirement, multiple sample analysis, short turnaround time and is non-invasive. This method was found to be stability indicating, works for other proteins containing tryptophan residues and operates well even in presence of host cell proteins. Based on the study, present method can be used in vaccine industries for routine in-process sample analysis (both inline and offline), lot release of VLP based drug products in presence of Alhydrogel and saponin based adjuvant systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dnyanesh Ranade
- Quality Control Department, Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd, 212/2, Soli Poonawalla Rd, JJC Colony, Suryalok Nagari, Hadapsar, Pune, Maharashtra 411028, India
| | - Rajender Jena
- Quality Control Department, Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd, 212/2, Soli Poonawalla Rd, JJC Colony, Suryalok Nagari, Hadapsar, Pune, Maharashtra 411028, India
| | - Shubham Sancheti
- Quality Control Department, Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd, 212/2, Soli Poonawalla Rd, JJC Colony, Suryalok Nagari, Hadapsar, Pune, Maharashtra 411028, India
| | - Vicky Deore
- Quality Control Department, Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd, 212/2, Soli Poonawalla Rd, JJC Colony, Suryalok Nagari, Hadapsar, Pune, Maharashtra 411028, India
| | - Vikas Dogar
- Quality Control Department, Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd, 212/2, Soli Poonawalla Rd, JJC Colony, Suryalok Nagari, Hadapsar, Pune, Maharashtra 411028, India
| | - Sunil Gairola
- Quality Control Department, Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd, 212/2, Soli Poonawalla Rd, JJC Colony, Suryalok Nagari, Hadapsar, Pune, Maharashtra 411028, India.
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10
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van den Biggelaar RHGA, Hoefnagel MHN, Vandebriel RJ, Sloots A, Hendriksen CFM, van Eden W, Rutten VPMG, Jansen CA. Overcoming scientific barriers in the transition from in vivo to non-animal batch testing of human and veterinary vaccines. Expert Rev Vaccines 2021; 20:1221-1233. [PMID: 34550041 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2021.1977628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Before release, vaccine batches are assessed for quality to evaluate whether they meet the product specifications. Vaccine batch tests, in particular of inactivated and toxoid vaccines, still largely rely on in vivo methods. Improved vaccine production processes, ethical concerns, and suboptimal performance of some in vivo tests have led to the development of in vitro alternatives. AREAS COVERED This review describes the scientific constraints that need to be overcome for replacement of in vivo batch tests, as well as potential solutions. Topics include the critical quality attributes of vaccines that require testing, the use of cell-based assays to mimic aspects of in vivo vaccine-induced immune responses, how difficulties with testing adjuvanted vaccines in vitro can be overcome, the use of altered batches to validate new in vitro test methods, and how cooperation between different stakeholders is key to moving the transition forward. EXPERT OPINION For safety testing, many in vitro alternatives are already available or at an advanced level of development. For potency testing, in vitro alternatives largely comprise immunochemical methods that assess several, but not all critical vaccine properties. One-to-one replacement by in vitro alternatives is not always possible and a combination of methods may be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin H G A van den Biggelaar
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Rob J Vandebriel
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Arjen Sloots
- Intravacc (Institute for Translational Vaccinology), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | | | - Willem van Eden
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Victor P M G Rutten
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Christine A Jansen
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Cell Biology and Immunology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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11
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Riches-Duit R, Hassall L, Kogelman A, Westdijk J, Rajagopal S, Davletov B, Doran C, Dobly A, Francotte A, Stickings P. Characterisation of tetanus monoclonal antibodies as a first step towards the development of an in vitro vaccine potency immunoassay. Biologicals 2021; 71:31-41. [PMID: 33910767 DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2021.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Batch release testing for human and veterinary tetanus vaccines still relies heavily on methods that involve animals, particularly for potency testing. The quantity and quality of tetanus antigen present in these products is of utmost importance for product safety and clinical effect. Immunochemical methods that measure consistency of antigen content and quality, potentially as an indicator of potency, could be a better choice and negate the need for an in vivo potency test. These immunochemical methods require at least one well characterised monoclonal antibody (mAb) that is specific for the target antigen. In this paper we report the results of the comprehensive characterisation of a panel of mAbs against tetanus with a view to select antibodies that can be used for development of an in vitro potency immunoassay. We have assessed binding of the antibodies to native antigen (toxin), detoxified antigen (toxoid), adsorbed antigen and heat-altered antigen. Antibody function was determined using an in-house cell-based neutralisation assay to support prior in vivo potency data that was available for some, but not all, of the antibodies. In addition, antibody affinity was measured, and epitope competition analysis was performed to identify pairs of antibodies that could be deployed in a sandwich immunoassay format. Not all characterisation tests provided evidence of "superiority" of one mAb over another, but together the results from all characterisation studies allowed for selection of an antibody pair to be taken forward to assay development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Riches-Duit
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, UK
| | - Laura Hassall
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, UK
| | - Amy Kogelman
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720, AL Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Janny Westdijk
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720, AL Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Shalini Rajagopal
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, UK
| | - Bazbek Davletov
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Ciara Doran
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Alexandre Dobly
- Sciensano, Quality of Vaccines and Blood Products Department, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Antoine Francotte
- Sciensano, Quality of Vaccines and Blood Products Department, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Paul Stickings
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, UK.
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12
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Riches-Duit R, Hassall L, Kogelman A, Westdijk J, Dobly A, Francotte A, Stickings P. Characterisation of diphtheria monoclonal antibodies as a first step towards the development of an in vitro vaccine potency immunoassay. Biologicals 2021; 69:38-48. [PMID: 33454193 DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunoassays are used for routine potency assessment of several vaccines, in some cases having been specifically developed as alternatives to in vivo potency tests. These methods require at least one well characterised monoclonal antibody (mAb) that is specific for the target antigen. In this paper we report the results of the comprehensive characterisation of a panel of mAbs against diphtheria with a view to select antibodies that can be used for development of an in vitro potency immunoassay for diphtheria vaccines. We have assessed binding of the antibodies to native antigen (toxin), detoxified antigen (toxoid), adsorbed antigen and heat-altered antigen. Antibody function was determined by a cell-based toxin neutralisation test and diphtheria toxin-domain recognition was determined by Western blotting. In addition, antibody affinity was measured, and epitope competition analysis was performed to identify pairs of antibodies that could be deployed in a sandwich immunoassay format. Not all characterisation tests provided evidence of "superiority" of one mAb over another, but together the results from all characterisation studies allowed for selection of an antibody pair to be taken forward to assay development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Riches-Duit
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, UK
| | - Laura Hassall
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, UK
| | - Amy Kogelman
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720, AL, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Janny Westdijk
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720, AL, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Alexandre Dobly
- Sciensano, Quality of Vaccines and Blood Products, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Antoine Francotte
- Sciensano, Quality of Vaccines and Blood Products, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Paul Stickings
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, UK.
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13
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Akkermans A, Chapsal JM, Coccia EM, Depraetere H, Dierick JF, Duangkhae P, Goel S, Halder M, Hendriksen C, Levis R, Pinyosukhee K, Pullirsch D, Sanyal G, Shi L, Sitrin R, Smith D, Stickings P, Terao E, Uhlrich S, Viviani L, Webster J. Animal testing for vaccines. Implementing replacement, reduction and refinement: challenges and priorities. Biologicals 2020; 68:92-107. [PMID: 33041187 PMCID: PMC7543787 DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2020.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Transition to in vitro alternative methods from in vivo in vaccine release testing and characterization, the implementation of the consistency approach, and a drive towards international harmonization of regulatory requirements are most pressing needs in the field of vaccines. It is critical for global vaccine community to work together to secure effective progress towards animal welfare and to ensure that vaccines of ever higher quality can reach the populations in need in the shortest possible timeframe. Advancements in the field, case studies, and experiences from Low and Middle Income Countries (LMIC) were the topics discussed by an international gathering of experts during a recent conference titled "Animal Testing for Vaccines - Implementing Replacement, Reduction and Refinement: Challenges and Priorities". This conference was organized by the International Alliance for Biological Standardization (IABS), and held in Bangkok, Thailand on December 3 and 4 2019. Participants comprised stakeholders from many parts of the world, including vaccine developers, manufacturers and regulators from Asia, Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand. In interactive workshops and vibrant panel discussions, the attendees worked together to identify the remaining barriers to validation, acceptance and implementation of alternative methods, and how harmonization could be promoted, especially for LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnoud Akkermans
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), the Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Sunil Goel
- Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd., India
| | - Marlies Halder
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | | | - Robin Levis
- Food and Drug Administration (FDA / CBER), USA
| | | | | | | | - Li Shi
- Shanghai Zerun Biotechnology Company, China
| | | | | | - Paul Stickings
- The National Institute for Biological Standards and Control (NIBSC), United Kingdom
| | - Eriko Terao
- European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines & Healthcare (EDQM), France
| | | | - Laura Viviani
- Independent Consultant, Humane Society International, Switzerland.
| | - Jim Webster
- World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), New Zealand
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14
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Rossi O, Aruta MG, Acquaviva A, Mancini F, Micoli F, Necchi F. Characterization of Competitive ELISA and Formulated Alhydrogel Competitive ELISA (FAcE) for Direct Quantification of Active Ingredients in GMMA-Based Vaccines. Methods Protoc 2020; 3:mps3030062. [PMID: 32878036 PMCID: PMC7563494 DOI: 10.3390/mps3030062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Generalized modules for membrane antigens (GMMA) represent a technology particularly attractive for designing affordable vaccines against Gram-negative bacteria. We explored such technology for the development of O-antigen-based vaccines against Shigella and nontyphoidal Salmonella. Adsorption of GMMA on Alhydrogel was required for abrogation of pyrogenicity in rabbits, and Shigella sonnei GMMA on Alhydrogel was well tolerated and immunogenic in humans. Quantification of key antigens in formulated vaccines was fundamental for release and to check stability overtime. Traditionally, the direct quantification of antigens adsorbed on aluminum salts has been challenging, and the quantification of each active ingredient in multicomponent formulated vaccines has been even more complicated. To directly quantify each active ingredient and unbound drug substances in formulated vaccines, we developed the Formulated Alhydrogel competitive ELISA (FAcE) and the competitive ELISA method, respectively. The methods were both fully characterized, assessing specificity, repeatability, intermediate precision, and accuracy, for S. sonnei OAg quantification, both in a single component or multicomponent GMMA formulation also containing S. flexneri GMMA. The developed immunological methods allowed us to fully characterize Shigella GMMA drug products, supporting their preclinical and clinical development. The same methods, already extended to GMMA from nontyphoidal Salmonella and Neisseria meningitidis, could be potentially extended to any antigen formulated on Alhydrogel.
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15
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Morgenroth A, Jakel V, Hanke-Robinson H, Müller T, Freuling C, Cussler K, Duchow K, Krämer B, Bastian M. A novel electrophoretic immunoblot as antigen desorption and quantification method for alum-adjuvanted veterinary rabies vaccines. Vaccine 2020; 38:4281-4287. [PMID: 32402753 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2020.04.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Rabies vaccines for domestic animals are adjuvanted with aluminum salts. A particular challenge for in-vitro batch potency tests with these products is the fact that the antigens are firmly adsorbed to the aluminum salt matrix and thus are not easily available for antigen quantification. In the current manuscript we describe a versatile technique to quantify antigens in aluminum adsorbed vaccine formulations. A combined electrophoretic desorption and blotting method is presented that transfers the antigens to a nitrocellulose membrane followed by an immunoblot quantification of the transferred rabies antigens. For the immunoblot a rabies G-protein specific, monoclonal antibody is used that by itself has neutralizing activity. This ensures that only relevant antigens are quantified. By comparing end products with non-adjuvanted in-process material it can be demonstrated that the antigens are quantitatively desorbed from the adjuvant matrix. Resuts of the new antigen quantification method were compared with the outcome of the serological batch potency test as described in the European Pharmacopoeia. It is demonstrated that the new antigen quantification method reveals relevant differences between experimental vaccine batches formulated with increasing antigen loads. This proves the broad detection range of the method. In general, the results show that this highly versatile technique can serve as an important component of a comprehensive consistency test strategy and may be applied in a modified form to any alum-adjuvanted vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Morgenroth
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Südufer 10, D-17493 Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Verena Jakel
- Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Strasse 51-59, D-63225 Langen, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Müller
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Südufer 10, D-17493 Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Conrad Freuling
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Südufer 10, D-17493 Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Klaus Cussler
- Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Strasse 51-59, D-63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Karin Duchow
- Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Strasse 51-59, D-63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Beate Krämer
- Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Strasse 51-59, D-63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Max Bastian
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Südufer 10, D-17493 Greifswald, Insel Riems, Germany.
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16
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Riches-Duit R, Hassall L, Rigsby P, Stickings P. Evaluation of a capture antigen ELISA for the characterisation of tetanus vaccines for veterinary use. Biologicals 2019; 61:8-14. [PMID: 31471009 DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2019.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously developed an ELISA assay for detection of tetanus toxoid antigen in tetanus vaccines for human use. Tetanus vaccines for veterinary use are qualitatively different to those used in humans, often containing a larger number and variety of non-tetanus antigens in the multi-valent products, and adjuvants that are not found in human vaccines. We assessed performance of the capture ELISA with a range of veterinary tetanus vaccines as a first step towards development of an immunoassay as a potential in vivo potency substitute. Nine tetanus vaccines were tested and all produced a good dose response in the ELISA. The shape of the dose response curve for the whole vaccine compared to a matched non-adjuvanted tetanus toxoid antigen was more comparable for vaccines containing a non-aluminium adjuvant than products containing aluminium adjuvants. Elution of the antigen from aluminium adjuvant did not improve the comparability of the dose response curve but did increase the total amount of tetanus antigen available for detection. The ELISA was highly specific for tetanus with no signal obtained for a large number of non-tetanus antigens. These results suggest that a capture ELISA assay can be applied to a control strategy for veterinary tetanus vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Riches-Duit
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Hassall
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Rigsby
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Biostatistics Group, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Stickings
- National Institute for Biological Standards and Control, Division of Bacteriology, South Mimms, Potters Bar, EN6 3QG, United Kingdom.
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17
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Necchi F, Carducci M, Pisoni I, Rossi O, Saul A, Rondini S. Development of FAcE (Formulated Alhydrogel competitive ELISA) method for direct quantification of OAg present in Shigella sonnei GMMA-based vaccine and its optimization using Design of Experiments approach. J Immunol Methods 2019; 471:11-17. [PMID: 31039338 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2019.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Many formulated vaccines, including 1790GAHB Shigella sonnei GMMA-based vaccine, contain Alhydrogel (aluminum hydroxide), consequently the antigen content must be determined in the formulated final vaccine product, as required by regulatory authorities. The direct quantification of antigens adsorbed on aluminum salts is difficult, and antigens may need to be extracted using laborious and often ineffective desorption procedures. To directly quantify the sugar vaccine target in the LPS of 1790GAHB, we have developed a new FAcE (Formulated Alhydrogel competitive ELISA) method. FAcE is an immunoassay based on the competition between S. sonnei LPS, coated on the ELISA plate, and the LPS in formulated S. sonnei GMMA, in binding a specific monoclonal antibody. To optimize the method, which is as easy to perform as a standard ELISA, we have applied a Design of Experiments (DOE) approach. A model was found to define the significant assay variables and to predict their impact on the output responses. Results obtained using the DOE optimized FAcE assay showed that the method is sensitive (0.02 μg/mL lower detection limit), precise, reproducible and can accurately quantify independently formulated drug products, making it a useful tool in routine tests of Alhydrogel-based vaccines. We are currently using this method to determine S. sonnei vaccine potency, stability and lot-to-lot variations, and are broadening its applicability to quantify active ingredients of other Alhydrogel GMMA-vaccines and in multivalent vaccines formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Necchi
- GSK Vaccines Institute for Global Health (GVGH) S.r.l., Siena, Italy
| | - Martina Carducci
- GSK Vaccines Institute for Global Health (GVGH) S.r.l., Siena, Italy
| | - Ivan Pisoni
- GSK Vaccines Institute for Global Health (GVGH) S.r.l., Siena, Italy
| | - Omar Rossi
- GSK Vaccines Institute for Global Health (GVGH) S.r.l., Siena, Italy
| | - Allan Saul
- GSK Vaccines Institute for Global Health (GVGH) S.r.l., Siena, Italy
| | - Simona Rondini
- GSK Vaccines Institute for Global Health (GVGH) S.r.l., Siena, Italy.
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18
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HogenEsch H, O'Hagan DT, Fox CB. Optimizing the utilization of aluminum adjuvants in vaccines: you might just get what you want. NPJ Vaccines 2018; 3:51. [PMID: 30323958 PMCID: PMC6180056 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-018-0089-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 246] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Revised: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Aluminum-containing adjuvants have been used for over 90 years to enhance the immune response to vaccines. Recent work has significantly advanced our understanding of the physical, chemical, and biological properties of these adjuvants, offering key insights on underlying mechanisms. Given the long-term success of aluminum adjuvants, we believe that they should continue to represent the “gold standard” against which all new adjuvants should be compared. New vaccine candidates that require adjuvants to induce a protective immune responses should first be evaluated with aluminum adjuvants before other more experimental approaches are considered, since use of established adjuvants would facilitate both clinical development and the regulatory pathway. However, the continued use of aluminum adjuvants requires an appreciation of their complexities, in combination with access to the necessary expertise to optimize vaccine formulations. In this article, we will review the properties of aluminum adjuvants and highlight those elements that are critical to optimize vaccine performance. We will discuss how other components (excipients, TLR ligands, etc.) can affect the interaction between adjuvants and antigens, and impact the potency of vaccines. This review provides a resource and guide, which will ultimately contribute to the successful development of newer, more effective and safer vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harm HogenEsch
- 1Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN USA.,2Purdue Institute of Inflammation, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN USA
| | | | - Christopher B Fox
- 4IDRI, Seattle, WA USA.,5Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
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19
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He L, Su J, Ming M, Bernardo L, Chen T, Gisonni-Lex L, Gajewska B. Flow cytometry: An efficient method for antigenicity measurement and particle characterization on an adjuvanted vaccine candidate H4-IC31 for tuberculosis. J Immunol Methods 2017; 452:39-45. [PMID: 29056527 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We have developed an accurate, precise and stability-indicating flow cytometry (FC) based assay to directly measure antigenicity of H4 protein (also known as HyVac4) in a vaccine formulation of H4-IC31, without desorbing the H4 protein from the IC31 adjuvant. This method involves immuno-staining of H4-IC31 complex with anti-H4 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) followed by FC analysis. The assay is not only able to consistently measure H4 antigenicity levels in H4-IC31 stored under normal condition at 2-8°C, but also able to detect changes in H4 antigenicity after H4-IC31 undergoes heat stress or freeze-thawing. In addition, the FC method is able to characterize particle morphology while measuring antigenicity. The biological relevance of the changes in H4 antigenicity detected by the FC assay was supported by an in vitro cell based functional assay using human PBMCs to measure IFN-gamma (IFN-γ) secretion upon re-stimulation with H4-IC31. Our results show that the FC based antigenicity assay can efficiently monitor the biological and physicochemical properties of H4-IC31 and is an indicator for adjuvanted vaccine product stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liwei He
- Sanofi Pasteur, Analytical Research and Development, 1755 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Jin Su
- Sanofi Pasteur, Analytical Research and Development, 1755 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, Canada
| | - Marin Ming
- Sanofi Pasteur, Analytical Research and Development, 1755 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lidice Bernardo
- Sanofi Pasteur, Analytical Research and Development, 1755 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tricia Chen
- Sanofi Pasteur, Analytical Research and Development, 1755 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lucy Gisonni-Lex
- Sanofi Pasteur, Analytical Research and Development, 1755 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, Canada
| | - Beata Gajewska
- Sanofi Pasteur, Analytical Research and Development, 1755 Steeles Avenue West, Toronto, Canada
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20
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Accelerated and long term stability study of Pfs25-EPA conjugates adjuvanted with Alhydrogel®. Vaccine 2017; 35:3232-3238. [PMID: 28479180 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2017.04.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Pfs25, a Plasmodium falciparum surface protein expressed during zygote and ookinete stages in infected mosquitoes, is a lead transmission-blocking vaccine candidate against falciparum malaria. To enhance immunogenicity, recombinant Pfs25 was chemically conjugated to recombinant nontoxic Pseudomonas aeruginosa ExoProtein A (rEPA) in conformance with current good manufacturing practices (cGMP), and formulated with the alum adjuvant Alhydrogel. In order to meet the regulatory requirements for a phase 1 human clinical trial, the vaccine product was extensively evaluated for stability at an initial time point and through the clinical trial period annually. Because basic quality control methods to characterize alum-based vaccines remain unavailable, a thermal forced degradation study was performed prior to the initial evaluation to identify the methods suitable to detect the quality of vaccine formulations. Our results show that the vaccine product Pfs25-EPA formulated on Alhydrogel is in conformance with regulatory guidelines and suitable for human trials.
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21
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Westdijk J, Metz B, Spruit N, Tilstra W, van der Gun J, Hendriksen C, Kersten G. Antigenic fingerprinting of diphtheria toxoid adsorbed to aluminium phosphate. Biologicals 2017; 47:69-75. [PMID: 28259519 DOI: 10.1016/j.biologicals.2016.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Revised: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The antigenicity of alum-adsorbed diphtheria toxoid (DTd) was determined in combination vaccines, containing DTd, tetanus toxoid and inactivated poliovirus. A panel of monoclonal antibodies was used, covering five epitopes, distributed over the antigen. The resulting antigenic fingerprint of DTd demonstrates consistency of adsorption at antigen level in final product combination vaccines. The antigenic quality of DTd alone, adsorbed to aluminium phosphate, was also determined and compared with pre-adsorbed toxoid (starting material as well as toxoid desorbed from aluminium phosphate). Some epitopes became less accessible after adsorption, while others became relatively better exposed. Some epitopes disappeared almost completely upon adsorption, but were re-established after desorption of the antigen. The results indicate that DTd is adsorbed to aluminium phosphate in a preferred orientation and not randomly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janny Westdijk
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720 AL Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Bernard Metz
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720 AL Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Nanda Spruit
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720 AL Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Wichard Tilstra
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720 AL Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Johan van der Gun
- Bilthoven Biologicals, P.O. Box 457, 3720 AL Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Coenraad Hendriksen
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720 AL Bilthoven, The Netherlands; Utrecht University, Department of Animals in Science and Society-3R Centre Utrecht Life Sciences, Yalelaan 2, P.O. Box 80.166, 3508TD Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Gideon Kersten
- Institute for Translational Vaccinology, P.O. Box 450, 3720 AL Bilthoven, The Netherlands; Leiden Academic Center for Drug Research, Drug Delivery Technology, P.O. Box 9502, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands
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22
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Li M, Wang X, Cao L, Lin Z, Wei M, Fang M, Li S, Zhang J, Xia N, Zhao Q. Quantitative and epitope-specific antigenicity analysis of the human papillomavirus 6 capsid protein in aqueous solution or when adsorbed on particulate adjuvants. Vaccine 2016; 34:4422-8. [PMID: 27426626 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Revised: 07/03/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) 6 is a human pathogen which causes genital warts. Recombinant virus-like particle (VLP) based antigens are the active components in prophylactic vaccines to elicit functional antibodies. The binding and functional characteristics of a panel of 15 murine monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against HPV6 was quantitatively assessed. Elite conformational indicators, recognizing the conformational epitopes, are also elite viral neutralizers as demonstrated with their viral neutralization efficiency (5 mAbs with neutralization titer below 4ng/mL) in a pseudovirion (PsV)-based system. The functionality of a given mAb is closely related to the nature of the corresponding epitope, rather than the apparent binding affinity to antigen. The epitope-specific antigenicity assays can be used to assess the binding activity of PsV or VLP preparations to neutralizing mAbs. These mAb-based assays can be used for process monitoring and for product release and characterization to confirm the existence of functional epitopes in purified antigen preparations. Due to the particulate nature of the alum adjuvants, the vaccine antigen adsorbed on adjuvants was considered largely as "a black box" due to the difficulty in analysis and visualization. Here, a novel method with fluorescence-based high content imaging for visualization and quantitating the immunoreactivity of adjuvant-adsorbed VLPs with neutralizing mAbs was developed, in which antigen desorption was not needed. The facile and quantitative in situ antigenicity analysis was amendable for automation. The integrity of a given epitope or two non-overlapping epitopes on the recombinant VLPs in their adjuvanted form can be assessed in a quantitative manner for cross-lot or cross-product comparative analysis with minimal manipulation of samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Xin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Lu Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Zhijie Lin
- Innovax Corporation, Xiamen, Fujian 361000, PR China.
| | - Minxi Wei
- Innovax Corporation, Xiamen, Fujian 361000, PR China.
| | - Mujin Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Shaowei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Jun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Ningshao Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
| | - Qinjian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China; School of Public Health, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361005, PR China.
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23
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Multiplex immunoassay for in vitro characterization of acellular pertussis antigens in combination vaccines. Vaccine 2016; 34:1040-6. [PMID: 26784684 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Revised: 12/24/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Vaccines characterization is required to ensure physical, chemical, and biological integrity of antigens and adjuvants. Current analytical methods mostly require complete antigen desorption from aluminum-based adjuvants and are not always suitable to distinguish individual antigens in multivalent formulations. Here, Luminex technology is proposed to improve the analytics of vaccine characterization. As proof of concept, TdaP (tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis) combination, adjuvanted with aluminum hydroxide, was chosen as model formulation to quantify and determine the level of adsorption of acellular pertussis (aP) antigens onto adjuvant surface at the same time. The assay used specific antibodies bound to magnetic microspheres presenting unique digital signatures for each pertussis antigen, allowing the simultaneous recognition of respective antigens in the whole vaccine, avoiding laborious procedures for adjuvant separation. Accurate and reproducible quantification of aP antigens in TdaP vaccine has been achieved in the range 0.78-50 ng/mL, providing simultaneously information on antigen identity, quantity, and degree of adsorption to aluminum hydroxide. The current study could further be considered as a model to set up in vitro potency assays thus supporting the replacement of animal tests accordingly to the 3Rs concept.
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24
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Lee N, Shin S, Chung HJ, Kim DK, Lim JM, Park H, Oh HJ. Improved quantification of protein in vaccines containing aluminum hydroxide by simple modification of the Lowry method. Vaccine 2015; 33:5031-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2015.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Revised: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 08/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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25
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Dey AK, Malyala P, Singh M. Physicochemical and functional characterization of vaccine antigens and adjuvants. Expert Rev Vaccines 2014; 13:671-85. [PMID: 24702271 DOI: 10.1586/14760584.2014.907528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
As novel vaccine antigens and adjuvants are being tested in humans, understanding of critical quality attributes essential for eliciting optimal vaccine response and vaccine antigen-adjuvant interactions is pivotal for vaccine safety and eliciting 'protective' immune responses. Therefore, the efforts to better characterize and evaluate vaccine antigen and antigen-adjuvant drug products need to begin very early during the discovery and development phase. In this review, we discuss the importance of characterization of physicochemical and functional properties in vaccine antigen, adjuvant and the final antigen-adjuvant drug product and emphasize the greater need for more extensive understanding of vaccine antigen-adjuvant interactions. We highlight the key parameters and quality attributes that are critical to measure during preclinical and clinical testing of the vaccine and discuss in some detail the technologies, and their limitations, used in analyzing the key physicochemical and functional attributes of vaccine antigen and antigen-adjuvant drug product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antu K Dey
- Novartis Vaccines Inc., 475 Green Oaks Parkway, Holly Springs, NC 27540, USA
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26
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Ireton GC, Reed SG. Adjuvants containing natural and synthetic Toll-like receptor 4 ligands. Expert Rev Vaccines 2014; 12:793-807. [PMID: 23885824 DOI: 10.1586/14760584.2013.811204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The last decade has seen an increased focus on the development of adjuvants for vaccines, and several novel adjuvants are now in licensed products or in late-stage clinical development. These advancements have been aided by the discovery of receptors and signaling pathways of the innate immune system and an increased understanding of how these innate responses influence the adaptive immune response. Successful vaccine development relies on knowledge of which adjuvants to use and the proper formulation of adjuvants and antigens to achieve safe, stable and immunogenic vaccines. In this review, the authors focus on the current use of natural and synthetic lipopolysaccharide analogues that retain their adjuvant properties with reduced toxicity compared with the parent compound for use in emerging vaccines. The authors review how these compounds initiate signal transduction through Toll-like receptor 4, insights from structure-function studies and how formulation parameters can influence their effectiveness as vaccine adjuvants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory C Ireton
- Infectious Disease Research Institute, 1124 Columbia St., Ste 400, Seattle, WA 98104, USA
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27
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Smith TG, Ellison JA, Ma X, Kuzmina N, Carson WC, Rupprecht CE. An electrochemiluminescence assay for analysis of rabies virus glycoprotein content in rabies vaccines. Vaccine 2013; 31:3333-8. [PMID: 23742991 PMCID: PMC4568986 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2013.05.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2013] [Revised: 05/12/2013] [Accepted: 05/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Vaccine potency testing is necessary to evaluate the immunogenicity of inactivated rabies virus (RABV) vaccine preparations before human or veterinary application. Currently, the NIH test is recommended by the WHO expert committee to evaluate RABV vaccine potency. However, numerous disadvantages are inherent concerning cost, number of animals and biosafety requirements. As such, several in vitro methods have been proposed for the evaluation of vaccines based on RABV glycoprotein (G) quality and quantity, which is expected to correlate with vaccine potency. In this study an antigen-capture electrochemiluminescent (ECL) assay was developed utilizing anti-RABV G monoclonal antibodies (MAb) to quantify RABV G. One MAb 2-21-14 was specific for a conformational epitope so that only immunogenic, natively folded G was captured in the assay. MAb 2-21-14 or a second MAb (62-80-6) that binds a linear epitope was used for detection of RABV G. Vaccine efficacy was also assessed in vivo using pre-exposure vaccination of mice. Purified native RABV G induced a RABV neutralizing antibody (rVNA) response with a geometric mean titer of 4.2IU/ml and protected 100% of immunized mice against RABV challenge, while an experimental vaccine with a lower quality and quantity of G induced a rVNA titer<0.05IU/ml and protected <50% of immunized mice. These preliminary results support the hypothesis that in vivo immunogenicity may be predicted from the in vitro measurement of RABV G using an ECL assay. Based upon these results, the ECL assay may have utility in replacement of the NIH test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd G Smith
- Poxvirus and Rabies Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
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28
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Structural and immunological analysis of anthrax recombinant protective antigen adsorbed to aluminum hydroxide adjuvant. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2012; 19:1465-73. [PMID: 22815152 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.00174-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
New anthrax vaccines currently under development are based on recombinant protective antigen (rPA) and formulated with aluminum adjuvant. Because long-term stability is a desired characteristic of these vaccines, an understanding of the effects of adsorption to aluminum adjuvants on the structure of rPA is important. Using both biophysical and immunological techniques, we compared the structure and immunogenicity of freshly prepared rPA-Alhydrogel formulations to that of formulations stored for 3 weeks at either room temperature or 37°C in order to assess the changes in rPA structure that might occur upon long-term storage on aluminum adjuvant. Intrinsic fluorescence emission spectra of tryptophan residues indicated that some tertiary structure alterations of rPA occurred during storage on Alhydrogel. Using anti-PA monoclonal antibodies to probe specific regions of the adsorbed rPA molecule, we found that two monoclonal antibodies that recognize epitopes located in domain 1 of PA exhibited greater reactivity to the stored formulations than to freshly prepared formulations. Immunogenicity of rPA-Alhydrogel formulations in mice was assessed by measuring the induction of toxin-neutralizing antibodies, as well as antibodies reactive to 12-mer peptides spanning the length of PA. Mice immunized with freshly prepared formulations developed significantly higher toxin-neutralizing antibody titers than mice immunized with the stored preparations. In contrast, sera from mice immunized with stored preparations exhibited increased reactivity to nine 12-mer peptides corresponding to sequences located throughout the rPA molecule. These results demonstrate that storage of rPA-Alhydrogel formulations can lead to structural alteration of the protein and loss of the ability to elicit toxin-neutralizing antibodies.
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29
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Harris JR, Soliakov A, Lewis RJ, Depoix F, Watkinson A, Lakey JH. Alhydrogel® adjuvant, ultrasonic dispersion and protein binding: a TEM and analytical study. Micron 2011; 43:192-200. [PMID: 21831642 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2011.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2011] [Revised: 07/10/2011] [Accepted: 07/11/2011] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Aluminium-based vaccine adjuvants have been in use since the 1920s. Aluminium hydroxide (alum) that is the chemical basis of Alhydrogel, a widely used adjuvant, is a colloid that binds proteins to the particular surface for efficient presentation to the immune system during the vaccination process. Using conventional TEM and cryo-TEM we have shown that Alhydrogel can be finely dispersed by ultrasonication of the aqueous suspension. Clusters of ultrasonicated aluminium hydroxide micro-fibre crystals have been produced (∼ 10-100 nm), that are significantly smaller than those present the untreated Alhydrogel (∼ 2-12 μm). However, even prolonged ultrasonication did not produce a homogenous suspension of single aluminium hydroxide micro-fibres. The TEM images of unstained and negatively stained air-dried Alhydrogel are very similar to those obtained by cryo-electron microscopy. Visualization of protein on the surface of the finely dispersed Alhydrogel by TEM is facilitated by prior ultrasonication. Several examples are given, including some of medical relevance, using proteins of widely ranging molecular mass and oligomerization state. Even with the smaller mass proteins, their presence on the Alhydrogel surface can be readily defined by TEM. It has been found that low quantities of protein tend to cross-link and aggregate the small Alhydogel clusters, in a more pronounced manner than high protein concentrations. This indicates that complete saturation of the available Alhydrogel surface with protein may be achieved, with minimal cross-linkage, and future exploitation of this treatment of Alhydrogel is likely to be of immediate value for more efficient vaccine production.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Robin Harris
- Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK.
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30
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Ugozzoli M, Laera D, Nuti S, Skibinski DAG, Bufali S, Sammicheli C, Tavarini S, Singh M, O'Hagan DT. Flow cytometry: an alternative method for direct quantification of antigens adsorbed to aluminum hydroxide adjuvant. Anal Biochem 2011; 418:224-30. [PMID: 21820996 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2011.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2011] [Revised: 06/29/2011] [Accepted: 07/12/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Flow cytometry (FC) has been widely used in biological research; however, its use for vaccine characterization has been very limited. Here we describe the development of an FC method for the direct quantification of two Neisseria meningitidis vaccine antigens, in mono- and multivalent formulations, while still adsorbed on aluminum hydroxide (AH) suspension. The antibody-based method is specific and sensitive. Because FC allows microscopic particle examination, the entire aluminum suspension carrying adsorbed antigen(s) can be analyzed directly. In addition to determining antigen concentration and identity, the assay is able to determine the distribution of the antigens on AH. High correlation coefficients (r(2)) were routinely achieved for a broad range of antigen doses from 0 to 150 μg/dose. Traditional assays for quantitative and qualitative antigen characterization on AH particles involve either complete aluminum dissolution or antigen desorption from the adjuvant. Because our direct method uses the whole AH suspension, the cumbersome steps used by traditional methods are not required. Those steps are often inefficient in desorbing the antigens and in some cases can lead to protein denaturation. We believe that this novel FC-based assay could circumvent some of the complex and tedious antigen-adjuvant desorption methods.
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Abstract
The combination of diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccines into a single product has been central to the protection of the pediatric population over the past 50 years. The addition of inactivated polio, Haemophilus influenzae, and hepatitis B vaccines into the combination has facilitated the introduction of these vaccines into recommended immunization schedules by reducing the number of injections required and has therefore increased immunization compliance. However, the development of these combinations encountered numerous challenges, including the reduced response to Haemophilus influenzae vaccine when given in combination; the need to consolidate the differences in the immunization schedule (hepatitis B); and the need to improve the safety profile of the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis combination. Here, we review these challenges and also discuss future prospects for combination vaccines.
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32
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Abstract
Natural derivatives and synthetic analogues of lipopolysaccharide are potent stimulators of the mammalian immune system. Retained adjuvant activity with reduced toxicity was obtained by the development of monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL((R))), which is approved for use in several vaccine products. Ongoing research and development of synthetic TLR4 agonists may offer increased purity and biological activity with reduced cost. Extensive research has elucidated the mechanism of action of TLR4 agonists and structure-function relationships. Moreover, the formulation of TLR4 agonists has been shown to significantly affect the type and magnitude of elicited immune response. TLR4 agonists comprise a promising class of adjuvants for safe and effective vaccines.
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33
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Zhu D, Saul A, Huang S, Martin LB, Miller LH, Rausch KM. Use of o-phthalaldehyde assay to determine protein contents of Alhydrogel-based vaccines. Vaccine 2009; 27:6054-9. [PMID: 19660590 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2009.07.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2009] [Revised: 07/14/2009] [Accepted: 07/20/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Aluminum based adjuvants (alum), including aluminum hydroxide (Alhydrogel) and aluminum phosphate are the most commonly used adjuvant in the US. In order to ensure quality of vaccines, regulatory authorities require evaluation of antigen content in final vaccine products. Currently, there are no generic methods available for the determination of protein content in alum-based vaccines. Aluminum hydroxide gels exist as particles in solution, which interfere with direct quantitation of protein content in formulations using assays such as Lowry, BCA or Bradford protein assay. The present study adapts a simple fluorescent assay to directly (without the need for antigen extraction) determine antigen content on Alhydrogel with accuracy and sensitivity using the o-phthalaldehyde (OPA) reagent. Malaria vaccine candidates AMA1-C1/Alhydrogel, AMA1-C2/Alhydrogel, MSP1(42)-3D7/Alhydrogel, MSP1(42)-C1/Alhydrogel or BSAM-2/Alhydrogel were used as model formulations. The results of the present study show that the OPA assay is highly accurate (87-100%), reproducible, and simple with a linear detection range of 25-400 microg/mL for Alhydrogel vaccines (except for MSP1(42)-C1, which has a linear detection range of 31.25-500 microg/mL). This assay has proven to be highly useful in our laboratory and been used in routine vaccine quality control processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daming Zhu
- Malaria Vaccine Development Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, 5640 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852, USA.
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