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Pourhashem Z, Nourani L, Sani JJ, Yousefi H, Pirahmadi S, Sabouri M, Raz A, Djadid ND, Zakeri S, Mehrizi AA. Evaluation of a new fusion antigen, cd loop and HAP2-GCS1 domain (cd-HAP) of Plasmodium falciparum Generative Cell Specific 1 antigen formulated with various adjuvants, as a transmission blocking vaccine. Malar J 2023; 22:374. [PMID: 38071314 PMCID: PMC10710725 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-023-04798-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria is a major global health challenge, and for the elimination and eradication of this disease, transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) are a priority. Plasmodium falciparum Generative Cell Specific 1 (PfGCS1), a promising TBV candidate, is essential for gamete fertilization. The HAP2-GCS1 domain of this antigen as well as its cd loop could induce antibodies that partially inhibit transmission of P. falciparum. METHODS In the current study, a new synthetic fusion antigen containing cd loop and HAP2-GCS1 domain (cd-HAP) of PfGCS1 was evaluated as a transmission blocking vaccine candidate. Initially, the profile of naturally acquired IgG antibodies to the cd-HAP antigen was analysed in Iranian individuals infected with P. falciparum, to confirm that this new fusion protein has the appropriate structure containing common epitopes with the native form of PfGCS1. Then, the immunogenicity of cd-HAP was evaluated in BALB/c mice, using different adjuvant systems such as CpG, MPL, QS-21, and a combination of them (CMQ). Furthermore, the blocking efficacy of polyclonal antibodies induced against these formulations was also assessed by oocyst intensity and infection prevalence in the Standard Membrane Feeding Assay (SMFA). RESULTS The naturally acquired antibodies (dominantly IgG1 and IgG3 subclasses) induced in P. falciparum-infected individuals could recognize the cd-HAP antigen which implies that the new fusion protein has a proper conformation that mimics the native structure of PfGCS1. Concerning the immunogenicity of cd-HAP antigen, the highest IgG levels and titers, by a Th1-type immune profile, and elevated antibody avidity were induced in mice immunized with the cd-HAP antigen formulated with a combination of adjuvants (P < 0.0001). Additionally, cytokine profiling of the immunized mice displayed that a high level of IFN-γ response, a Th1-type immune response, was produced by splenocytes from immunized mice that received cd-HAP antigen in combination with CMQ adjuvants (P < 0.0001). This formulation of cd-HAP antigen with CMQ adjuvants could reduce oocyst intensity and infection prevalence by 82%, evidenced by the SMFA and hold significant implications for future malaria vaccine development. CONCLUSION Altogether, the results showed that cd-HAP antigen formulated with a combination of the adjuvants (CMQ), could be a promising formulation to develop a PfGCS1-based transmission-blocking vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Pourhashem
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Nourani
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jafar J Sani
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hemn Yousefi
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sakineh Pirahmadi
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mobina Sabouri
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbasali Raz
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Navid Dinparast Djadid
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sedigheh Zakeri
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Akram Abouie Mehrizi
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
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da Silva GG, Zaldívar MF, Oliveira LAR, Mariano RMDS, Lair DF, de Souza RA, Galdino AS, Chávez-Fumagalli MA, da Silveira-Lemos D, Dutra WO, Nascimento Araújo R, Ferreira LL, Giunchetti RC. Advances in Non-Chemical Tools to Control Poultry Hematophagous Mites. Vet Sci 2023; 10:589. [PMID: 37888541 PMCID: PMC10611074 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10100589] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-sucking mites Dermanyssus gallinae ("red mite"), Ornithonyssus sylviarum ("northern fowl mite"), and Ornithonyssus bursa ("tropical fowl mite") stand out for causing infestations in commercial poultry farms worldwide, resulting in significant economic damage for producers. In addition to changes in production systems that include new concerns for animal welfare, global climate change in recent years has become a major challenge in the spread of ectoparasites around the world. This review includes information regarding the main form of controlling poultry mites through the use of commercially available chemicals. In addition, non-chemical measures against blood-sucking mites were discussed such as extracts and oils from plants and seeds, entomopathogenic fungi, semiochemicals, powder such as diatomaceous earth and silica-based products, and vaccine candidates. The control of poultry mites using chemical methods that are currently used to control or eliminate them are proving to be less effective as mites develop resistance. In contrast, the products based on plant oils and extracts, powders of plant origin, fungi, and new antigens aimed at developing transmission-blocking vaccines against poultry mites provide some encouraging options for the rational control of these ectoparasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geralda Gabriele da Silva
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Maykelin Fuentes Zaldívar
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Lucilene Aparecida Resende Oliveira
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Reysla Maria da Silveira Mariano
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Daniel Ferreira Lair
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Renata Antunes de Souza
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Alexsandro Sobreira Galdino
- Microorganism Biotechnology Laboratory, Federal University of São João Del-Rei (UFSJ), Campus Centro Oeste, Divinópolis 35501-296, MG, Brazil;
| | - Miguel Angel Chávez-Fumagalli
- Computational Biology and Chemistry Research Group, Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Universidad Católica de Santa María, Urb. San José S/N, Arequipa 04000, Peru;
| | - Denise da Silveira-Lemos
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Walderez Ornelas Dutra
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
| | - Ricardo Nascimento Araújo
- Laboratory of Hematophagous Arthropods, Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil;
| | - Lorena Lopes Ferreira
- Laboratory of Ectoparasites, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil;
| | - Rodolfo Cordeiro Giunchetti
- Laboratory of Cell-Cell Interactions, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (L.A.R.O.); (R.M.d.S.M.); (D.F.L.); (R.A.d.S.); (D.d.S.-L.); (W.O.D.)
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da Veiga GTS, Moriggi MR, Vettorazzi JF, Müller-Santos M, Albrecht L. Plasmodium vivax vaccine: What is the best way to go? Front Immunol 2023; 13:910236. [PMID: 36726991 PMCID: PMC9885200 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.910236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria is one of the most devastating human infectious diseases caused by Plasmodium spp. parasites. A search for an effective and safe vaccine is the main challenge for its eradication. Plasmodium vivax is the second most prevalent Plasmodium species and the most geographically distributed parasite and has been neglected for decades. This has a massive gap in knowledge and consequently in the development of vaccines. The most significant difficulties in obtaining a vaccine against P. vivax are the high genetic diversity and the extremely complex life cycle. Due to its complexity, studies have evaluated P. vivax antigens from different stages as potential targets for an effective vaccine. Therefore, the main vaccine candidates are grouped into preerythrocytic stage vaccines, blood-stage vaccines, and transmission-blocking vaccines. This review aims to support future investigations by presenting the main findings of vivax malaria vaccines to date. There are only a few P. vivax vaccines in clinical trials, and thus far, the best protective efficacy was a vaccine formulated with synthetic peptide from a circumsporozoite protein and Montanide ISA-51 as an adjuvant with 54.5% efficacy in a phase IIa study. In addition, the majority of P. vivax antigen candidates are polymorphic, induce strain-specific and heterogeneous immunity and provide only partial protection. Nevertheless, immunization with recombinant proteins and multiantigen vaccines have shown promising results and have emerged as excellent strategies. However, more studies are necessary to assess the ideal vaccine combination and test it in clinical trials. Developing a safe and effective vaccine against vivax malaria is essential for controlling and eliminating the disease. Therefore, it is necessary to determine what is already known to propose and identify new candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisele Tatiane Soares da Veiga
- Laboratory of Apicomplexan Parasites Research, Carlos Chagas Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Curitiba, Brazil,Nitrogen Fixation Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Brazil
| | | | | | - Marcelo Müller-Santos
- Nitrogen Fixation Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Letusa Albrecht
- Laboratory of Apicomplexan Parasites Research, Carlos Chagas Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Curitiba, Brazil,*Correspondence: Letusa Albrecht,
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McCoy KD, Weldon CT, Ansumana R, Lamin JM, Stenger DA, Ryan SJ, Bardosh K, Jacobsen KH, Dinglasan RR. Are malaria transmission-blocking vaccines acceptable to high burden communities? Results from a mixed methods study in Bo, Sierra Leone. Malar J 2021; 20:183. [PMID: 33849572 PMCID: PMC8045381 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-03723-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) could help break the cycle of malaria transmission by conferring community rather than individual protection. When introducing new intervention strategies, uptake is dependent on acceptability, not just efficacy. In this exploratory study on acceptability of TBVs in Sierra Leone, it was hypothesized that TBVs would be largely acceptable to adults and health workers in areas with relatively few ongoing malaria interventions, and that (i) knowledge of malaria and vaccines, (ii) health behaviours associated with malaria and vaccines, and (iii) attitudes towards different vaccines types could lead to greater TBV acceptability. METHODS This study used a mixed methods approach in Bo, Sierra Leone, to understand community knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to malaria and vaccination in general. This included: (i) a population-based cross-sectional survey (n=615 adults), (ii) 6 focus group discussions with parents, and (iii) 20 key informant interviews. The concept of a TBV was explained to participants before they were asked about their willingness to accept this vaccine modality as part of an integrated malaria elimination programme. RESULTS This study found that most adults would be willing to receive a TBV vaccine. Respondents noted mostly positive past experiences with adult and childhood vaccinations for other infectious diseases and high levels of engagement in other malaria prevention behaviors such as bed nets. Perceived barriers to TBV acceptance were largely focused on general community-level distribution of a vaccine, including personal fears of vaccination and possible costs. After an explanation of the TBV mechanism, nearly all focus group and interview participants believed that community members would accept the vaccine as part of an integrated malaria control approach. Both parents and health workers offered insight on how to successfully roll-out a future TBV vaccination programme. CONCLUSIONS The willingness of community members in Bo, Sierra Leone to accept a TBV as part of an integrated anti-malarial strategy suggests that the atypical mechanism of TBV action might not be an obstacle to future clinical trials. This study's findings suggests that perceived general barriers to vaccination implementation, such as perceived personal fears and vaccine cost, must be addressed in future clinical and implementation research studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaci D McCoy
- CDC Southeastern Center of Excellence in Vector Borne Diseases, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Caroline T Weldon
- CDC Southeastern Center of Excellence in Vector Borne Diseases, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Rashid Ansumana
- Mercy Hospital Research Laboratory, Bo, Sierra Leone
- School of Community Health Sciences, Njala University, Bo, Sierra Leone
| | | | - David A Stenger
- Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sadie J Ryan
- CDC Southeastern Center of Excellence in Vector Borne Diseases, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Department of Geography, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kevin Bardosh
- Center for One Health Research, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kathryn H Jacobsen
- Department of Global and Community Health, College of Health and Human Services, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Rhoel R Dinglasan
- CDC Southeastern Center of Excellence in Vector Borne Diseases, Gainesville, FL, USA.
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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Immunofocusing humoral immunity potentiates the functional efficacy of the AnAPN1 malaria transmission-blocking vaccine antigen. NPJ Vaccines 2021; 6:49. [PMID: 33824336 PMCID: PMC8024329 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-021-00309-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) prevent the completion of the developmental lifecycle of malarial parasites within the mosquito vector, effectively blocking subsequent infections. The mosquito midgut protein Anopheline alanyl aminopeptidase N (AnAPN1) is the leading, mosquito-based TBV antigen. Structure-function studies identified two Class II epitopes that can induce potent transmission-blocking (T-B) antibodies, informing the design of the next-generation AnAPN1. Here, we functionally screened new immunogens and down-selected to the UF6b construct that has two glycine-linked copies of the T-B epitopes. We then established a process for manufacturing UF6b and evaluated in outbred female CD1 mice the immunogenicity of the preclinical product with the human-safe adjuvant Glucopyranosyl Lipid Adjuvant in a liposomal formulation with saponin QS21 (GLA-LSQ). UF6b:GLA-LSQ effectively immunofocused the humoral response to one of the key T-B epitopes resulting in potent T-B activity, underscoring UF6b as a prime TBV candidate to aid in malaria elimination and eradication efforts.
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De SL, Ntumngia FB, Nicholas J, Adams JH. Progress towards the development of a P. vivax vaccine. Expert Rev Vaccines 2021; 20:97-112. [PMID: 33481638 PMCID: PMC7994195 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2021.1880898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Plasmodium vivax causes significant public health problems in endemic regions. A vaccine to prevent disease is critical, considering the rapid spread of drug-resistant parasite strains, and the development of hypnozoites in the liver with potential for relapse. A minimally effective vaccine should prevent disease and transmission while an ideal vaccine provides sterile immunity. AREAS COVERED Despite decades of research, the complex life cycle, technical challenges and a lack of funding have hampered progress of P. vivax vaccine development. Here, we review the progress of potential P. vivax vaccine candidates from different stages of the parasite life cycle. We also highlight the challenges and important strategies for rational vaccine design. These factors can significantly increase immune effector mechanisms and improve the protective efficacy of these candidates in clinical trials to generate sustained protection over longer periods of time. EXPERT OPINION A vaccine that presents functionally-conserved epitopes from multiple antigens from various stages of the parasite life cycle is key to induce broadly neutralizing strain-transcending protective immunity to effectively disrupt parasite development and transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Lata De
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Blvd, Tampa – 33612, FL
| | - Francis B. Ntumngia
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Blvd, Tampa – 33612, FL
| | - Justin Nicholas
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Blvd, Tampa – 33612, FL
| | - John H. Adams
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Blvd, Tampa – 33612, FL
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Patra KP, Kaur H, Kolli SK, Wozniak JM, Prieto JH, Yates JR, Gonzalez DJ, Janse CJ, Vinetz JM. A Hetero-Multimeric Chitinase-Containing Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium gallinaceum Ookinete-Secreted Protein Complex Involved in Mosquito Midgut Invasion. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 10:615343. [PMID: 33489941 PMCID: PMC7821095 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.615343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria parasites are transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes. During its life cycle in the mosquito vector the Plasmodium ookinete escapes the proteolytic milieu of the post-blood meal midgut by traversing the midgut wall. This process requires penetration of the chitin-containing peritrophic matrix lining the midgut epithelium, which depends in part on ookinete-secreted chitinases. Plasmodium falciparum ookinetes have one chitinase (PfCHT1), whereas ookinetes of the avian-infecting parasite, P. gallinaceum, have two, a long and a short form, PgCHT1 and PgCHT2, respectively. Published data indicates that PgCHT2 forms a high molecular weight (HMW) reduction-sensitive complex; and one binding partner is the ookinete-produced von Willebrand A-domain-containing protein, WARP. Size exclusion chromatography data reported here show that P. gallinaceum PgCHT2 and its ortholog, P. falciparum PfCHT1 are covalently-linked components of a HMW chitinase-containing complex (> 1,300 kDa). Mass spectrometry of ookinete-secreted proteins isolated using a new chitin bead pull-down method identified chitinase-associated proteins in P. falciparum and P. gallinaceum ookinete-conditioned culture media. Mass spectrometry of this complex showed the presence of several micronemal proteins including von Willebrand factor A domain-related protein (WARP), ookinete surface enolase, and secreted ookinete adhesive protein (SOAP). To test the hypothesis that ookinete-produced PfCHT1 can form a high molecular homo-multimer or, alternatively, interacts with P. berghei ookinete-produced proteins to produce an HMW hetero-multimer, we created chimeric P. berghei parasites expressing PfCHT1 to replace PbCHT1, enabling the production of large numbers of PfCHT1-expressing ookinetes. We show that chimeric P. berghei ookinetes express monomeric PfCHT1, but a HMW complex containing PfCHT1 is not present. A better understanding of the chitinase-containing HMW complex may enhance development of next-generation vaccines or drugs that target malaria transmission stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kailash P Patra
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Hargobinder Kaur
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Surendra Kumar Kolli
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jacob M Wozniak
- Department of Pharmacology and the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Judith Helena Prieto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States.,Department of Chemistry, Western Connecticut State University, Danbury, CT, United States
| | - John R Yates
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - David J Gonzalez
- Department of Pharmacology and the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Chris J Janse
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Joseph M Vinetz
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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Tagliamonte MS, Yowell CA, Elbadry MA, Boncy J, Raccurt CP, Okech BA, Goss EM, Salemi M, Dame JB. Genetic Markers of Adaptation of Plasmodium falciparum to Transmission by American Vectors Identified in the Genomes of Parasites from Haiti and South America. mSphere 2020; 5:e00937-20. [PMID: 33087522 PMCID: PMC7580960 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00937-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, was introduced into Hispaniola and other regions of the Americas through the slave trade spanning the 16th through the 19th centuries. During this period, more than 12 million Africans were brought across the Atlantic to the Caribbean and other regions of the Americas. Since malaria is holoendemic in West Africa, a substantial percentage of these individuals carried the parasite. St. Domingue on Hispaniola, now modern-day Haiti, was a major port of disembarkation, and malaria is still actively transmitted there. We undertook a detailed study of the phylogenetics of the Haitian parasites and those from Colombia and Peru utilizing whole-genome sequencing. Principal-component and phylogenetic analyses, based upon single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in protein coding regions, indicate that, despite the potential for millions of introductions from Africa, the Haitian parasites share an ancestral relationship within a well-supported monophyletic clade with parasites from South America, while belonging to a distinct lineage. This result, in stark contrast to the historical record of parasite introductions, is best explained by a severe population bottleneck experienced by the parasites introduced into the Americas. Here, evidence is presented for targeted selection of rare African alleles in genes which are expressed in the mosquito stages of the parasite's life cycle. These genetic markers support the hypothesis that the severe population bottleneck was caused by the required adaptation of the parasite to transmission by new definitive hosts among the Anopheles (Nyssorhynchus) spp. found in the Caribbean and South America.IMPORTANCE Historical data suggest that millions of P. falciparum parasite lineages were introduced into the Americas during the trans-Atlantic slave trade, which would suggest a paraphyletic origin of the extant isolates in the Western Hemisphere. Our analyses of whole-genome variants show that the American parasites belong to a well-supported monophyletic clade. We hypothesize that the required adaptation to American vectors created a severe bottleneck, reducing the effective introduction to a few lineages. In support of this hypothesis, we discovered genes expressed in the mosquito stages of the life cycle that have alleles with multiple, high-frequency or fixed, nonsynonymous mutations in the American populations which are rarely found in African isolates. These alleles appear to be in gene products critical for transmission through the anopheline vector. Thus, these results may inform efforts to develop novel transmission-blocking vaccines by identifying parasite proteins functionally interacting with the vector that are important for successful transmission. Further, to the best of our knowledge, these are the first whole-genome data available from Haitian P. falciparum isolates. Defining the genome of these parasites provides genetic markers useful for mapping parasite populations and monitoring parasite movements/introductions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano S Tagliamonte
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Charles A Yowell
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Maha A Elbadry
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Jacques Boncy
- Laboratoire National de Santé Publique, Ministère de la Santé Publique et de la Population, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Christian P Raccurt
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Quisqueya, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Bernard A Okech
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Erica M Goss
- Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Marco Salemi
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - John B Dame
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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9
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Wilson KL, Flanagan KL, Prakash MD, Plebanski M. Malaria vaccines in the eradication era: current status and future perspectives. Expert Rev Vaccines 2019; 18:133-151. [PMID: 30601095 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2019.1561289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The challenge to eradicate malaria is an enormous task that will not be achieved by current control measures, thus an efficacious and long-lasting malaria vaccine is required. The licensing of RTS, S/AS01 is a step forward in providing some protection, but a malaria vaccine that protects across multiple transmission seasons is still needed. To achieve this, inducing beneficial immune responses while minimising deleterious non-targeted effects will be essential. AREAS COVERED This article discusses the current challenges and advances in malaria vaccine development and reviews recent human clinical trials for each stage of infection. Pubmed and ScienceDirect were searched, focusing on cell mediated immunity and how T cell subsets might be targeted in future vaccines using novel adjuvants and emerging vaccine technologies. EXPERT COMMENTARY Despite decades of research there is no highly effective licensed malaria vaccine. However, there is cause for optimism as new adjuvants and vaccine systems emerge, and our understanding of correlates of protection increases, especially regarding cellular immunity. The new field of heterologous (non-specific) effects of vaccines also highlights the broader consequences of immunization. Importantly, the WHO led Malaria Vaccine Technology Roadmap illustrates that there is a political will among the global health community to make it happen.
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Affiliation(s)
- K L Wilson
- a Department of Immunology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences , Monash University , Melbourne , Australia.,b School of Health and Biomedical Sciences , RMIT University , Bundoora , Australia
| | - K L Flanagan
- a Department of Immunology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences , Monash University , Melbourne , Australia.,b School of Health and Biomedical Sciences , RMIT University , Bundoora , Australia.,c School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences , University of Tasmania , Launceston , Australia
| | - M D Prakash
- b School of Health and Biomedical Sciences , RMIT University , Bundoora , Australia
| | - M Plebanski
- b School of Health and Biomedical Sciences , RMIT University , Bundoora , Australia
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10
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Khamsehnejad MI, Djadid ND, Raz A. Identification, Molecular Characterization, and In Silico Structural Analysis of Carboxypeptidase B2 of Anopheles stephensi. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2019; 56:72-85. [PMID: 30124910 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjy127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Malaria is a vector-borne infectious disease that is considered a priority of the World Health Organization due to its enormous impacts on global health. Plasmodium spp. (Haemosporida: Plasmodiidae), Anopheles spp. (Diptera: Culicidae), and a suitable host are the key elements for malaria transmission. To disrupt the parasitic life cycle of malaria or prevent its transmission, these three key elements should be targeted by effective control strategies. Development of vaccines that interrupt malaria transmission is one of the solutions that has been recommended to the countries that aim to eliminate malaria. With respect to the important role of Anopheles stephensi in malaria transmission and involvement of Anopheles carboxypeptidase B1 in sexual parasite development, we characterized the second member of cpb gene family (cpbAs2) of An. Stephensi to provide some basic information and evaluate significance of cpbAs2's role in complementing sexual plasmodium development role of cpbAs1. The cpbAs2 mRNA sequence was characterized by 3' and 5' RACE and the structural features of its coded protein were studied by in silico modeling. The coding sequence and gene structure of cpbAs2 were determined empirically and compared with the in silico predictions from the An. stephensi genome sequencing project. Furthermore, homology modeling revealed that its structure is very similar to the structurally important domains of procarboxypeptidase B2 in humans. This study provides basic molecular and structural information about another member of the cpb gene family of An. stephensi. The reported results are informative and necessary for evaluation of the role of this gene in sexual parasite development by future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdokht Ilbeigi Khamsehnejad
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran (PII), Pasteur Avenue, Tehran, Iran
| | - Navid Dinparast Djadid
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran (PII), Pasteur Avenue, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbasali Raz
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran (PII), Pasteur Avenue, Tehran, Iran
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11
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Martin TCS, Vinetz JM. Asymptomatic Plasmodium vivax parasitaemia in the low-transmission setting: the role for a population-based transmission-blocking vaccine for malaria elimination. Malar J 2018; 17:89. [PMID: 29466991 PMCID: PMC5822557 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-018-2243-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality across the Americas, Horn of Africa, East and South East Asia. Control of transmission has been hampered by emergence of chloroquine resistance and several intrinsic characteristics of infection including asymptomatic carriage, challenges with diagnosis, difficulty eradicating the carrier state and early gametocyte appearance. Complex human-parasite-vector immunological interactions may facilitate onward infection of mosquitoes. Given these challenges, new therapies are being explored including the development of transmission to mosquito blocking vaccines. Herein, the case supporting the need for transmission-blocking vaccines to augment control of P. vivax parasite transmission and explore factors that are limiting eradication efforts is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C S Martin
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Joseph M Vinetz
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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12
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Singh RK, Dhama K, Khandia R, Munjal A, Karthik K, Tiwari R, Chakraborty S, Malik YS, Bueno-Marí R. Prevention and Control Strategies to Counter Zika Virus, a Special Focus on Intervention Approaches against Vector Mosquitoes-Current Updates. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:87. [PMID: 29472902 PMCID: PMC5809424 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.00087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) is the most recent intruder that acquired the status of global threat creating panic and frightening situation to public owing to its rapid spread, attaining higher virulence and causing complex clinical manifestations including microcephaly in newborns and Guillain Barré Syndrome. Alike other flaviviruses, the principal mode of ZIKV transmission is by mosquitoes. Advances in research have provided reliable diagnostics for detecting ZIKV infection, while several drug/therapeutic targets and vaccine candidates have been identified recently. Despite these progresses, currently there is neither any effective drug nor any vaccine available against ZIKV. Under such circumstances and to tackle the problem at large, control measures of which mosquito population control need to be strengthened following appropriate mechanical, chemical, biological and genetic control measures. Apart from this, several other known modes of ZIKV transmission which have gained importance in recent past such as intrauterine, sexual intercourse, and blood-borne spread need to be checked and kept under control by adopting appropriate precautions and utmost care during sexual intercourse, blood transfusion and organ transplantation. The virus inactivation by pasteurization, detergents, chemicals, and filtration can effectively reduce viral load in plasma-derived medicinal products. Added to this, strengthening of the surveillance and monitoring of ZIKV as well as avoiding travel to Zika infected areas would aid in keeping viral infection under check. Here, we discuss the salient advances in the prevention and control strategies to combat ZIKV with a focus on highlighting various intervention approaches against the vector mosquitoes of this viral pathogen along with presenting an overview regarding human intervention measures to counter other modes of ZIKV transmission and spread. Additionally, owing to the success of vaccines for a number of infections globally, a separate section dealing with advances in ZIKV vaccines and transmission blocking vaccines has also been included.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj K Singh
- ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India
| | - Rekha Khandia
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, Barkatullah University, Bhopal, India
| | - Ashok Munjal
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, Barkatullah University, Bhopal, India
| | - Kumaragurubaran Karthik
- Central University Laboratory, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai, India
| | - Ruchi Tiwari
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Sciences, UP Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhayay Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalay Evum Go-Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, India
| | - Sandip Chakraborty
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Agartala, India
| | - Yashpal S Malik
- Division of Biological Standardization, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly, India
| | - Rubén Bueno-Marí
- Laboratorios Lokímica, Departamento de Investigación y Desarrollo (I+D), Valencia, Spain
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13
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Reduction of Mosquito Survival in Mice Vaccinated with Anopheles stephensi Glucose Transporter. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:3428186. [PMID: 28804714 PMCID: PMC5540378 DOI: 10.1155/2017/3428186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Despite the fact that recent efforts to control/eradicate malaria have contributed to a significant decrease in the number of cases and deaths, the disease remains a global health challenge. Vaccines based on mosquito salivary gland antigens are a potential approach for reducing vector populations and malaria parasites. The Anopheles AGAP007752 gene encodes for a glucose transporter that is upregulated during Plasmodium infection, and its knockdown decreases the number of sporozoites in mosquito salivary glands. These results together with the fact that glucose is a vital source of energy suggested that a glucose transporter is a candidate protective antigen for the control of mosquito infestations and Plasmodium infection. To address this hypothesis, herein we investigate the effect of mice vaccination with an immunogenic peptide from mosquito glucose transporter on Anopheles stephensi fitness and Plasmodium berghei infection. We showed that vaccination with a peptide of glucose transporter reduced mosquito survival by 5% when compared to controls. However, the reduction in Plasmodium infection was not significant in mosquitoes fed on vaccinated mice. The effect of the peptide vaccination on mosquito survival is important to reduce infestation by malaria vectors. These results support further research on developing glucose transporter-based vaccines to reduce mosquito fitness.
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14
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Niu G, Franc A C, Zhang G, Roobsoong W, Nguitragool W, Wang X, Prachumsri J, Butler NS, Li J. The fibrinogen-like domain of FREP1 protein is a broad-spectrum malaria transmission-blocking vaccine antigen. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:11960-11969. [PMID: 28533429 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.773564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Revised: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
FREP1 in mosquito midguts facilitates Plasmodium falciparum parasite transmission. The fibrinogen-like (FBG) domain of FREP1 is highly conserved (>90% identical) among Anopheles species from different continents, suggesting that anti-FBG antibodies may block malaria transmission to all anopheline mosquitoes. Using standard membrane-feeding assays, anti-FREP1 polyclonal antibodies significantly blocked transmission of Plasmodium berghei and Plasmodium vivax to Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles dirus, respectively. Furthermore, in vivo studies of mice immunized with FBG achieved >75% blocking efficacy of P. berghei to A. gambiae without triggering immunopathology. Anti-FBG serum also reduced >81% of P. falciparum infection to A. gambiae Finally, we showed that FBG interacts with Plasmodium gametocytes and ookinetes, revealing the molecular mechanism of its antibody transmission-blocking activity. Collectively, our data support that FREP1-mediated Plasmodium transmission to mosquitoes is a conserved pathway and that targeting the FBG domain of FREP1 will limit the transmission of multiple Plasmodium species to multiple Anopheles species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guodong Niu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, Florida 33199
| | - Caio Franc A
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma 73019
| | - Genwei Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma 73019
| | - Wanlapa Roobsoong
- Mahidol Vivax Research Center, Mahidol University Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Wang Nguitragool
- Mahidol Vivax Research Center, Mahidol University Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, Florida 33199
| | - Jetsumon Prachumsri
- Mahidol Vivax Research Center, Mahidol University Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Noah S Butler
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, Florida 33199; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma 73019.
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15
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Plebanski M, Flanagan KL. The Economics of Malaria Vaccine Development. Trends Parasitol 2017; 33:154-156. [PMID: 28169112 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2017.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Vaccines that do not take a comprehensive endpoint view of the pathogen population they want to tackle early in their developmental process, may find it financially prohibitive to redesign them once they have progressed down a costly regulatory and human trial pathway. Specifically, the lead malaria vaccine candidate RTS,S has limited ability to tackle parasite polymorphism and may induce sex-specific nonspecific effects (NSEs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Plebanski
- Vaccine and Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Division of Therapeutics, Monash Institute of Medical Engineering (MIME), Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Katie L Flanagan
- Vaccine and Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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16
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Drinkwater N, Lee J, Yang W, Malcolm TR, McGowan S. M1 aminopeptidases as drug targets: broad applications or therapeutic niche? FEBS J 2017; 284:1473-1488. [PMID: 28075056 PMCID: PMC7164018 DOI: 10.1111/febs.14009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
M1 aminopeptidase enzymes are a diverse family of metalloenzymes characterized by conserved structure and reaction specificity. Excluding viruses, M1 aminopeptidases are distributed throughout all phyla, and have been implicated in a wide range of functions including cell maintenance, growth and development, and defense. The structure and catalytic mechanism of M1 aminopeptidases are well understood, and make them ideal candidates for the design of small‐molecule inhibitors. As a result, many research groups have assessed their utility as therapeutic targets for both infectious and chronic diseases of humans, and many inhibitors with a range of target specificities and potential therapeutic applications have been developed. Herein, we have aimed to address these studies, to determine whether the family of M1 aminopeptidases does in fact present a universal target for the treatment of a diverse range of human diseases. Our analysis indicates that early validation of M1 aminopeptidases as therapeutic targets is often overlooked, which prevents the enzymes from being confirmed as drug targets. This validation cannot be neglected, and needs to include a thorough characterization of enzymes’ specific roles within complex physiological pathways. Furthermore, any chemical probes used in target validation must be carefully designed to ensure that specificity over the closely related enzymes has been achieved. While many drug discovery programs that target M1 aminopeptidases remain in their infancy, certain inhibitors have shown promise for the treatment of a range of conditions including malaria, hypertension, and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nyssa Drinkwater
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Jisook Lee
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Wei Yang
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Tess R Malcolm
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Sheena McGowan
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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17
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Severson DW, Behura SK. Genome Investigations of Vector Competence in Aedes aegypti to Inform Novel Arbovirus Disease Control Approaches. INSECTS 2016; 7:insects7040058. [PMID: 27809220 PMCID: PMC5198206 DOI: 10.3390/insects7040058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Dengue (DENV), yellow fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus transmission to humans by a mosquito host is confounded by both intrinsic and extrinsic variables. Besides virulence factors of the individual arboviruses, likelihood of virus transmission is subject to variability in the genome of the primary mosquito vector, Aedes aegypti. The “vectorial capacity” of A. aegypti varies depending upon its density, biting rate, and survival rate, as well as its intrinsic ability to acquire, host and transmit a given arbovirus. This intrinsic ability is known as “vector competence”. Based on whole transcriptome analysis, several genes and pathways have been predicated to have an association with a susceptible or refractory response in A. aegypti to DENV infection. However, the functional genomics of vector competence of A. aegypti is not well understood, primarily due to lack of integrative approaches in genomic or transcriptomic studies. In this review, we focus on the present status of genomics studies of DENV vector competence in A. aegypti as limited information is available relative to the other arboviruses. We propose future areas of research needed to facilitate the integration of vector and virus genomics and environmental factors to work towards better understanding of vector competence and vectorial capacity in natural conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Severson
- Department of Biological Sciences and Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA.
| | - Susanta K Behura
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.
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18
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Londono-Renteria B, Troupin A, Colpitts TM. Arbovirosis and potential transmission blocking vaccines. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:516. [PMID: 27664127 PMCID: PMC5035468 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1802-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Infectious diseases caused by arboviruses (viruses transmitted by arthropods) are undergoing unprecedented epidemic activity and geographic expansion. With the recent introduction of West Nile virus (1999), chikungunya virus (2013) and Zika virus (2015) to the Americas, stopping or even preventing the expansion of viruses into susceptible populations is an increasing concern. With a few exceptions, available vaccines protecting against arboviral infections are nonexistent and current disease prevention relies on vector control interventions. However, due to the emergence of and rapidly spreading insecticide resistance, different disease control methods are needed. A feasible method of reducing emerging tropical diseases is the implementation of vaccines that prevent or decrease viral infection in the vector. These vaccines are designated ‘transmission blocking vaccines’, or TBVs. Here, we summarize previous TBV work, discuss current research on arboviral TBVs and present several promising TBV candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berlin Londono-Renteria
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA.
| | - Andrea Troupin
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Tonya M Colpitts
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
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19
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Lecona-Valera AN, Tao D, Rodríguez MH, López T, Dinglasan RR, Rodríguez MC. An antibody against an Anopheles albimanus midgut myosin reduces Plasmodium berghei oocyst development. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:274. [PMID: 27165123 PMCID: PMC4863318 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1548-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Malaria parasites are transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes. Although several studies have identified mosquito midgut surface proteins that are putatively important for Plasmodium ookinete invasion, only a few have characterized these protein targets and demonstrated transmission-blocking activity. Molecular information about these proteins is essential for the development of transmission-blocking vaccines (TBV). The aim of the present study was to test three monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), A-140, A-78 and A-10, for their ability to recognize antigens and block oocyst infection of the midgut of Anopheles albimanus, a major malaria vector in Latin America. Method Western-blot of mAbs on antigens from midgut brush border membrane vesicles was used to select antibodies. Three mAbs were tested by membrane feeding assays to evaluate their potential transmission-blocking activity against Plasmodium berghei. The cognate antigens recognized by mAbs with oocyst-reducing activity were determined by immunoprecipitation followed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Results Only one mAb, A-140, significantly reduced oocyst infection intensity. Hence, its probable protein target in the Anopheles albimanus midgut was identified and characterized. It recognized three high-molecular mass proteins from a midgut brush border microvilli vesicle preparation. Chemical deglycosylation assays confirmed the peptide nature of the epitope recognized by mAb A-140. Immunoprecipitation followed by proteomic identification with tandem mass spectrometry revealed five proteins, presumably extracted together as a complex. Of these, AALB007909 had the highest mascot score and corresponds to a protein with a myosin head motor domain, indicating that the target of mAb A-140 is probably myosin located on the microvilli of the mosquito midgut. Conclusion These results provide support for the participation of myosin in mosquito midgut invasion by Plasmodium ookinetes. The potential inclusion of this protein in the design of new multivalent vaccine strategies for blocking Plasmodium transmission is discussed. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-016-1548-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba N Lecona-Valera
- Center of Research on Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Public Health, Av. Universidad 655, Col. Santa María Ahuacatitlán, Cuernavaca, Morelos, C. P. 62508, Mexico
| | - Dingyin Tao
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology and the Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, USA
| | - Mario H Rodríguez
- Center of Research on Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Public Health, Av. Universidad 655, Col. Santa María Ahuacatitlán, Cuernavaca, Morelos, C. P. 62508, Mexico
| | - Tomás López
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Méxic006F, Av. Universidad 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - Rhoel R Dinglasan
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology and the Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, USA
| | - María C Rodríguez
- Center of Research on Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Public Health, Av. Universidad 655, Col. Santa María Ahuacatitlán, Cuernavaca, Morelos, C. P. 62508, Mexico.
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20
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Smith RC, Vega-Rodríguez J, Jacobs-Lorena M. The Plasmodium bottleneck: malaria parasite losses in the mosquito vector. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2015. [PMID: 25185005 PMCID: PMC4156458 DOI: 10.1590/0074-0276130597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Nearly one million people are killed every year by the malaria parasite Plasmodium. Although the disease-causing forms of the parasite exist only in the human blood, mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles are the obligate vector for transmission. Here, we review the parasite life cycle in the vector and highlight the human and mosquito contributions that limit malaria parasite development in the mosquito host. We address parasite killing in its mosquito host and bottlenecks in parasite numbers that might guide intervention strategies to prevent transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C Smith
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Immunology, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joel Vega-Rodríguez
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Immunology, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marcelo Jacobs-Lorena
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Immunology, Baltimore, MD, USA
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21
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Atkinson SC, Armistead JS, Mathias DK, Sandeu MM, Tao D, Borhani-Dizaji N, Tarimo BB, Morlais I, Dinglasan RR, Borg NA. The Anopheles-midgut APN1 structure reveals a new malaria transmission-blocking vaccine epitope. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2015; 22:532-9. [PMID: 26075520 PMCID: PMC4547048 DOI: 10.1038/nsmb.3048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Mosquito-based malaria transmission-blocking vaccines (mTBVs) target midgut-surface antigens of the Plasmodium parasite's obligate vector, the Anopheles mosquito. The alanyl aminopeptidase N (AnAPN1) is the leading mTBV immunogen; however, AnAPN1's role in Plasmodium infection of the mosquito and how anti-AnAPN1 antibodies functionally block parasite transmission have remained elusive. Here we present the 2.65-Å crystal structure of AnAPN1 and the immunoreactivity and transmission-blocking profiles of three monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to AnAPN1, including mAb 4H5B7, which effectively blocks transmission of natural strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Using the AnAPN1 structure, we map the conformation-dependent 4H5B7 neoepitope to a previously uncharacterized region on domain 1 and further demonstrate that nonhuman-primate neoepitope-specific IgG also blocks parasite transmission. We discuss the prospect of a new biological function of AnAPN1 as a receptor for Plasmodium in the mosquito midgut and the implications for redesigning the AnAPN1 mTBV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah C Atkinson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jennifer S Armistead
- 1] W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology &Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. [2] Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Derrick K Mathias
- 1] W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology &Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. [2] Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Maurice M Sandeu
- Laboratoire de Recherche sur le Paludisme, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement-Organisation de Coordination et de Coopération pour la Lutte Contre les Grandes Endémies en Afrique Centrale, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Dingyin Tao
- 1] W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology &Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. [2] Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Nahid Borhani-Dizaji
- 1] W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology &Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. [2] Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Brian B Tarimo
- 1] W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology &Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. [2] Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. [3] Nelson Mandela African Institute for Science and Technology, Arusha, Tanzania. [4] Ifakara Health Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Isabelle Morlais
- Laboratoire de Recherche sur le Paludisme, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement-Organisation de Coordination et de Coopération pour la Lutte Contre les Grandes Endémies en Afrique Centrale, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Rhoel R Dinglasan
- 1] W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology &Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. [2] Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Natalie A Borg
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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Synergistic and antagonistic interactions between bednets and vaccines in the control of malaria. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:3014-9. [PMID: 25605894 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1409467112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
It is extremely likely that the malaria vaccines currently in development will be used in conjunction with treated bednets and other forms of malaria control. The interaction of different intervention methods is at present poorly understood in a disease such as malaria where immunity is more complex than for other pathogens that have been successfully controlled by vaccination. Here we develop a general mathematical model of malaria transmission to examine the interaction between vaccination and bednets. Counterintuitively, we find that the frailty of malaria immunity will potentially cause both synergistic and antagonistic interactions between vaccination and the use of bednets. We explore the conditions that create these tensions, and outline strategies that minimize their detrimental impact. Our analysis specifically considers the three leading vaccine classes currently in development: preerythrocytic (PEV), blood stage (BSV), and transmission blocking (TBV). We find that the combination of BSV with treated bednets can lead to increased morbidity with no added value in terms of elimination; the interaction is clearly antagonistic. In contrast, there is strong synergy between PEV and treated bednets that may facilitate elimination, although transient stages are likely to increase morbidity. The combination of TBV with treated bednets is synergistic, lowering both morbidity and elimination thresholds. Our results suggest that vaccines will not provide a straightforward solution to malaria control, and that future programs need to consider the synergistic and antagonistic interactions between vaccines and treated bednets.
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Nikolaeva D, Draper SJ, Biswas S. Toward the development of effective transmission-blocking vaccines for malaria. Expert Rev Vaccines 2015; 14:653-80. [PMID: 25597923 DOI: 10.1586/14760584.2015.993383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The continued global burden of malaria can in part be attributed to a complex lifecycle, with both human hosts and mosquito vectors serving as transmission reservoirs. In preclinical models of vaccine-induced immunity, antibodies to parasite sexual-stage antigens, ingested in the mosquito blood meal, can inhibit parasite survival in the insect midgut as judged by ex vivo functional studies such as the membrane feeding assay. In an era of renewed political momentum for malaria elimination and eradication campaigns, such observations have fueled support for the development and implementation of so-called transmission-blocking vaccines. While leading candidates are being evaluated using a variety of promising vaccine platforms, the field is also beginning to capitalize on global '-omics' data for the rational genome-based selection and unbiased characterization of parasite and mosquito proteins to expand the candidate list. This review covers the progress and prospects of these recent developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Nikolaeva
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, Oxford OX3 7DQ, UK
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Smith RC, Colón-López DD, Bosch J. Immunization against a merozoite sheddase promotes multiple invasion of red blood cells and attenuates Plasmodium infection in mice. Malar J 2014; 13:313. [PMID: 25115675 PMCID: PMC4248431 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2875-13-313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2014] [Accepted: 08/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Subtilisin-like protease 2 (SUB2) is a conserved serine protease utilized by Plasmodium parasites as a surface sheddase required for successful merozoite invasion of host red blood cells and has been implicated in ookinete invasion of the mosquito midgut. To determine if SUB2 is a suitable vaccine target to interfere with malaria parasite development, the effects of SUB2-immunization on the Plasmodium life cycle were examined in its vertebrate and invertebrate hosts. Methods Swiss Webster mice were immunized with SUB2 peptides conjugated to Keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) or KLH alone, and then challenged with Plasmodium berghei. To determine the effects of immunization on parasite development, infected mice were evaluated by blood film and Giemsa staining. In addition, collected immune sera were used to perform passive immunization experiments in non-immunized, P. berghei-infected mice to determine the potential role of SUB2 in parasite development in the mosquito. Results Following P. berghei challenge, SUB2-immunized mice develop a lower parasitaemia and show improved survival when compared to control immunized mice. Moreover, SUB2 immunization results in an increase in the number of multiply invaded red blood cells, suggesting that SUB2 antibodies interfere with merozoite invasion. Passive immunization experiments imply that SUB2 may not have a major role in ookinete invasion, but this requires further investigation. Conclusion By interfering with red blood cell invasion, immunization against SUB2 limits malaria parasite development and confers protection from severe malaria. Together, these results provide proof-of-principle evidence for future investigation into the use of SUB2 as a vaccine or drug target to interrupt parasite development in more relevant human malaria models. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1475-2875-13-313) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jürgen Bosch
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Mathias DK, Jardim JG, Parish LA, Armistead JS, Trinh HV, Kumpitak C, Sattabongkot J, Dinglasan RR. Differential roles of an Anopheline midgut GPI-anchored protein in mediating Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax ookinete invasion. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2014; 28:635-47. [PMID: 24929123 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2014.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2014] [Revised: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Novel strategies to directly thwart malaria transmission are needed to maintain the gains achieved by current control measures. Transmission-blocking interventions (TBIs), namely vaccines and drugs targeting parasite or mosquito molecules required for vector-stage parasite development, have been recognized as promising approaches for preventing malaria transmission. However, the number of TBI targets is limited and their degree of conservation among the major vector-parasite systems causing human disease is unclear. Therefore, discovery and characterization of novel proteins involved in vector-stage parasite development of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax is paramount. We mined the recent Anopheles gambiae midgut lipid raft proteome for putative mosquito-derived TBI targets and characterized a secreted glycoconjugate of unknown function, AgSGU. We analyzed molecular variation in this protein among a range of anopheline mosquitoes, determined its transcriptomic and proteomic profiles, and conducted both standard and direct membrane feeding assays with P. falciparum (lab/field) and P. vivax (field) in An. gambiae and Anopheles dirus. We observed that α-AgSGU antibodies significantly reduced midgut infection intensity for both lab and field isolates of P. falciparum in An. gambiae and An. dirus. However, no transmission-reducing effects were noted when comparable concentrations of antibodies were included in P. vivax-infected blood meals. Although antibodies against AgSGU exhibit transmission-reducing activity, the high antibody titer required for achieving 80% reduction in oocyst intensity precludes its consideration as a malaria mosquito-based TBI candidate. However, our results suggest that P. falciparum and P. vivax ookinetes use a different repertoire of midgut surface glycoproteins for invasion and that α-AgSGU antibodies, as well as antibodies to other mosquito-midgut microvillar surface proteins, may prove useful as tools for interrogating Plasmodium-mosquito interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derrick K Mathias
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health & Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Juliette G Jardim
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health & Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Lindsay A Parish
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health & Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Jennifer S Armistead
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health & Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Hung V Trinh
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health & Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | | | | | - Rhoel R Dinglasan
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health & Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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Abstract
Mosquito-borne diseases are causing a substantial burden of mortality, morbidity and economic loss in many parts of the world, despite current control efforts, and new complementary approaches to controlling these diseases are needed. One promising class of new interventions under development involves the heritable modification of the mosquito by insertion of novel genes into the nucleus or of Wolbachia endosymbionts into the cytoplasm. Once released into a target population, these modifications can act to reduce one or more components of the mosquito population's vectorial capacity (e.g. the number of female mosquitoes, their longevity or their ability to support development and transmission of the pathogen). Some of the modifications under development are designed to be self-limiting, in that they will tend to disappear over time in the absence of recurrent releases (and hence are similar to the sterile insect technique, SIT), whereas other modifications are designed to be self-sustaining, spreading through populations even after releases stop (and hence are similar to traditional biological control). Several successful field trials have now been performed with Aedes mosquitoes, and such trials are helping to define the appropriate developmental pathway for this new class of intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Austin Burt
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, , Silwood Park, Ascot, Berks SL5 7PY, UK
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28
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Antibodies to a single, conserved epitope in Anopheles APN1 inhibit universal transmission of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax malaria. Infect Immun 2013; 82:818-29. [PMID: 24478095 DOI: 10.1128/iai.01222-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) represent a promising approach for the elimination and eradication of this disease. AnAPN1 is a lead TBV candidate that targets a surface antigen on the midgut of the obligate vector of the Plasmodium parasite, the Anopheles mosquito. In this study, we demonstrated that antibodies targeting AnAPN1 block transmission of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax across distantly related anopheline species in countries to which malaria is endemic. Using a biochemical and immunological approach, we determined that the mechanism of action for this phenomenon stems from antibody recognition of a single protective epitope on AnAPN1, which we found to be immunogenic in murine and nonhuman primate models and highly conserved among anophelines. These data indicate that AnAPN1 meets the established target product profile for TBVs and suggest a potential key role for an AnAPN1-based panmalaria TBV in the effort to eradicate malaria.
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29
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Dinglasan RR, Armistead JS, Nyland JF, Jiang X, Mao HQ. Single-dose microparticle delivery of a malaria transmission-blocking vaccine elicits a long-lasting functional antibody response. Curr Mol Med 2013; 13:479-87. [PMID: 23331003 PMCID: PMC3706950 DOI: 10.2174/1566524011313040002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2012] [Revised: 01/08/2013] [Accepted: 01/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Malaria sexual stage and mosquito transmission-blocking vaccines (SSM-TBV) have recently gained prominence as a necessary tool for malaria eradication. SSM-TBVs are unique in that, with the exception of parasite gametocyte antigens, they primarily target parasite or mosquito midgut surface antigens expressed only inside the mosquito. As such, the primary perceived limitation of SSM-TBVs is that the absence of natural boosting following immunization will limit its efficacy, since the antigens are never presented to the human immune system. An ideal, safe SSM-TBV formulation must overcome this limitation. We provide a focused evaluation of relevant nano-/microparticle technologies that can be applied toward the development of leading SSM-TBV candidates, and data from a proof-of-concept study demonstrating that a single inoculation and controlled release of antigen in mice, can elicit long-lasting protective antibody titers. We conclude by identifying the remaining critical gaps in knowledge and opportunities for moving SSM-TBVs to the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- R R Dinglasan
- W Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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Choy A, Severo MS, Sun R, Girke T, Gillespie JJ, Pedra JHF. Decoding the ubiquitin-mediated pathway of arthropod disease vectors. PLoS One 2013; 8:e78077. [PMID: 24205097 PMCID: PMC3804464 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0078077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2013] [Accepted: 09/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein regulation by ubiquitin has been extensively described in model organisms. However, characterization of the ubiquitin machinery in disease vectors remains mostly unknown. This fundamental gap in knowledge presents a concern because new therapeutics are needed to control vector-borne diseases, and targeting the ubiquitin machinery as a means for disease intervention has been already adopted in the clinic. In this study, we employed a bioinformatics approach to uncover the ubiquitin-mediated pathway in the genomes of Anopheles gambiae, Aedes aegypti, Culex quinquefasciatus, Ixodes scapularis, Pediculus humanus and Rhodnius prolixus. We observed that (1) disease vectors encode a lower percentage of ubiquitin-related genes when compared to Drosophila melanogaster, Mus musculus and Homo sapiens but not Saccharomyces cerevisiae; (2) overall, there are more proteins categorized as E3 ubiquitin ligases when compared to E2-conjugating or E1-activating enzymes; (3) the ubiquitin machinery within the three mosquito genomes is highly similar; (4) ubiquitin genes are more than doubled in the Chagas disease vector (R. prolixus) when compared to other arthropod vectors; (5) the deer tick I. scapularis and the body louse (P. humanus) genomes carry low numbers of E1-activating enzymes and HECT-type E3 ubiquitin ligases; (6) R. prolixus have low numbers of RING-type E3 ubiquitin ligases; and (7) C. quinquefasciatus present elevated numbers of predicted F-box E3 ubiquitin ligases, JAB and UCH deubiquitinases. Taken together, these findings provide novel opportunities to study the interaction between a pathogen and an arthropod vector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Choy
- Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, Center for Disease Vector Research and Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Maiara S. Severo
- Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, Center for Disease Vector Research and Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Ruobai Sun
- "Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, Center for Plant Cell Biology, Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Thomas Girke
- "Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, Center for Plant Cell Biology, Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Joseph J. Gillespie
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Joao H. F. Pedra
- Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, Center for Disease Vector Research and Department of Entomology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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31
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Basseri HR, Mohamadzadeh Hajipirloo H, Mohammadi Bavani M, Whitten MMA. Comparative susceptibility of different biological forms of Anopheles stephensi to Plasmodium berghei ANKA strain. PLoS One 2013; 8:e75413. [PMID: 24086525 PMCID: PMC3781038 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0075413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2012] [Accepted: 08/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There are varying degrees of compatibility between malaria parasite-mosquito species, and understanding this compatibility may be crucial for developing effective transmission-blocking vaccines. This study investigates the compatibility of different biological forms of a malaria vector, Anopheles stephensi, to Plasmodium berghei ANKA strain. Methods Several biologically different and allopatric forms of A. stephensi were studied. Three forms were isolated from different regions of southern Iran: the variety mysorensis, the intermediate form and the native type form, and an additional type form originated from India (Beech strain).The mosquitoes were experimentally infected with P. berghei to compare their susceptibility to parasitism. Anti-mosquito midgut antiserum was then raised in BALB/cs mice immunized against gut antigens from the most susceptible form of A. stephensi (Beech strain), and the efficacy of the antiserum was assessed in transmission-blocking assays conducted on the least susceptible mosquito biological form. Results The susceptibility of different biological forms of A. stephensi mosquito to P. berghei was specifically inter-type varied. The Beech strain and the intermediate form were both highly susceptible to infection, with higher oocyst and sporozoite infection rates than intermediate and mysorensis forms. The oocyst infection, and particularly sporozite infection, was lowest in the mysorensis strain. Antiserum raised against midgut proteins of the Indian Beech type form blocked infection in this mosquito population, but it was ineffective at blocking both oocyst and sporozoite development in the permissive but geographically distant intermediate form mosquitoes. This suggests that a strong degree of incompatibility exists between the mosquito strains in terms of midgut protein(s) acting as putative ookinete receptors. Conclusions The incompatibility in the midgut protein profiles between two biological forms of A. stephensi demonstrates a well-differentiated population structure according to geographical origin. Therefore, the design of potential transmission-blocking strategies should incorporate a more thorough understanding of intra-species variations in host-parasite interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid R. Basseri
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Habib Mohamadzadeh Hajipirloo
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- * E-mail:
| | - Mulood Mohammadi Bavani
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Miranda M. A. Whitten
- Institute of Life Science, College of Medicine, Swansea University, Singleton Park, Swansea, United Kingdom
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32
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Kang JM, Ju HL, Moon SU, Cho PY, Bahk YY, Sohn WM, Park YK, Cha SH, Kim TS, Na BK. Limited sequence polymorphisms of four transmission-blocking vaccine candidate antigens in Plasmodium vivax Korean isolates. Malar J 2013; 12:144. [PMID: 23631662 PMCID: PMC3654915 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2875-12-144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2013] [Accepted: 04/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs), which target the sexual stages of malaria parasites to interfere with and/or inhibit the parasite’s development within mosquitoes, have been regarded as promising targets for disrupting the malaria transmission cycle. In this study, genetic diversity of four TBV candidate antigens, Pvs25, Pvs28, Pvs48/45, and PvWARP, among Plasmodium vivax Korean isolates was analysed. Methods A total of 86 P. vivax-infected blood samples collected from patients in Korea were used for analyses. Each of the full-length genes encoding four TBV candidate antigens, Pvs25, Pvs28, Pvs48/45, and PvWARP, were amplified by PCR, cloned into T&A vector, and then sequenced. Polymorphic characteristics of the genes were analysed using the DNASTAR, MEGA4, and DnaSP programs. Results Polymorphism analyses of the 86 Korean P. vivax isolates revealed two distinct haplotypes in Pvs25 and Pvs48/45, and three different haplotypes in PvWARP. In contrast, Pvs28 showed only a single haplotype. Most of the nucleotide substitutions and amino acid changes identified in all four TBV candidate antigens were commonly found in P. vivax isolates from other geographic areas. The overall nucleotide diversities of the TBV candidates were much lower than those of blood stage antigens. Conclusions Limited sequence polymorphisms of TBV candidate antigens were identified in the Korean P. vivax population. These results provide baseline information for developing an effective TBV based on these antigens, and offer great promise for applications of a TBV against P. vivax infection in regions where the parasite is most prevalent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Mi Kang
- Department of Parasitology and Institute of Health Sciences, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju, 660-751, South Korea
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Heppner DG. The malaria vaccine--status quo 2013. Travel Med Infect Dis 2013; 11:2-7. [PMID: 23454205 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2013.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2012] [Revised: 01/24/2013] [Accepted: 01/24/2013] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
It has been 40 years since David Clyde's landmark induction of sterile immunity against deadly falciparum malaria through immunization by exposure to 1000 irradiated mosquitoes, and the first recombinant Plasmodium falciparum vaccine, RTS,S/AS01, is now in Phase III testing. Interim reports from this largest ever Phase III pediatric trial in Africa show the malaria vaccine decreased clinical and severe disease by 56% and 47% respectively in 5-17 month olds, and by 31% and 26% respectively in infants participating in the Expanded Programme on Immunization. Final data in 2014 will more fully describe the efficacy of RTS,S/AS01 over time against all falciparum malaria cases under a variety of transmission conditions, results essential for decisions on licensure and deployment. Meanwhile, candidate components of a second-generation malaria vaccine are emerging. A field trial of the polymorphic blood stage vaccine AMA-1/AS02 demonstrated no overall efficacy (ve = 17%, P = 0.18), yet a sieve analysis revealed allele-specific efficacy (ve = 64%, P = 0.03) against the vaccine strain, suggesting AMA-1 antigens could be part of a multicomponent vaccine. Initial trials of new antigens include the highly conserved pre-erythrocytic candidate PfCelTOS, a synthetic Plasmodium vivax circumsporozoite antigen VMP-001, and sexual stage vaccines containing antigens from both P. falciparum (Pfs25) and P. vivax (Pvs25) intended to interrupt transmission. Targets for a vaccine to protect against placental malaria, the leading remediable cause of low birth weight infants in Africa, have been identified. Lastly, renewed efforts are underway to develop a practical attenuated-sporozoite vaccine to recapture the promise of David Clyde's experiment.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Gray Heppner
- Heppner Associates, LLC, 9441 Brenner Court, Vienna, VA 22180-3402, USA.
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Crawford JE, Rottschaefer SM, Coulibaly B, Sacko M, Niaré O, Riehle MM, Traore SF, Vernick KD, Lazzaro BP. No evidence for positive selection at two potential targets for malaria transmission-blocking vaccines in Anopheles gambiae s.s. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2013; 16:87-92. [PMID: 23357581 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2013.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2012] [Revised: 01/04/2013] [Accepted: 01/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Human malaria causes nearly a million deaths in sub-Saharan Africa each year. The evolution of drug-resistance in the parasite and insecticide resistance in the mosquito vector has complicated control measures and made the need for new control strategies more urgent. Anopheles gambiae s.s. is one of the primary vectors of human malaria in Africa, and parasite-transmission-blocking vaccines targeting Anopheles proteins have been proposed as a possible strategy to control the spread of the disease. However, the success of these hypothetical technologies would depend on the successful ability to broadly target mosquito populations that may be genetically heterogeneous. Understanding the evolutionary pressures shaping genetic variation among candidate target molecules offers a first step towards evaluating the prospects of successfully deploying such technologies. We studied the population genetics of genes encoding two candidate target proteins, the salivary gland protein saglin and the basal lamina structural protein laminin, in wild populations of the M and S molecular forms of A. gambiae in Mali. Through analysis of intraspecific genetic variation and interspecific comparisons, we found no evidence of positive natural selection at the genes encoding these proteins. On the contrary, we found evidence for particularly strong purifying selection at the laminin gene. These results provide insight into the patterns of genetic diversity of saglin and laminin, and we discuss these findings in relation to the potential development of these molecules as vaccine targets.
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35
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Pakpour N, Akman-Anderson L, Vodovotz Y, Luckhart S. The effects of ingested mammalian blood factors on vector arthropod immunity and physiology. Microbes Infect 2013; 15:243-54. [PMID: 23370408 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2013.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2012] [Revised: 01/14/2013] [Accepted: 01/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The blood feeding behavior of disease-transmitting arthropods creates a unique intersection between vertebrate and invertebrate physiology. Here, we review host blood-derived factors that persist through blood digestion to affect the lifespan, reproduction, and immune responses of some of the most common arthropod vectors of human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazzy Pakpour
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, United States.
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36
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Plowe CV. Malaria Vaccines. Infect Dis (Lond) 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-5719-0_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Abstract
Leishmaniases are vector-borne parasitic diseases with 0.9 - 1.4 million new human cases each year worldwide. In the vectorial part of the life-cycle, Leishmania development is confined to the digestive tract. During the first few days after blood feeding, natural barriers to Leishmania development include secreted proteolytic enzymes, the peritrophic matrix surrounding the ingested blood meal and sand fly immune reactions. As the blood digestion proceeds, parasites need to bind to the midgut epithelium to avoid being excreted with the blood remnant. This binding is strictly stage-dependent as it is a property of nectomonad and leptomonad forms only. While the attachment in specific vectors (P. papatasi, P. duboscqi and P. sergenti) involves lipophosphoglycan (LPG), this Leishmania molecule is not required for parasite attachment in other sand fly species experimentally permissive for various Leishmania. During late-stage infections, large numbers of parasites accumulate in the anterior midgut and produce filamentous proteophosphoglycan creating a gel-like plug physically obstructing the gut. The parasites attached to the stomodeal valve cause damage to the chitin lining and epithelial cells of the valve, interfering with its function and facilitating reflux of parasites from the midgut. Transformation to metacyclic stages highly infective for the vertebrate host is the other prerequisite for effective transmission. Here, we review the current state of knowledge of molecular interactions occurring in all these distinct phases of parasite colonization of the sand fly gut, highlighting recent discoveries in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Dostálová
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Vinicna 7, 12844 Praha 2, Czech Republic
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A transgenic Plasmodium falciparum NF54 strain that expresses GFP-luciferase throughout the parasite life cycle. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2012; 186:143-7. [PMID: 23107927 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2012.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2012] [Accepted: 10/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Plasmodium falciparum is the pathogenic agent of the most lethal of human malarias. Transgenic P. falciparum parasites expressing luciferase have been created to study drug interventions of both asexual and sexual blood stages but luciferase-expressing mosquito stage and liver stage parasites have not been created which has prevented the easy quantification of mosquito stage development (e.g. for transmission blocking interventions) and liver stage development (for interventions that prevent infection). To overcome this obstacle, we have created a transgenic P. falciparum NF54 parasite that expresses a GFP-luciferase transgene throughout the life cycle. Luciferase expression is robust and measurable at all life cycle stages, including midgut oocyst, salivary gland sporozoites and liver stages, where in vivo development is easily measurable using humanized mouse infections in conjunction with an in vivo imaging system. This parasite reporter strain will accelerate testing of interventions against pre-erythrocytic life cycle stages.
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Ubaida Mohien C, Colquhoun DR, Mathias DK, Gibbons JG, Armistead JS, Rodriguez MC, Rodriguez MH, Edwards NJ, Hartler J, Thallinger GG, Graham DR, Martinez-Barnetche J, Rokas A, Dinglasan RR. A bioinformatics approach for integrated transcriptomic and proteomic comparative analyses of model and non-sequenced anopheline vectors of human malaria parasites. Mol Cell Proteomics 2012; 12:120-31. [PMID: 23082028 PMCID: PMC3536893 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m112.019596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria morbidity and mortality caused by both Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax extend well beyond the African continent, and although P. vivax causes between 80 and 300 million severe cases each year, vivax transmission remains poorly understood. Plasmodium parasites are transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes, and the critical site of interaction between parasite and host is at the mosquito's luminal midgut brush border. Although the genome of the “model” African P. falciparum vector, Anopheles gambiae, has been sequenced, evolutionary divergence limits its utility as a reference across anophelines, especially non-sequenced P. vivax vectors such as Anopheles albimanus. Clearly, technologies and platforms that bridge this substantial scientific gap are required in order to provide public health scientists with key transcriptomic and proteomic information that could spur the development of novel interventions to combat this disease. To our knowledge, no approaches have been published that address this issue. To bolster our understanding of P. vivax–An. albimanus midgut interactions, we developed an integrated bioinformatic-hybrid RNA-Seq-LC-MS/MS approach involving An. albimanus transcriptome (15,764 contigs) and luminal midgut subproteome (9,445 proteins) assembly, which, when used with our custom Diptera protein database (685,078 sequences), facilitated a comparative proteomic analysis of the midgut brush borders of two important malaria vectors, An. gambiae and An. albimanus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ceereena Ubaida Mohien
- W Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health & Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA
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Vaughan AM, Kappe SHI. Malaria vaccine development: persistent challenges. Curr Opin Immunol 2012; 24:324-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coi.2012.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2012] [Accepted: 03/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Martínez-Barnetche J, Gómez-Barreto RE, Ovilla-Muñoz M, Téllez-Sosa J, López DEG, Dinglasan RR, Mohien CU, MacCallum RM, Redmond SN, Gibbons JG, Rokas A, Machado CA, Cazares-Raga FE, González-Cerón L, Hernández-Martínez S, López MHR. Transcriptome of the adult female malaria mosquito vector Anopheles albimanus. BMC Genomics 2012; 13:207. [PMID: 22646700 PMCID: PMC3442982 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-13-207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2012] [Accepted: 05/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human Malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles. Transmission is a complex phenomenon involving biological and environmental factors of humans, parasites and mosquitoes. Among more than 500 anopheline species, only a few species from different branches of the mosquito evolutionary tree transmit malaria, suggesting that their vectorial capacity has evolved independently. Anopheles albimanus (subgenus Nyssorhynchus) is an important malaria vector in the Americas. The divergence time between Anopheles gambiae, the main malaria vector in Africa, and the Neotropical vectors has been estimated to be 100 My. To better understand the biological basis of malaria transmission and to develop novel and effective means of vector control, there is a need to explore the mosquito biology beyond the An. gambiae complex. RESULTS We sequenced the transcriptome of the An. albimanus adult female. By combining Sanger, 454 and Illumina sequences from cDNA libraries derived from the midgut, cuticular fat body, dorsal vessel, salivary gland and whole body, we generated a single, high-quality assembly containing 16,669 transcripts, 92% of which mapped to the An. darlingi genome and covered 90% of the core eukaryotic genome. Bidirectional comparisons between the An. gambiae, An. darlingi and An. albimanus predicted proteomes allowed the identification of 3,772 putative orthologs. More than half of the transcripts had a match to proteins in other insect vectors and had an InterPro annotation. We identified several protein families that may be relevant to the study of Plasmodium-mosquito interaction. An open source transcript annotation browser called GDAV (Genome-Delinked Annotation Viewer) was developed to facilitate public access to the data generated by this and future transcriptome projects. CONCLUSIONS We have explored the adult female transcriptome of one important New World malaria vector, An. albimanus. We identified protein-coding transcripts involved in biological processes that may be relevant to the Plasmodium lifecycle and can serve as the starting point for searching targets for novel control strategies. Our data increase the available genomic information regarding An. albimanus several hundred-fold, and will facilitate molecular research in medical entomology, evolutionary biology, genomics and proteomics of anopheline mosquito vectors. The data reported in this manuscript is accessible to the community via the VectorBase website (http://www.vectorbase.org/Other/AdditionalOrganisms/).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Martínez-Barnetche
- Centro de Investigación sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Rosa E Gómez-Barreto
- Centro de Investigación sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Marbella Ovilla-Muñoz
- Centro de Investigación sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Juan Téllez-Sosa
- Centro de Investigación sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - David E García López
- Centro de Investigación sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Rhoel R Dinglasan
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Ceereena Ubaida Mohien
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Molecular & Comparative Pathobiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Robert M MacCallum
- Division of Cell and Molecular Biology, Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Seth N Redmond
- Pasteur Institut, 28 Rue Du Docteur Roux, Paris, 75015, France
| | - John G Gibbons
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Antonis Rokas
- Department of Biological Sciences, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Carlos A Machado
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Febe E Cazares-Raga
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Cinvestav-IPN, México, DF, México
| | - Lilia González-Cerón
- Centro Regional de Investigación en Salud Pública, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Tapachula, Chiapas, México
| | - Salvador Hernández-Martínez
- Centro de Investigación sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Mario H Rodríguez López
- Centro de Investigación sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
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Angrisano F, Tan YH, Sturm A, McFadden GI, Baum J. Malaria parasite colonisation of the mosquito midgut – Placing the Plasmodium ookinete centre stage. Int J Parasitol 2012; 42:519-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2012.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2011] [Revised: 02/03/2012] [Accepted: 02/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Approaching the target: the path towards an effective malaria vaccine. Mediterr J Hematol Infect Dis 2012; 4:e2012015. [PMID: 22550560 PMCID: PMC3340989 DOI: 10.4084/mjhid.2012.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2012] [Accepted: 02/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Developing an effective malaria vaccine has been the goal of the scientific community for many years. A malaria vaccine, added to existing tools and strategies, would further prevent infection and decrease the unacceptable malaria morbidity and mortality burden. Great progress has been made over the last decade and a number of vaccine candidates are in the clinical phases of development. The RTS,S malaria vaccine candidate, based on a recombinant P. falciparum protein, is the most advanced of such candidates, currently undergoing a large phase III trial. RTS,S has consistently shown around 50% efficacy protecting against the first clinical episode of malaria, in some cases extending up to 4 years. It is hoped that RTS,S will eventually become the first licensed malaria vaccine. This first vaccine against a human parasite is a groundbreaking achievement, but improved malaria vaccines conferring higher protection will be needed if the aspiration of malaria eradication is to be achieved.
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Expression, immunogenicity, histopathology, and potency of a mosquito-based malaria transmission-blocking recombinant vaccine. Infect Immun 2012; 80:1606-14. [PMID: 22311924 DOI: 10.1128/iai.06212-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccines have been at the forefront of global research efforts to combat malaria, yet despite several vaccine candidates, this goal has yet to be realized. A potentially effective approach to disrupting the spread of malaria is the use of transmission-blocking vaccines (TBV), which prevent the development of malarial parasites within their mosquito vector, thereby abrogating the cascade of secondary infections in humans. Since malaria is transmitted to human hosts by the bite of an obligate insect vector, mosquito species in the genus Anopheles, targeting mosquito midgut antigens that serve as ligands for Plasmodium parasites represents a promising approach to breaking the transmission cycle. The midgut-specific anopheline alanyl aminopeptidase N (AnAPN1) is highly conserved across Anopheles vectors and is a putative ligand for Plasmodium ookinete invasion. We have developed a scalable, high-yield Escherichia coli expression and purification platform for the recombinant AnAPN1 TBV antigen and report on its marked vaccine potency and immunogenicity, its capacity for eliciting transmission-blocking antibodies, and its apparent lack of immunization-associated histopathologies in a small-animal model.
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Parish LA, Colquhoun DR, Ubaida Mohien C, Lyashkov AE, Graham DR, Dinglasan RR. Ookinete-interacting proteins on the microvillar surface are partitioned into detergent resistant membranes of Anopheles gambiae midguts. J Proteome Res 2011; 10:5150-62. [PMID: 21905706 PMCID: PMC3208356 DOI: 10.1021/pr2006268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Lipid raft microdomains, a component of detergent resistant membranes (DRMs), are routinely exploited by pathogens during host-cell entry. Multiple membrane-surface proteins mediate Plasmodium ookinete invasion of the Anopheles midgut, a critical step in the parasite life cycle that is successfully targeted by transmission-blocking vaccines (TBV). Given that lipid rafts are a common feature of host-pathogen interactions, we hypothesized that they promote the partitioning of midgut surface proteins and thus facilitate ookinete invasion. In support of this hypothesis, we found that five of the characterized Anopheles TBV candidates, including the leading Anopheles TBV candidate, AgAPN1, are present in Anopheles gambiae DRMs. Therefore, to extend the repertoire of putative midgut ligands that can be targeted by TBVs, we analyzed midgut DRMs by tandem mass spectrometry. We identified 1452 proteins including several markers of DRMs. Since glycosylphosphotidyl inositol (GPI)-anchored proteins partition to DRMs, we characterized the GPI subproteome of An. gambiae midgut brush-border microvilli and found that 96.9% of the proteins identified in the GPI-anchored fractions were also present in DRMs. Our study vastly expands the number of candidate malarial TBV targets for subsequent analysis by the broader community and provides an inferred role for midgut plasmalemma microdomains in ookinete cell invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay A Parish
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Abstract
The whole-genome sequencing of mosquitoes has facilitated our understanding of fundamental biological processes at their basic molecular levels and holds potential for application to mosquito control and prevention of mosquito-borne disease transmission. Draft genome sequences are available for Anopheles gambiae, Aedes aegypti, and Culex quinquefasciatus. Collectively, these represent the major vectors of African malaria, dengue fever and yellow fever viruses, and lymphatic filariasis, respectively. Rapid advances in genome technologies have revealed detailed information on genome architecture as well as phenotype-specific transcriptomics and proteomics. These resources allow for detailed comparative analyses within and across populations as well as species. Next-generation sequencing technologies will likely promote a proliferation of genome sequences for additional mosquito species as well as for individual insects. Here we review the current status of genome research in mosquitoes and identify potential areas for further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Severson
- Eck Institute for Global Health, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA.
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Armistead J, Wilson I, van Kuppevelt T, Dinglasan R. A role for heparan sulfate proteoglycans in Plasmodium falciparum sporozoite invasion of anopheline mosquito salivary glands. Biochem J 2011; 438:475-83. [PMID: 21663594 PMCID: PMC3173866 DOI: 10.1042/bj20110694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2011] [Revised: 06/02/2011] [Accepted: 06/10/2011] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
HS (heparan sulfate) has been shown to be an important mediator of Plasmodium sporozoite homing and invasion of the liver, but the role of this glycosaminoglycan in mosquito vector host-sporozoite interactions is unknown. We have biochemically characterized the function of AgOXT1 (Anopheles gambiae peptide-O-xylosyltransferase 1) and confirmed that AgOXT1 can modify peptides representing model HS and chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans in vitro. Moreover, we also demonstrated that the mosquito salivary gland basal lamina proteoglycans are modified by HS. We used RNA interference-mediated knockdown of HS biosynthesis in A. gambiae salivary glands to determine whether Plasmodium falciparum sporozoites that are released from mosquito midgut oocysts use salivary gland HS as a receptor for tissue invasion. Our results suggest that salivary gland basal lamina HS glycosaminoglycans only partially mediate midgut sporozoite invasion of this tissue, and that in the absence of HS, the presence of other surface co-receptors is sufficient to facilitate parasite entry.
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Key Words
- anopheles
- cell invasion
- glycobiology
- glycos-aminoglycan (gag)
- heparan sulfate (hs)
- malaria
- agldh, anopheles gambiael-lactate dehydrogenase
- agoxt1, anopheles gambiae peptide-o-xylosyltransferase 1
- ampd, 2-amino-2-methyl-1,3-propanediol
- cs, chondroitin sulfate
- csp, circumsporozoite protein
- cspg, cs proteoglycan
- dapi, 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole
- dsrna, double-stranded rna
- dsagoxt1, agoxt1 dsrna
- dsgfp, gfp dsrna
- gag, glycosaminoglycan
- gfp, green fluorescent protein
- glcns, n-sulfated n-acetylglucosamine
- hs, heparan sulfate
- hsgag, hs glycosaminoglycan
- hspg, hs proteoglycan
- idoa2s, l-iduronic acid 2-o-sulfate
- maldi–tof, matrix-assisted laser-desorption ionization–time-of-flight
- ms/ms, tandem ms
- ragoxt1, recombinant agoxt1
- rnai, rna interference
- rp-hplc, reverse-phase hplc
- rt, reverse transcription
- scfv, single-chain variable fragment
- trap, thrombospondin-related adhesion protein
- tsr, thrombospondin type 1 repeat domain
- vsv, vesicular stomatitis virus
- xt-i, xylosyltransferase i
- xyl, xylose
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer S. Armistead
- *W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, U.S.A
| | - Iain B.H. Wilson
- †Department für Chemie, Universität für Bodenkultur, Muthgasse 18, A-1190, Wien, Austria
| | - Toin H. van Kuppevelt
- ‡Department of Biochemistry, Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rhoel R. Dinglasan
- *W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, U.S.A
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Abstract
The development of an effective malaria vaccine has taken many decades, but there is now a good chance that the first malaria vaccine will be licensed within the next few years. However, this vaccine (RTS,S) will not be fully effective, and more efficacious, second-generation vaccines will be needed. Good progress is being made in the development of potential vaccines directed at each of the three main stages of the parasite's life cycle, with a variety of different approaches, but many challenges remain, e.g. overcoming the problem of polymorphism in many key parasite antigens. It is likely vaccines that are effective enough to block transmission, and thus contribute to increasing drives towards malaria elimination, will need to contain antigens from different stages of the parasite's life cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- B M Greenwood
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
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Valencia SH, Rodríguez DC, Acero DL, Ocampo V, Arévalo-Herrera M. Platform for Plasmodium vivax vaccine discovery and development. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2011; 106 Suppl 1:179-92. [PMID: 21881773 PMCID: PMC4832982 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762011000900023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2011] [Accepted: 06/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax is the most prevalent malaria parasite on the American continent. It generates a global burden of 80-100 million cases annually and represents a tremendous public health problem, particularly in the American and Asian continents. A malaria vaccine would be considered the most cost-effective measure against this vector-borne disease and it would contribute to a reduction in malaria cases and to eventual eradication. Although significant progress has been achieved in the search for Plasmodium falciparum antigens that could be used in a vaccine, limited progress has been made in the search for P. vivax components that might be eligible for vaccine development. This is primarily due to the lack of in vitro cultures to serve as an antigen source and to inadequate funding. While the most advanced P. falciparum vaccine candidate is currently being tested in Phase III trials in Africa, the most advanced P. vivax candidates have only advanced to Phase I trials. Herein, we describe the overall strategy and progress in P. vivax vaccine research, from antigen discovery to preclinical and clinical development and we discuss the regional potential of Latin America to develop a comprehensive platform for vaccine development.
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