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Cao Y, Hayashi CTH, Araujo MDS, Tripathi AK, Andrade AO, Medeiros JF, Vinetz J, Kumar N. Evaluation of combination vaccines targeting transmission of Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax. Vaccine 2024:126140. [PMID: 39033079 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.07.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Transmission-blocking vaccines interrupting malaria transmission within mosquitoes represent an ideal public health tool to eliminate malaria at the population level. Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax account for more than 90% of the global malaria burden, co-endemic in many regions of the world. P25 and P48/45 are two leading candidates for both species and have shown promising transmission-blocking activity in preclinical and clinical studies. However, neither of these target antigens as individual vaccines has induced complete transmission inhibition in mosquitoes. In this study, we assessed immunogenicity of combination vaccines based on P25 and P48/45 using a DNA vaccine platform to broaden vaccine specificity against P. falciparum and P. vivax. Individual DNA vaccines encoding Pvs25, Pfs25, Pvs48/45 and Pfs48/45, as well as various combinations including (Pvs25 + Pvs48/45), (Pfs25 + Pfs48/45), (Pvs25 + Pfs25), and (Pvs48/45 + Pfs48/45), were evaluated in mice using in vivo electroporation. Potent antibody responses were induced in mice immunized with individual and combination DNA vaccines, and specific antibody responses were not compromised when combinations of DNA vaccines were evaluated against individual DNA vaccines. The anti-Pvs25 IgG from individual and combination groups revealed concentration-dependent transmission-reducing activity (TRA) in direct membrane feeding assays (DMFA) using blood from P. vivax-infected donors in Brazil and independently in ex vivo MFA using Pvs25-transgenic P. berghei. Similarly, anti-Pfs25 and anti-Pfs48/45 IgGs from mice immunized with Pfs25 and Pfs48/45 DNA vaccines individually and in various combinations revealed antibody dose-dependent TRA in standard membrane feeding assays (SMFA) using culture-derived P. falciparum gametocytes. However, antibodies induced by immunization with Pvs48/45 DNA vaccines were ineffective in DMFA and require further vaccine construct optimization, considering the possibility of induction of both transmission-blocking and transmission-enhancing antibodies revealed by competition ELISA. These studies provide a rationale for combining multiple antigens to simultaneously target transmission of malaria caused by P. falciparum and P. vivax.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Cao
- Department of Global Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington D.C., USA
| | - Clifford T H Hayashi
- Department of Global Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington D.C., USA
| | - Maisa da Silva Araujo
- Plataforma de Produção e Infecção de Vetores da Malária, Laboratório de Entomologia - FIOCRUZ RO, Rua da Beira 7671, CEP 76812-245 Porto Velho RO, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde Pública, Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-904, SP, Brazil
| | - Abhai K Tripathi
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Alice Oliveira Andrade
- Plataforma de Produção e Infecção de Vetores da Malária, Laboratório de Entomologia - FIOCRUZ RO, Rua da Beira 7671, CEP 76812-245 Porto Velho RO, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde Pública, Faculdade de Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-904, SP, Brazil
| | - Jansen Fernandes Medeiros
- Plataforma de Produção e Infecção de Vetores da Malária, Laboratório de Entomologia - FIOCRUZ RO, Rua da Beira 7671, CEP 76812-245 Porto Velho RO, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Experimental, Fundação Universidade Federal de Rondônia, Fiocruz Rondônia 76812-245, Brazil
| | - Joseph Vinetz
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Cellular and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, and Alexander von Humboldt Institute of Tropical Medicine, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Nirbhay Kumar
- Department of Global Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington D.C., USA.
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2
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Duffy PE, Gorres JP, Healy SA, Fried M. Malaria vaccines: a new era of prevention and control. Nat Rev Microbiol 2024:10.1038/s41579-024-01065-7. [PMID: 39025972 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-024-01065-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Malaria killed over 600,000 people in 2022, a death toll that has not improved since 2015. Additionally, parasites and mosquitoes resistant to existing interventions are spreading across Africa and other regions. Vaccines offer hope to reduce the mortality burden: the first licensed malaria vaccines, RTS,S and R21, will be widely deployed in 2024 and should substantially reduce childhood deaths. In this Review, we provide an overview of the malaria problem and the Plasmodium parasite, then describe the RTS,S and R21 vaccines (the first vaccines for any human parasitic disease), summarizing their benefits and limitations. We explore next-generation vaccines designed using new knowledge of malaria pathogenesis and protective immunity, which incorporate antigens and platforms to elicit effective immune responses against different parasite stages in human or mosquito hosts. We describe a decision-making process that prioritizes malaria vaccine candidates for development in a resource-constrained environment. Future vaccines might improve upon the protective efficacy of RTS,S or R21 for children, or address the wider malaria scourge by preventing pregnancy malaria, reducing the burden of Plasmodium vivax or accelerating malaria elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick E Duffy
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - J Patrick Gorres
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sara A Healy
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Michal Fried
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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3
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Matos ADS, Soares IF, Rodrigues-da-Silva RN, Rodolphi CM, Albrecht L, Donassolo RA, Lopez-Camacho C, Ano Bom APD, Neves PCDC, Conte FDP, Pratt-Riccio LR, Daniel-Ribeiro CT, Totino PRR, Lima-Junior JDC. Immunogenicity of PvCyRPA, PvCelTOS and Pvs25 chimeric recombinant protein of Plasmodium vivax in murine model. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1392043. [PMID: 38962015 PMCID: PMC11219565 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1392043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
In the Americas, P. vivax is the predominant causative species of malaria, a debilitating and economically significant disease. Due to the complexity of the malaria parasite life cycle, a vaccine formulation with multiple antigens expressed in various parasite stages may represent an effective approach. Based on this, we previously designed and constructed a chimeric recombinant protein, PvRMC-1, composed by PvCyRPA, PvCelTOS, and Pvs25 epitopes. This chimeric protein was strongly recognized by naturally acquired antibodies from exposed population in the Brazilian Amazon. However, there was no investigation about the induced immune response of PvRMC-1. Therefore, in this work, we evaluated the immunogenicity of this chimeric antigen formulated in three distinct adjuvants: Stimune, AddaVax or Aluminum hydroxide (Al(OH)3) in BALB/c mice. Our results suggested that the chimeric protein PvRMC-1 were capable to generate humoral and cellular responses across all three formulations. Antibodies recognized full-length PvRMC-1 and linear B-cell epitopes from PvCyRPA, PvCelTOS, and Pvs25 individually. Moreover, mice's splenocytes were activated, producing IFN-γ in response to PvCelTOS and PvCyRPA peptide epitopes, affirming T-cell epitopes in the antigen. While aluminum hydroxide showed notable cellular response, Stimune and Addavax induced a more comprehensive immune response, encompassing both cellular and humoral components. Thus, our findings indicate that PvRMC-1 would be a promising multistage vaccine candidate that could advance to further preclinical studies.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Plasmodium vivax/immunology
- Plasmodium vivax/genetics
- Mice
- Antigens, Protozoan/immunology
- Antigens, Protozoan/genetics
- Malaria, Vivax/immunology
- Malaria, Vivax/prevention & control
- Antibodies, Protozoan/immunology
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Malaria Vaccines/immunology
- Female
- Protozoan Proteins/immunology
- Protozoan Proteins/genetics
- Epitopes, B-Lymphocyte/immunology
- Epitopes, B-Lymphocyte/genetics
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/immunology
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins/genetics
- Disease Models, Animal
- Adjuvants, Immunologic
- Immunogenicity, Vaccine
- Antigens, Surface
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Affiliation(s)
- Ada da Silva Matos
- Immunoparasitology Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Isabela Ferreira Soares
- Immunoparasitology Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | - Letusa Albrecht
- Apicomplexa Research Laboratory, Carlos Chagas Institute, Curitiba, Brazil
| | | | - Cesar Lopez-Camacho
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ana Paula Dinis Ano Bom
- Immunological Technology Laboratory, Immunobiological Technology Institute (Bio-Manguinhos/Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Fernando de Paiva Conte
- Eukaryotic Pilot Laboratory, Immunobiological Technology Institute (Bio-Manguinhos/Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Josué da Costa Lima-Junior
- Immunoparasitology Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (IOC), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Cao Y, Hayashi CTH, Kumar N. A Novel Ex Vivo Assay to Evaluate Functional Effectiveness of Plasmodium vivax Transmission-Blocking Vaccine Using Pvs25 Transgenic Plasmodium berghei. J Infect Dis 2024; 229:1894-1903. [PMID: 38408353 PMCID: PMC11175679 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiae102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax account for >90% global malaria burden. Transmission intervention strategies encompassing transmission-blocking vaccines (TBV) and drugs represent ideal public health tools to eliminate malaria at the population level. The availability of mature P. falciparum gametocytes through in vitro culture has facilitated development of a standard membrane feeding assay to assess efficacy of transmission interventions against P. falciparum. The lack of in vitro culture for P. vivax has significantly hampered similar progress on P. vivax and limited studies have been possible using blood from infected patients in endemic areas. The ethical and logistical limitations of on-time access to blood from patients have impeded the development of P. vivax TBVs. METHODS Transgenic murine malaria parasites (Plasmodium berghei) expressing TBV candidates offer a promising alternative for evaluation of P. vivax TBVs through in vivo studies in mice, and ex vivo membrane feeding assay (MFA). RESULTS We describe the development of transmission-competent transgenic TgPbvs25 parasites and optimization of parameters to establish an ex vivo MFA to evaluate P. vivax TBV based on Pvs25 antigen. CONCLUSIONS The MFA is expected to expedite Pvs25-based TBV development without dependence on blood from P. vivax-infected patients in endemic areas for evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Cao
- Department of Global Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Clifford T H Hayashi
- Department of Global Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Nirbhay Kumar
- Department of Global Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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5
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Marques RF, Gimenez AM, Caballero O, Simpson A, Salazar AM, Amino R, Godin S, Gazzinelli RT, Soares IS. Non-clinical toxicity and immunogenicity evaluation of a Plasmodium vivax malaria vaccine using Poly-ICLC (Hiltonol®) as adjuvant. Vaccine 2024; 42:2394-2406. [PMID: 38448321 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.02.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Malaria caused byPlasmodium vivaxis a pressing public health problem in tropical and subtropical areas.However, little progress has been made toward developing a P. vivaxvaccine, with only three candidates being tested in clinical studies. We previously reported that one chimeric recombinant protein (PvCSP-All epitopes) containing the conserved C-terminus of the P. vivax Circumsporozoite Protein (PvCSP), the three variant repeat domains, and aToll-like receptor-3 agonist,Poly(I:C), as an adjuvant (polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid, a dsRNA analog mimicking viral RNA), elicits strong antibody-mediated immune responses in mice to each of the three allelic forms of PvCSP. In the present study, a pre-clinical safety evaluation was performed to identify potential local and systemic toxic effects of the PvCSP-All epitopes combined with the Poly-ICLC (Poly I:C plus poly-L-lysine, Hiltonol®) or Poly-ICLC when subcutaneously injected into C57BL/6 mice and New Zealand White Rabbits followed by a 21-day recovery period. Overall, all observations were considered non-adverse and were consistent with the expected inflammatory response and immune stimulation following vaccine administration. High levels of vaccine-induced specific antibodies were detected both in mice and rabbits. Furthermore, mice that received the vaccine formulation were protected after the challenge with Plasmodium berghei sporozoites expressing CSP repeats from P. vivax sporozoites (Pb/Pv-VK210). In conclusion, in these non-clinical models, repeated dose administrations of the PvCSP-All epitopes vaccine adjuvanted with a Poly-ICLC were immunogenic, safe, and well tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo F Marques
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Alba M Gimenez
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Andres M Salazar
- Oncovir, Inc. Washington, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Rogerio Amino
- Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Pasteur Institute, Paris, France
| | - Steven Godin
- Smithers Avanza Toxicology Services, Gaithersburg, MD, United States of America
| | - Ricardo T Gazzinelli
- Centro de Tecnologia em Vacinas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Parque Tecnológico de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Irene S Soares
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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6
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Kuesap J, Suphakhonchuwong N, Rungsihirunrat K. Genetic polymorphisms of Plasmodium vivax ookinete (sexual stage) surface proteins (Pvs25 and Pvs28) from Thailand. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024; 118:105558. [PMID: 38244749 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2024.105558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax is the most geographically widespread malaria parasite in human presently. The ookinete surface proteins of sexual stage of malaria parasites, Pvs25 and Pvs28, are candidates for the transmission blocking vaccine. The antigenic variation in population might be barrier for vaccine development. The objective of this study was to investigate the genetic diversity of Pvs25 and Pvs28 in endemic areas of Thailand. P. vivax clinical isolates collected from Thai-neighboring border areas were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction and sequencing method. Three and 14 amino acid substitutions were observed in 43 Pvs25 and 48 Pvs28 sequences, respectively. Three haplotypes in Pvs25 and 14 haplotypes with 5-7 GSGGE/D tandem repeats in Pvs28 were identified. The nucleotide diversity of pvs25 (π = 0.00059) had lower level than pvs28 (π = 0.00517). Tajima's D value for both pvs25 and pvs28 genes were negative while no significant difference was found (P > 0.10). Low genetic diversity was found in pvs25 and pvs28 genes in Thailand. The finding of the most frequent amino acid substitutions was consistent with global isolates. Therefore, the data could be helpful in developing of effective transmission blocking vaccine in malaria endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiraporn Kuesap
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Thammasat University, Pathumthani, Thailand.
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7
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Lopez-Perez M, Jain A, Davies DH, Vásquez-Jiménez JM, Herrera SM, Oñate J, Felgner PL, Herrera S, Arévalo-Herrera M. Profiling the antibody response of humans protected by immunization with Plasmodium vivax radiation-attenuated sporozoites. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2790. [PMID: 38307966 PMCID: PMC10837454 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53175-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Malaria sterile immunity has been reproducibly induced by immunization with Plasmodium radiation-attenuated sporozoites (RAS). Analyses of sera from RAS-immunized individuals allowed the identification of P. falciparum antigens, such as the circumsporozoite protein (CSP), the basis for the RTS, S and R21Matrix-M vaccines. Similar advances in P. vivax (Pv) vaccination have been elusive. We previously reported 42% (5/12) of sterile protection in malaria-unexposed, Duffy-positive (Fy +) volunteers immunized with PvRAS followed by a controlled human malaria infection (CHMI). Using a custom protein microarray displaying 515 Pv antigens, we found a significantly higher reactivity to PvCSP and one hypothetical protein (PVX_089630) in volunteers protected against P. vivax infection. In mock-vaccinated Fy + volunteers, a strong antibody response to CHMI was also observed. Although the Fy- volunteers immunized with non-irradiated Pv-infected mosquitoes (live sporozoites) did not develop malaria after CHMI, they recognized a high number of antigens, indicating the temporary presence of asexual parasites in peripheral blood. Together, our findings contribute to the understanding of the antibody response to P. vivax infection and allow the identification of novel parasite antigens as vaccine candidates.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT01082341.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Lopez-Perez
- Malaria Vaccine and Drug Development Center (MVDC), Cali, Colombia
| | - Aarti Jain
- Department Physiology & Biophysics, Vaccine R&D Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - D Huw Davies
- Department Physiology & Biophysics, Vaccine R&D Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Philip L Felgner
- Department Physiology & Biophysics, Vaccine R&D Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Sócrates Herrera
- Malaria Vaccine and Drug Development Center (MVDC), Cali, Colombia
- Caucaseco Scientific Research Center, Cali, Colombia
| | - Myriam Arévalo-Herrera
- Malaria Vaccine and Drug Development Center (MVDC), Cali, Colombia.
- Caucaseco Scientific Research Center, Cali, Colombia.
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8
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Kumar A, Singh PP, Tyagi S, Hari Kishan Raju K, Sahu SS, Rahi M. Vivax malaria: a possible stumbling block for malaria elimination in India. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1228217. [PMID: 38259757 PMCID: PMC10801037 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1228217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax is geographically the most widely dispersed human malaria parasite species. It has shown resilience and a great deal of adaptability. Genomic studies suggest that P. vivax originated from Asia or Africa and moved to the rest of the world. Although P. vivax is evolutionarily an older species than Plasmodium falciparum, its biology, transmission, pathology, and control still require better elucidation. P. vivax poses problems for malaria elimination because of the ability of a single primary infection to produce multiple relapses over months and years. P. vivax malaria elimination program needs early diagnosis, and prompt and complete radical treatment, which is challenging, to simultaneously exterminate the circulating parasites and dormant hypnozoites lodged in the hepatocytes of the host liver. As prompt surveillance and effective treatments are rolled out, preventing primaquine toxicity in the patients having glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency should be a priority for the vivax elimination program. This review sheds light on the burden of P. vivax, changing epidemiological patterns, the hurdles in elimination efforts, and the essential tools needed not just in India but globally. These tools encompass innovative treatments for eliminating dormant parasites, coping with evolving drug resistance, and the development of potential vaccines against the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwani Kumar
- ICMR - Vector Control Research Centre, Puducherry, India
| | | | - Suchi Tyagi
- ICMR - Vector Control Research Centre, Puducherry, India
| | | | | | - Manju Rahi
- ICMR - Vector Control Research Centre, Puducherry, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research, Hqrs New Delhi, India
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9
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Thawornpan P, Nicholas J, Malee C, Kochayoo P, Wangriatisak K, Tianpothong P, Ntumngia FB, J. Barnes S, H. Adams J, Chootong P. Longitudinal analysis of antibody responses to Plasmodium vivax sporozoite antigens following natural infection. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0011907. [PMID: 38277340 PMCID: PMC10817200 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND P. vivax malaria is a major global health burden hindering social and economic development throughout many tropical and sub-tropical countries. Pre-erythrocytic (PE) vaccines emerge as an attractive approach for the control and elimination of malaria infection. Therefore, evaluating the magnitude, longevity and prevalence of naturally acquired IgG antibody responses against PE candidate antigens is useful for vaccine design. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The antigenicity of five recombinant PE antigens (PvCSP-VK210, PvSSP3, PvM2-MAEBL, PvCelTOS and PvSPECT1) was evaluated in plasma samples from individuals residing in low transmission areas in Thailand (Ranong and Chumphon Provinces). The samples were collected at the time of acute vivax malaria and 90, 270 and 360 days later. The prevalence, magnitude and longevity of total IgG and IgG subclasses were determined for each antigen using the longitudinal data. Our results showed that seropositivity of all tested PE antigens was detected during infection in at least some subjects; anti-PvCSP-VK210 and anti-PvCelTOS antibodies were the most frequent. Titers of these antibodies declined during the year of follow up, but notably seropositivity persisted. Among seropositive subjects at post-infection, high number of subjects possessed antibodies against PvCSP-VK210. Anti-PvSSP3 antibody responses had the longest half-life. IgG subclass profiling showed that the predominant subclasses were IgG1 and IgG3 (cytophilic antibodies), tending to remain detectable for at least 360 days after infection. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE The present study demonstrated the magnitude and longevity of serological responses to multiple PE antigens of P. vivax after natural infection. This knowledge could contribute to the design of an effective P. vivax vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pongsakorn Thawornpan
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Applied Technology, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Justin Nicholas
- Center for Global Health and Interdisciplinary Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Chayapat Malee
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Applied Technology, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Piyawan Kochayoo
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Applied Technology, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kittikorn Wangriatisak
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Applied Technology, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pachara Tianpothong
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Applied Technology, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Francis Babila Ntumngia
- Center for Global Health and Interdisciplinary Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Samantha J. Barnes
- Center for Global Health and Interdisciplinary Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - John H. Adams
- Center for Global Health and Interdisciplinary Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Patchanee Chootong
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Applied Technology, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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10
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Kunkeaw N, Nguitragool W, Takashima E, Kangwanrangsan N, Muramatsu H, Tachibana M, Ishino T, Lin PJC, Tam YK, Pichyangkul S, Tsuboi T, Pardi N, Sattabongkot J. A Pvs25 mRNA vaccine induces complete and durable transmission-blocking immunity to Plasmodium vivax. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:187. [PMID: 38092803 PMCID: PMC10719277 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00786-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax (P. vivax) is the major malaria parasite outside of Africa and no vaccine is available against it. A vaccine that interrupts parasite transmission (transmission-blocking vaccine, TBV) is considered highly desirable to reduce the spread of P. vivax and to accelerate its elimination. However, the development of a TBV against this pathogen has been hampered by the inability to culture the parasite as well as the low immunogenicity of the vaccines developed to date. Pvs25 is the most advanced TBV antigen candidate for P. vivax. However, in previous phase I clinical trials, TBV vaccines based on Pvs25 yielded low antibody responses or had unacceptable safety profiles. As the nucleoside-modified mRNA-lipid nanoparticle (mRNA-LNP) vaccine platform proved to be safe and effective in humans, we generated and tested mRNA-LNP vaccines encoding several versions of Pvs25 in mice. We found that in a prime-boost vaccination schedule, all Pvs25 mRNA-LNP vaccines elicited robust antigen-specific antibody responses. Furthermore, when compared with a Pvs25 recombinant protein vaccine formulated with Montanide ISA-51 adjuvant, the full-length Pvs25 mRNA-LNP vaccine induced a stronger and longer-lasting functional immunity. Seven months after the second vaccination, vaccine-induced antibodies retained the ability to fully block P. vivax transmission in direct membrane feeding assays, whereas the blocking activity induced by the protein/ISA-51 vaccine dropped significantly. Taken together, we report on mRNA vaccines targeting P. vivax and demonstrate that Pvs25 mRNA-LNP outperformed an adjuvanted Pvs25 protein vaccine suggesting that it is a promising candidate for further testing in non-human primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawapol Kunkeaw
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wang Nguitragool
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Eizo Takashima
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Niwat Kangwanrangsan
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Hiromi Muramatsu
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mayumi Tachibana
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Japan
| | - Tomoko Ishino
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Paulo J C Lin
- Acuitas Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Ying K Tam
- Acuitas Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Sathit Pichyangkul
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Takafumi Tsuboi
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Norbert Pardi
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Jetsumon Sattabongkot
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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11
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Rajneesh, Tiwari R, Singh VK, Kumar A, Gupta RP, Singh AK, Gautam V, Kumar R. Advancements and Challenges in Developing Malaria Vaccines: Targeting Multiple Stages of the Parasite Life Cycle. ACS Infect Dis 2023; 9:1795-1814. [PMID: 37708228 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Malaria, caused by Plasmodium species, remains a major global health concern, causing millions of deaths annually. While the introduction of the RTS,S vaccine has shown promise, there is a pressing need for more effective vaccines due to the emergence of drug-resistant parasites and insecticide-resistant vectors. However, the complex life cycle and genetic diversity of the parasite, technical obstacles, limited funding, and the impact of the 2019 pandemic have hindered progress in malaria vaccine development. This review focuses on advancements in malaria vaccine development, particularly the ongoing clinical trials targeting antigens from different stages of the Plasmodium life cycle. Additionally, we discuss the rationale, strategies, and challenges associated with vaccine design, aiming to enhance the immune response and protective efficacy of vaccine candidates. A cost-effective and multistage vaccine could hold the key to controlling and eradicating malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajneesh
- Centre of Experimental Medicine & Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Rahul Tiwari
- Centre of Experimental Medicine & Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Vishal K Singh
- Centre of Experimental Medicine & Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Awnish Kumar
- Centre of Experimental Medicine & Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Rohit P Gupta
- Centre of Experimental Medicine & Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
- Department of Applied Microbiology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Akhilesh K Singh
- Faculty of Dental Science, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Vibhav Gautam
- Centre of Experimental Medicine & Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
| | - Rajiv Kumar
- Centre of Experimental Medicine & Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India
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12
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Matos ADS, Soares IF, Baptista BDO, de Souza HADS, Chaves LB, Perce-da-Silva DDS, Riccio EKP, Albrecht L, Totino PRR, Rodrigues-da-Silva RN, Daniel-Ribeiro CT, Pratt-Riccio LR, Lima-Junior JDC. Construction, Expression, and Evaluation of the Naturally Acquired Humoral Immune Response against Plasmodium vivax RMC-1, a Multistage Chimeric Protein. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11571. [PMID: 37511330 PMCID: PMC10380678 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The PvCelTOS, PvCyRPA, and Pvs25 proteins play important roles during the three stages of the P. vivax lifecycle. In this study, we designed and expressed a P. vivax recombinant modular chimeric protein (PvRMC-1) composed of the main antigenic regions of these vaccine candidates. After structure modelling by prediction, the chimeric protein was expressed, and the antigenicity was assessed by IgM and IgG (total and subclass) ELISA in 301 naturally exposed individuals from the Brazilian Amazon. The recombinant protein was recognized by IgG (54%) and IgM (40%) antibodies in the studied individuals, confirming the natural immunogenicity of the epitopes that composed PvRMC-1 as its maintenance in the chimeric structure. Among responders, a predominant cytophilic response mediated by IgG1 (70%) and IgG3 (69%) was observed. IgM levels were inversely correlated with age and time of residence in endemic areas (p < 0.01). By contrast, the IgG and IgM reactivity indexes were positively correlated with each other, and both were inversely correlated with the time of the last malaria episode. Conclusions: The study demonstrates that PvRMC-1 was successfully expressed and targeted by natural antibodies, providing important insights into the construction of a multistage chimeric recombinant protein and the use of naturally acquired antibodies to validate the construction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ada da Silva Matos
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Isabela Ferreira Soares
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Barbara de Oliveira Baptista
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Malária, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Hugo Amorim Dos Santos de Souza
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Malária, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Lana Bitencourt Chaves
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Daiana de Souza Perce-da-Silva
- Laboratório de Imunologia Básica e Aplicada, Centro Universitário Arthur Sá Earp Neto/Faculdade de Medicina de Petrópolis (UNIFASE/FMP), Petrópolis 25680-120, RJ, Brazil
- Laboratório de Imunologia Clínica, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Evelyn Kety Pratt Riccio
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Malária, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Letusa Albrecht
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Apicomplexa, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Curitiba 81350-010, PR, Brazil
| | - Paulo Renato Rivas Totino
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Malária, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Nunes Rodrigues-da-Silva
- Laboratório de Tecnologia Imunológica, Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos (Bio-Manguinhos), Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Cláudio Tadeu Daniel-Ribeiro
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Malária, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
- Centro de Pesquisa, Diagnóstico e Treinamento em Malária (CPD-Mal), Fiocruz e Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, Ministério da Saúde, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Lilian Rose Pratt-Riccio
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Malária, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
- Centro de Pesquisa, Diagnóstico e Treinamento em Malária (CPD-Mal), Fiocruz e Secretaria de Vigilância em Saúde, Ministério da Saúde, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - Josué da Costa Lima-Junior
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (IOC), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
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13
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El-Moamly AA, El-Sweify MA. Malaria vaccines: the 60-year journey of hope and final success-lessons learned and future prospects. Trop Med Health 2023; 51:29. [PMID: 37198702 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-023-00516-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The world has made great strides towards beating malaria, although about half of the world population is still exposed to the risk of contracting malaria. Developing an effective malaria vaccine was a huge challenge for medical science. In 2021 the World Health Organization (WHO) approved the first malaria vaccine, RTS,S/AS01 vaccine (Mosquirix™), for widespread use. This review highlights the history of development, and the different approaches and types of malaria vaccines, and the literature to date. It covers the developmental stages of RTS,S/AS01 and recommends steps for its deployment. The review explores other potential vaccine candidates and their status, and suggests options for their further development. It also recommends future roles for vaccines in eradicating malaria. Questions remain on how RTS,S vaccine will work in widespread use and how it can best be utilized to benefit vulnerable communities. CONCLUSION Malaria vaccines have been in development for almost 60 years. The RTS,S/AS01 vaccine has now been approved, but cannot be a stand-alone solution. Development should continue on promising candidates such as R21, PfSPZ and P. vivax vaccines. Multi-component vaccines may be a useful addition to other malaria control techniques in achieving eradication of malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal A El-Moamly
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed A El-Sweify
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
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14
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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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15
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Loria J, Albani VVL, Coutinho FAB, Covas DT, Struchiner CJ, Zubelli JP, Massad E. Time-dependent vaccine efficacy estimation quantified by a mathematical model. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285466. [PMID: 37167285 PMCID: PMC10174497 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In this paper we calculate the variation of the estimated vaccine efficacy (VE) due to the time-dependent force of infection resulting from the difference between the moment the Clinical Trial (CT) begins and the peak in the outbreak intensity. Using a simple mathematical model we tested the hypothesis that the time difference between the moment the CT begins and the peak in the outbreak intensity determines substantially different values for VE. We exemplify the method with the case of the VE efficacy estimation for one of the vaccines against the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Loria
- Instituto de Matemática Pura e Aplicada, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- School of Mathematics, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Vinicius V L Albani
- LAMMCA, Department of Mathematics, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianopolis, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Eduardo Massad
- School of Applied Mathematics, Fundação Getúlio Vargas, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- School of Medicine, University of São Paulo and LIM01-HCFMUSP, São Paulo, Brazil
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16
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Wang S, Tian P, Li S, Liu H, Guo X, Huang F. Genetic diversity of transmission-blocking vaccine candidate antigens Pvs25 and Pvs28 in Plasmodium vivax isolates from China. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:944. [PMID: 36527077 PMCID: PMC9755777 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07931-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) target the sexual stages of malaria parasites to reduce or interrupt the transmission cycle in human and mosquito populations. The genetic diversity of TBVs candidate antigens, Pvs25 and Pvs28, in Plasmodium vivax could provide evidence for the development of TBVs. METHODS Dry blood spots from P. vivax patients were collected from Dandong, Suining, Hainan, Nyingchi, Tengchong, and Yingjiang in China. The pvs25 and pvs28 genes were amplified and sequenced. The genetic diversity of pvs25 and pvs28 were analyzed using DNASTAR, MEGA6, and DnaSP 5.0 programs. RESULTS A total of 377 samples were collected, among which 324 and 272 samples were successfully amplified in the pvs25 and pvs28 genes, respectively. Eight haplotypes were identified in Pvs25, for which the predominant mutation was I130T with 100% prevalence. A variety of 22 haplotypes in Pvs28 were identified. The number of GSGGE/D repeats of Pvs28 was a range of 4-8, among which, high (7-8) and low (4-5) copy numbers of tandem repeats were found in haplotypes H2 and H17, respectively. The nucleotide diversity of pvs28 (π = 0.00305 ± 0.00061) was slightly higher than that of pvs25 (π = 0.00146 ± 0.00007), thus they were not significantly different (P > 0.05). The Tajima's D value of pvs25 was positive whereas pvs28 was negative, which indicated that both genes were affected by natural selection. CONCLUSION The genetic diversity of pvs25 and pvs28 genes in China was relatively limited, which provided valuable information for TBVs design and optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Wang
- grid.198530.60000 0000 8803 2373National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, 200025 China ,grid.508378.1Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai, 200025 China ,grid.508378.1NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, 200025 China ,grid.508378.1WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, 200025 China
| | - Peng Tian
- grid.464500.30000 0004 1758 1139Yunnan Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Pu’er, 665000 China
| | - Shigang Li
- Yingjiang County Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yingjiang, 679300 China
| | - Hui Liu
- grid.464500.30000 0004 1758 1139Yunnan Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Pu’er, 665000 China
| | - Xiangrui Guo
- Yingjiang County Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yingjiang, 679300 China
| | - Fang Huang
- grid.430328.eShanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, 200336 China
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17
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Mulamba C, Williams C, Kreppel K, Ouedraogo JB, Olotu AI. Evaluation of the Pfs25-IMX313/Matrix-M malaria transmission-blocking candidate vaccine in endemic settings. Malar J 2022; 21:159. [PMID: 35655174 PMCID: PMC9161629 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-022-04173-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria control relies heavily on the use of anti-malarial drugs and insecticides against malaria parasites and mosquito vectors. Drug and insecticide resistance threatens the effectiveness of conventional malarial interventions; alternative control approaches are, therefore, needed. The development of malaria transmission-blocking vaccines that target the sexual stages in humans or mosquito vectors is among new approaches being pursued. Here, the immunological mechanisms underlying malaria transmission blocking, status of Pfs25-based vaccines are viewed, as well as approaches and capacity for first in-human evaluation of a transmission-blocking candidate vaccine Pfs25-IMX313/Matrix-M administered to semi-immune healthy individuals in endemic settings. It is concluded that institutions in low and middle income settings should be supported to conduct first-in human vaccine trials in order to stimulate innovative research and reduce the overdependence on developed countries for research and local interventions against many diseases of public health importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Mulamba
- Interventions & Clinical Trials Department, Ifakara Health Institute, P.O. Box 74, Bagamoyo, Tanzania.,Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology, Tengeru, P. O. Box 447, Arusha, Tanzania
| | - Chris Williams
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Katharina Kreppel
- Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology, Tengeru, P. O. Box 447, Arusha, Tanzania
| | | | - Ally I Olotu
- Interventions & Clinical Trials Department, Ifakara Health Institute, P.O. Box 74, Bagamoyo, Tanzania.
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18
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White M, Chitnis CE. Potential role of vaccines in elimination of Plasmodium vivax. Parasitol Int 2022; 90:102592. [PMID: 35489701 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2022.102592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The unique biology of Plasmodium vivax, with its ability to form latent hypnozoites in the liver stage and the early appearance of gametocytes during blood stage infection, makes it difficult to target for elimination with standard malaria control tools. Here, we use modelling studies to demonstrate that vaccines that target different stages of P. vivax could greatly assist efforts to eliminate P. vivax. Combination of vaccines that target different P. vivax life cycle stages may be required to achieve high efficacy. Our simulations demonstrate that repeated rounds of mass vaccination with multi-stage vaccines can help achieve pre-elimination levels of P. vivax in both low and high transmission settings. We review the status of global efforts to develop vaccines for P. vivax malaria. We describe the status of the leading P. vivax vaccine candidates and share some thoughts on the prospects for availability of an effective vaccine for P. vivax malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael White
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Analytics G5 Unit, Department of Global Health, Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Chetan E Chitnis
- Malaria Parasite Biology and Vaccines Unit, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris, Paris, France.
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19
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Tachibana M, Takashima E, Morita M, Sattabongkot J, Ishino T, Culleton R, Torii M, Tsuboi T. Plasmodium vivax transmission-blocking vaccines: Progress, challenges and innovation. Parasitol Int 2021; 87:102525. [PMID: 34896614 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2021.102525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Existing control measures have significantly reduced malaria morbidity and mortality in the last two decades, although these reductions are now stalling. Significant efforts have been undertaken to develop malaria vaccines. Recently, extensive progress in malaria vaccine development has been made for Plasmodium falciparum. To date, only the RTS,S/AS01 vaccine has been tested in Phase 3 clinical trials and is now under implementation, despite modest efficacy. Therefore, the development of a malaria transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) will be essential for malaria elimination. Only a limited number of TBVs have reached pre-clinical or clinical development with several major challenges impeding their development, including low immunogenicity in humans. TBV development efforts against P. vivax, the second major cause of malaria morbidity, lag far behind those for P. falciparum. In this review we summarize the latest progress, challenges and innovations in P. vivax TBV research and discuss how to accelerate its development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayumi Tachibana
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime 791-0295, Japan.
| | - Eizo Takashima
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan.
| | - Masayuki Morita
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan.
| | - Jetsumon Sattabongkot
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.
| | - Tomoko Ishino
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime 791-0295, Japan.
| | - Richard Culleton
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime 791-0295, Japan.
| | - Motomi Torii
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime 791-0295, Japan; Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan.
| | - Takafumi Tsuboi
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan.
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20
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Zhang Y, Liu F, Zhao Y, Yang F, Bai J, Jia X, Roobsoong W, Sattabongkot J, Cui L, Cao Y, Luo E, Wang M. Evaluation of two Plasmodium vivax sexual stage antigens as transmission-blocking vaccine candidates. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:407. [PMID: 34399829 PMCID: PMC8366161 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04909-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasmodium vivax transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) are receiving increasing attention. Based on excellent transmission-blocking activities of the PbPH (PBANKA_0417200) and PbSOP26 (PBANKA_1457700) antigens in Plasmodium berghei, their orthologs in P. vivax, PVX_098655 (PvPH) and PVX_101120 (PvSOP26), were selected for the evaluation of their potential as TBVs. METHODS Fragments of PvPH (amino acids 22-304) and PvSOP26 (amino acids 30-272) were expressed in the yeast expression system. The recombinant proteins were used to immunize mice to obtain antisera. The transmission-reducing activities of these antisera were evaluated using the direct membrane feeding assay (DMFA) using Anopheles dirus mosquitoes and P. vivax clinical isolates. RESULTS The recombinant proteins PvPH and PvSOP26 induced robust antibody responses in mice. The DMFA showed that the anti-PvSOP26 sera significantly reduced oocyst densities by 92.0 and 84.1% in two parasite isolates, respectively, whereas the anti-PvPH sera did not show evident transmission-reducing activity. The variation in the DMFA results was unlikely due to the genetic polymorphisms of the two genes since their respective sequences were identical in the clinical P. vivax isolates. CONCLUSION PvSOP26 could be a promising TBV candidate for P. vivax, which warrants further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongzhe Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
- Department of Nephrology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Jie Bai
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Xitong Jia
- Department of Pathogen Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Wanlapa Roobsoong
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jetsumon Sattabongkot
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Liwang Cui
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Boulevard, Suite 304, Tampa, FL, 33612-9415, USA
| | - Yaming Cao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Enjie Luo
- Department of Pathogen Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China.
| | - Meilian Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China.
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21
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Memvanga PB, Nkanga CI. Liposomes for malaria management: the evolution from 1980 to 2020. Malar J 2021; 20:327. [PMID: 34315484 PMCID: PMC8313885 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-03858-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is one of the most prevalent parasitic diseases and the foremost cause of morbidity in the tropical regions of the world. Strategies for the efficient management of this parasitic infection include adequate treatment with anti-malarial therapeutics and vaccination. However, the emergence and spread of resistant strains of malaria parasites to the majority of presently used anti-malarial medications, on the other hand, complicates malaria treatment. Other shortcomings of anti-malarial drugs include poor aqueous solubility, low permeability, poor bioavailability, and non-specific targeting of intracellular parasites, resulting in high dose requirements and toxic side effects. To address these limitations, liposome-based nanotechnology has been extensively explored as a new solution in malaria management. Liposome technology improves anti-malarial drug encapsulation, bioavailability, target delivery, and controlled release, resulting in increased effectiveness, reduced resistance progression, and fewer adverse effects. Furthermore, liposomes are exploited as immunological adjuvants and antigen carriers to boost the preventive effectiveness of malaria vaccine candidates. The present review discusses the findings from studies conducted over the last 40 years (1980-2020) using in vitro and in vivo settings to assess the prophylactic and curative anti-malarial potential of liposomes containing anti-malarial agents or antigens. This paper and the discussion herein provide a useful resource for further complementary investigations and may pave the way for the research and development of several available and affordable anti-malarial-based liposomes and liposomal malaria vaccines by allowing a thorough evaluation of liposomes developed to date for the management of malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick B Memvanga
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratory of Pharmaceutics and Phytopharmaceutical Drug Development, University of Kinshasa, B.P. 212, Kinshasa XI, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
| | - Christian I Nkanga
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Laboratory of Pharmaceutics and Phytopharmaceutical Drug Development, University of Kinshasa, B.P. 212, Kinshasa XI, Democratic Republic of the Congo
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22
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de Graaf H, Payne RO, Taylor I, Miura K, Long CA, Elias SC, Zaric M, Minassian AM, Silk SE, Li L, Poulton ID, Baker M, Draper SJ, Gbesemete D, Brendish NJ, Martins F, Marini A, Mekhaiel D, Edwards NJ, Roberts R, Vekemans J, Moyle S, Faust SN, Berrie E, Lawrie AM, Hill F, Hill AVS, Biswas S. Safety and Immunogenicity of ChAd63/MVA Pfs25-IMX313 in a Phase I First-in-Human Trial. Front Immunol 2021; 12:694759. [PMID: 34335606 PMCID: PMC8318801 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.694759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Transmission blocking vaccines targeting the sexual-stages of the malaria parasite could play a major role to achieve elimination and eradication of malaria. The Plasmodium falciparum Pfs25 protein (Pfs25) is the most clinically advanced candidate sexual-stage antigen. IMX313, a complement inhibitor C4b-binding protein that forms heptamers with the antigen fused to it, improve antibody responses. This is the first time that viral vectors have been used to induce antibodies in humans against an antigen that is expressed only in the mosquito vector. Methods Clinical trial looking at safety and immunogenicity of two recombinant viral vectored vaccines encoding Pfs25-IMX313 in healthy malaria-naive adults. Replication-deficient chimpanzee adenovirus serotype 63 (ChAd63) and the attenuated orthopoxvirus modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA), encoding Pfs25-IMX313, were delivered by the intramuscular route in a heterologous prime-boost regimen using an 8-week interval. Safety data and samples for immunogenicity assays were taken at various time-points. Results The reactogenicity of the vaccines was similar to that seen in previous trials using the same viral vectors encoding other antigens. The vaccines were immunogenic and induced both antibody and T cell responses against Pfs25, but significant transmission reducing activity (TRA) was not observed in most volunteers by standard membrane feeding assay. Conclusion Both vaccines were well tolerated and demonstrated a favorable safety profile in malaria-naive adults. However, the transmission reducing activity of the antibodies generated were weak, suggesting the need for an alternative vaccine formulation. Trial Registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02532049.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans de Graaf
- NIHR Clinical Research Facility, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth O Payne
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Iona Taylor
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kazutoyo Miura
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Carol A Long
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Sean C Elias
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Marija Zaric
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sarah E Silk
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lee Li
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ian D Poulton
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Megan Baker
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Simon J Draper
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Diane Gbesemete
- NIHR Clinical Research Facility, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Nathan J Brendish
- NIHR Clinical Research Facility, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Filipa Martins
- NIHR Clinical Research Facility, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Arianna Marini
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - David Mekhaiel
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nick J Edwards
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Roberts
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sarah Moyle
- Clinical Biomanufacturing Facility, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Saul N Faust
- NIHR Clinical Research Facility, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust and Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Eleanor Berrie
- Clinical Biomanufacturing Facility, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Alison M Lawrie
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Adrian V S Hill
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Sumi Biswas
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Cindy S Chu and co-authors review options for diagnosis, safe and radical cure, and relapse prevention of Plasmodium Vivax.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy S. Chu
- Shoklo Malaria Research Unit-Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Mae Sot, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Nicholas J. White
- Shoklo Malaria Research Unit-Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Mae Sot, Thailand
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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24
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Healy SA, Anderson C, Swihart BJ, Mwakingwe A, Gabriel EE, Decederfelt H, Hobbs CV, Rausch KM, Zhu D, Muratova O, Herrera R, Scaria PV, MacDonald NJ, Lambert LE, Zaidi I, Coelho CH, Renn JP, Wu Y, Narum DL, Duffy PE. Pfs230 yields higher malaria transmission-blocking vaccine activity than Pfs25 in humans but not mice. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:146221. [PMID: 33561016 PMCID: PMC8011888 DOI: 10.1172/jci146221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUNDVaccines that block human-to-mosquito Plasmodium transmission are needed for malaria eradication, and clinical trials have targeted zygote antigen Pfs25 for decades. We reported that a Pfs25 protein-protein conjugate vaccine formulated in alum adjuvant induced serum functional activity in both US and Malian adults. However, antibody levels declined rapidly, and transmission-reducing activity required 4 vaccine doses. Functional immunogenicity and durability must be improved before advancing transmission-blocking vaccines further in clinical development. We hypothesized that the prefertilization protein Pfs230 alone or in combination with Pfs25 would improve functional activity.METHODSTransmission-blocking vaccine candidates based on gamete antigen Pfs230 or Pfs25 were conjugated with Exoprotein A, formulated in Alhydrogel, and administered to mice, rhesus macaques, and humans. Antibody levels were measured by ELISA and transmission-reducing activity was assessed by the standard membrane feeding assay.RESULTSPfs25-EPA/Alhydrogel and Pfs230D1-EPA/Alhydrogel induced similar serum functional activity in mice, but Pfs230D1-EPA induced significantly greater activity in rhesus monkeys that was enhanced by complement. In US adults, 2 vaccine doses induced complement-dependent activity in 4 of 5 Pfs230D1-EPA/Alhydrogel recipients but no significant activity in 5 Pfs25-EPA recipients, and combination with Pfs25-EPA did not increase activity over Pfs230D1-EPA alone.CONCLUSIONThe complement-dependent functional immunogenicity of Pfs230D1-EPA represents a significant improvement over Pfs25-EPA in this comparative study. The rhesus model is more predictive of the functional human immune response to Pfs230D1 than is the mouse model.TRIAL REGISTRATIONClinicalTrials.gov NCT02334462.FUNDINGIntramural Research Program of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara A Healy
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, and
| | | | - Bruce J Swihart
- Biostatistics Research Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Erin E Gabriel
- Biostatistics Research Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.,Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hope Decederfelt
- Pharmacy Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | - Daming Zhu
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, and
| | - Olga Muratova
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, and
| | - Raul Herrera
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, and
| | | | | | | | - Irfan Zaidi
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, and
| | | | | | - Yimin Wu
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, and
| | - David L Narum
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, and
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25
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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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26
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Duffy PE. Transmission-Blocking Vaccines: Harnessing Herd Immunity for Malaria Elimination. Expert Rev Vaccines 2021; 20:185-198. [PMID: 33478283 PMCID: PMC11127254 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2021.1878028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transmission-blocking vaccines (TBV) prevent community spread of malaria by targeting mosquito sexual stage parasites, a life-cycle bottleneck, and will be used in elimination programs. TBV rely on herd immunity to reduce mosquito infections and thereby new infections in both vaccine recipients and non-recipients, but do not provide protection once an individual receives an infectious mosquito bite which complicates clinical development. AREAS COVERED Here, we describe the concept and biology behind TBV, and we provide an update on clinical development of the leading vaccine candidate antigens. Search terms 'malaria vaccine,' 'sexual stages,' 'transmission blocking vaccine,' 'VIMT' and 'SSM-VIMT' were used for PubMed queries to identify relevant literature. EXPERT OPINION Candidates targeting P. falciparum zygote surface antigen Pfs25, and its P. vivax orthologue Pvs25, induced functional activity in humans that reduced mosquito infection in surrogate assays, but require increased durability to be useful in the field. Candidates targeting gamete surface antigens Pfs230 and Pfs48/45, respectively, are in or nearing clinical trials. Nanoparticle platforms and adjuvants are being explored to enhance immunogenicity. Efficacy trials require special considerations, such as cluster-randomized designs to measure herd immunity that reduces human and mosquito infection rates, while addressing human and mosquito movements as confounding factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick E Duffy
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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27
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Patel PN, Tolia N. Structural vaccinology of malaria transmission-blocking vaccines. Expert Rev Vaccines 2021; 20:199-214. [PMID: 33430656 PMCID: PMC11077433 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2021.1873135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: The development of effective vaccines remains a major health priority to combat the global burden of malaria, a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites. Transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) elicit antibodies that neutralize the sexual stages of the parasite in blood meals ingested by the Anopheles mosquito, interrupting parasite development in the vector host and preventing disease spread to other individuals.Areas covered: The P. falciparum gametocyte surface antigens Pfs230, Pfs48/45, and Pfs47, the parasite ookinete surface protein Pfs25, and the male gametocyte specific protein PfHAP2 are leading TBV candidates, some of which are in clinical development. The recent expansion of methodology to study monoclonal antibodies isolated directly from humans and animal models, coupled with effective measures for parasite neutralization, has provided unprecedented insight into TBV efficacy and development.Expert opinion: Available structural and functional data on antigen-monoclonal antibody (Ag-mAb) complexes, as well as epitope classification studies, have identified neutralizing epitopes that may aid vaccine development and improve protection. Here, we review the clinical prospects of TBV candidates, progress in the development of novel vaccine strategies for TBVs, and the impact of structural vaccinology in TBV design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Palak N Patel
- Host-Pathogen Interactions and Structural Vaccinology Section, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Niraj Tolia
- Host-Pathogen Interactions and Structural Vaccinology Section, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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28
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Asali S, Raz A, Turki H, Mafakher L, Razmjou E, Solaymani-Mohammadi S. Restricted genetic heterogeneity of the Plasmodium vivax transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) candidate Pvs48/45 in a low transmission setting: Implications for the Plasmodium vivax malaria vaccine development. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2021; 89:104710. [PMID: 33421653 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2021.104710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax is the most widespread malaria species parasitizing humans outside Africa, with approximately 100 million cases reported per year. Most human cases of P. vivax are asymptomatic with low parasitemia, making active case detection-based elimination programme challenging and less effective. Despite the widespread distribution of P. vivax, no effective vaccines are currently available. Transmission blocking vaccines have recently emerged as potential vaccine candidates to reduce transmission rates to below the essential levels required for the maintenance of the parasite life cycle. Here, we demonstrated that P. vivax was the predominant species found in a malaria-endemic area, although P. vivax/P. falciparum co-infections were also common. Through genomic sequence analysis and neighbor-joining algorithms, we demonstrated limited genetic heterogeneity in the P. vivax transmission-blocking vaccine candidate Pvs48/45 among clinical isolates of P. vivax. Restricted genetic polymorphism occurred at both nucleotide and amino acid levels. The most frequent mutation was A → G at nucleotide position 77 (46.7%), whereas the least frequent was C → T at nucleotide position 1230 (3.3%). The occurrence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) distribution at 6/8 positions (75%) led to changes in amino acid sequences in the Pvs48/45 loci, whereas 2/8 (25%) of SNPs resulted in no amino acid sequence variations. Consistently, the nucleotide diversity in the Pvs48/45 locus among the P. vivax population studied was extremely low (π = 0.000525). Changes in amino acid sequences in the Pvs48/45 protein did not result in substantial conformational modifications in the tertiary structures of these proteins. Unveiling the population genetic structure and genetic heterogeneity of vaccine target antigens are necessary for rational design of transmission-blocking antibody vaccines and to monitor the vaccine efficacy in clinical trials in endemic areas for malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheila Asali
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbasali Raz
- Malaria and Vector Research Group, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Habibollah Turki
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Ladan Mafakher
- Medicinal Plant Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Elham Razmjou
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Microbial Biotechnology Research Center (MBiRC), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Shahram Solaymani-Mohammadi
- Laboratory of Mucosal Immunology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, United States.
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29
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Huang WC, Deng B, Mabrouk MT, Seffouh A, Ortega J, Long C, Miura K, Wu Y, Lovell JF. Particle-based, Pfs230 and Pfs25 immunization is effective, but not improved by duplexing at fixed total antigen dose. Malar J 2020; 19:309. [PMID: 32859199 PMCID: PMC7453371 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-020-03368-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Plasmodium falciparum sexual-stage surface proteins Pfs25 and Pfs230 are antigen candidates for a malaria transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV), and have been widely investigated as such. It is not clear whether simultaneously presenting these two antigens in a particulate vaccine would enhance the transmission reducing activity (TRA) of induced antibodies. To assess this, immunization was carried out with liposomes containing synthetic lipid adjuvant monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA), and cobalt-porphyrin-phospholipid (CoPoP), which rapidly converts recombinant, his-tagged antigens into particles. Methods His-tagged, recombinant Pfs25 and Pfs230C1 were mixed with CoPoP liposomes to form a bivalent vaccine. Antigens were fluorescently labelled to infer duplex particleization serum-stability and binding kinetics using fluorescence resonance energy transfer. Mice and rabbits were immunized with individual or duplexed particleized Pfs25 and Pfs230C1, at fixed total antigen doses. The resulting antibody responses were assessed for magnitude and TRA. Results Pfs230C1 and Pfs25 rapidly bound CoPoP liposomes to form a serum-stable, bivalent particle vaccine. In mice, immunization with 5 ng of total antigen (individual antigen or duplexed) elicited functional antibodies against Pfs25 and Pfs230. Compared to immunization with the individual antigen, Pfs25 antibody production was moderately lower for the bivalent CoPoP vaccine, whereas Pfs230C1 antibody production was not impacted. All antibodies demonstrated at least 92% inhibition in oocyst density at 750 μg/mL purified mouse IgG in the standard membrane feeding assay (SMFA). At lower IgG concentrations, the bivalent vaccine did not improve TRA; antibodies induced by particleized Pfs25 alone showed stronger function in these conditions. In rabbits, immunization with a 20 µg total antigen dose with the duplexed antigens yielded similar antibody production against Pfs25 and Pfs230 compared to immunization with a 20 µg dose of individual antigens. However, no enhanced TRA was observed with duplexing. Conclusions Pfs25, Pfs230 or the duplexed combination can readily be prepared as particulate vaccines by mixing CoPoP liposomes with soluble, recombinant antigens. This approach induces potent transmission-reducing antibodies following immunization in mice and rabbits. Immunization with bivalent, particleized, Pfs230 and Pfs25 did not yield antibodies with superior TRA compared to immunization with particleized Pfs25 as a single antigen. Altogether, duplexing antigens is straightforward and effective using CoPoP liposomes, but is likely to be more useful for targeting distinct parasite life stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chiao Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA
| | - Bingbing Deng
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Moustafa T Mabrouk
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA
| | - Amal Seffouh
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University Montreal, Quebec, H3A 0C7, Canada
| | - Joaquin Ortega
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University Montreal, Quebec, H3A 0C7, Canada
| | - Carole Long
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Kazutoyo Miura
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Yimin Wu
- PATH's Malaria Vaccine Initiative (MVI), Washington, DC, 20001, USA
| | - Jonathan F Lovell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, 14260, USA.
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30
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Duffy PE, Patrick Gorres J. Malaria vaccines since 2000: progress, priorities, products. NPJ Vaccines 2020; 5:48. [PMID: 32566259 PMCID: PMC7283239 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-020-0196-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria vaccine development entered a new era in 2015 when the pre-erythrocytic Plasmodium falciparum candidate RTS,S was favorably reviewed by the European Medicines Agency and subsequently introduced into national pilot implementation programs, marking the first human anti-parasite vaccine to pass regulatory scrutiny. Since the first trials published in 1997, RTS,S has been evaluated in a series of clinical trials culminating in Phase 3 testing, while testing of other pre-erythrocytic candidates (that target sporozoite- or liver-stage parasites), particularly whole sporozoite vaccines, has also increased. Interest in blood-stage candidates (that limit blood-stage parasite growth) subsided after disappointing human efficacy results, although new blood-stage targets and concepts may revive activity in this area. Over the past decade, testing of transmission-blocking vaccines (that kill mosquito/sexual-stage parasites) advanced to field trials and the first generation of placental malaria vaccines (that clear placenta-sequestering parasites) entered the clinic. Novel antigen discovery, human monoclonal antibodies, structural vaccinology, and improved platforms promise to expand on RTS,S and improve existing vaccine candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick E Duffy
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - J Patrick Gorres
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
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31
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Tachibana M, Baba M, Takashima E, Tsuboi T, Torii M, Ishino T. The C-terminal region of the Plasmodium yoelii microgamete surface antigen PyMiGS induces potent anti-malarial transmission-blocking immunity in mice. Vaccine 2020; 38:3129-3136. [PMID: 32147299 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2020.02.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Malaria transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) aim to inhibit parasite fertilization or further development within the mosquito midgut. Because TBV-immunized individuals reduce the transmission of malaria parasites to mosquito vectors, TBVs could serve as a promising strategy to eliminate malaria. We previously reported that a male specific protein, PyMiGS (Plasmodium yoelii microgamete surface protein), is localized to the surface of microgametes and anti-PyMiGS antibodies have strong transmission-blocking activity. In this study we determine a region of PyMiGS that contains epitopes inducing potent transmission-blocking antibodies. PyMiGS excluding the N-terminal signal sequence and C-terminal hydrophobic region (PyMiGS-full) was divided into five overlapping regions, named I through V, and corresponding truncated recombinant proteins were produced. Anti-region V antibody, affinity-purified from anti-PyMiGS-full rabbit antiserum, significantly reduced the number of oocysts in a mosquito membrane-feeding assay. Antibodies from mice immunized with PyMiGS-V recognized the microgamete surface and showed higher transmission-blocking efficacy than antibodies obtained by PyMiGS-full immunization. These results indicate that the major epitopes for transmission-blocking antibodies are within region V at the C-terminal region of PyMiGS. Therefore, region V of MiGS could be a promising pre-fertilization TBV candidate antigen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayumi Tachibana
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime 791-0295, Japan
| | - Minami Baba
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime 791-0295, Japan
| | - Eizo Takashima
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan
| | - Takafumi Tsuboi
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan
| | - Motomi Torii
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime 791-0295, Japan; Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan
| | - Tomoko Ishino
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime 791-0295, Japan.
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Qiu Y, Zhao Y, Liu F, Ye B, Zhao Z, Thongpoon S, Roobsoong W, Sattabongkot J, Cui L, Fan Q, Cao Y. Evaluation of Plasmodium vivax HAP2 as a transmission-blocking vaccine candidate. Vaccine 2020; 38:2841-2848. [PMID: 32093983 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2020.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) is a promising strategy to interfere with the transmission of malaria. To date, only limited TBV candidate antigens have been identified for Plasmodium vivax. HAP2 is a gamete membrane fusion protein, with homology to the class II viral fusion proteins. Herein we reported the characterization of the PvHAP2 for its potential as a TBV candidate for P. vivax. The HAP2/GCS1 domain of PvHAP2 was expressed in the baculovirus expression system and the recombinant protein was used to raise antibodies in rabbits. Indirect immunofluorescence assays showed that anti-PvHAP2 antibodies reacted only with the male gametocytes on blood smears. Direct membrane feeding assays were conducted using four field P. vivax isolates in Anopheles dirus. At a mean infection intensity of 72.4, 70.7, 51.3, and 15.6 oocysts/midgut with the control antibodies, anti-PvHAP2 antibodies significantly reduced the midgut oocyst intensity by 40.3, 44.4, 61.9, and 89.7%. Whereas the anti-PvHAP2 antibodies were not effective in reducing the infection prevalence at higher parasite exposure (51.3-72.4 oocysts/midgut in the control group), the anti-PvHAP2 antibodies reduced infection prevalence by 50% at a low challenge (15.6 oocysts/midgut). Multiple sequence alignment showed 100% identity among these Thai P. vivax isolates, suggesting that polymorphism may not be an impediment for the utilization of PvHAP2 as a TBV antigen. In conclusion, our results suggest that PvHAP2 could serve as a TBV candidate for P. vivax, and further optimization and evaluation are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Qiu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, China
| | - Bo Ye
- Dalian Institute of Biotechnology, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Zhenjun Zhao
- Dalian Institute of Biotechnology, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Sataporn Thongpoon
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Wanlapa Roobsoong
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Jetsumon Sattabongkot
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Liwang Cui
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Boulevard, Suite 304, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - Qi Fan
- Dalian Institute of Biotechnology, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Yaming Cao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, China.
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Ararat-Sarria M, Prado CC, Camargo M, Ospina LT, Camargo PA, Curtidor H, Patarroyo MA. Sexual forms obtained in a continuous in vitro cultured Colombian strain of Plasmodium falciparum (FCB2). Malar J 2020; 19:57. [PMID: 32014000 PMCID: PMC6998264 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-020-3142-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The epidemiological control of malaria has been hampered by the appearance of parasite resistance to anti-malarial drugs and by the resistance of mosquito vectors to control measures. This has also been associated with weak transmission control, mostly due to poor control of asymptomatic patients associated with host-vector transmission. This highlights the importance of studying the parasite’s sexual forms (gametocytes) which are involved in this phase of the parasite’s life-cycle. Some African and Asian strains of Plasmodium falciparum have been fully characterized regarding sexual forms’ production; however, few Latin-American strains have been so characterized. This study was aimed at characterizing the Colombian FCB2 strain as a gametocyte producer able to infect mosquitoes. Methods Gametocyte production was induced in in vitro cultured P. falciparum FCB2 and 3D7 strains. Pfap2g and Pfs25 gene expression was detected in FCB2 strain gametocyte culture by RT-PCR. Comparative analysis of gametocytes obtained from both strains was made (counts and morphological changes). In vitro zygote formation from FCB2 gametocytes was induced by incubating a gametocyte culture sample at 27 °C for 20 min. A controlled Anopheles albimanus infection was made using an artificial feed system with cultured FCB2 gametocytes (14–15 days old). Mosquito midgut dissection was then carried out for analyzing oocysts. Results The FCB2 strain expressed Pfap2g, Pfs16, Pfg27/25 and Pfs25 sexual differentiation-related genes after in vitro sexual differentiation induction, producing gametocytes that conserved the expected morphological features. The amount of FCB2 gametocytes produced was similar to that from the 3D7 strain. FCB2 gametocytes were differentiated into zygotes and ookinetes after an in vitro low-temperature stimulus and infected An. albimanus mosquitoes, developing to oocyst stage. Conclusions Even with the history of long-term FCB2 strain in vitro culture maintenance, it has retained its sexual differentiation ability. The gametocytes produced here preserved these parasite forms’ usual characteristics and An. albimanus infection capability, thus enabling its use as a tool for studying sexual form biology, An. albimanus infection comparative analysis and anti-malarial drug and vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Ararat-Sarria
- Receptor-Ligand Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá, Colombia.,PhD Programme in Biomedical and Biological Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Cesar Camilo Prado
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Milena Camargo
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Laura Tatiana Ospina
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Paola Andrea Camargo
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Hernando Curtidor
- Receptor-Ligand Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá, Colombia.,Animal Science Faculty, Universidad de Ciencias Aplicadas y Ambientales (U.D.C.A), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Manuel Alfonso Patarroyo
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá, Colombia. .,School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia.
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de Jong RM, Tebeje SK, Meerstein‐Kessel L, Tadesse FG, Jore MM, Stone W, Bousema T. Immunity against sexual stage Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax parasites. Immunol Rev 2020; 293:190-215. [PMID: 31840844 PMCID: PMC6973022 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The efficient spread of malaria from infected humans to mosquitoes is a major challenge for malaria elimination initiatives. Gametocytes are the only Plasmodium life stage infectious to mosquitoes. Here, we summarize evidence for naturally acquired anti-gametocyte immunity and the current state of transmission blocking vaccines (TBV). Although gametocytes are intra-erythrocytic when present in infected humans, developing Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes may express proteins on the surface of red blood cells that elicit immune responses in naturally exposed individuals. This immune response may reduce the burden of circulating gametocytes. For both P. falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, there is a solid evidence that antibodies against antigens present on the gametocyte surface, when co-ingested with gametocytes, can influence transmission to mosquitoes. Transmission reducing immunity, reducing the burden of infection in mosquitoes, is a well-acknowledged but poorly quantified phenomenon that forms the basis for the development of TBV. Transmission enhancing immunity, increasing the likelihood or intensity of transmission to mosquitoes, is more speculative in nature but is convincingly demonstrated for P. vivax. With the increased interest in malaria elimination, TBV and monoclonal antibodies have moved to the center stage of malaria vaccine development. Methodologies to prioritize and evaluate products are urgently needed.
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MESH Headings
- Antibodies, Blocking/immunology
- Antibodies, Protozoan/immunology
- Host-Parasite Interactions/immunology
- Humans
- Immunity
- Immunomodulation
- Life Cycle Stages
- Malaria Vaccines/immunology
- Malaria, Falciparum/immunology
- Malaria, Falciparum/parasitology
- Malaria, Falciparum/prevention & control
- Malaria, Falciparum/transmission
- Malaria, Vivax/immunology
- Malaria, Vivax/parasitology
- Malaria, Vivax/prevention & control
- Malaria, Vivax/transmission
- Plasmodium falciparum/growth & development
- Plasmodium falciparum/immunology
- Plasmodium vivax/growth & development
- Plasmodium vivax/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Roos M. de Jong
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | | | - Lisette Meerstein‐Kessel
- Radboud Institute for Health SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
- Centre for Molecular and Biomolecular InformaticsRadboud Institute for Molecular Life SciencesNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Fitsum G. Tadesse
- Armauer Hansen Research InstituteAddis AbabaEthiopia
- Radboud Institute for Health SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Matthijs M. Jore
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Will Stone
- Department of Immunology and InfectionLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Teun Bousema
- Radboud Institute for Health SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
- Department of Immunology and InfectionLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
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Kochayoo P, Changrob S, Wangriatisak K, Lee SK, Chootong P, Han ET. The persistence of naturally acquired antibodies and memory B cells specific to rhoptry proteins of Plasmodium vivax in patients from areas of low malaria transmission. Malar J 2019; 18:382. [PMID: 31783870 PMCID: PMC6884809 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-019-3009-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Rhoptries are the large, paired, secretory organelles located at the apical tip of the malaria merozoite that are considered important for parasite invasion processes. Plasmodium vivax rhoptry proteins have been shown to induce humoral immunity during natural infections. Therefore, these proteins may be potential novel vaccine candidates. However, there is a lack of data on the duration of antibody and memory B cell (MBC) responses. Here, the longitudinal analysis of antibody and MBC responses to the P. vivax rhoptry proteins PvRALP1-Ecto and PvRhopH2 were monitored and analysed in individuals to determine their persistence. Methods Thirty-nine samples from P. vivax-infected subjects (age 18–60 years) were recruited to explore the frequency and persistence of antibody and MBC responses against rhoptry proteins (PvRALP1-Ecto and PvRhopH2) using both cross-sectional and longitudinal cohort study designs. Antibody levels were determined by ELISA during clinical malaria, and at 3, 9 and 12 months post-infection. The frequency of MBC sub-sets and presence of rhoptry-specific MBCs in subjects 18 months after treatment were detected by flow cytometry and ELISPOT assay. Results The seroprevalence of antibodies against PvRALP1-Ecto and PvRhopH2 proteins was found to be high during acute infection, with IgG1, IgG2 and IgG3 sub-classes predominant. However, these anti-rhoptry responses were short-lived and significantly decreased at 9 months post-infection. To relate the durability of these antibody responses to MBC persistence at post-infection, 18-month post-infection peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) samples were taken to detect rhoptry-specific MBCs and frequency of MBC sub-sets, and correlate with antibody responses. These late post-infection samples revealed that rhoptry-specific MBCs were present in about 70% of total subjects. However, the persistence of specific MBCs was not correlated with antibody responses as the majority of malaria subjects who were positive for PvRALP1-Ecto- or PvRhopH2-specific MBCs were seronegative for the rhoptry antigens. The frequencies of classical MBCs were increased after infection, whereas those of activated and atypical MBCs were decreased, indicating that MBC responses could switch from activated or atypical MBCs to classical MBCs after parasite clearance, and were maintained in blood circulating at post-infection. Conclusion The study showed that rhoptry antigens induced the development and persistence of MBC responses in P. vivax-infected subjects who lived in a region of low malaria transmission, which were not related to the longevity of antibody responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piyawan Kochayoo
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Applied Technology, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Siriruk Changrob
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Applied Technology, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Kittikorn Wangriatisak
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Applied Technology, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Seong Kyun Lee
- Department of Medical Environmental Biology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, 200-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Patchanee Chootong
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Applied Technology, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand.
| | - Eun-Taek Han
- Department of Medical Environmental Biology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, 200-701, Republic of Korea.
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36
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Antonelli LR, Junqueira C, Vinetz JM, Golenbock DT, Ferreira MU, Gazzinelli RT. The immunology of Plasmodium vivax malaria. Immunol Rev 2019; 293:163-189. [PMID: 31642531 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax infection, the predominant cause of malaria in Asia and Latin America, affects ~14 million individuals annually, with considerable adverse effects on wellbeing and socioeconomic development. A clinical hallmark of Plasmodium infection, the paroxysm, is driven by pyrogenic cytokines produced during the immune response. Here, we review studies on the role of specific immune cell types, cognate innate immune receptors, and inflammatory cytokines on parasite control and disease symptoms. This review also summarizes studies on recurrent infections in individuals living in endemic regions as well as asymptomatic infections, a serious barrier to eliminating this disease. We propose potential mechanisms behind these repeated and subclinical infections, such as poor induction of immunological memory cells and inefficient T effector cells. We address the role of antibody-mediated resistance to P. vivax infection and discuss current progress in vaccine development. Finally, we review immunoregulatory mechanisms, such as inhibitory receptors, T regulatory cells, and the anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-10, that antagonizes both innate and acquired immune responses, interfering with the development of protective immunity and parasite clearance. These studies provide new insights for the clinical management of symptomatic as well as asymptomatic individuals and the development of an efficacious vaccine for vivax malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lis R Antonelli
- Instituto de Pesquisas Rene Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Caroline Junqueira
- Instituto de Pesquisas Rene Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Joseph M Vinetz
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Douglas T Golenbock
- Division of Infectious Disease and immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Marcelo U Ferreira
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ricardo T Gazzinelli
- Instituto de Pesquisas Rene Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Division of Infectious Disease and immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA.,Plataforma de Medicina Translacional, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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37
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Tentokam BCN, Amaratunga C, Alani NAH, MacDonald NJ, Narum DL, Salinas ND, Kwan JL, Suon S, Sreng S, Pereira DB, Tolia NH, Fujiwara RT, Bueno LL, Duffy PE, Coelho CH. Naturally Acquired Antibody Response to Malaria Transmission Blocking Vaccine Candidate Pvs230 Domain 1. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2295. [PMID: 31636633 PMCID: PMC6788386 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax malaria incidence has increased in Latin America and Asia and is responsible for nearly 74.1% of malaria cases in Latin America. Immune responses to P. vivax are less well characterized than those to P. falciparum, partly because P. vivax is more difficult to cultivate in the laboratory. While antibodies are known to play an important role in P. vivax disease control, few studies have evaluated responses to P. vivax sexual stage antigens. We collected sera or plasma samples from P. vivax-infected subjects from Brazil (n = 70) and Cambodia (n = 79) to assess antibody responses to domain 1 of the gametocyte/gamete stage protein Pvs230 (Pvs230D1M). We found that 27.1% (19/70) and 26.6% (21/79) of subjects from Brazil and Cambodia, respectively, presented with detectable antibody responses to Pvs230D1M antigen. The most frequent subclasses elicited in response to Pvs230D1M were IgG1 and IgG3. Although age did not correlate significantly with Pvs230D1M antibody levels overall, we observed significant differences between age strata. Hemoglobin concentration inversely correlated with Pvs230D1M antibody levels in Brazil, but not in Cambodia. Additionally, we analyzed the antibody response against Pfs230D1M, the P. falciparum ortholog of Pvs230D1M. We detected antibodies to Pfs230D1M in 7.2 and 16.5% of Brazilian and Cambodian P. vivax-infected subjects. Depletion of Pvs230D1M IgG did not impair the response to Pfs230D1M, suggesting pre-exposure to P. falciparum, or co-infection. We also analyzed IgG responses to sporozoite protein PvCSP (11.4 and 41.8% in Brazil and Cambodia, respectively) and to merozoite protein PvDBP-RII (67.1 and 48.1% in Brazil and Cambodia, respectively), whose titers also inversely correlated with hemoglobin concentration only in Brazil. These data establish patterns of seroreactivity to sexual stage Pvs230D1M and show similar antibody responses among P. vivax-infected subjects from regions of differing transmission intensity in Brazil and Cambodia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bergeline C Nguemwo Tentokam
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Chanaki Amaratunga
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Nada A H Alani
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Nicholas J MacDonald
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - David L Narum
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Nichole D Salinas
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Jennifer L Kwan
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Seila Suon
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Sokunthea Sreng
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | | | - Niraj H Tolia
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Ricardo T Fujiwara
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lilian L Bueno
- Department of Parasitology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Patrick E Duffy
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Camila H Coelho
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, United States
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Chan JA, Wetzel D, Reiling L, Miura K, Drew DR, Gilson PR, Anderson DA, Richards JS, Long CA, Suckow M, Jenzelewski V, Tsuboi T, Boyle MJ, Piontek M, Beeson JG. Malaria vaccine candidates displayed on novel virus-like particles are immunogenic and induce transmission-blocking activity. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0221733. [PMID: 31504038 PMCID: PMC6736250 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0221733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of effective malaria vaccines remains a global health priority. Currently, the most advanced vaccine, known as RTS,S, has only shown modest efficacy in clinical trials. Thus, the development of more efficacious vaccines by improving the formulation of RTS,S for increased efficacy or to interrupt malaria transmission are urgently needed. The RTS,S vaccine is based on the presentation of a fragment of the sporozoite antigen on the surface of virus-like particles (VLPs) based on human hepatitis B virus (HBV). In this study, we have developed and evaluated a novel VLP platform based on duck HBV (known as Metavax) for malaria vaccine development. This platform can incorporate large and complex proteins into VLPs and is produced in a Hansenula cell line compatible with cGMP vaccine production. Here, we have established the expression of leading P. falciparum malaria vaccine candidates as VLPs. This includes Pfs230 and Pfs25, which are candidate transmission-blocking vaccine antigens. We demonstrated that the VLPs effectively induce antibodies to malaria vaccine candidates with minimal induction of antibodies to the duck-HBV scaffold antigen. Antibodies to Pfs230 also recognised native protein on the surface of gametocytes, and antibodies to both Pfs230 and Pfs25 demonstrated transmission-reducing activity in standard membrane feeding assays. These results establish the potential utility of this VLP platform for malaria vaccines, which may be suitable for the development of multi-component vaccines that achieve high vaccine efficacy and transmission-blocking immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo-Anne Chan
- Burnet Institute, Life Sciences, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Immunology, Central Clinical School, Monash University, VIC, Australia
| | - David Wetzel
- ARTES Biotechnology GmbH, Langenfeld, Germany
- Technical University of Dortmund, Laboratory of Plant and Process Design, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Linda Reiling
- Burnet Institute, Life Sciences, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kazutoyo Miura
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Damien R. Drew
- Burnet Institute, Life Sciences, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul R. Gilson
- Burnet Institute, Life Sciences, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Jack S. Richards
- Burnet Institute, Life Sciences, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Carole A. Long
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | | | - Takafumi Tsuboi
- Proteo-Science Centre, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime, Japan
| | - Michelle J. Boyle
- Immunology Department, QIMR-Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | | | - James G. Beeson
- Burnet Institute, Life Sciences, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Immunology, Central Clinical School, Monash University, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- * E-mail:
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Chaves LB, Perce-da-Silva DDS, Totino PRR, Riccio EKP, Baptista BDO, de Souza ABL, Rodrigues-da-Silva RN, Machado RLD, de Souza RM, Daniel-Ribeiro CT, Banic DM, Pratt-Riccio LR, Lima-Junior JDC. Plasmodium vivax ookinete surface protein (Pvs25) is highly conserved among field isolates from five different regions of the Brazilian Amazon. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2019; 73:287-294. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2019.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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40
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Babesiosis Vaccines: Lessons Learned, Challenges Ahead, and Future Glimpses. Trends Parasitol 2019; 35:622-635. [PMID: 31281025 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The incidence and prevalence of babesiosis in animals and humans is increasing, yet prevention, control, or treatment measures remain limited and ineffective. Despite a growing body of new knowledge of the biology, pathogenicity, and virulence of Babesia parasites, there is still no well-defined, adequately effective and easily deployable vaccine. While numerous published studies suggest that the development of such anti-Babesia vaccines should be feasible, many others identify significant challenges that need to be overcome in order to succeed. Here, we review historic and recent attempts in babesiosis vaccine discovery to avoid past pitfalls, learn new lessons, and provide a roadmap to guide the development of next-generation babesiosis vaccines.
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Cheng CW, Jongwutiwes S, Putaporntip C, Jackson AP. Clinical expression and antigenic profiles of a Plasmodium vivax vaccine candidate: merozoite surface protein 7 (PvMSP-7). Malar J 2019; 18:197. [PMID: 31196098 PMCID: PMC6567670 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-019-2826-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Vivax malaria is the predominant form of malaria outside Africa, affecting about 14 million people worldwide, with about 2.5 billion people exposed. Development of a Plasmodium vivax vaccine is a priority, and merozoite surface protein 7 (MSP-7) has been proposed as a plausible candidate. The P. vivax genome contains 12 MSP-7 genes, which contribute to erythrocyte invasion during blood-stage infection. Previous analysis of MSP-7 sequence diversity suggested that not all paralogs are functionally equivalent. To explore MSP-7 functional diversity, and to identify the best vaccine candidate within the family, MSP-7 expression and antigenicity during bloodstream infections were examined directly from clinical isolates. Methods Merozoite surface protein 7 gene expression was profiled using RNA-seq data from blood samples isolated from ten human patients with vivax malaria. Differential expression analysis and co-expression cluster analysis were used to relate PvMSP-7 expression to genetic markers of life cycle stage. Plasma from vivax malaria patients was also assayed using a custom peptide microarray to measure antibody responses against the coding regions of 12 MSP-7 paralogs. Results Ten patients presented diverse transcriptional profiles that comprised four patient groups. Two MSP-7 paralogs, 7A and 7F, were expressed abundantly in all patients, while other MSP-7 genes were uniformly rare (e.g. 7J). MSP-7H and 7I were significantly more abundant in patient group 4 only, (two patients having experienced longer patency), and were co-expressed with a schizont-stage marker, while negatively associated with liver-stage and gametocyte-stage markers. Screening infections with a PvMSP-7 peptide array identified 13 linear B-cell epitopes in five MSP-7 paralogs that were recognized by plasma from all patients. Conclusions These results show that MSP-7 family members vary in expression profile during blood infections; MSP-7A and 7F are expressed throughout the intraerythrocytic development cycle, while expression of other paralogs is focused on the schizont. This may reflect developmental regulation, and potentially functional differentiation, within the gene family. The frequency of B-cell epitopes among paralogs also varies, with MSP-7A and 7L consistently the most immunogenic. Thus, MSP-7 paralogs cannot be assumed to have equal potential as vaccines. This analysis of clinical infections indicates that the most abundant and immunogenic paralog is MSP-7A. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12936-019-2826-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chew Weng Cheng
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK.,Molecular Biology of Malaria and Opportunistic Parasites Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Somchai Jongwutiwes
- Molecular Biology of Malaria and Opportunistic Parasites Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chaturong Putaporntip
- Molecular Biology of Malaria and Opportunistic Parasites Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Andrew P Jackson
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, 146 Brownlow Hill, Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK.
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McCaffery JN, Fonseca JA, Singh B, Cabrera-Mora M, Bohannon C, Jacob J, Arévalo-Herrera M, Moreno A. A Multi-Stage Plasmodium vivax Malaria Vaccine Candidate Able to Induce Long-Lived Antibody Responses Against Blood Stage Parasites and Robust Transmission-Blocking Activity. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2019; 9:135. [PMID: 31119106 PMCID: PMC6504793 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2019.00135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria control and interventions including long-lasting insecticide-treated nets, indoor residual spraying, and intermittent preventative treatment in pregnancy have resulted in a significant reduction in the number of Plasmodium falciparum cases. Considerable efforts have been devoted to P. falciparum vaccines development with much less to P. vivax. Transmission-blocking vaccines, which can elicit antibodies targeting Plasmodium antigens expressed during sexual stage development and interrupt transmission, offer an alternative strategy to achieve malaria control. The post-fertilization antigen P25 mediates several functions essential to ookinete survival but is poorly immunogenic in humans. Previous clinical trials targeting this antigen have suggested that conjugation to a carrier protein could improve the immunogenicity of P25. Here we report the production, and characterization of a vaccine candidate composed of a chimeric P. vivax Merozoite Surface Protein 1 (cPvMSP1) genetically fused to P. vivax P25 (Pvs25) designed to enhance CD4+ T cell responses and its assessment in a murine model. We demonstrate that antibodies elicited by immunization with this chimeric protein recognize both the erythrocytic and sexual stages and are able to block the transmission of P. vivax field isolates in direct membrane-feeding assays. These findings provide support for the continued development of multi-stage transmission blocking vaccines targeting the life-cycle stage responsible for clinical disease and the sexual-stage development accountable for disease transmission simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica N. McCaffery
- Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Jairo A. Fonseca
- Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Balwan Singh
- Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Monica Cabrera-Mora
- Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Caitlin Bohannon
- Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Joshy Jacob
- Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Myriam Arévalo-Herrera
- Caucaseco Scientific Research Center, Malaria Vaccine and Drug Development Center, Cali, Colombia
| | - Alberto Moreno
- Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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43
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Kengne-Ouafo JA, Sutherland CJ, Binka FN, Awandare GA, Urban BC, Dinko B. Immune Responses to the Sexual Stages of Plasmodium falciparum Parasites. Front Immunol 2019; 10:136. [PMID: 30804940 PMCID: PMC6378314 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria infections remain a serious global health problem in the world, particularly among children and pregnant women in Sub-Saharan Africa. Moreover, malaria control and elimination is hampered by rapid development of resistance by the parasite and the vector to commonly used antimalarial drugs and insecticides, respectively. Therefore, vaccine-based strategies are sorely needed, including those designed to interrupt disease transmission. However, a prerequisite for such a vaccine strategy is the understanding of both the human and vector immune responses to parasite developmental stages involved in parasite transmission in both man and mosquito. Here, we review the naturally acquired humoral and cellular responses to sexual stages of the parasite while in the human host and the Anopheles vector. In addition, updates on current anti-gametocyte, anti-gamete, and anti-mosquito transmission blocking vaccines are given. We conclude with our views on some important future directions of research into P. falciparum sexual stage immunity relevant to the search for the most appropriate transmission-blocking vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas A Kengne-Ouafo
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Colin J Sutherland
- Department of Immunology and Infection, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fred N Binka
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Gordon A Awandare
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Britta C Urban
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Bismarck Dinko
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
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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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Huang WC, Deng B, Lin C, Carter KA, Geng J, Razi A, He X, Chitgupi U, Federizon J, Sun B, Long CA, Ortega J, Dutta S, King CR, Miura K, Lee SM, Lovell JF. A malaria vaccine adjuvant based on recombinant antigen binding to liposomes. NATURE NANOTECHNOLOGY 2018; 13:1174-1181. [PMID: 30297818 PMCID: PMC6286227 DOI: 10.1038/s41565-018-0271-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Pfs25 is a malaria transmission-blocking vaccine antigen candidate, but its apparently limited immunogenicity in humans has hindered clinical development. Here, we show that recombinant, polyhistidine-tagged (his-tagged) Pfs25 can be mixed at the time of immunization with pre-formed liposomes containing cobalt porphyrin-phospholipid, resulting in spontaneous nanoliposome antigen particleization (SNAP). Antigens are stably presented in uniformly orientated display via his-tag insertion in the cobalt porphyrin-phospholipid bilayer, without covalent modification or disruption of antigen conformation. SNAP immunization of mice and rabbits is well tolerated with minimal local reactogenicity, and results in orders-of-magnitude higher functional antibody generation compared with other 'mix-and-inject' adjuvants. Serum-stable antigen binding during transit to draining lymph nodes leads to enhanced antigen uptake by phagocytic antigen-presenting cells, with subsequent generation of long-lived, antigen-specific plasma cells. Seamless multiplexing with four additional his-tagged Plasmodium falciparum polypeptides induces strong and balanced antibody production, illustrating the simplicity of developing multistage particulate vaccines with SNAP immunization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chiao Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Bingbing Deng
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Cuiyan Lin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Kevin A Carter
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jumin Geng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Aida Razi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Xuedan He
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Upendra Chitgupi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Jasmin Federizon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Boyang Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Carole A Long
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Joaquin Ortega
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sheetij Dutta
- Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | | | - Kazutoyo Miura
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Shwu-Maan Lee
- PATH's Malaria Vaccine Initiative, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jonathan F Lovell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA.
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Tachibana M, Ishino T, Tsuboi T, Torii M. The Plasmodium yoelii microgamete surface antigen (PyMiGS) induces anti-malarial transmission blocking immunity that reduces microgamete motility/release from activated male gametocytes. Vaccine 2018; 36:7463-7471. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.10.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Lopez Bernal JA, Andrews N, Amirthalingam G. The Use of Quasi-experimental Designs for Vaccine Evaluation. Clin Infect Dis 2018; 68:1769-1776. [DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciy906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- James A Lopez Bernal
- Immunisation, Hepatitis and Blood Safety Department, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nick Andrews
- Statistics, Modelling and Economics Department, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gayatri Amirthalingam
- Immunisation, Hepatitis and Blood Safety Department, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
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Characterization of Plasmodium berghei Pbg37 as Both a Pre- and Postfertilization Antigen with Transmission-Blocking Potential. Infect Immun 2018; 86:IAI.00785-17. [PMID: 29866905 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00785-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) interrupting malaria transmission are an integrated tool for malaria eradication. We characterized a sexual-stage-specific gene (PBANKA_060330) from Plasmodium berghei and studied its potential for use as a TBV. This gene, referred to as pbg37, encodes a protein of 37 kDa with a signal peptide and multiple transmembrane domains and is preferentially expressed in gametocytes. A recombinant Pbg37 (rPbg37) protein targeting the N-terminal 63 amino acids (amino acids 26 to 88) expressed in bacteria elicited strong antibody responses in mice. Western blotting demonstrated Pbg37 expression in gametocytes, zygotes, and, to a lesser extent, ookinetes and its predominant association with the membranes of gametocytes. Indirect immunofluorescence assay showed an abundant surface localization of Pbg37 on gametes and zygotes but reduced amounts on retorts and ookinetes. Knockout of pbg37 (Δpbg37) led to a considerable reduction in gametocytemia, which translated into a ~92.1% decrease in the oocyst number in mosquitoes. Deletion of pbg37 had a more substantial influence on the development and maturation of microgametocytes. As a result, the Δpbg37 lines exhibited a higher female/male gametocyte ratio, fewer mature male gametocytes, and defects in the exflagellation of mature microgametocytes. To test the transmission-blocking potential of Pbg37, an in vitro ookinete assay showed that the major inhibitory effects of anti-Pbg37 antiserum were on the exflagellation and fertilization processes. Direct feeding of mosquitoes on mice immunized with rPbg37 or a control protein showed that rPbg37-immunized and P. berghei-infected mice had a significant reduction (49.1%) in oocyst density compared to the controls. The conservation of this gene in Plasmodium warrants further investigations in human malaria parasites.
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Wang J, Zheng W, Liu F, Wang Y, He Y, Zheng L, Fan Q, Luo E, Cao Y, Cui L. Characterization of Pb51 in Plasmodium berghei as a malaria vaccine candidate targeting both asexual erythrocytic proliferation and transmission. Malar J 2017; 16:458. [PMID: 29132428 PMCID: PMC5683326 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-017-2107-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A vaccine that targets multiple developmental stages of malaria parasites would be an effective tool for malaria control and elimination. Methods A conserved gene in Plasmodium, the Plasmodium berghei gene (PBANKA_020570) encoding a 51 kDa protein (pb51 gene), was identified through search of the PlasmoDB database using a combination of expression and protein localization criteria. A partial domain of the Pb51 protein was expressed in a prokaryotic expression system (rPb51) and used for immunization in mice. The protein expression profile and localization were studied by Western blot and indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA), respectively. The inhibitory effect of the anti-rPb51 antibodies on parasite proliferation was evaluated in erythrocytes in vivo. The transmission-blocking activity of the immune sera was determined by in vitro ookinete conversion assay and by direct mosquito feeding assay (DFA). Results The rPb51 elicited specific antibodies in mice. Western blot confirmed Pb51 expression in schizonts, gametocytes and ookinetes. IFA showed localization of Pb51 on the outer membranes of schizonts, gametocytes, zygotes, retorts, ookinetes and sporozoites of P. berghei. Mice immunized with the rPb51 protein significantly reduced parasite proliferation and gametocyte conversion in vivo. Moreover, the rPb51 antisera also significantly reduced the in vitro ookinete conversion when added into the ookinete culture medium. In DFA, mice immunized with the rPb51 reduced the prevalence of mosquito infection by 21.3% and oocyst density by 54.8%. Conclusions In P. berghei, P51 was expressed in both asexual erythrocytic and sexual stages and localized on the surface of these stages with the exception of the ring stage. The anti-rPb51 antibodies inhibited both P. berghei proliferation in mice and transmission of the parasite to mosquitoes. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12936-017-2107-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Wang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Wenqi Zheng
- Laboratory of Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010050, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Yaru Wang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Yiwen He
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Li Zheng
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Qi Fan
- Dalian Institute of Biotechnology, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Enjie Luo
- Department of Pathogen Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Yaming Cao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China.
| | - Liwang Cui
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China.,Department of Entomology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
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