1
|
Tiono AB, Plieskatt JL, Ouedraogo A, Soulama BI, Miura K, Bougouma EC, Naghizadeh M, Barry A, Yaro JBB, Ezinmegnon S, Henry N, Ofori EA, Adu B, Singh SK, Konkobo A, Lövgren Bengtsson K, Diarra A, Carnrot C, Reimer JM, Ouedraogo A, Tienta M, Long CA, Ouedraogo IN, Sagara I, Sirima SB, Theisen M. A randomized first-in-human phase I trial of differentially adjuvanted Pfs48/45 malaria vaccines in Burkinabé adults. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e175707. [PMID: 38290009 PMCID: PMC10977980 DOI: 10.1172/jci175707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUNDMalaria transmission-blocking vaccines aim to interrupt the transmission of malaria from one person to another.METHODSThe candidates R0.6C and ProC6C share the 6C domain of the Plasmodium falciparum sexual-stage antigen Pfs48/45. R0.6C utilizes the glutamate-rich protein (GLURP) as a carrier, and ProC6C includes a second domain (Pfs230-Pro) and a short 36-amino acid circumsporozoite protein (CSP) sequence. Healthy adults (n = 125) from a malaria-endemic area of Burkina Faso were immunized with 3 intramuscular injections, 4 weeks apart, of 30 μg or 100 μg R0.6C or ProC6C each adsorbed to Alhydrogel (AlOH) adjuvant alone or in combination with Matrix-M (15 μg or 50 μg, respectively). The allocation was random and double-blind for this phase I trial.RESULTSThe vaccines were safe and well tolerated with no vaccine-related serious adverse events. A total of 7 adverse events, mild to moderate in intensity and considered possibly related to the study vaccines, were recorded. Vaccine-specific antibodies were highest in volunteers immunized with 100 μg ProC6C-AlOH with Matrix-M, and 13 of 20 (65%) individuals in the group showed greater than 80% transmission-reducing activity (TRA) when evaluated in the standard membrane feeding assay at 15 mg/mL IgG. In contrast, R0.6C induced sporadic TRA.CONCLUSIONAll formulations were safe and well tolerated in a malaria-endemic area of Africa in healthy adults. The ProC6C-AlOH/Matrix-M vaccine elicited the highest levels of functional antibodies, meriting further investigation.TRIAL REGISTRATIONPan-African Clinical Trials Registry (https://pactr.samrc.ac.za) PACTR202201848463189.FUNDINGThe study was funded by the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (grant RIA2018SV-2311).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alfred B. Tiono
- Groupe de Recherche Action en Santé (GRAS), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Jordan L. Plieskatt
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut (SSI), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Kazutoyo Miura
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Edith C. Bougouma
- Groupe de Recherche Action en Santé (GRAS), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Mohammad Naghizadeh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut (SSI), Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Aissata Barry
- Groupe de Recherche Action en Santé (GRAS), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | | | - Sem Ezinmegnon
- Groupe de Recherche Action en Santé (GRAS), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Noelie Henry
- Groupe de Recherche Action en Santé (GRAS), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Ebenezer Addo Ofori
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut (SSI), Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bright Adu
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Susheel K. Singh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut (SSI), Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Augustin Konkobo
- Groupe de Recherche Action en Santé (GRAS), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | | | - Amidou Diarra
- Groupe de Recherche Action en Santé (GRAS), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | | | | | - Amidou Ouedraogo
- Groupe de Recherche Action en Santé (GRAS), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Moussa Tienta
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Mali–National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases International Center for Excellence in Research, University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Carole A. Long
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Issa N. Ouedraogo
- Groupe de Recherche Action en Santé (GRAS), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Issaka Sagara
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Mali–National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases International Center for Excellence in Research, University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | | | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut (SSI), Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Plieskatt J, Bang P, Wood GK, Naghizadeh M, Singh SK, Jore MM, Theisen M. Clinical formulation development of Plasmodium falciparum malaria vaccine candidates based on Pfs48/45, Pfs230, and PfCSP. Vaccine 2024; 42:1980-1992. [PMID: 38388238 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.02.043] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Two malaria transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) candidates, R0.6C and ProC6C, have completed preclinical development including the selection of adjuvants, Alhydrogel® with or without the saponin based adjuvant Matrix-M™. Here, we report on the final drug product (formulation) design of R0.6C and ProC6C and evaluate their safety and biochemical stability in preparation for preclinical and clinical pharmacy handling. The point-of-injection stability studies demonstrated that both the R0.6C and ProC6C antigens are stable on Alhydrogel in the presence or absence of Matrix-M for up to 24 h at room temperature. As this is the first study to combine Alhydrogel and Matrix-M for clinical use, we also evaluated their potential interactions. Matrix-M adsorbs to Alhydrogel, while not displacing the > 95 % adsorbed protein. The R0.6C and ProC6C formulations were found to be safe and well tolerated in repeated dose toxicity studies in rabbits generating high levels of functional antibodies that blocked infection of mosquitoes. Further, the R0.6C and ProC6C drug products were found to be stable for minimally 24 months when stored at 2-8 °C, with studies ongoing through 36 months. Together, this data demonstrates the safety and suitability of the L. lactis expression system as well as supports the clinical testing of the R0.6C and ProC6C malaria vaccine candidates in First-In-Human clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan Plieskatt
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Bang
- Department of Vaccine Development, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Grith Krøyer Wood
- Department of Vaccine Development, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mohammad Naghizadeh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark; Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Susheel K Singh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark; Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Matthijs M Jore
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark; Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dickey TH, Gupta R, McAleese H, Ouahes T, Orr-Gonzalez S, Ma R, Muratova O, Salinas ND, Hume JCC, Lambert LE, Duffy PE, Tolia NH. Design of a stabilized non-glycosylated Pfs48/45 antigen enables a potent malaria transmission-blocking nanoparticle vaccine. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:20. [PMID: 36808125 PMCID: PMC9938515 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00619-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
A malaria vaccine that blocks parasite transmission from human to mosquito would be a powerful method of disrupting the parasite lifecycle and reducing the incidence of disease in humans. Pfs48/45 is a promising antigen in development as a transmission blocking vaccine (TBV) against the deadliest malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. The third domain of Pfs48/45 (D3) is an established TBV candidate, but production challenges have hampered development. For example, to date, a non-native N-glycan is required to stabilize the domain when produced in eukaryotic systems. Here, we implement a SPEEDesign computational design and in vitro screening pipeline that retains the potent transmission blocking epitope in Pfs48/45 while creating a stabilized non-glycosylated Pfs48/45 D3 antigen with improved characteristics for vaccine manufacture. This antigen can be genetically fused to a self-assembling single-component nanoparticle, resulting in a vaccine that elicits potent transmission-reducing activity in rodents at low doses. The enhanced Pfs48/45 antigen enables many new and powerful approaches to TBV development, and this antigen design method can be broadly applied towards the design of other vaccine antigens and therapeutics without interfering glycans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thayne H. Dickey
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Host-Pathogen Interactions and Structural Vaccinology Section, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Richi Gupta
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Host-Pathogen Interactions and Structural Vaccinology Section, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Holly McAleese
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Vaccine Development Unit, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Tarik Ouahes
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Vaccine Development Unit, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Sachy Orr-Gonzalez
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Vaccine Development Unit, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Rui Ma
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Host-Pathogen Interactions and Structural Vaccinology Section, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Olga Muratova
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Vaccine Development Unit, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Nichole D. Salinas
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Host-Pathogen Interactions and Structural Vaccinology Section, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Jen C. C. Hume
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Vaccine Development Unit, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Lynn E. Lambert
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Vaccine Development Unit, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Patrick E. Duffy
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Vaccine Development Unit, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD USA ,grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Pathogenesis and Immunity Section, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Niraj H. Tolia
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Host-Pathogen Interactions and Structural Vaccinology Section, Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fabra-García A, Hailemariam S, de Jong RM, Janssen K, Teelen K, van de Vegte-Bolmer M, van Gemert GJ, Ivanochko D, Semesi A, McLeod B, Vos MW, de Bruijni MHC, Bolscher JM, Szabat M, Vogt S, Kraft L, Duncan S, Kamya MR, Feeney ME, Jagannathan P, Greenhouse B, Dechering KJ, Sauerwein RW, King CR, MacGill RS, Bousema T, Julien JP, Jore MM. Highly potent, naturally acquired human monoclonal antibodies against Pfs48/45 block Plasmodium falciparum transmission to mosquitoes. Immunity 2023; 56:406-419.e7. [PMID: 36792574 PMCID: PMC9942873 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2023.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Malaria transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) aim to induce antibodies that interrupt malaria parasite development in the mosquito, thereby blocking onward transmission, and provide a much-needed tool for malaria control and elimination. The parasite surface protein Pfs48/45 is a leading TBV candidate. Here, we isolated and characterized a panel of 81 human Pfs48/45-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) from donors naturally exposed to Plasmodium parasites. Genetically diverse mAbs against each of the three domains (D1-D3) of Pfs48/45 were identified. The most potent mAbs targeted D1 and D3 and achieved >80% transmission-reducing activity in standard membrane-feeding assays, at 10 and 2 μg/mL, respectively. Co-crystal structures of D3 in complex with four different mAbs delineated two conserved protective epitopes. Altogether, these Pfs48/45-specific human mAbs provide important insight into protective and non-protective epitopes that can further our understanding of transmission and inform the design of refined malaria transmission-blocking vaccine candidates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sophia Hailemariam
- Program in Molecular Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Roos M de Jong
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Kirsten Janssen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Karina Teelen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Danton Ivanochko
- Program in Molecular Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Anthony Semesi
- Program in Molecular Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Brandon McLeod
- Program in Molecular Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Lucas Kraft
- AbCellera Biologics Inc., Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Moses R Kamya
- Infectious Disease Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Margaret E Feeney
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Prasanna Jagannathan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Bryan Greenhouse
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | - C Richter King
- PATH's Malaria Vaccine Initiative, Washington, DC 20001, USA
| | | | - Teun Bousema
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Jean-Philippe Julien
- Program in Molecular Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Matthijs M Jore
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Singh SK, Naghizadeh M, Plieskatt J, Singh S, Theisen M. Cloning and Recombinant Protein Expression in Lactococcus lactis. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2652:3-20. [PMID: 37093467 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3147-8_1] [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: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
The Lactococcus lactis, a Gram-positive bacteria, is an ideal expression host for the overproduction of heterologous proteins in a properly folded and functional form. L. lactis has been identified as an efficient cell factory, generally recognized as safe (GRAS), has a long history of safe use in food production, and is known to have probiotic properties. Key desirable features of L. lactis include the following: (1) rapid growth to high cell densities, not requiring aeration which facilitates large-scale fermentation; (2) its Gram-positive nature precludes the presence of contaminating endotoxins; (3) the capacity to secrete stable recombinant protein into the growth medium with few proteases resulting in a properly folded, full-length protein; and (4) the availability of diverse expression vectors facilitating various cloning options. We have previously described production of several recombinant proteins with varying degrees of predicted structural complexities using the L. lactis pH-dependent P170 promoter. The purpose of this chapter is to provide a detailed protocol for facilitating wider application of L. lactis as a reliable platform for expression of heterologous recombinant proteins in soluble form. Here, we present details of the various steps involved such as cloning of the target gene in appropriate expression plasmid vector, determination of the expression levels of the heterologous protein, and initial purification of the expressed soluble recombinant protein of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susheel K Singh
- Biotherapeutic and Vaccine Research Division, ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Mohammad Naghizadeh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jordan Plieskatt
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Subhash Singh
- Biotherapeutic and Vaccine Research Division, ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Malaria Vaccines. Infect Dis (Lond) 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2463-0_536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
|
7
|
de Jong RM, Alkema M, Oulton T, Dumont E, Teelen K, Nakajima R, de Assis RR, Press KWD, Ngotho P, Tetteh KK, Felgner P, Marti M, Collins KA, Drakeley C, Bousema T, Stone WJ. The acquisition of humoral immune responses targeting Plasmodium falciparum sexual stages in controlled human malaria infections. Front Immunol 2022; 13:930956. [PMID: 35924245 PMCID: PMC9339717 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.930956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals infected with P. falciparum develop antibody responses to intra-erythrocytic gametocyte proteins and exported gametocyte proteins present on the surface of infected erythrocytes. However, there is currently limited knowledge on the immunogenicity of gametocyte antigens and the specificity of gametocyte-induced antibody responses. In this study, we assessed antibody responses in participants of two controlled human malaria infection (CHMI) studies by ELISA, multiplexed bead-based antibody assays and protein microarray. By comparing antibody responses in participants with and without gametocyte exposure, we aimed to disentangle the antibody response induced by asexual and sexual stage parasites. We showed that after a single malaria infection, a significant anti-sexual stage humoral response is induced in malaria-naïve individuals, even after exposure to relatively low gametocyte densities (up to ~1,600 gametocytes/mL). In contrast to antibody responses to well-characterised asexual blood stage antigens that were detectable by day 21 after infection, responses to sexual stage antigens (including transmission blocking vaccine candidates Pfs48/45 and Pfs230) were only apparent at 51 days after infection. We found antigens previously associated with early gametocyte or anti-gamete immunity were highly represented among responses linked with gametocyte exposure. Our data provide detailed insights on the induction and kinetics of antibody responses to gametocytes and identify novel antigens that elicit antibody responses exclusively in individuals with gametocyte exposure. Our findings provide target identification for serological assays for surveillance of the malaria infectious reservoir, and support vaccine development by describing the antibody response to leading vaccine antigens after primary infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roos M. de Jong
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Radboud Centre of Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Manon Alkema
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Radboud Centre of Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Tate Oulton
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elin Dumont
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Karina Teelen
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Radboud Centre of Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Rie Nakajima
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Rafael Ramiro de Assis
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | | | - Priscilla Ngotho
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin K.A. Tetteh
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Phil Felgner
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Matthias Marti
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Katharine A. Collins
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Radboud Centre of Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Chris Drakeley
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Teun Bousema
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Radboud Centre of Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands,Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Will J.R. Stone
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Will J.R. Stone,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sauerwein RW, Plieskatt J, Theisen M. 40 Years of Pfs48/45 Research as a Transmission-Blocking Vaccine Target of Plasmodium falciparum Malaria. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2022; 107:tpmd211320. [PMID: 35895389 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.21-1320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
In the early 1980s, Richard Carter was among the first researchers to identify the sexual stage-specific Pfs48/45 protein, leading to the identification of target epitopes. Carter predicted its tertiary conformation while involved in a number of studies on naturally acquired sexual stage-specific antibodies. Pfs48/45 is a cysteine-rich surface protein of sexual stages of Plasmodium falciparum that plays a critical role in male gamete fertility. Antibodies against Pfs48/45 prevent parasite development in the mosquito vector, and therefore prevent the spread of malaria in the population. Since the gene was sequenced in the early 1990s, Pfs48/45 has been considered a prime target candidate for a malaria transmission-blocking vaccine. However, major manufacturing challenges-in particular, difficulty realizing satisfactory yields of a properly folded protein for the induction of functional antibodies-delayed clinical development significantly. These challenges were met roughly 20 years later. The first clinical trial with a Pfs48/45 subunit vaccine (R0.6C) was started in the Netherlands in early 2021. The excellent contributions to the long and winding path of Pfs48/45 research by Richard Carter are well recognized and are an integrated part of his seminal contributions to unraveling Plasmodium sexual stage biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jordan Plieskatt
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Medical Parasitology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lyons FMT, Gabriela M, Tham WH, Dietrich MH. Plasmodium 6-Cysteine Proteins: Functional Diversity, Transmission-Blocking Antibodies and Structural Scaffolds. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:945924. [PMID: 35899047 PMCID: PMC9309271 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.945924] [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: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The 6-cysteine protein family is one of the most abundant surface antigens that are expressed throughout the Plasmodium falciparum life cycle. Many members of the 6-cysteine family have critical roles in parasite development across the life cycle in parasite transmission, evasion of the host immune response and host cell invasion. The common feature of the family is the 6-cysteine domain, also referred to as s48/45 domain, which is conserved across Aconoidasida. This review summarizes the current approaches for recombinant expression for 6-cysteine proteins, monoclonal antibodies against 6-cysteine proteins that block transmission and the growing collection of crystal structures that provide insights into the functional domains of this protein family.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frankie M. T. Lyons
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Infectious Diseases and Immune Defence Division, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mikha Gabriela
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Infectious Diseases and Immune Defence Division, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Wai-Hong Tham
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Infectious Diseases and Immune Defence Division, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Melanie H. Dietrich
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Infectious Diseases and Immune Defence Division, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
de Jong RM, Singh SK, Teelen K, van de Vegte-Bolmer M, van Gemert GJ, Stone WJR, Locke E, Plieskatt J, Theisen M, Bousema T, Jore MM. Heterologous Expression and Evaluation of Novel Plasmodium falciparum Transmission Blocking Vaccine Candidates. Front Immunol 2022; 13:909060. [PMID: 35812379 PMCID: PMC9259988 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.909060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria transmission blocking vaccines (TBV) aim to induce antibodies that can interrupt Plasmodium falciparum development in the mosquito midgut and thereby prevent onward malaria transmission. A limited number of TBV candidates have been identified and only three (Pfs25, Pfs230 and Pfs48/45) have entered clinical testing. While one of these candidates may emerge as a highly potent TBV candidate, it is premature to determine if they will generate sufficiently potent and sustained responses. It is therefore important to explore novel candidate antigens. We recently analyzed sera from naturally exposed individuals and found that the presence and/or intensity of antibodies against 12 novel putative surface expressed gametocyte antigens was associated with transmission reducing activity. In this study, protein fragments of these novel TBV candidates were designed and heterologously expressed in Drosophila melanogaster S2 cells and Lactococcus lactis. Eleven protein fragments, covering seven TBV candidates, were successfully produced. All tested antigens were recognized by antibodies from individuals living in malaria-endemic areas, indicating that native epitopes are present. All antigens induced antigen-specific antibody responses in mice. Two antigens induced antibodies that recognized a native protein in gametocyte extract, and antibodies elicited by four antigens recognized whole gametocytes. In particular, we found that antigen Pf3D7_0305300, a putative transporter, is abundantly expressed on the surface of gametocytes. However, none of the seven novel TBV candidates expressed here induced an antibody response that reduced parasite development in the mosquito midgut as assessed in the standard membrane feeding assay. Altogether, the antigen fragments used in this study did not prove to be promising transmission blocking vaccine constructs, but led to the identification of two gametocyte surface proteins that may provide new leads for studying gametocyte biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roos M. de Jong
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Susheel K. Singh
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karina Teelen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | - Geert-Jan van Gemert
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Will J. R. Stone
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Locke
- PATH‘s Malaria Vaccine Initiative, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Jordan Plieskatt
- PATH‘s Malaria Vaccine Initiative, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Michael Theisen
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Teun Bousema
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Matthijs M. Jore
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Matthijs M. Jore,
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Singh SK, Singh V. Method for Production of Cysteine-Rich Proteins in Lactococcus lactis Expression System. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2406:189-203. [PMID: 35089558 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1859-2_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The Gram-positive bacterium Lactococcus lactis is an ideal expression host for the overproduction of heterologous proteins in a functional form. L. lactis has recently been identified as an efficient Gram-positive cell factory for the production of recombinant proteins and the safety of this production system has been confirmed in multiple clinical trials. Key desirable features of L. lactis include its generally recognized as safe (GRAS) status, long history of safe use in food production, probiotic properties, absence of endotoxins, capacity to secrete stable recombinant protein to the growth medium, the presence of few proteases, and a diverse selection of cloning and inducible expression vectors. Growth of lactococci is rapid, proceeds to high cell densities, and does not require aeration, which facilitates large-scale fermentation. We have previously described the production of several Plasmodium falciparum antigens with varying degrees of predicted structural complexities, those which are considered difficult-to-produce proteins by using L. lactis pH-dependent inducible promoter (P170). The purpose of this chapter is to provide a detailed protocol for the expression of difficult-to-produce proteins, mainly high cysteine-rich proteins, in the soluble form in L. lactis from cloning of the target gene to the determination of expression levels and purification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susheel K Singh
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Vandana Singh
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Keleta Y, Ramelow J, Cui L, Li J. Molecular interactions between parasite and mosquito during midgut invasion as targets to block malaria transmission. NPJ Vaccines 2021; 6:140. [PMID: 34845210 PMCID: PMC8630063 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-021-00401-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite considerable effort, malaria remains a major public health burden. Malaria is caused by five Plasmodium species and is transmitted to humans via the female Anopheles mosquito. The development of malaria vaccines against the liver and blood stages has been challenging. Therefore, malaria elimination strategies advocate integrated measures, including transmission-blocking approaches. Designing an effective transmission-blocking strategy relies on a sophisticated understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing the interactions between the mosquito midgut molecules and the malaria parasite. Here we review recent advances in the biology of malaria transmission, focusing on molecular interactions between Plasmodium and Anopheles mosquito midgut proteins. We provide an overview of parasite and mosquito proteins that are either targets for drugs currently in clinical trials or candidates of promising transmission-blocking vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yacob Keleta
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Julian Ramelow
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Liwang Cui
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA.
- Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Preclinical development of a Pfs230-Pfs48/45 chimeric malaria transmission-blocking vaccine. NPJ Vaccines 2021; 6:120. [PMID: 34642303 PMCID: PMC8511065 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-021-00383-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The Plasmodium falciparum Pfs230 and Pfs48/45 proteins are leading candidates for a malaria transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV). Previously, we showed that a Pfs230–Pfs48/45 fusion protein elicits higher levels of functional antibodies than the individual antigens, but low yields hampered progression to clinical evaluation. Here we identified a modified construct (ProC6C) with a circumsporozoite protein (CSP) repeat-linker sequence that enhances expression. A scalable and reproducible process in the Lactococcus lactis expression system was developed and ProC6C was successfully transferred for manufacturing under current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP). In addition, a panel of analytical assays for release and stability were developed. Intact mass spectrometry analysis and multiangle light scattering showed that the protein contained correct disulfide bonds and was monomeric. Immunogenicity studies in mice showed that the ProC6C adsorbed to Alhydrogel®, with or without Matrix-MTM, elicited functional antibodies that reduced transmission to mosquitoes and sporozoite invasion of human hepatocytes. Altogether, our data support manufacture and clinical evaluation of ProC6C as a multistage malaria-vaccine candidate.
Collapse
|
14
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Singh SK, Plieskatt J, Chourasia BK, Fabra-García A, Garcia-Senosiain A, Singh V, Bengtsson KL, Reimer JM, Sauerwein R, Jore MM, Theisen M. A Reproducible and Scalable Process for Manufacturing a Pfs48/45 Based Plasmodium falciparum Transmission-Blocking Vaccine. Front Immunol 2021; 11:606266. [PMID: 33505395 PMCID: PMC7832176 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.606266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The cysteine-rich Pfs48/45 protein, a Plasmodium falciparum sexual stage surface protein, has been advancing as a candidate antigen for a transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) for malaria. However, Pfs48/45 contains multiple disulfide bonds, that are critical for proper folding and induction of transmission-blocking (TB) antibodies. We have previously shown that R0.6C, a fusion of the 6C domain of Pfs48/45 and a fragment of PfGLURP (R0), expressed in Lactococcus lactis, was properly folded and induced transmission-blocking antibodies. Here we describe the process development and technology transfer of a scalable and reproducible process suitable for R0.6C manufacturing under current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP). This process resulted in a final purified yield of 25 mg/L, sufficient for clinical evaluation. A panel of analytical assays for release and stability assessment of R0.6C were developed including HPLC, SDS-PAGE, and immunoblotting with the conformation-dependent TB mAb45.1. Intact mass analysis of R0.6C confirmed the identity of the product including the three disulfide bonds and the absence of post-translational modifications. Multi-Angle Light Scattering (MALS) coupled to size exclusion chromatography (SEC-MALS), further confirmed that R0.6C was monomeric (~70 kDa) in solution. Lastly, preclinical studies demonstrated that the R0.6C Drug Product (adsorbed to Alhydrogel®) elicited functional antibodies in small rodents and that adding Matrix-M™ adjuvant further increased the functional response. Here, building upon our past work, we filled the gap between laboratory and manufacturing to ready R0.6C for production under cGMP and eventual clinical evaluation as a malaria TB vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susheel K Singh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jordan Plieskatt
- PATH's Malaria Vaccine Initiative, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Bishwanath K Chourasia
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Amanda Fabra-García
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Asier Garcia-Senosiain
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Vandana Singh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Robert Sauerwein
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Matthijs M Jore
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhang R, Dong X, Wang J, Guo Y, Dai Y. A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis of optimizing treatment for malaria. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e22044. [PMID: 32899064 PMCID: PMC7478701 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000022044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria remains a global health threat for centuries. In recent years, a rising resistance of Plasmodium falciparum to current standard artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) leads to increasing treatment failures and requires for optimized treatment. Here, we intend to make a systematic review and meta-analysis of optimizing treatment for malaria, so as to find a potential optimal treatment. METHODS We will search electronic databases: the Cochrane Infectious Diseases Group (CIDG) Specialized Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CEN-TRAL), PubMed, Embase, Web of Science from their inception to 1 July, 2020. We will also search International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) and ClinicalTrials.gov, and contact with authors when necessary. Two authors will independently collect and select data, and the statistical analyses will be conducted by Revman V.5.3 software. RESULTS We will evaluate efficacy and safety of modified ACTs for uncomplicate malaria, comparing with standard ACTs in all eligible clinical studies. CONCLUSION In this study, we will offer clinical evidence for optimizing treatment for malaria. REGISTRATION NUMBER INPLASY202070115.
Collapse
|
17
|
Yenkoidiok-Douti L, Canepa GE, Barletta ABF, Barillas-Mury C. In vivo Characterization of Plasmodium berghei P47 (Pbs47) as a Malaria Transmission-Blocking Vaccine Target. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:1496. [PMID: 32719666 PMCID: PMC7348136 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.01496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
An effective vaccine to reduce malaria transmission is central to control and ultimately achieve disease eradication. Recently, we demonstrated that antibodies targeting the Plasmodium falciparum surface protein P47 (Pfs47) reduce parasite transmission to Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes. Here, Plasmodium berghei (Pb) was used as a model to assess the in vivo efficacy of a P47-targeted transmission blocking vaccine (Pbs47). Mice were immunized following a prime/boost regimen and infected with P. berghei. The effect of immunization on infectivity to mosquitoes was evaluated by direct feeding on P. berghei-infected mice. The key region in Pbs47 where antibody binding confers protection was mapped, and the immunogenicity of this protective antigen was enhanced by conjugation to a virus-like particle. Passive immunization with 100 and 50 μg/mL of anti-Pbs47 IgG reduced oocyst density by 77 and 67%, respectively. Furthermore, affinity purified Pbs47-specific IgG significantly reduced oocyst density by 88 and 77%, respectively at doses as low as 10 and 1 μg/mL. These studies suggest that P47 is a promising transmission blocking target and show that antibodies to the same specific region in Pfs47 and Pbs47 confer protection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lampouguin Yenkoidiok-Douti
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Gaspar E. Canepa
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Ana Beatriz F. Barletta
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| | - Carolina Barillas-Mury
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ragotte RJ, Higgins MK, Draper SJ. The RH5-CyRPA-Ripr Complex as a Malaria Vaccine Target. Trends Parasitol 2020; 36:545-559. [PMID: 32359873 PMCID: PMC7246332 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Despite ongoing efforts, a highly effective vaccine against Plasmodium falciparum remains elusive. Vaccines targeting the pre-erythrocytic stages of the P. falciparum life cycle are the most advanced to date, affording moderate levels of efficacy in field trials. However, the discovery that the members of the merozoite PfRH5-PfCyRPA-PfRipr (RCR) complex are capable of inducing strain-transcendent neutralizing antibodies has renewed enthusiasm for the possibility of preventing disease by targeting the parasite during the blood stage of infection. With Phase I/II clinical trials now underway using first-generation vaccines against PfRH5, and more on the horizon for PfCyRPA and PfRipr, this review explores the rationale and future potential of the RCR complex as a P. falciparum vaccine target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Ragotte
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK.
| | - Matthew K Higgins
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Simon J Draper
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Acquah FK, Lo AC, Akyea-Mensah K, Abagna HB, Faye B, Theisen M, Gyan BA, Amoah LE. Stage-specific Plasmodium falciparum immune responses in afebrile adults and children living in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. Malar J 2020; 19:64. [PMID: 32041620 PMCID: PMC7011432 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-020-3146-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Asymptomatic carriage of Plasmodium falciparum is widespread in adults and children living in malaria-endemic countries. This study identified the prevalence of malaria parasites and the corresponding levels of naturally acquired anti-parasite antibody levels in afebrile adults living in two communities in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. Methods Two cross-sectional studies conducted in January and February 2016 and repeated in July and August 2016 recruited subjects aged between 6 and 75 years from high parasite prevalence (Obom) and low parasite prevalence (Asutsuare) communities. Whole blood (5 ml) was collected from each volunteer, plasma was aliquoted and frozen until needed. An aliquot (10 µl) of the blood was used to prepare thick and thin blood smears, 100 µl was preserved in Trizol and the rest was separated into plasma and blood cells and each stored at − 20 °C until needed. Anti-MSP3 and Pfs230 antibody levels were measured using ELISA. Results Asexual parasite and gametocyte prevalence were higher in Obom than Asutsuare. Antibody (IgG, IgG1, IgG3, IgM) responses against the asexual parasite antigen MSP3 and gametocyte antigen Pfs230 were higher in Obom during the course of the study except for IgM responses against Pfs230, which was higher in Asutsuare than in Obom during the rainy season. Antibody responses in Asutsuare were more significantly associated with age than the responses measured in Obom. Conclusion The pattern of antibody responses measured in people living in the high and low malaria transmission setting was similar. All antibody responses measured against the asexual antigen MSP3 increased, however, IgG and IgG1 responses against gametocyte antigen Pfs230 decreased in moving from the dry to the peak season in both sites. Whilst asexual and gametocyte prevalence was similar between the seasons in the low transmission setting, in the high transmission setting asexual parasite prevalence increased but gametocyte prevalence decreased in the rainy season relative to the dry season.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Festus K Acquah
- Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.,West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Aminata C Lo
- Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.,Parasitology Department, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Kwadwo Akyea-Mensah
- Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Hamza B Abagna
- Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Babacar Faye
- Parasitology Department, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ben A Gyan
- Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Linda E Amoah
- Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. .,West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
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.
Collapse
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
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Singh SK, Plieskatt J, Chourasia BK, Singh V, Bolscher JM, Dechering KJ, Adu B, López-Méndez B, Kaviraj S, Locke E, King CR, Theisen M. The Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein produced in Lactococcus lactis is pure and stable. J Biol Chem 2019; 295:403-414. [PMID: 31792057 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.011268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 11/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein (PfCSP) is a sporozoite surface protein whose role in sporozoite motility and cell invasion has made it the leading candidate for a pre-erythrocytic malaria vaccine. However, production of high yields of soluble recombinant PfCSP, including its extensive NANP and NVDP repeats, has proven problematic. Here, we report on the development and characterization of a secreted, soluble, and stable full-length PfCSP (containing 4 NVDP and 38 NANP repeats) produced in the Lactococcus lactis expression system. The recombinant full-length PfCSP, denoted PfCSP4/38, was produced initially with a histidine tag and purified by a simple two-step procedure. Importantly, the recombinant PfCSP4/38 retained a conformational epitope for antibodies as confirmed by both in vivo and in vitro characterizations. We characterized this complex protein by HPLC, light scattering, MS analysis, differential scanning fluorimetry, CD, SDS-PAGE, and immunoblotting with conformation-dependent and -independent mAbs, which confirmed it to be both pure and soluble. Moreover, we found that the recombinant protein is stable at both frozen and elevated-temperature storage conditions. When we used L. lactis-derived PfCSP4/38 to immunize mice, it elicited high levels of functional antibodies that had the capacity to modify sporozoite motility in vitro We concluded that the reported yield, purity, results of biophysical analyses, and stability of PfCSP4/38 warrant further consideration of using the L. lactis system for the production of circumsporozoite proteins for preclinical and clinical applications in malaria vaccine development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susheel K Singh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark; Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Bishwanath Kumar Chourasia
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark; Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Vandana Singh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark; Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Bright Adu
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Blanca López-Méndez
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Emily Locke
- PATH's Malaria Vaccine Initiative, Washington, D. C. 20001
| | - C Richter King
- PATH's Malaria Vaccine Initiative, Washington, D. C. 20001
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark; Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Kana IH, Garcia-Senosiain A, Singh SK, Tiendrebeogo RW, Chourasia BK, Malhotra P, Sharma SK, Das MK, Singh S, Adu B, Theisen M. Cytophilic Antibodies Against Key Plasmodium falciparum Blood Stage Antigens Contribute to Protection Against Clinical Malaria in a High Transmission Region of Eastern India. J Infect Dis 2019; 218:956-965. [PMID: 29733355 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The collection of clinical data from a tribal population in a malaria-endemic area of India suggests the occurrence of naturally acquired immunity (NAI) against Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Methods Quantity and functionality of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against intact merozoites and recombinant proteins were assessed in a 13-month longitudinal cohort study of 121 individuals, 3-60 years of age. Results Opsonic phagocytosis of merozoites activity was strongly associated (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.34; 95% confidence interval [CI] = .18-.66; P = .0013) with protection against febrile malaria. Of the different IgG subclasses, only IgG3 antibodies against intact whole merozoites was significantly associated with protection against febrile malaria (HR = 0.47; 95% CI = .26-.86; P = .01). Furthermore, a combination of IgG3 antibody responses against Pf12, MSP3.7, MSP3.3, and MSP2FC27 was strongly associated with protection against febrile malaria (HR = 0.15; 95% CI, .06-.37; P = .0001). Conclusions These data suggest that NAI may, at least in part, be explained by opsonic phagocytosis of merozoites and IgG3 responses against whole merozoites, and in particular to a combination of 4 antigens is critical in this population. These results may have implications in the development of a subunit malaria vaccine. Opsonic phagocytosis of Plasmodium falciparum merozoites was associated with protection against clinical malaria in an India population. Antibody profiling identified four merozoite antigens (Pf12, MSP3.7, MSP3.3, and MSP2) as targets of protective Immunoglobuline G3 antibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ikhlaq Hussain Kana
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Asier Garcia-Senosiain
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Susheel K Singh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Régis Wendpayangde Tiendrebeogo
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Bishwanath Kumar Chourasia
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Pawan Malhotra
- Malaria Biology Group, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi, India
| | - Surya K Sharma
- National Institute of Malaria Research, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Manoj K Das
- National Institute of Malaria Research, Field Unit, Ranchi (Jharkhand), India
| | - Subhash Singh
- Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road, Jammu, India
| | - Bright Adu
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Abstract
Malaria vaccine development has rapidly advanced in the past decade. The very first phase 3 clinical trial of the RTS,S vaccine was completed with over 15,000 African infants and children, and pilot implementation studies are underway. Next-generation candidate vaccines using novel antigens, platforms, or approaches targeting different and/or multiple stages of the Plasmodium life cycle are being tested. Many candidates, in various stages of development, promise enhanced efficacy of long duration and broad protection against genetically diverse malaria strains, with a few studies under way in target populations in endemic areas. Malaria vaccines together with other interventions promise interruption and eventual elimination of malaria in endemic areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew B Laurens
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore 21201, Maryland, USA; .,Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA.,Malaria Research Program, Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore 21201, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Mamedov T, Cicek K, Miura K, Gulec B, Akinci E, Mammadova G, Hasanova G. A Plant-Produced in vivo deglycosylated full-length Pfs48/45 as a Transmission-Blocking Vaccine Candidate against malaria. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9868. [PMID: 31285498 PMCID: PMC6614448 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-46375-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Pfs48/45 is a leading antigen candidate for a transmission blocking (TB) vaccine. However, efforts to produce affordable, safe and correctly folded full-length Pfs48/45 using different protein expression systems have not produced an antigen with satisfactory TB activity. Pfs48/45 has 16 cysteines involved in disulfide bond formation, and the correct formation is critical for proper folding and induction of TB antibodies. Moreover, Pfs48⁄45 is not a glycoprotein in the native hosts, but contains potential glycosylation sites, which are aberrantly glycosylated during expression in eukaryotic systems. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that full length, Endo H in vivo enzymatic deglycosylated Pfs48/45 antigen is produced at a high level in plants and is structurally stable at elevated temperatures. Sera from mice immunized with this antigen showed strong inhibition in SMFA. Thus, Endo H in vivo enzymatic deglycosylated Pfs48/45 is a promising candidate for the development of an affordable TB vaccine, which may have the potential to save millions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tarlan Mamedov
- Akdeniz University, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Dumlupınar Boulevard 07058 Campus, Antalya, Turkey.
- Azerbaijan National Academy of Science, Department of Biology and Medical Science, 24 Istiglaliyyat Street, Baku, Azerbaijan.
| | - Kader Cicek
- Akdeniz University, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Dumlupınar Boulevard 07058 Campus, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Kazutoyo Miura
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 12735 Twinbrook Parkway, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Burcu Gulec
- Akdeniz University, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Dumlupınar Boulevard 07058 Campus, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Ersin Akinci
- Akdeniz University, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Dumlupınar Boulevard 07058 Campus, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Gunay Mammadova
- Akdeniz University, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Dumlupınar Boulevard 07058 Campus, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Gulnara Hasanova
- Akdeniz University, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Dumlupınar Boulevard 07058 Campus, Antalya, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Singh SK, Thrane S, Chourasia BK, Teelen K, Graumans W, Stoter R, van Gemert GJ, van de Vegte-Bolmer MG, Nielsen MA, Salanti A, Sander AF, Sauerwein RW, Jore MM, Theisen M. Pfs230 and Pfs48/45 Fusion Proteins Elicit Strong Transmission-Blocking Antibody Responses Against Plasmodium falciparum. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1256. [PMID: 31231386 PMCID: PMC6560166 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Plasmodium falciparum Pfs230 and Pfs48/45 proteins are expressed during transmission from man to mosquito and are leading candidates for a malaria transmission blocking vaccine. Individually they generate transmission blocking (TB) antibodies in rodent models. Whether the single protein vaccines are suitable to use in field settings will primarily depend on their potency to elicit functional antibodies. We hypothesized that a combination of both proteins will be more potent than each protein individually. Therefore we designed chimeric proteins composed of fragments of both Pfs230 and Pfs48/45 as well as single protein fragments, and expressed these in Lactoccus lactis. Both the individual Pfs230 and Pfs48/45 fragments and chimeras elicited high levels of functional antibodies in mice. Importantly, one of the chimeric proteins elicited over threefold higher transmission blocking antibody responses than the single antigens alone. Furthermore the immunogenicity of one of the chimeras could be enhanced through coupling to a virus-like particle (VLP). Altogether these data support further clinical development of these novel constructs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susheel K Singh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Susan Thrane
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bishwanath K Chourasia
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karina Teelen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Wouter Graumans
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Rianne Stoter
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Geert-Jan van Gemert
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | - Morten A Nielsen
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ali Salanti
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Adam F Sander
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robert W Sauerwein
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Matthijs M Jore
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
In the progression of the life cycle of Plasmodium falciparum, a small proportion of asexual parasites differentiate into male or female sexual forms called gametocytes. Just like their asexual counterparts, gametocytes are contained within the infected host's erythrocytes (RBCs). However, unlike their asexual partners, they do not exit the RBC until they are taken up in a blood meal by a mosquito. In the mosquito midgut, they are stimulated to emerge from the RBC, undergo fertilization, and ultimately produce tens of thousands of sporozoites that are infectious to humans. This transmission cycle can be blocked by antibodies targeting proteins exposed on the parasite surface in the mosquito midgut, a process that has led to the development of candidate transmission-blocking vaccines (TBV), including some that are in clinical trials. Here we review the leading TBV antigens and highlight the ongoing search for additional gametocyte/gamete surface antigens, as well as antigens on the surfaces of gametocyte-infected erythrocytes, which can potentially become a new group of TBV candidates.
Collapse
|
27
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
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]
|
29
|
Structural delineation of potent transmission-blocking epitope I on malaria antigen Pfs48/45. Nat Commun 2018; 9:4458. [PMID: 30367064 PMCID: PMC6203815 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-06742-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Interventions that can block the transmission of malaria-causing Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) between the human host and Anopheles vector have the potential to reduce the incidence of malaria. Pfs48/45 is a gametocyte surface protein critical for parasite development and transmission, and its targeting by monoclonal antibody (mAb) 85RF45.1 leads to the potent reduction of parasite transmission. Here, we reveal how the Pfs48/45 6C domain adopts a (SAG1)-related-sequence (SRS) fold. We structurally delineate potent epitope I and show how mAb 85RF45.1 recognizes an electronegative surface with nanomolar affinity. Analysis of Pfs48/45 sequences reveals that polymorphisms are rare for residues involved at the binding interface. Humanization of rat-derived mAb 85RF45.1 conserved the mode of recognition and activity of the parental antibody, while also improving its thermostability. Our work has implications for the development of transmission-blocking interventions, both through improving vaccine designs and the testing of passive delivery of mAbs in humans. Malaria protein Pfs48/45 is a promising transmission-blocking antigen targeted by antibodies. Here, the authors determine the structure of its transmission-blocking epitope I, and generate a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds Pfs48/45 with high affinity.
Collapse
|
30
|
Rampling T, Ewer KJ, Bowyer G, Edwards NJ, Wright D, Sridhar S, Payne R, Powlson J, Bliss C, Venkatraman N, Poulton ID, de Graaf H, Gbesemete D, Grobbelaar A, Davies H, Roberts R, Angus B, Ivinson K, Weltzin R, Rajkumar BY, Wille-Reece U, Lee C, Ockenhouse C, Sinden RE, Gerry SC, Lawrie AM, Vekemans J, Morelle D, Lievens M, Ballou RW, Lewis DJM, Cooke GS, Faust SN, Gilbert S, Hill AVS. Safety and efficacy of novel malaria vaccine regimens of RTS,S/AS01B alone, or with concomitant ChAd63-MVA-vectored vaccines expressing ME-TRAP. NPJ Vaccines 2018; 3:49. [PMID: 30323956 PMCID: PMC6177476 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-018-0084-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Revised: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
We assessed a combination multi-stage malaria vaccine schedule in which RTS,S/AS01B was given concomitantly with viral vectors expressing multiple-epitope thrombospondin-related adhesion protein (ME-TRAP) in a 0-month, 1-month, and 2-month schedule. RTS,S/AS01B was given as either three full doses or with a fractional (1/5th) third dose. Efficacy was assessed by controlled human malaria infection (CHMI). Safety and immunogenicity of the vaccine regimen was also assessed. Forty-one malaria-naive adults received RTS,S/AS01B at 0, 4 and 8 weeks, either alone (Groups 1 and 2) or with ChAd63 ME-TRAP at week 0, and modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) ME-TRAP at weeks 4 and 8 (Groups 3 and 4). Groups 2 and 4 received a fractional (1/5th) dose of RTS,S/AS01B at week 8. CHMI was delivered by mosquito bite 11 weeks after first vaccination. Vaccine efficacy was 6/8 (75%), 8/9 (88.9%), 6/10 (60%), and 5/9 (55.6%) of subjects in Groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Immunological analysis indicated significant reductions in anti-circumsporozoite protein antibodies and TRAP-specific T cells at CHMI in the combination vaccine groups. This reduced immunogenicity was only observed after concomitant administration of the third dose of RTS,S/AS01B with the second dose of MVA ME-TRAP. The second dose of the MVA vector with a four-week interval caused significantly higher anti-vector immunity than the first and may have been the cause of immunological interference. Co-administration of ChAd63/MVA ME-TRAP with RTS,S/AS01B led to reduced immunogenicity and efficacy, indicating the need for evaluation of alternative schedules or immunization sites in attempts to generate optimal efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tommy Rampling
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Katie J. Ewer
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Georgina Bowyer
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Nick J. Edwards
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Danny Wright
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Saranya Sridhar
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Ruth Payne
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | | | - Carly Bliss
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | | | - Ian D. Poulton
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Hans de Graaf
- NIHR Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Diane Gbesemete
- NIHR Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Amy Grobbelaar
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Huw Davies
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Rachel Roberts
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | - Brian Angus
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | | | - Rich Weltzin
- PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative, Washington, DC USA
| | | | | | - Cynthia Lee
- PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative, Washington, DC USA
| | | | - Robert E. Sinden
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Stephen C. Gerry
- Centre for Statistics in Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - David J. M. Lewis
- Clinical Research Centre, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7XP UK
| | - Graham S. Cooke
- Infectious Diseases Section, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Saul N. Faust
- NIHR Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Sarah Gilbert
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7DQ UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Lennartz F, Brod F, Dabbs R, Miura K, Mekhaiel D, Marini A, Jore MM, Søgaard MM, Jørgensen T, de Jongh WA, Sauerwein RW, Long CA, Biswas S, Higgins MK. Structural basis for recognition of the malaria vaccine candidate Pfs48/45 by a transmission blocking antibody. Nat Commun 2018; 9:3822. [PMID: 30237518 PMCID: PMC6148045 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-06340-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The quest to develop an effective malaria vaccine remains a major priority in the fight against global infectious disease. An approach with great potential is a transmission-blocking vaccine which induces antibodies that prevent establishment of a productive infection in mosquitos that feed on infected humans, thereby stopping the transmission cycle. One of the most promising targets for such a vaccine is the gamete surface protein, Pfs48/45. Here we establish a system for production of full-length Pfs48/45 and use this to raise a panel of monoclonal antibodies. We map the binding regions of these antibodies on Pfs48/45 and correlate the location of their epitopes with their transmission-blocking activity. Finally, we present the structure of the C-terminal domain of Pfs48/45 bound to the most potent transmission-blocking antibody, and provide key molecular information for future structure-guided immunogen design. Pfs48/45 is a promising component for a transmission-blocking malaria vaccine. Here, the authors develop a system to produce full-length Pfs48/45 for immunisation, characterise a panel of monoclonal antibodies and determine the structure of a potent transmission-blocking epitope.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frank Lennartz
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK
| | - Florian Brod
- Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Rebecca Dabbs
- Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Kazutoyo Miura
- Malaria Immunology Section, Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Rockville, 20852, MD, USA
| | - David Mekhaiel
- Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Arianna Marini
- Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK
| | - Matthijs M Jore
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, The Netherlands
| | - Max M Søgaard
- ExpreS2ion Biotechnologies, SCION-DTU Science Park, Agern Alle 1, DK-2970, Horsholm, Denmark
| | - Thomas Jørgensen
- ExpreS2ion Biotechnologies, SCION-DTU Science Park, Agern Alle 1, DK-2970, Horsholm, Denmark
| | - Willem A de Jongh
- ExpreS2ion Biotechnologies, SCION-DTU Science Park, Agern Alle 1, DK-2970, Horsholm, Denmark
| | - Robert W Sauerwein
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, The Netherlands
| | - Carole A Long
- Malaria Immunology Section, Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Rockville, 20852, MD, USA
| | - Sumi Biswas
- Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus Research Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7DQ, UK.
| | - Matthew K Higgins
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Functional Conservation of P48/45 Proteins in the Transmission Stages of Plasmodium vivax (Human Malaria Parasite) and P. berghei (Murine Malaria Parasite). mBio 2018; 9:mBio.01627-18. [PMID: 30181253 PMCID: PMC6123445 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01627-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual-stage proteins have a distinct function in the mosquito vector during transmission and also represent targets for the development of malaria transmission-blocking vaccine. P48/45, a leading vaccine candidate, is critical for male gamete fertility and shows >50% similarity across various species of Plasmodium We evaluated functional conservation of P48/45 in Plasmodium vivax and P. berghei with the motivation to establish transgenic P. berghei strains expressing P. vivax P48/45 (Pvs48/45) in an in vivo assay to evaluate the transmission-blocking activity of antibodies elicited by Pvs48/45. Homologous recombination was employed to target P. bergheis48/45 (pbs48/45) for knockout (KO) or for its replacement by two different forms of P. vivaxs48/45 (pvs48/45) (the full-length gene and a chimeric gene consisting of pbs48/45 5' signal and 3' anchor sequences flanking pvs48/45). Expression of Pvs48/45 in transgenic parasites and lack of expression of any P48/45 in KO parasites were confirmed by reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) and Western blotting. Both transgenic and knockout parasites revealed asexual growth kinetics in mice comparable to that seen with wild-type parasites. When employed in mosquito infection experiments, both transgenic parasite strains remained transmission competent and developed into infectious sporozoites, whereas the knockout parasites were incapable of establishing mosquito-stage infection. These results indicate the functional conservation of P48/45 protein during transmission, and the transgenic parasites generated in this study represent a valuable tool to evaluate the protective efficacy of transmission-blocking antibodies elicited by Pvs48/45-based vaccines using an in vivo mouse animal assay instead of ex vivo membrane feeding assays (MFA) relying on access to P. vivax gametocytes from infected patients.IMPORTANCE Malaria transmission depends upon successful sexual differentiation and maturation of parasites in the vertebrate host and further development in the mosquito midgut. Stage-specific proteins in the sexual stages have been shown to play a critical role in development and successful transmission through the anopheline mosquito vector. Studies presented in the current manuscript evaluated functional conservation of one such protein, P48/45, in two diverse species (P. berghei and P. vivax). Replacement of endogenous pbs48/45 in P. berghei with pvs48/45 (P. vivax homologue) did not affect the viability of the parasites, and the transgenic parasites expressing Pvs48/45 remained transmission competent. These studies establish not only the functional conservation of P48/45 in P. berghei and P. vivax but also offer an opportunity to develop an in vivo test model for Pvs48/45-based P. vivax transmission-blocking vaccines, currently under development.
Collapse
|
33
|
Othman AS, Lin JW, Franke-Fayard BM, Kroeze H, van Pul FJA, Chevalley-Maurel S, Ramesar J, Marin-Mogollon C, Jore MM, Morin MJ, Long CA, Sauerwein R, Birkett A, Miura K, Janse CJ, Khan SM. Expression of full-length Plasmodium falciparum P48/45 in P. berghei blood stages: A method to express and evaluate vaccine antigens. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2018; 224:44-49. [PMID: 30053393 PMCID: PMC11040549 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2018.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The transmission-blocking vaccine candidate Pfs48/45 from the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum is known to be difficult to express in heterologous systems, either as full-length protein or as correctly folded protein fragments that retain conformational epitopes. In this study we express full-length Pfs48/45 in the rodent parasite P. berghei. Pfs48/45 is expressed as a transgene under control of the strong P. berghei schizont-specific msp1 gene promoter (Pfs48/45@PbMSP1). Pfs48/45@PbMSP1 schizont-infected red blood cells produced full-length Pfs48/45 and the structural integrity of Pfs48/45 was confirmed using a panel of conformation-specific monoclonal antibodies that bind to different Pfs48/45 epitopes. Sera from mice immunized with transgenic Pfs48/45@PbMSP1 schizonts showed strong transmission-reducing activity in mosquitoes infected with P. falciparum using standard membrane feeding. These results demonstrate that transgenic rodent malaria parasites expressing human malaria antigens may be used as means to evaluate immunogenicity and functionality of difficult to express malaria vaccine candidate antigens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Syibli Othman
- Leiden Malaria Research Group, Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands; Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Jing-Wen Lin
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaboration Innovation Center, Chengdu, China
| | - Blandine M Franke-Fayard
- Leiden Malaria Research Group, Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Hans Kroeze
- Leiden Malaria Research Group, Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Fiona J A van Pul
- Leiden Malaria Research Group, Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Séverine Chevalley-Maurel
- Leiden Malaria Research Group, Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jai Ramesar
- Leiden Malaria Research Group, Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Catherin Marin-Mogollon
- Leiden Malaria Research Group, Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Matthijs M Jore
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Carole A Long
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Robert Sauerwein
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Kazutoyo Miura
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Chris J Janse
- Leiden Malaria Research Group, Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Shahid M Khan
- Leiden Malaria Research Group, Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Leiden, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Antimalarial Transmission-Blocking Interventions: Past, Present, and Future. Trends Parasitol 2018; 34:735-746. [PMID: 30082147 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Malaria remains a major global health challenge. Appropriate use of current antimalarial tools has reduced the disease burden, but morbidity and mortality remain unacceptably high. It is widely accepted that, to achieve long-term control/eradication, it will be necessary to use interventions that inhibit the transmission of parasites to mosquitoes - these tools are termed transmission-blocking interventions (TBIs). This article aims to outline the rationale for the development of TBIs, with a focus on transmission-blocking drugs and (parasite-derived) transmission-blocking vaccines. We describe and summarise the current status of each of these intervention classes and attempt to identify future requirements in development, with a focus on the challenges of establishing each method within an integrated malarial control programme in the future.
Collapse
|
35
|
Singh SK, Tiendrebeogo RW, Chourasia BK, Kana IH, Singh S, Theisen M. Lactococcus lactis provides an efficient platform for production of disulfide-rich recombinant proteins from Plasmodium falciparum. Microb Cell Fact 2018; 17:55. [PMID: 29618355 PMCID: PMC5885415 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-018-0902-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The production of recombinant proteins with proper conformation, appropriate post-translational modifications in an easily scalable and cost-effective system is challenging. Lactococcus lactis has recently been identified as an efficient Gram positive cell factory for the production of recombinant protein. We and others have used this expression host for the production of selected malaria vaccine candidates. The safety of this production system has been confirmed in multiple clinical trials. Here we have explored L. lactis cell factories for the production of 31 representative Plasmodium falciparum antigens with varying sizes (ranging from 9 to 90 kDa) and varying degree of predicted structural complexities including eleven antigens with multiple predicted structural disulfide bonds, those which are considered difficult-to-produce proteins. RESULTS Of the 31 recombinant constructs attempted in the L. lactis expression system, the initial expression efficiency was 55% with 17 out of 31 recombinant gene constructs producing high levels of secreted recombinant protein. The majority of the constructs which failed to produce a recombinant protein were found to consist of multiple intra-molecular disulfide-bonds. We found that these disulfide-rich constructs could be produced in high yields when genetically fused to an intrinsically disorder protein domain (GLURP-R0). By exploiting the distinct biophysical and structural properties of the intrinsically disordered protein region we developed a simple heat-based strategy for fast purification of the disulfide-rich protein domains in yields ranging from 1 to 40 mg/l. CONCLUSIONS A novel procedure for the production and purification of disulfide-rich recombinant proteins in L. lactis is described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susheel K Singh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Régis Wendpayangde Tiendrebeogo
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bishwanath Kumar Chourasia
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ikhlaq Hussain Kana
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Subhash Singh
- Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen S, Denmark. .,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Stone WJR, Campo JJ, Ouédraogo AL, Meerstein-Kessel L, Morlais I, Da D, Cohuet A, Nsango S, Sutherland CJ, van de Vegte-Bolmer M, Siebelink-Stoter R, van Gemert GJ, Graumans W, Lanke K, Shandling AD, Pablo JV, Teng AA, Jones S, de Jong RM, Fabra-García A, Bradley J, Roeffen W, Lasonder E, Gremo G, Schwarzer E, Janse CJ, Singh SK, Theisen M, Felgner P, Marti M, Drakeley C, Sauerwein R, Bousema T, Jore MM. Unravelling the immune signature of Plasmodium falciparum transmission-reducing immunity. Nat Commun 2018; 9:558. [PMID: 29422648 PMCID: PMC5805765 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-02646-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection with Plasmodium can elicit antibodies that inhibit parasite survival in the mosquito, when they are ingested in an infectious blood meal. Here, we determine the transmission-reducing activity (TRA) of naturally acquired antibodies from 648 malaria-exposed individuals using lab-based mosquito-feeding assays. Transmission inhibition is significantly associated with antibody responses to Pfs48/45, Pfs230, and to 43 novel gametocyte proteins assessed by protein microarray. In field-based mosquito-feeding assays the likelihood and rate of mosquito infection are significantly lower for individuals reactive to Pfs48/45, Pfs230 or to combinations of the novel TRA-associated proteins. We also show that naturally acquired purified antibodies against key transmission-blocking epitopes of Pfs48/45 and Pfs230 are mechanistically involved in TRA, whereas sera depleted of these antibodies retain high-level, complement-independent TRA. Our analysis demonstrates that host antibody responses to gametocyte proteins are associated with reduced malaria transmission efficiency from humans to mosquitoes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Will J R Stone
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. .,Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.
| | | | | | - Lisette Meerstein-Kessel
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Isabelle Morlais
- Organisation de Coordination pour la lutte contre les Endémies en Afrique Centrale, BP 288, Yaoundé, Cameroon.,Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, MIVEGEC (IRD, CNRS, Univ. Montpellier), 911 Avenue Agropolis, 34394, Montpellier, France
| | - Dari Da
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, 399 Avenue de la Liberté, 01 BP 545, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Anna Cohuet
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, MIVEGEC (IRD, CNRS, Univ. Montpellier), 911 Avenue Agropolis, 34394, Montpellier, France.,Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, 399 Avenue de la Liberté, 01 BP 545, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Sandrine Nsango
- Organisation de Coordination pour la lutte contre les Endémies en Afrique Centrale, BP 288, Yaoundé, Cameroon.,Faculty of Medecine and Pharmaceutical Science, PO Box 2701, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Colin J Sutherland
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Marga van de Vegte-Bolmer
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rianne Siebelink-Stoter
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Geert-Jan van Gemert
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter Graumans
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Kjerstin Lanke
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Andy A Teng
- Antigen Discovery Inc., Irvine, CA, 92618, USA
| | - Sophie Jones
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Roos M de Jong
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Amanda Fabra-García
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - John Bradley
- Medical Research Council Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Will Roeffen
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Edwin Lasonder
- School of Biomedical and Healthcare Sciences, Plymouth University, Drakes Circus, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Giuliana Gremo
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Via Santena 5bis, 10126, Torino, Italy
| | - Evelin Schwarzer
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Via Santena 5bis, 10126, Torino, Italy
| | - Chris J Janse
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Susheel K Singh
- Department for Congenital Diseases, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, DK 2300, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, DK 2200, Denmark
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Diseases, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, DK 2300, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, DK 2200, Denmark
| | - Phil Felgner
- Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Matthias Marti
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Wellcome Center for Molecular Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Chris Drakeley
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Robert Sauerwein
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Teun Bousema
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. .,Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.
| | - Matthijs M Jore
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abagna HB, Acquah FK, Okonu R, Aryee NA, Theisen M, Amoah LE. Assessment of the quality and quantity of naturally induced antibody responses to EBA175RIII-V in Ghanaian children living in two communities with varying malaria transmission patterns. Malar J 2018; 17:14. [PMID: 29310662 PMCID: PMC5759240 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-017-2167-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Recent global reports on malaria suggest significant decrease in disease severity and an increase in control interventions in many malaria endemic countries, including Ghana. However, a major driving force sustaining malaria transmission in recent times is the asymptomatic carriage of malaria parasites, which can enhance immune responses against parasite antigens. This study determined the prevalence and relative avidities of naturally induced antibodies to EBA175RIII–VLl in asymptomatic children living in two communities with varying malaria transmission patterns. Methods An asexual stage Plasmodium falciparum antigen, EBA175RIII–VLl was expressed in Lactococcus lactis, purified and used in indirect ELISA to measure total and cytophilic IgG concentrations and avidities in children aged between 6 and 12 years. The children were selected from Obom and Abura, communities with perennial and seasonal malaria transmission, respectively. Venous blood samples were collected in July and October 2015 and again in January 2016. The multiplicity of infection and the genetic diversity of EBA175RIII circulating in both sites were also assessed using polymerase chain reaction. Results Asymptomatic parasite carriage in the children from Obom decreased from July (peak season), through October and January, however parasite carriage in children from Abura was bimodal, with the lowest prevalence estimated in October. Antibody concentrations over the course of the study remained stable within each study site however, children living in Obom had significantly higher EBA175RIII–VLl antibody concentrations than children living in Abura (P < 0.05, Mann–Whitney test). Over the course of the study, the relative antibody avidities of EBA175RIII–VLl IgG antibodies were similar within and between the sites. Conclusion Naturally acquired IgG concentrations but not relative antibody avidities to EBA175RIII–V were significantly higher in Obom where malaria transmission is perennial than in Abura, where malaria transmission is seasonal. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12936-017-2167-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamza B Abagna
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.,Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Festus K Acquah
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Ruth Okonu
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Nii A Aryee
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Linda E Amoah
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Molecular definition of multiple sites of antibody inhibition of malaria transmission-blocking vaccine antigen Pfs25. Nat Commun 2017; 8:1568. [PMID: 29146922 PMCID: PMC5691035 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-01924-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Plasmodium falciparum Pfs25 protein (Pfs25) is a leading malaria transmission-blocking vaccine antigen. Pfs25 vaccination is intended to elicit antibodies that inhibit parasite development when ingested by Anopheles mosquitoes during blood meals. The Pfs25 three-dimensional structure has remained elusive, hampering a molecular understanding of its function and limiting immunogen design. We report six crystal structures of Pfs25 in complex with antibodies elicited by immunization via Pfs25 virus-like particles in human immunoglobulin loci transgenic mice. Our structural findings reveal the fine specificities associated with two distinct immunogenic sites on Pfs25. Importantly, one of these sites broadly overlaps with the epitope of the well-known 4B7 mouse antibody, which can be targeted simultaneously by antibodies that target a non-overlapping site to additively increase parasite inhibition. Our molecular characterization of inhibitory antibodies informs on the natural disposition of Pfs25 on the surface of ookinetes and provides the structural blueprints to design next-generation immunogens. Plasmodium falciparum protein Pfs25 is a promising malaria transmission blocking vaccine antigen. Here, Scally et al. determine the crystal structure of Pfs25 and identify antigenic sites that are recognized by transmission-blocking antibodies elicited in human immunoglobulin loci transgenic mice.
Collapse
|
39
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Guo F, Liu Y, Zhang C, Wang Q, Wang L, Gao Y, Bi J, Wang H, Su Z. Prompt and Robust Humoral Immunity Elicited by a Conjugated Chimeric Malaria Antigen with a Truncated Flagellin. Bioconjug Chem 2017; 29:761-770. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.7b00320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Fangxia Guo
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, PR China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Yongdong Liu
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, PR China
| | - Chun Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, PR China
| | - Qi Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, PR China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, PR China
| | - Lianyan Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, PR China
| | - Yuhui Gao
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing 100005, PR China
| | - Jingxiu Bi
- School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Heng Wang
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing 100005, PR China
| | - Zhiguo Su
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Acquah FK, Obboh EK, Asare K, Boampong JN, Nuvor SV, Singh SK, Theisen M, Williamson KC, Amoah LE. Antibody responses to two new Lactococcus lactis-produced recombinant Pfs48/45 and Pfs230 proteins increase with age in malaria patients living in the Central Region of Ghana. Malar J 2017; 16:306. [PMID: 28764709 PMCID: PMC5540549 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-017-1955-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recent advances in malaria control efforts have led to an increased number of national malaria control programmes implementing pre-elimination measures and demonstrated the need to develop new tools to track and control malaria transmission. Key to understanding transmission is monitoring the prevalence and immune response against the sexual stages of the parasite, known as gametocytes, which are responsible for transmission. Sexual-stage specific antigens, Pfs230 and Pfs48/45, have been identified and shown to be targets for transmission blocking antibodies, but they have been difficult to produce recombinantly in the absence of a fusion partner. Methods Regions of Pfs48/45 and Pfs230 known to contain transmission blocking epitopes, 6C and C0, respectively, were produced in a Lactococcus lactis expression system and used in enzyme linked immunosorbent assays to determine the seroreactivity of 95 malaria patients living in the Central Region of Ghana. Results Pfs48/45.6C and Pfs230.C0 were successfully produced in L. lactis in the absence of a fusion partner using a simplified purification scheme. Seroprevalence for L. lactis-produced Pfs48/45.6C and Pfs230.C0 in the study population was 74.7 and 72.8%, respectively. Conclusions A significant age-dependent increase in antibody titers was observed, which suggests a vaccine targeting these antigens could be boosted during a natural infection in the field. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12936-017-1955-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Festus K Acquah
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Evans K Obboh
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Kwame Asare
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Johnson N Boampong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Samuel Victor Nuvor
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Susheel K Singh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kim C Williamson
- Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Uniform Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Linda Eva Amoah
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Theisen M, Adu B, Mordmüller B, Singh S. The GMZ2 malaria vaccine: from concept to efficacy in humans. Expert Rev Vaccines 2017; 16:907-917. [PMID: 28699823 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2017.1355246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION GMZ2 is a recombinant protein consisting of conserved domains of GLURP and MSP3, two asexual blood-stage antigens of Plasmodium falciparum, and is designed with the aim of mimicking naturally acquired anti-malarial immunity. The rationale for combining these two antigens is based on a series of immune epidemiological studies from geographically diverse malaria endemic regions; functional in vitro studies; and pre-clinical studies in rodents and New World monkeys. GMZ2 adjuvanted with alhydrogel® (alum) was well tolerated and immunogenic in three phase 1 studies. The recently concluded phase 2 trial of GMZ2/alum, involving 1849 participants 12 to 60 month of age in four countries in West, Central and Eastern Africa, showed that GMZ2 is well tolerated and has some, albeit modest, efficacy in the target population. Areas covered: PubMed ( www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed ) was searched to review the progress and future prospects for clinical development of GMZ2 sub-unit vaccine. We will focus on discovery, naturally acquired immunity, functional activity of specific antibodies, sequence diversity, production, pre-clinical and clinical studies. Expert commentary: GMZ2 is well tolerated and has some, albeit modest, efficacy in the target population. More immunogenic formulations should be developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Theisen
- a Department for Congenital Disorders , Statens Serum Institut , Copenhagen , Denmark.,b Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark.,c Department of Infectious Diseases , Copenhagen University Hospital , Rigshospitalet , Denmark
| | - Bright Adu
- d Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research , University of Ghana , Legon , Ghana
| | - Benjamin Mordmüller
- e Institute of Tropical Medicine and Center for Infection Research, partner site Tübingen , University of Tübingen , Tübingen , Germany
| | - Subhash Singh
- f Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine , Jammu , India
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Mistarz UH, Singh SK, Nguyen TTTN, Roeffen W, Yang F, Lissau C, Madsen SM, Vrang A, Tiendrebeogo RW, Kana IH, Sauerwein RW, Theisen M, Rand KD. Expression, Purification and Characterization of GMZ2'.10C, a Complex Disulphide-Bonded Fusion Protein Vaccine Candidate against the Asexual and Sexual Life-Stages of the Malaria-Causing Plasmodium falciparum Parasite. Pharm Res 2017. [PMID: 28646324 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-017-2208-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Production and characterization of a chimeric fusion protein (GMZ2'.10C) which combines epitopes of key malaria parasite antigens: glutamate-rich protein (GLURP), merozoite surface protein 3 (MSP3), and the highly disulphide bonded Pfs48/45 (10C). GMZ2'.10C is a potential candidate for a multi-stage malaria vaccine that targets both transmission and asexual life-cycle stages of the parasite. METHODS GMZ2'.10C was produced in Lactococcus lactis and purified using either an immunoaffinity purification (IP) or a conventional purification (CP) method. Protein purity and stability was analysed by RP-HPLC, SEC-HPLC, 2-site ELISA, gel-electrophoresis and Western blotting. Structural characterization (mass analysis, peptide mapping and cysteine connectivity mapping) was performed by LC-MS/MS. RESULTS CP-GMZ2'.10C resulted in similar purity, yield, structure and stability as compared to IP-GMZ2'.10C. CP-GMZ2'.10C and IP-GMZ2'.10C both elicited a high titer of transmission blocking (TB) antibodies in rodents. The intricate disulphide-bond connectivity of C-terminus Pfs48/45 was analysed by tandem mass spectrometry and was established for GMZ2'.10C and two reference fusion proteins encompassing similar parts of Pfs48/45. CONCLUSION GMZ2'.10C, combining GMZ2' and correctly-folded Pfs48/45 can be produced by the Lactoccus lactis P170 based expression system in purity and quality for pharmaceutical development and elicit high level of TB antibodies. The cysteine connectivity for the 10C region of Pfs48/45 was revealed experimentally, providing an important guideline for employing the Pfs48/45 antigen in vaccine design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrik H Mistarz
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Susheel K Singh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tam T T N Nguyen
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Will Roeffen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Fen Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Casper Lissau
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Régis W Tiendrebeogo
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ikhlaq H Kana
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robert W Sauerwein
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Centre for Medical Parasitology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Kasper D Rand
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Ntege EH, Takashima E, Morita M, Nagaoka H, Ishino T, Tsuboi T. Blood-stage malaria vaccines: post-genome strategies for the identification of novel vaccine candidates. Expert Rev Vaccines 2017; 16:769-779. [PMID: 28604122 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2017.1341317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION An efficacious malaria vaccine is necessary to advance the current control measures towards malaria elimination. To-date, only RTS,S/AS01, a leading pre-erythrocytic stage vaccine completed phase 3 trials, but with an efficacy of 28-36% in children, and 18-26% in infants, that waned over time. Blood-stage malaria vaccines protect against disease, and are considered effective targets for the logical design of next generation vaccines to improve the RTS,S field efficacy. Therefore, novel blood-stage vaccine candidate discovery efforts are critical, albeit with several challenges including, high polymorphisms in vaccine antigens, poor understanding of targets of naturally protective immunity, and difficulties in the expression of high AT-rich plasmodial proteins. Areas covered: PubMed ( www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed ) was searched to review the progress and future prospects of malaria vaccine research and development. We focused on post-genome vaccine candidate discovery, malaria vaccine development, sequence diversity, pre-clinical and clinical trials. Expert commentary: Post-genome high-throughput technologies using wheat germ cell-free protein synthesis technology and immuno-profiling with sera from malaria patients with clearly defined outcomes are highlighted to overcome current challenges of malaria vaccine candidate discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edward H Ntege
- a Division of Malaria Research , Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University , Matsuyama , Ehime , Japan
| | - Eizo Takashima
- a Division of Malaria Research , Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University , Matsuyama , Ehime , Japan
| | - Masayuki Morita
- a Division of Malaria Research , Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University , Matsuyama , Ehime , Japan
| | - Hikaru Nagaoka
- a Division of Malaria Research , Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University , Matsuyama , Ehime , Japan
| | - Tomoko Ishino
- b Division of Molecular Parasitology , Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University , Toon , Ehime , Japan
| | - Takafumi Tsuboi
- a Division of Malaria Research , Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University , Matsuyama , Ehime , Japan
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Chaturvedi N, Bharti PK, Tiwari A, Singh N. Strategies & recent development of transmission-blocking vaccines against Plasmodium falciparum. Indian J Med Res 2017; 143:696-711. [PMID: 27748294 PMCID: PMC5094109 DOI: 10.4103/0971-5916.191927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Transmission blocking malaria vaccines are aimed to block the development and maturity of sexual stages of parasite within mosquitoes. The vaccine candidate antigens (Pfs25, Pfs48/45, Pfs230) that have shown transmission blocking immunity in model systems are in different stages of development. These antigens are immunogenic with limited genetic diversity. Pfs25 is a leading candidate and currently in phase I clinical trial. Efforts are now focused on the cost-effective production of potent antigens using safe adjuvants and optimization of vaccine delivery system that are capable of inducing strong immune responses. This review addresses the potential usefulness, development strategies, challenges, clinical trials and current status of Plasmodium falciparum sexual stage malaria vaccine candidate antigens for the development of transmission-blocking vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neha Chaturvedi
- National Institute for Research in Tribal Health (ICMR), Jabalpur, School of Biotechnology, Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya (State Technological University of Madhya Pradesh), Bhopal, India
| | - Praveen K Bharti
- National Institute for Research in Tribal Health (ICMR), Jabalpur, India
| | - Archana Tiwari
- School of Biotechnology, Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya (State Technological University of Madhya Pradesh), Bhopal, India
| | - Neeru Singh
- National Institute for Research in Tribal Health (ICMR), Jabalpur, India
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Singh SK, Thrane S, Janitzek CM, Nielsen MA, Theander TG, Theisen M, Salanti A, Sander AF. Improving the malaria transmission-blocking activity of a Plasmodium falciparum 48/45 based vaccine antigen by SpyTag/SpyCatcher mediated virus-like display. Vaccine 2017; 35:3726-3732. [PMID: 28578824 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2017.05.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2017] [Revised: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Malaria is a devastating disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, resulting in almost 0.5 million deaths per year. The Pfs48/45 protein exposed on the P. falciparum sexual stages is one of the most advanced antigen candidates for a transmission-blocking (TB) vaccine in the clinical pipeline. However, it remains essential to identify an optimal vaccine formulation that can facilitate induction of a long-lasting TB anti-Pfs48/45 response. Here we report on the development and evaluation of two Pfs48/45-based virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines generated using the AP205 SpyTag/Catcher VLP system. Two different recombinant proteins (SpyCatcher-R0.6C and SpyCatcher-6C), comprising the Pfs48/45-6C region, were covalently attached to the surface of Spy-tagged Acinetobacter phage AP205 VLPs. Resulting Pfs48/45-VLP complexes appeared as non-aggregated particles of ∼30nm, each displaying an average of 216 (R0.6C) or 291 (6C) copies of the antigens. Both R0.6C and 6C VLP conjugates were strongly reactive with a monoclonal antibody (mAb45.1) targeting a conformational TB Pfs48/45 epitope, suggesting that the TB epitope is accessible for immune recognition on the particles. To select the most suitable vaccine formulation for downstream clinical studies the two VLP vaccines were tested in CD1 mice using different adjuvant formulations. The study demonstrates that VLP-display of R0.6C and 6C significantly increases antigen immunogenicity when using Montanide ISA 720 VG as extrinsic adjuvant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susheel K Singh
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark; Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Susan Thrane
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Christoph M Janitzek
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Morten A Nielsen
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Thor G Theander
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Michael Theisen
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark; Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Ali Salanti
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Adam F Sander
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Singh SK, Roeffen W, Mistarz UH, Chourasia BK, Yang F, Rand KD, Sauerwein RW, Theisen M. Construct design, production, and characterization of Plasmodium falciparum 48/45 R0.6C subunit protein produced in Lactococcus lactis as candidate vaccine. Microb Cell Fact 2017; 16:97. [PMID: 28569168 PMCID: PMC5452637 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-017-0710-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The sexual stages of Plasmodium falciparum are responsible for the spread of the parasite in malaria endemic areas. The cysteine-rich Pfs48/45 protein, exposed on the surface of sexual stages, is one of the most advanced antigens for inclusion into a vaccine that will block transmission. However, clinical Pfs48/45 sub-unit vaccine development has been hampered by the inability to produce high yields of recombinant protein as the native structure is required for the induction of functional transmission-blocking (TB) antibodies. We have investigated a downstream purification process of a sub-unit (R0.6C) fragment representing the C-terminal 6-Cys domain of Pfs48/45 (6C) genetically fused to the R0 region (R0) of asexual stage Glutamate Rich Protein expressed in Lactococcus lactis. Results A series of R0.6C fusion proteins containing features, which aim to increase expression levels or to facilitate protein purification, were evaluated at small scale. None of these modifications affected the overall yield of recombinant protein. Consequently, R0.6C with a C-terminal his tag was used for upstream and downstream process development. A simple work-flow was developed consisting of batch fermentation followed by two purification steps. As such, the recombinant protein was purified to homogeneity. The composition of the final product was verified by HPLC, mass spectrometry, SDS-PAGE and Western blotting with conformation dependent antibodies against Pfs48/45. The recombinant protein induced high levels of functional TB antibodies in rats. Conclusions The established production and purification process of the R0.6C fusion protein provide a strong basis for further clinical development of this candidate transmission blocking malaria vaccine. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12934-017-0710-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susheel K Singh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, Centre for Medical Parasitology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Will Roeffen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ulrik H Mistarz
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bishwanath Kumar Chourasia
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, Centre for Medical Parasitology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Fen Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kasper D Rand
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robert W Sauerwein
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Artillerivej 5, 2300, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology, Centre for Medical Parasitology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Hilgers LAT, Platenburg PPLI, Bajramovic J, Veth J, Sauerwein R, Roeffen W, Pohl M, van Amerongen G, Stittelaar KJ, van den Bosch JF. Carbohydrate fatty acid monosulphate esters are safe and effective adjuvants for humoral responses. Vaccine 2017; 35:3249-3255. [PMID: 28479181 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2017.04.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Revised: 04/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Carbohydrate fatty acid sulphate esters (CFASEs) formulated in a squalane-in-water emulsion are effective adjuvants for humoral responses to a wide range of antigens in various animal species but rise in body temperature and local reactions albeit mild or minimal hampers application in humans. In rabbits, body temperature increased 1°C one day after intramuscular (IM) injection, which returned to normal during the next day. The effect increased with increasing dose of CFASE but not with the number of injections (up to 5). Antigen enhanced the rise in body temperature after booster immunization (P<0.01) but not after priming. Synthetic CFASEs are mixtures of derivatives containing no sulphate, one or multiple sulphate groups and the monosulphate derivatives (CMS) were isolated, incorporated in a squalane in-water emulsion and investigated. In contrast to CFASE, CMS adjuvant did not generate rise in body temperature or local reactions in rabbits immunized with a purified, recombinant malaria chimeric antigen R0.10C. In comparison to alum, CMS adjuvant revealed approximately 30-fold higher antibody titres after the first and >100-fold after the second immunization. In ferrets immunized with 7.5μg of inactivated influenza virus A/H7N9, CMS adjuvant gave 100-fold increase in HAI antibody titres after the first and 25-fold after the second immunisation, which were 10-20-fold higher than with the MF59-like AddaVax adjuvant. In both models, a single immunisation with CMS adjuvant revealed similar or higher titres than two immunisations with either benchmark, without detectable systemic and local adverse effects. Despite striking chemical similarities with monophospholipid A (MPL), CMS adjuvant did not activate human TLR4 expressed on HEK cells. We concluded that the synthetic CMS adjuvant is a promising candidate for poor immunogens and single-shot vaccines and that rise in body temperature, local reactions or activation of TLR4 is not a pre-requisite for high adjuvanticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jennifer Veth
- Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Rijswijk, The Netherlands
| | - Robert Sauerwein
- Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Will Roeffen
- Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marie Pohl
- Viroclinics Biosciences BV, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Theisen M, Jore MM, Sauerwein R. Towards clinical development of a Pfs48/45-based transmission blocking malaria vaccine. Expert Rev Vaccines 2017; 16:329-336. [PMID: 28043178 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2017.1276833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Malaria is a devastating vector-borne disease caused by the Plasmodium parasite, resulting in almost 0.5 million casualties per year. The parasite has a complex life-cycle that includes asexual replication in human red blood cells, causing symptomatic malaria, and sexual stages which are essential for the transmission to the mosquito vector. A vaccine targeting the sexual stages of the parasite and thus blocking transmission will be instrumental for the eradication of malaria. One of the leading transmission blocking vaccine candidates is the sexual stage antigen Pfs48/45. Areas covered: PubMed was searched to review the progress and future prospects for clinical development of a Pfs48/45-based subunit vaccine. We will focus on biological function, naturally acquired immunity, functional activity of specific antibodies, sequence diversity, production of recombinant protein and preclinical studies. Expert commentary: Pfs48/45 is one of the lead-candidates for a transmission blocking vaccine and should be further explored in clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Theisen
- a Department for Congenital disorders , State Serum Institute , Copenhagen , Denmark.,b Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of International Health, Immunology and Microbiology , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark.,c Department of Infectious Diseases , Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Matthijs M Jore
- d Department of Medical Microbiology , Radboud University Medical Center , Nijmegen , The Netherlands
| | - Robert Sauerwein
- d Department of Medical Microbiology , Radboud University Medical Center , Nijmegen , The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Malaria: Biology and Disease. Cell 2016; 167:610-624. [PMID: 27768886 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2016.07.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 439] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 07/17/2016] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Malaria has been a major global health problem of humans through history and is a leading cause of death and disease across many tropical and subtropical countries. Over the last fifteen years renewed efforts at control have reduced the prevalence of malaria by over half, raising the prospect that elimination and perhaps eradication may be a long-term possibility. Achievement of this goal requires the development of new tools including novel antimalarial drugs and more efficacious vaccines as well as an increased understanding of the disease and biology of the parasite. This has catalyzed a major effort resulting in development and regulatory approval of the first vaccine against malaria (RTS,S/AS01) as well as identification of novel drug targets and antimalarial compounds, some of which are in human clinical trials.
Collapse
|