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Pang W, Bai J, Zhu L, Liu F, Wu Y, Yang F, Zheng L, Liu P, Zhang Y, Wang M, Li J, Zhu X, Cui L, Cao Y. Functional characterization of a conserved membrane protein, Pbs54, involved in gamete fertilization in Plasmodium berghei. Int J Parasitol 2024; 54:99-107. [PMID: 37774810 PMCID: PMC11283859 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2023.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
The successful completion of gamete fertilization is essential for malaria parasite transmission, and this process can be targeted by intervention strategies. In this study, we identified a conserved gene (PBANKA_0813300) in the rodent malaria parasite Plasmodium berghei, which encodes a protein of 54 kDa (designated as Pbs54). Localization studies indicated that Pbs54 is associated with the plasma membranes of gametes and ookinetes. Functional studies by gene disruption showed that the Δpbs54 parasites had no defect in asexual proliferation, gametocyte development, or gametogenesis. However, the interactions between male and female gametes were significantly decreased compared with wild-type parasites. The Δpbs54 lines did not show a further reduction in zygote and ookinete numbers during in vitro culture, indicating that the defects were probably restricted to gamete fertilization. Consistent with this finding, mosquitoes fed on Δpbs54-infected mice showed a 30.1% reduction in infection prevalence and a 74.7% reduction in oocyst intensity. Cross-fertilization assay indicated that both male and female gametes were impaired in the Δpbs54 parasites. To evaluate its transmission-blocking potential, we obtained polyclonal antibodies from mice immunized with the recombinant Pbs54 (rPbs54) protein. In vitro assays showed that anti-rPbs54 sera inhibited ookinete formation by 42.7%. Our experiments identified Pbs54 as a fertility factor required for mosquito transmission and a novel candidate for a malaria transmission-blocking vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Pang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jie Bai
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Liying Zhu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yudi Wu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Li Zheng
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Pengbo Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yaowen Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Meilian Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Xiaotong Zhu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Liwang Cui
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.
| | - Yaming Cao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
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2
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Bansal GP, Kumar N. Immune mechanisms targeting malaria transmission: opportunities for vaccine development. Expert Rev Vaccines 2024; 23:645-654. [PMID: 38888098 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2024.2369583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Malaria continues to remain a major global health problem with nearly a quarter of a billion clinical cases and more than 600,000 deaths in 2022. There has been significant progress toward vaccine development, however, poor efficacy of approved vaccines requiring multiple immunizing doses emphasizes the need for continued efforts toward improved vaccines. Progress to date, nonetheless, has provided impetus for malaria elimination. AREAS COVERED In this review we will focus on diverse immune mechanisms targeting gametocytes in the human host and gametocyte-mediated malaria transmission via the mosquito vector. EXPERT OPINION To march toward the goal of malaria elimination it will be critical to target the process of malaria transmission by mosquitoes, mediated exclusively by the sexual stages, i.e. male, and female gametocytes, ingested from infected vertebrate host. Studies over several decades have established antigens in the parasite sexual stages developing in the mosquito midgut as attractive targets for the development of transmission blocking vaccines (TBVs). Immune clearance of gametocytes in the vertebrate host can synergize with TBVs and directly aid in maintaining effective transmission reducing immune potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geetha P Bansal
- Department of Tropical Medicine, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Fogarty International Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nirbhay Kumar
- Department of Global Health, The Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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3
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Kunkeaw N, Nguitragool W, Takashima E, Kangwanrangsan N, Muramatsu H, Tachibana M, Ishino T, Lin PJC, Tam YK, Pichyangkul S, Tsuboi T, Pardi N, Sattabongkot J. A Pvs25 mRNA vaccine induces complete and durable transmission-blocking immunity to Plasmodium vivax. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:187. [PMID: 38092803 PMCID: PMC10719277 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00786-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax (P. vivax) is the major malaria parasite outside of Africa and no vaccine is available against it. A vaccine that interrupts parasite transmission (transmission-blocking vaccine, TBV) is considered highly desirable to reduce the spread of P. vivax and to accelerate its elimination. However, the development of a TBV against this pathogen has been hampered by the inability to culture the parasite as well as the low immunogenicity of the vaccines developed to date. Pvs25 is the most advanced TBV antigen candidate for P. vivax. However, in previous phase I clinical trials, TBV vaccines based on Pvs25 yielded low antibody responses or had unacceptable safety profiles. As the nucleoside-modified mRNA-lipid nanoparticle (mRNA-LNP) vaccine platform proved to be safe and effective in humans, we generated and tested mRNA-LNP vaccines encoding several versions of Pvs25 in mice. We found that in a prime-boost vaccination schedule, all Pvs25 mRNA-LNP vaccines elicited robust antigen-specific antibody responses. Furthermore, when compared with a Pvs25 recombinant protein vaccine formulated with Montanide ISA-51 adjuvant, the full-length Pvs25 mRNA-LNP vaccine induced a stronger and longer-lasting functional immunity. Seven months after the second vaccination, vaccine-induced antibodies retained the ability to fully block P. vivax transmission in direct membrane feeding assays, whereas the blocking activity induced by the protein/ISA-51 vaccine dropped significantly. Taken together, we report on mRNA vaccines targeting P. vivax and demonstrate that Pvs25 mRNA-LNP outperformed an adjuvanted Pvs25 protein vaccine suggesting that it is a promising candidate for further testing in non-human primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawapol Kunkeaw
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wang Nguitragool
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Eizo Takashima
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Niwat Kangwanrangsan
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Hiromi Muramatsu
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mayumi Tachibana
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Japan
| | - Tomoko Ishino
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Paulo J C Lin
- Acuitas Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Ying K Tam
- Acuitas Therapeutics, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Sathit Pichyangkul
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Takafumi Tsuboi
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Norbert Pardi
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Jetsumon Sattabongkot
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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4
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Gao W, Qiu Y, Zhu L, Yu X, Yang F, Chen M, He G, Liu Y, Cui L, Liu F, Zhu X, Cao Y. A dual-antigen malaria vaccine targeting Pb22 and Pbg37 was able to induce robust transmission-blocking activity. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:455. [PMID: 38098083 PMCID: PMC10720250 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06071-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite years of effort to develop an effective vaccine against malaria infection, a vaccine that provides individuals with sufficient protection against malaria illness and death in endemic areas is not yet available. The development of transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) is a promising strategy for malaria control. A dual-antigen malaria vaccine targeting both pre- and post-fertilization antigens could effectively improve the transmission-blocking activity of vaccines against the sexual stages of the parasite. METHODS A chimeric recombinant protein Pb22-Pbg37 (Plasmodium berghei 22-P. berghei G37) composed of 19-218 amino acids (aa) of Pb22 and the N-terminal 26-88 aa of Pbg37 was designed and expressed in the Escherichia coli expression system. The antibody titers of the fusion (Pb22-Pbg37) and mixed (Pb22+Pbg37) antigens, as well as those of Pb22 and Pbg37 single antigens were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Immunofluorescence and western blot assays were performed to test the reactivity of the antisera with the native proteins in the parasite. The induction of transmission-blocking activity (TBA) by Pb22-Pbg37 and Pb22+Pbg37 were evaluated by in vitro gametocyte activation, gamete and exflagellation center formation, ookinete conversion, and in the direct mosquito feeding assay. RESULTS The Pb22-Pbg37 fusion protein was successfully expressed in vitro. Co-administration of Pb22 and Pbg37 as a fusion or mixed protein elicited comparable antibody responses in mice and resulted in responses to both antigens. Most importantly, both the mixed and fusion antigens induced antibodies with significantly higher levels of TBA than did each of the individual antigens when administered alone. In addition, the efficacy of vaccination with the Pb22-Pbg37 fusion protein was equivalent to that of vaccination with the mixed single antigens. CONCLUSIONS Dual-antigen vaccines, which expand/lengthen the period during which the transmission-blocking antibodies can act during sexual-stage development, can provide a promising higher transmission-reducing activity compared to single antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyan Gao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, NO. 155, Nanjing Street, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Qiu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
- Department of Cardiovascular Ultrasound, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Liying Zhu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinxin Yu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Muyan Chen
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang He
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinjie Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Liwang Cui
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaotong Zhu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yaming Cao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
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5
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Silva MG, Bastos RG, Laughery JM, Alzan HF, Rathinasamy VA, Cooke BM, Suarez CE. Vaccination of cattle with the Babesia bovis sexual-stage protein HAP2 abrogates parasite transmission by Rhipicephalus microplus ticks. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:140. [PMID: 37758790 PMCID: PMC10533483 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00741-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The apicomplexan parasite Babesia bovis is responsible for bovine babesiosis, a poorly controlled tick-borne disease of global impact. The widely conserved gametocyte protein HAPLESS2/GCS1 (HAP2) is uniquely expressed on the surface of B. bovis sexual stage parasites and is a candidate for transmission-blocking vaccines (TBV). Here, we tested whether vaccination of calves with recombinant HAP2 (rHAP2) interferes with the transmission of B. bovis by competent ticks. Calves vaccinated with rHAP2 (n = 3), but not control animals (n = 3) developed antibodies specific to the vaccine antigen. Vaccinated and control animals were infested with Rhipicephalus microplus larvae and subsequently infected with virulent blood stage B. bovis parasites by needle inoculation, with all animals developing clinical signs of acute babesiosis. Engorged female ticks fed on the infected calves were collected for oviposition, hatching, and obtention of larvae. Transmission feeding was then conducted using pools of larvae derived from ticks fed on rHAP2-vaccinated or control calves. Recipient calves (n = 3) exposed to larvae derived from control animals, but none of the recipient calves (n = 3) challenged with larvae from ticks fed on rHAP2-vaccinated animals, developed signs of acute babesiosis within 11 days after tick infestation. Antibodies against B. bovis antigens and parasite DNA were found in all control recipient animals, but not in any of the calves exposed to larvae derived from HAP2-vaccinated animals, consistent with the absence of B. bovis infection via tick transmission. Overall, our results are consistent with the abrogation of parasite tick transmission in rHAP2-vaccinated calves, confirming this antigen as a prime TBV candidate against B. bovis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta G Silva
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Reginaldo G Bastos
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
- Animal Disease Research Unit, United States Department of Agricultural - Agricultural Research Service, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Jacob M Laughery
- Animal Disease Research Unit, United States Department of Agricultural - Agricultural Research Service, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Heba F Alzan
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
- Parasitology and Animal Diseases Department, National Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
| | - Vignesh A Rathinasamy
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Brian M Cooke
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Carlos E Suarez
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.
- Animal Disease Research Unit, United States Department of Agricultural - Agricultural Research Service, Pullman, WA, USA.
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6
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Tebeje SK, Chali W, Hailemeskel E, Ramjith J, Gashaw A, Ashine T, Nebret D, Esayas E, Emiru T, Tsegaye T, Teelen K, Lanke K, Takashima E, Tsuboi T, Salinas ND, Tolia NH, Narum D, Drakeley C, Witkowski B, Vantaux A, Jore MM, Stone WJR, Hansen IS, Tadesse FG, Bousema T. Naturally acquired antibodies to gametocyte antigens are associated with reduced transmission of Plasmodium vivax gametocytes to Anopheles arabiensis mosquitoes. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 12:1106369. [PMID: 36726645 PMCID: PMC9885094 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.1106369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Naturally acquired antibodies may reduce the transmission of Plasmodium gametocytes to mosquitoes. Here, we investigated associations between antibody prevalence and P. vivax infectivity to mosquitoes. A total of 368 microscopy confirmed P. vivax symptomatic patients were passively recruited from health centers in Ethiopia and supplemented with 56 observations from asymptomatic P. vivax parasite carriers. Direct membrane feeding assays (DMFA) were performed to assess mosquito infectivity; for selected feeds these experiments were also performed after replacing autologous plasma with malaria naïve control serum (n=61). The prevalence of antibodies against 6 sexual stage antigens (Pvs47, Pvs48/45, Pvs230, PvsHAP2, Pvs25 and PvCelTOS) and an array of asexual antigens was determined by ELISA and multiplexed bead-based assays. Gametocyte (ρ< 0.42; p = 0.0001) and parasite (ρ = 0.21; p = 0.0001) densities were positively associated with mosquito infection rates. Antibodies against Pvs47, Pvs230 and Pvs25 were associated with 23 and 34% reductions in mosquito infection rates (p<0.0001), respectively. Individuals who showed evidence of transmission blockade in serum-replacement DMFAs (n=8) were significantly more likely to have PvsHAP2 or Pvs47 antibodies. Further studies may demonstrate causality for the observed associations, improve our understanding of the natural transmission of P. vivax and support vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surafel K. Tebeje
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Malaria and Neglected Tropical Disease Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Wakweya Chali
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Malaria and Neglected Tropical Disease Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Elifaged Hailemeskel
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Malaria and Neglected Tropical Disease Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands,Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Jordache Ramjith
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Abrham Gashaw
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Malaria and Neglected Tropical Disease Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Temesgen Ashine
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Malaria and Neglected Tropical Disease Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Desalegn Nebret
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Malaria and Neglected Tropical Disease Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Endashaw Esayas
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Malaria and Neglected Tropical Disease Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tadele Emiru
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Malaria and Neglected Tropical Disease Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tizita Tsegaye
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Malaria and Neglected Tropical Disease Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Karina Teelen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Kjerstin Lanke
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Eizo Takashima
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime, Japan
| | - Takafumi Tsuboi
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime, Japan
| | - Nichole D. Salinas
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Niraj H. Tolia
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - David Narum
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Chris Drakeley
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Benoit Witkowski
- Malaria Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Pasteur Institute of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Amelie Vantaux
- Malaria Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Pasteur Institute of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Matthijs M. Jore
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | - Ivo S. Hansen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Fitsum G. Tadesse
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Malaria and Neglected Tropical Disease Directorate, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Teun Bousema
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands,London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Teun Bousema,
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7
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Bai J, Liu F, Yang F, Zhao Y, Jia X, Thongpoon S, Roobsoog W, Sattabongkot J, Zheng L, Cui Z, Zheng W, Cui L, Cao Y. Evaluation of transmission-blocking potential of Pv22 using clinical Plasmodium vivax infections and transgenic Plasmodium berghei. Vaccine 2023; 41:555-563. [PMID: 36503858 PMCID: PMC9812905 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.11.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Antigens expressed during the sexual development of malaria parasites are transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) targets. Pb22, a protein expressed and localized to the plasma membrane of gametes and ookinetes in Plasmodium berghei, is an excellent TBV candidate. Here, we evaluated the TB potential of the Plasmodium vivax ortholog Pv22 using a transgenic P. berghei parasite line and P. vivax clinical isolates. The full-length recombinant Pv22 (rPv22) protein was produced and used to immunize mice and rabbits to obtain antibodies. We generated a transgenic P. berghei line (TrPv22Pb) by inserting the pv22 gene into the pb22 locus and showed that Pv22 expression completely rescued the defects in male gametogenesis of the pb22 deletion parasite. Since Pv22 in the transgenic parasite showed similar expression and localization patterns to Pb22, we used the TrPv22Pb parasite as a surrogate to evaluate the TB potential of Pv22. In mosquito feeding assays, mosquitoes feeding on rPv22-immunized mice infected with TrPv22Pb parasites showed a 49.3-53.3 % reduction in the oocyst density compared to the control group. In vitro assays showed that the rPv22 immune sera significantly inhibited exflagellation and ookinete formation of the TrPv22Pb parasites. In a direct membrane feeding assay using three clinical P. vivax isolates, the rabbit anti-rPv22 antibodies also significantly decreased the oocyst density by 53.7, 30.2, and 26.2 %, respectively. This study demonstrated the feasibility of using transgenic P. berghei parasites expressing P. vivax antigens as a potential tool to evaluate TBV candidates. However, the much weaker TB activity of Pv22 obtained from two complementary assays suggest that Pv22 may not be a promising TBV candidate for P. vivax.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Bai
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xitong Jia
- Department of Pathogen Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Sataporn Thongpoon
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Wanlapa Roobsoog
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Jetsumon Sattabongkot
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Li Zheng
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zeshi Cui
- College of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Wenqi Zheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolian Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Liwang Cui
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States.
| | - Yaming Cao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
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8
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Pidre ML, Arrías PN, Amorós Morales LC, Romanowski V. The Magic Staff: A Comprehensive Overview of Baculovirus-Based Technologies Applied to Human and Animal Health. Viruses 2022; 15:80. [PMID: 36680120 PMCID: PMC9863858 DOI: 10.3390/v15010080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Baculoviruses are enveloped, insect-specific viruses with large double-stranded DNA genomes. Among all the baculovirus species, Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) is the most studied. Due to its characteristics regarding biosafety, narrow host range and the availability of different platforms for modifying its genome, AcMNPV has become a powerful biotechnological tool. In this review, we will address the most widespread technological applications of baculoviruses. We will begin by summarizing their natural cycle both in larvae and in cell culture and how it can be exploited. Secondly, we will explore the different baculovirus-based protein expression systems (BEVS) and their multiple applications in the pharmaceutical and biotechnological industry. We will focus particularly on the production of vaccines, many of which are either currently commercialized or in advanced stages of development (e.g., Novavax, COVID-19 vaccine). In addition, recombinant baculoviruses can be used as efficient gene transduction and protein expression vectors in vertebrate cells (e.g., BacMam). Finally, we will extensively describe various gene therapy strategies based on baculoviruses applied to the treatment of different diseases. The main objective of this work is to provide an extensive up-to-date summary of the different biotechnological applications of baculoviruses, emphasizing the genetic modification strategies used in each field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Víctor Romanowski
- Instituto de Biotecnología y Biología Molecular (IBBM), Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP) and Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), La Plata 1900, Argentina
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9
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Feix AS, Cruz-Bustos T, Ruttkowski B, Joachim A. Inhibition of sexual stage-specific proteins results in reduced numbers of sexual stages and oocysts of Cystoisospora suis (Apicomplexa: Coccidia) in vitro. Int J Parasitol 2022; 52:829-841. [PMID: 36270547 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2022.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Parasites of the order Coccidia (phylum: Alveolata, subphylum: Apicomplexa) have sophisticated life cycles that include a switch from asexual to sexual development, characterised by distinct cell types. During the development of gametes (gamogony), substantial changes occur at the cellular and subcellular levels, leading to cell fusion of micro- and microgametes, and the development of a zygote that forms a protective outer layer for environmental survival as an oocyst, the transmissible stage. Studies on the porcine coccidian Cystoisospora suis already identified changes in transcription profiles during different time points in the parasite's development and identified proteins with potential roles in the sexual development of this parasite. Here, we focus on three proteins that are possibly involved in the sexual development of C. suis. Enkurin and hapless protein 2 (HAP2) play important roles in signal transduction and gamete fusion during the fertilisation process, and oocyst wall forming protein 1 (OWP1) is a homologue of oocyst wall forming proteins of related parasites. We evaluated their locations in the different life cycle stages of C. suis and their inhibition by specific antibodies in vitro. Immunolocalization detected enkurin in merozoites and sporulated oocysts, HAP2 in merozoites and microgamonts, and OWP2 in merozoites, macrogamonts, oocysts and sporozoites. Up to 100% inhibition of the development of sexual stages and oocyst formation with purified chicken immunoglobulin IgY sera against recombinant enkurin, HAP2, and especially OWP1, were demonstrated. We conclude that the three investigated sexual stage-specific proteins constitute targets for in vivo intervention strategies to interrupt parasite development and transmission to susceptible hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sophia Feix
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna A-1210, Austria.
| | - Teresa Cruz-Bustos
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna A-1210, Austria
| | - Bärbel Ruttkowski
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna A-1210, Austria
| | - Anja Joachim
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, Vienna A-1210, Austria
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10
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The transcriptome from asexual to sexual in vitro development of Cystoisospora suis (Apicomplexa: Coccidia). Sci Rep 2022; 12:5972. [PMID: 35396557 PMCID: PMC8993856 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09714-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The apicomplexan parasite Cystoisospora suis is an enteropathogen of suckling piglets with woldwide distribution. As with all coccidian parasites, its lifecycle is characterized by asexual multiplication followed by sexual development with two morphologically distinct cell types that presumably fuse to form a zygote from which the oocyst arises. However, knowledge of the sexual development of C. suis is still limited. To complement previous in vitro studies, we analysed transcriptional profiles at three different time points of development (corresponding to asexual, immature and mature sexual stages) in vitro via RNASeq. Overall, transcription of genes encoding proteins with important roles in gametes biology, oocyst wall biosynthesis, DNA replication and axonema formation as well as proteins with important roles in merozoite biology was identified. A homologue of an oocyst wall tyrosine rich protein of Toxoplasma gondii was expressed in macrogametes and oocysts of C. suis. We evaluated inhibition of sexual development in a host-free culture for C. suis by antiserum specific to this protein to evaluate whether it could be exploited as a candidate for control strategies against C. suis. Based on these data, targets can be defined for future strategies to interrupt parasite transmission during sexual development.
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11
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Yu S, Wang J, Luo X, Zheng H, Wang L, Yang X, Wang Y. Transmission-Blocking Strategies Against Malaria Parasites During Their Mosquito Stages. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:820650. [PMID: 35252033 PMCID: PMC8889032 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.820650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is still the most widespread parasitic disease and causes the most infections globally. Owing to improvements in sanitary conditions and various intervention measures, including the use of antimalarial drugs, the malaria epidemic in many regions of the world has improved significantly in the past 10 years. However, people living in certain underdeveloped areas are still under threat. Even in some well-controlled areas, the decline in malaria infection rates has stagnated or the rates have rebounded because of the emergence and spread of drug-resistant malaria parasites. Thus, new malaria control methods must be developed. As the spread of the Plasmodium parasite is dependent on the part of its life cycle that occurs in mosquitoes, to eliminate the possibility of malaria infections, transmission-blocking strategies against the mosquito stage should be the first choice. In fact, after the gametocyte enters the mosquito body, it undergoes a series of transformation processes over a short period, thus providing numerous potential blocking targets. Many research groups have carried out studies based on targeting the blocking of transmission during the mosquito phase and have achieved excellent results. Meanwhile, the direct killing of mosquitoes could also significantly reduce the probability of malaria infections. Microorganisms that display complex interactions with Plasmodium, such as Wolbachia and gut flora, have shown observable transmission-blocking potential. These could be used as a biological control strategy and play an important part in blocking the transmission of malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shasha Yu
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xue Luo
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hong Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Luhan Wang
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuesen Yang
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Tropical Medicine, College of Military Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Ying Wang,
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12
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Feng J, Dong X, DeCosta A, Su Y, Angrisano F, Sala KA, Blagborough AM, Lu C, Springer TA. Structural basis of malaria transmission blockade by a monoclonal antibody to gamete fusogen HAP2. eLife 2021; 10:74707. [PMID: 34939934 PMCID: PMC8806182 DOI: 10.7554/elife.74707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
HAP2 is a transmembrane gamete fusogen found in multiple eukaryotic kingdoms and is structurally homologous to viral class II fusogens. Studies in Plasmodium have suggested that HAP2 is an attractive target for vaccines that block transmission of malaria. HAP2 has three extracellular domains, arranged in the order D2, D1, and D3. Here, we report monoclonal antibodies against the D3 fragment of Plasmodium berghei HAP2 and crystal structures of D3 in complex with Fab fragments of two of these antibodies, one of which blocks fertilization of Plasmodium berghei in vitro and transmission of malaria in mosquitoes. We also show how this Fab binds the complete HAP2 ectodomain with electron microscopy. The two antibodies cross-react with HAP2 among multiple plasmodial species. Our characterization of the Plasmodium D3 structure, HAP2 ectodomain architecture, and mechanism of inhibition provide insights for the development of a vaccine to block malaria transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Feng
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital
| | | | - Adam DeCosta
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital
| | - Yang Su
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital
| | | | | | | | - Chafen Lu
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital
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13
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Takashima E, Tachibana M, Morita M, Nagaoka H, Kanoi BN, Tsuboi T. Identification of Novel Malaria Transmission-Blocking Vaccine Candidates. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:805482. [PMID: 34917521 PMCID: PMC8670312 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.805482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Control measures have significantly reduced malaria morbidity and mortality in the last two decades; however, the downward trends have stalled and have become complicated by the emergence of COVID-19. Significant efforts have been made to develop malaria vaccines, but currently only the RTS,S/AS01 vaccine against Plasmodium falciparum has been recommended by the WHO, for widespread use among children in sub-Saharan Africa. The efficacy of RTS,S/AS01 is modest, and therefore the development of more efficacious vaccines is still needed. In addition, the development of transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) to reduce the parasite transmission from humans to mosquitoes is required toward the goal of malaria elimination. Few TBVs have reached clinical development, and challenges include low immunogenicity or high reactogenicity in humans. Therefore, novel approaches to accelerate TBV research and development are urgently needed, especially novel TBV candidate discovery. In this mini review we summarize the progress in TBV research and development, novel TBV candidate discovery, and discuss how to accelerate novel TBV candidate discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eizo Takashima
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Mayumi Tachibana
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Japan
| | - Masayuki Morita
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Hikaru Nagaoka
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Bernard N Kanoi
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Takafumi Tsuboi
- Division of Cell-Free Sciences, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
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14
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Tachibana M, Takashima E, Morita M, Sattabongkot J, Ishino T, Culleton R, Torii M, Tsuboi T. Plasmodium vivax transmission-blocking vaccines: Progress, challenges and innovation. Parasitol Int 2021; 87:102525. [PMID: 34896614 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2021.102525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Existing control measures have significantly reduced malaria morbidity and mortality in the last two decades, although these reductions are now stalling. Significant efforts have been undertaken to develop malaria vaccines. Recently, extensive progress in malaria vaccine development has been made for Plasmodium falciparum. To date, only the RTS,S/AS01 vaccine has been tested in Phase 3 clinical trials and is now under implementation, despite modest efficacy. Therefore, the development of a malaria transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) will be essential for malaria elimination. Only a limited number of TBVs have reached pre-clinical or clinical development with several major challenges impeding their development, including low immunogenicity in humans. TBV development efforts against P. vivax, the second major cause of malaria morbidity, lag far behind those for P. falciparum. In this review we summarize the latest progress, challenges and innovations in P. vivax TBV research and discuss how to accelerate its development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayumi Tachibana
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime 791-0295, Japan.
| | - Eizo Takashima
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan.
| | - Masayuki Morita
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan.
| | - Jetsumon Sattabongkot
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.
| | - Tomoko Ishino
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime 791-0295, Japan.
| | - Richard Culleton
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime 791-0295, Japan.
| | - Motomi Torii
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Ehime 791-0295, Japan; Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan.
| | - Takafumi Tsuboi
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-8577, Japan.
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15
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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.
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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.
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16
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Bantuchai S, Imad H, Nguitragool W. Plasmodium vivax gametocytes and transmission. Parasitol Int 2021; 87:102497. [PMID: 34748969 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2021.102497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Malaria elimination means cessation of parasite transmission. At present, the declining malaria incidence in many countries has made elimination a feasible goal. Transmission control has thus been placed at the center of the national malaria control programs. The efficient transmission of Plasmodium vivax from humans to mosquitoes is a key factor that helps perpetuate malaria in endemic areas. A better understanding of transmission is crucial to the success of elimination efforts. Biological delineation of the parasite transmission process is important for identifying and prioritizing new targets of intervention. Identification of the infectious parasite reservoir in the community is key to devising an effective elimination strategy. Here we describe the fundamental characteristics of P. vivax gametocytes - the dynamics of their production, longevity, and the relationship with the total parasitemia - as well as recent advances in the molecular understanding of parasite sexual development. In relation to malaria elimination, factors influencing the human infectivity and the current evidence for a role of asymptomatic carriers in transmission are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirasate Bantuchai
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.
| | - Hisham Imad
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.
| | - Wang Nguitragool
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand.
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17
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Cruz-Bustos T, Feix AS, Ruttkowski B, Joachim A. Sexual Development in Non-Human Parasitic Apicomplexa: Just Biology or Targets for Control? Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11102891. [PMID: 34679913 PMCID: PMC8532714 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cellular reproduction is a key part of the apicomplexan life cycle, and both mitotic (asexual) and meiotic (sexual) cell divisions produce new individual cells. Sexual reproduction in most eukaryotic taxa indicates that it has had considerable success during evolution, and it must confer profound benefits, considering its significant costs. The phylum Apicomplexa consists of almost exclusively parasitic single-celled eukaryotic organisms that can affect a wide host range of animals from invertebrates to mammals. Their development is characterized by complex steps in which asexual and sexual replication alternate and the fertilization of a macrogamete by a microgamete results in the formation of a zygote that undergoes meiosis, thus forming a new generation of asexual stages. In apicomplexans, sex is assumed to be induced by the (stressful) condition of having to leave the host, and either gametes or zygotes (or stages arising from it) are transmitted to a new host. Therefore, sex and meiosis are linked to parasite transmission, and consequently dissemination, which are key to the parasitic lifestyle. We hypothesize that improved knowledge of the sexual biology of the Apicomplexa will be essential to design and implement effective transmission-blocking strategies for the control of the major parasites of this group. Abstract The phylum Apicomplexa is a major group of protozoan parasites including gregarines, coccidia, haemogregarines, haemosporidia and piroplasms, with more than 6000 named species. Three of these subgroups, the coccidia, hemosporidia, and piroplasms, contain parasites that cause important diseases of humans and animals worldwide. All of them have complex life cycles involving a switch between asexual and sexual reproduction, which is key to their development. Fertilization (i.e., fusion of female and male cells) results in the formation of a zygote that undergoes meiosis, forming a new generation of asexual stages. In eukaryotes, sexual reproduction is the predominant mode of recombination and segregation of DNA. Sex is well documented in many protist groups, and together with meiosis, is frequently linked with transmission to new hosts. Apicomplexan sexual stages constitute a bottleneck in the life cycle of these parasites, as they are obligatory for the development of new transmissible stages. Consequently, the sexual stages represent attractive targets for vaccination. Detailed understanding of apicomplexan sexual biology will pave the way for the design and implementation of effective transmission-blocking strategies for parasite control. This article reviews the current knowledge on the sexual development of Apicomplexa and the progress in transmission-blocking vaccines for their control, their advantages and limitations and outstanding questions for the future.
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18
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Zhang Y, Liu F, Zhao Y, Yang F, Bai J, Jia X, Roobsoong W, Sattabongkot J, Cui L, Cao Y, Luo E, Wang M. Evaluation of two Plasmodium vivax sexual stage antigens as transmission-blocking vaccine candidates. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:407. [PMID: 34399829 PMCID: PMC8366161 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04909-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasmodium vivax transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) are receiving increasing attention. Based on excellent transmission-blocking activities of the PbPH (PBANKA_0417200) and PbSOP26 (PBANKA_1457700) antigens in Plasmodium berghei, their orthologs in P. vivax, PVX_098655 (PvPH) and PVX_101120 (PvSOP26), were selected for the evaluation of their potential as TBVs. METHODS Fragments of PvPH (amino acids 22-304) and PvSOP26 (amino acids 30-272) were expressed in the yeast expression system. The recombinant proteins were used to immunize mice to obtain antisera. The transmission-reducing activities of these antisera were evaluated using the direct membrane feeding assay (DMFA) using Anopheles dirus mosquitoes and P. vivax clinical isolates. RESULTS The recombinant proteins PvPH and PvSOP26 induced robust antibody responses in mice. The DMFA showed that the anti-PvSOP26 sera significantly reduced oocyst densities by 92.0 and 84.1% in two parasite isolates, respectively, whereas the anti-PvPH sera did not show evident transmission-reducing activity. The variation in the DMFA results was unlikely due to the genetic polymorphisms of the two genes since their respective sequences were identical in the clinical P. vivax isolates. CONCLUSION PvSOP26 could be a promising TBV candidate for P. vivax, which warrants further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongzhe Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
- Department of Nephrology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Jie Bai
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Xitong Jia
- Department of Pathogen Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Wanlapa Roobsoong
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jetsumon Sattabongkot
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Liwang Cui
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Boulevard, Suite 304, Tampa, FL, 33612-9415, USA
| | - Yaming Cao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Enjie Luo
- Department of Pathogen Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China.
| | - Meilian Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China.
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19
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Yang F, Liu F, Yu X, Zheng W, Wu Y, Qiu Y, Jin Y, Cui L, Cao Y. Evaluation of two sexual-stage antigens as bivalent transmission-blocking vaccines in rodent malaria. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:241. [PMID: 33962671 PMCID: PMC8103607 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04743-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) is a promising strategy for malaria elimination. It is hypothesized that mixing or fusing two antigens targeting different stages of sexual development may provide higher transmission-blocking activity than these antigens used individually. METHODS A chimeric protein composed of fragments of Pbg37 and PSOP25 was designed and expressed the recombinant protein in Escherichia coli Rosetta-gami B (DE3). After immunizing mice with individual recombinant proteins Pbg37 and PSOP25, mixed proteins (Pbg37+PSOP25), or the fusion protein (Pbg37-PSOP25), the antibody titers of individual sera were analyzed by ELISA. IFA and Western blot were performed to test the reactivity of the antisera with the native proteins in the parasite. The transmission-blocking activity of the different immunization schemes was assessed using in vitro and in vivo assays. RESULTS When Pbg37 and PSOP25 were co-administered in a mixture or as a fusion protein, they elicited similar antibody responses in mice as single antigens without causing immunological interference with each other. Antibodies against the mixed or fused antigens recognized the target proteins in the gametocyte, gamete, zygote, and ookinete stages. The mixed proteins or the fusion protein induced antibodies with significantly stronger transmission-reducing activities in vitro and in vivo than individual antigens. CONCLUSIONS There was no immunological interference between Pbg37 and PSOP25. The bivalent vaccines, which expand the portion of the sexual development during which the transmission-blocking antibodies act, produced significantly stronger transmission-reducing activities than single antigens. Altogether, these data provide the theoretical basis for the development of combination TBVs targeting different sexual stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Xinxin Yu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Wenqi Zheng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yudi Wu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China
| | - Yue Qiu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nanjing North Street, Heping District, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Ying Jin
- Liaoning Research Institute of Family Planning, Shenyang, 110031, China
| | - Liwang Cui
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Yaming Cao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China.
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20
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Rodrigues-Alves ML, Melo-Júnior OADO, Silveira P, Mariano RMDS, Leite JC, Santos TAP, Soares IS, Lair DF, Melo MM, Resende LA, da Silveira-Lemos D, Dutra WO, Gontijo NDF, Araujo RN, Sant'Anna MRV, Andrade LAF, da Fonseca FG, Moreira LA, Giunchetti RC. Historical Perspective and Biotechnological Trends to Block Arboviruses Transmission by Controlling Aedes aegypti Mosquitos Using Different Approaches. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:275. [PMID: 32656216 PMCID: PMC7325419 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.00275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Continuous climate changes associated with the disorderly occupation of urban areas have exposed Latin American populations to the emergence and reemergence of arboviruses transmitted by Aedes aegypti. The magnitude of the financial and political problems these epidemics may bring to the future of developing countries is still ignored. Due to the lack of effective antiviral drugs and vaccines against arboviruses, the primary measure for preventing or reducing the transmission of diseases depends entirely on the control of vectors or the interruption of human-vector contact. In Brazil the first attempt to control A. aegypti took place in 1902 by eliminating artificial sites of eproduction. Other strategies, such as the use of oviposition traps and chemical control with dichlorodiphenyltrichlorethane and pyrethroids, were successful, but only for a limited time. More recently, biotechnical approaches, such as the release of transgenics or sterile mosquitoes and the, development of transmission blocking vaccines, are being applied to try to control the A. aegypti population and/or arbovirus transmission. Endemic countries spend about twice as much to treat patients as they do on the prevention of mosquito-transmitted diseases. The result of this strategy is an explosive outbreak of arboviruses cases. This review summarizes the social impacts caused by A. aegypti-transmitted diseases, mainly from a biotechnological perspective in vector control aimed at protecting Latin American populations against arboviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Luiza Rodrigues-Alves
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Otoni Alves de Oliveira Melo-Júnior
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Silveira
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Reysla Maria da Silveira Mariano
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline Costa Leite
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Thaiza Aline Pereira Santos
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ingrid Santos Soares
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Daniel Ferreira Lair
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Marília Martins Melo
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lucilene Aparecida Resende
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Denise da Silveira-Lemos
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Departamento de Medicina, Universidade José Do Rosário Vellano, UNIFENAS, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Walderez Ornelas Dutra
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Nelder de Figueiredo Gontijo
- Laboratório de Fisiologia de Insetos Hematófagos, Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Nascimento Araujo
- Laboratório de Fisiologia de Insetos Hematófagos, Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Mauricio Roberto Viana Sant'Anna
- Laboratório de Fisiologia de Insetos Hematófagos, Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luis Adan Flores Andrade
- Laboratório de Virologia Básica e Aplicada, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Flávio Guimarães da Fonseca
- Laboratório de Virologia Básica e Aplicada, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luciano Andrade Moreira
- Laboratório de Mosquitos Vetores: Endossimbiontes e Interação Patógeno-Vetor, Instituto René Rachou, Fiocruz, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Rodolfo Cordeiro Giunchetti
- Laboratório de Biologia das Interações Celulares, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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