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Børud B, Koomey M. Sweet complexity: O-linked protein glycosylation in pathogenic Neisseria. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1407863. [PMID: 38808060 PMCID: PMC11130364 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1407863] [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: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The genus Neisseria, which colonizes mucosal surfaces, includes both commensal and pathogenic species that are exclusive to humans. The two pathogenic Neisseria species are closely related but cause quite different diseases, meningococcal sepsis and meningitis (Neisseria meningitidis) and sexually transmitted gonorrhea (Neisseria gonorrhoeae). Although obvious differences in bacterial niches and mechanisms for transmission exists, pathogenic Neisseria have high levels of conservation at the levels of nucleotide sequences, gene content and synteny. Species of Neisseria express broad-spectrum O-linked protein glycosylation where the glycoproteins are largely transmembrane proteins or lipoproteins localized on the cell surface or in the periplasm. There are diverse functions among the identified glycoproteins, for example type IV biogenesis proteins, proteins involved in antimicrobial resistance, as well as surface proteins that have been suggested as vaccine candidates. The most abundant glycoprotein, PilE, is the major subunit of pili which are an important colonization factor. The glycans attached can vary extensively due to phase variation of protein glycosylation (pgl) genes and polymorphic pgl gene content. The exact roles of glycosylation in Neisseria remains to be determined, but increasing evidence suggests that glycan variability can be a strategy to evade the human immune system. In addition, pathogenic and commensal Neisseria appear to have significant glycosylation differences. Here, the current knowledge and implications of protein glycosylation genes, glycan diversity, glycoproteins and immunogenicity in pathogenic Neisseria are summarized and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bente Børud
- Department of Bacteriology, Division for Infection Control and Environmental Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Michael Koomey
- Department of Biosciences, Section for Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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2
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Williams E, Seib KL, Fairley CK, Pollock GL, Hocking JS, McCarthy JS, Williamson DA. Neisseria gonorrhoeae vaccines: a contemporary overview. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024; 37:e0009423. [PMID: 38226640 PMCID: PMC10938898 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00094-23] [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] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection is an important public health issue, with an annual global incidence of 87 million. N. gonorrhoeae infection causes significant morbidity and can have serious long-term impacts on reproductive and neonatal health and may rarely cause life-threatening disease. Global rates of N. gonorrhoeae infection have increased over the past 20 years. Importantly, rates of antimicrobial resistance to key antimicrobials also continue to increase, with the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifying drug-resistant N. gonorrhoeae as an urgent threat to public health. This review summarizes the current evidence for N. gonorrhoeae vaccines, including historical clinical trials, key N. gonorrhoeae vaccine preclinical studies, and studies of the impact of Neisseria meningitidis vaccines on N. gonorrhoeae infection. A comprehensive survey of potential vaccine antigens, including those identified through traditional vaccine immunogenicity approaches, as well as those identified using more contemporary reverse vaccinology approaches, are also described. Finally, the potential epidemiological impacts of a N. gonorrhoeae vaccine and research priorities for further vaccine development are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloise Williams
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate L. Seib
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Christopher K. Fairley
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Georgina L. Pollock
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jane S. Hocking
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - James S. McCarthy
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah A. Williamson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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3
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Xia L, Lu Q, Wang X, Jia C, Zhao Y, Wang G, Yang J, Zhang N, Min X, Huang J, Huang M. Characterization of protective immune responses against Neisseria gonorrhoeae induced by intranasal immunization with adhesion and penetration protein. Heliyon 2024; 10:e25733. [PMID: 38352762 PMCID: PMC10862674 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Drug-resistant N. gonorrhoeae is an urgent threat to global public health, and vaccine development is the best long-term strategy for controlling gonorrhea. We have previously shown that adhesion and penetration protein (App) play a role in the adhesion, invasion, and reproductive tract colonization of N. gonorrhoeae. Here, we describe the immune response induced by intranasal immunization with passenger and translocator fragments of App. The recombinant App passenger and translocator fragments induced high titers of IgG and IgA antibodies in serum and vaginal washes. Antibodies produced by App passenger and the combination of passenger and translocator mediated the killing of N. gonorrhoeae via serum bactericidal activity and opsonophagocytic activity, whereas antisera from translocator-immunized groups had lower bactericidal activity and opsonophagocytic activity. The antisera of the App passenger and translocator, alone and in combination, inhibited the adhesion of N. gonorrhoeae to cervical epithelial cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Nasal immunization with App passenger and translocator fragments alone or in combination induced high levels of IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG2b antibodies and stimulated mouse splenocytes to secrete cytokines IFN-γ and IL-17A, suggesting that Th1 and Th17 cellular immune responses were activated. In vivo experiments have shown that immune App passenger and transporter fragments can accelerate the clearance of N. gonorrhoeae in the vagina of mice. These data suggest that the App protein is a promising N. gonorrhoeae vaccine antigen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyin Xia
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Qin Lu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Xiaosu Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Chengyi Jia
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Yujie Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Guangli Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Jianru Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Ningqing Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Xun Min
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Jian Huang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- School of Laboratory Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Meirong Huang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
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Mauricio F, Mendoza R, Silva H, Calderon I, Espinoza-Carhuancho F, Pacheco-Mendoza J, Mayta-Tovalino F. Overview, Trends, and Collaboration on Immunization, Vaccination, and Immunomodulation Therapies for Periodontitis: A Scientometric Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024; 25:128-133. [PMID: 38514409 DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-10024-3641] [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] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
AIM To identify patterns and trends in the field of immunization, vaccination, and immunomodulation therapies for periodontitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Metadata were collected from the Scopus database on publications related to these topics from January 1986 to February 2024. Several types of papers were included in this study, a total of 22 publications. Data were extracted from relevant publications and loaded into SciVal for analysis that were used to identify trends and patterns in the data, including cross-country collaboration, thematic evolution, and keyword distribution. RESULTS Mohsen Amin of Tehran University of Medical Sciences in Iran and S. Aadil Ahamed and Annie Kitty George of Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences in India were found to be notable contributors in this field. India leads in terms of academic paper production, followed by Iran and China. The journals Expert Review of Vaccines and International Immunopharmacology have published significant papers in this field. CONCLUSIONS According to Lotka's Law, most authors have written only one paper, reflecting the distribution of productivity in many academic and scientific fields. Collaborations were observed between Iran and Canada, Korea and New Zealand, and the United States and Belgium. This study provides useful insight into the predominant trends and patterns in the scientific literature in the field of immunization, vaccination, and immunomodulation therapies for periodontitis. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE The findings of this study may help to understand the dynamics of the production on immunization, vaccination, and immunomodulation therapies could reduce the inflammation and progression of periodontitis, thus improving the patient's oral and overall health. How to cite this article: Mauricio F, Mendoza R, Silva H, et al. Overview, Trends, and Collaboration on Immunization, Vaccination, and Immunomodulation Therapies for Periodontitis: A Scientometric Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(2):128-133.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Mauricio
- Academic Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal, Lima, Peru
| | - Roman Mendoza
- Academic Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal, Lima, Peru
| | - Herbert Silva
- Academic Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal, Lima, Peru
| | - Ivan Calderon
- Academic Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| | - Fran Espinoza-Carhuancho
- Academic Department, Grupo de Bibliometría, Evaluación de Evidencia y Revisiones Sistemáticas (BEERS), Human Medicine Career, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima, Peru
| | - Josmel Pacheco-Mendoza
- Academic Department, Grupo de Bibliometría, Evaluación de Evidencia y Revisiones Sistemáticas (BEERS), Human Medicine Career, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima, Peru
| | - Frank Mayta-Tovalino
- Research Department, Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru, Phone: +51 13171023, e-mail:
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Gray MC, Thomas KS, Lamb ER, Werner LM, Connolly KL, Jerse AE, Criss AK. Evaluating vaccine-elicited antibody activities against Neisseria gonorrhoeae: cross-protective responses elicited by the 4CMenB meningococcal vaccine. Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0030923. [PMID: 37991382 PMCID: PMC10715150 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00309-23] [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: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The bacterial pathogen Neisseria gonorrhoeae is an urgent global health problem due to increasing numbers of infections, coupled with rampant antibiotic resistance. Vaccines against gonorrhea are being prioritized to combat drug-resistant N. gonorrhoeae. Meningococcal serogroup B vaccines such as four-component meningococcal B vaccine (4CMenB) are predicted by epidemiology studies to cross-protect individuals from natural infection with N. gonorrhoeae and elicit antibodies that cross-react with N. gonorrhoeae. Evaluation of vaccine candidates for gonorrhea requires a suite of assays for predicting efficacy in vitro and in animal models of infection, including the role of antibodies elicited by immunization. Here, we present the development and optimization of assays to evaluate antibody functionality after immunization of mice: antibody binding to intact N. gonorrhoeae, serum bactericidal activity, and opsonophagocytic killing activity using primary human neutrophils [polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs)]. These assays were developed with purified antibodies against N. gonorrhoeae and used to evaluate serum from mice that were vaccinated with 4CMenB or given alum as a negative control. Results from these assays will help prioritize gonorrhea vaccine candidates for advanced preclinical to early clinical studies and will contribute to identifying correlates and mechanisms of immune protection against N. gonorrhoeae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary C. Gray
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Keena S. Thomas
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Evan R. Lamb
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Lacie M. Werner
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Kristie L. Connolly
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Ann E. Jerse
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Alison K. Criss
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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Martinez FG, Zielke RA, Fougeroux CE, Li L, Sander AF, Sikora AE. Development of a Tag/Catcher-mediated capsid virus-like particle vaccine presenting the conserved Neisseria gonorrhoeae SliC antigen that blocks human lysozyme. Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0024523. [PMID: 37916806 PMCID: PMC10715030 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00245-23] [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: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Virus-like particles (VLPs) are promising nanotools for the development of subunit vaccines due to high immunogenicity and safety. Herein, we explored the versatile and effective Tag/Catcher-AP205 capsid VLP (cVLP) vaccine platform to address the urgent need for the development of an effective and safe vaccine against gonorrhea. The benefits of this clinically validated cVLP platform include its ability to facilitate unidirectional, high-density display of complex/full-length antigens through an effective split-protein Tag/Catcher conjugation system. To assess this modular approach for making cVLP vaccines, we used a conserved surface lipoprotein, SliC, that contributes to the Neisseria gonorrhoeae defense against human lysozyme, as a model antigen. This protein was genetically fused at the N- or C-terminus to the small peptide Tag enabling their conjugation to AP205 cVLP, displaying the complementary Catcher. We determined that SliC with the N-terminal SpyTag, N-SliC, retained lysozyme-blocking activity and could be displayed at high density on cVLPs without causing aggregation. In mice, the N-SliC-VLP vaccines, adjuvanted with AddaVax or CpG, induced significantly higher antibody titers compared to controls. In contrast, similar vaccine formulations containing monomeric SliC were non-immunogenic. Accordingly, sera from N-SliC-VLP-immunized mice also had significantly higher human complement-dependent serum bactericidal activity. Furthermore, the N-SliC-VLP vaccines administered subcutaneously with an intranasal boost elicited systemic and vaginal IgG and IgA, whereas subcutaneous delivery alone failed to induce vaginal IgA. The N-SliC-VLP with CpG (10 µg/dose) induced the most significant increase in total serum IgG and IgG3 titers, vaginal IgG and IgA, and bactericidal antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian G. Martinez
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - Ryszard A. Zielke
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | | | - Lixin Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - Adam F. Sander
- AdaptVac Aps, Hørsholm, Denmark
- Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute for Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Aleksandra E. Sikora
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
- Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
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Gomes LGR, Dutra JCF, Profeta R, Dias MV, García GJY, Rodrigues DLN, Goés Neto A, Aburjaile FF, Tiwari S, Soares SC, Azevedo V, Jaiswal AK. Systematic review of reverse vaccinology and immunoinformatics data for non-viral sexually transmitted infections. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2023; 95:e20230617. [PMID: 38055447 DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765202320230617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are a public health burden rising in developed and developing nations. The World Health Organization estimates nearly 374 million new cases of curable STIs yearly. Global efforts to control their spread have been insufficient in fulfilling their objective. As there is no vaccine for many of these infections, these efforts are focused on education and condom distribution. The development of vaccines for STIs is vital for successfully halting their spread. The field of immunoinformatics is a powerful new tool for vaccine development, allowing for the identification of vaccine candidates within a bacterium's genome and allowing for the design of new genome-based vaccine peptides. The goal of this review was to evaluate the usage of immunoinformatics in research focused on non-viral STIs, identifying fields where research efforts are concentrated. Here we describe gaps in applying these techniques, as in the case of Treponema pallidum and Trichomonas vaginalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Gabriel R Gomes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioinformática, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Laboratório de Genética Celular e Molecular (LGCM), Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Joyce C F Dutra
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Microbiologia, Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Profeta
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioinformática, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Laboratório de Genética Celular e Molecular (LGCM), Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Mariana V Dias
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Glen J Y García
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Bioinformática, Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Diego Lucas N Rodrigues
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioinformática, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Laboratório de Genética Celular e Molecular (LGCM), Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Escola de Veterinária, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Aristóteles Goés Neto
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Microbiologia, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Computacional de Fungos, Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Flávia F Aburjaile
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioinformática, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Laboratório de Genética Celular e Molecular (LGCM), Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Escola de Veterinária, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Sandeep Tiwari
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioinformática, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Laboratório de Genética Celular e Molecular (LGCM), Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
- Universidade Federal da Bahia, Instituto de Biologia, Rua Barão de Jeremoabo, s/n, Ondina, 40170-115 Salvador, BA, Brazil
- Universidade Federal da Bahia, Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Av. Reitor Miguel Calmon, s/n, Vale do Canela, 40110-902 Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Siomar C Soares
- Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro (UFTM), Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e Naturais, Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia, e Parasitologia, Rua Vigário Carlos, 100, Abadia, 38025-180 Uberaba, MG, Brazil
| | - Vasco Azevedo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioinformática, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Laboratório de Genética Celular e Molecular (LGCM), Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Arun K Jaiswal
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioinformática, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Laboratório de Genética Celular e Molecular (LGCM), Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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8
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Song S, Wang S, Jiang X, Yang F, Gao S, Lin X, Cheng H, van der Veen S. Th1-polarized MtrE-based gonococcal vaccines display prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy. Emerg Microbes Infect 2023; 12:2249124. [PMID: 37584947 PMCID: PMC10467530 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2023.2249124] [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: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACTGlobal dissemination of high-level ceftriaxone-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains associated with the FC428 clone poses a threat to the efficacy ceftriaxone-based therapies. Vaccination is the best strategy to contain multidrug-resistant infections. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of MtrE and its surface Loop2 as vaccine antigens when combined with a Th1-polarizing adjuvant, which is expected to be beneficial for gonococcal vaccine development. Using in vitro dendritic cell maturation and T cell differentiation assays, CpG1826 was identified as the optimal Th1-polarizing adjuvant for MtrE and Loop2 displayed as linear epitope (Nloop2) or structural epitope (Intraloop2) on a carrier protein. Loop2-based antigens raised strongly Th1-polarized and bactericidal antibody responses in vaccinated mice. Furthermore, the vaccine formulations provided protection against a gonococcal challenge in mouse vaginal tract infection model when provided as prophylactic vaccines. Also, the vaccine formulations accelerated gonococcal clearance when provided as a single therapeutic dose to treat an already established infection, including against a strain associated with the FC428 clone. Therefore, this study demonstrated that MtrE and Loop 2 are effective gonococcal vaccine antigens when combined with the Th1-polarizing CpG1826 adjuvant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaijie Song
- Department of Microbiology, and Department of Dermatology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuyi Wang
- Department of Microbiology, and Department of Dermatology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyun Jiang
- Department of Microbiology, and Department of Dermatology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Microbiology, and Department of Dermatology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuai Gao
- Department of Microbiology, and Department of Dermatology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xu’ai Lin
- Department of Microbiology, and Department of Dermatology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hao Cheng
- Department of Microbiology, and Department of Dermatology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Stijn van der Veen
- Department of Microbiology, and Department of Dermatology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Microbial Biochemistry and Metabolic Engineering, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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9
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Gulati S, Mattsson AH, Schussek S, Zheng B, DeOliveira RB, Shaughnessy J, Lewis LA, Rice PA, Comstedt P, Ram S. Preclinical efficacy of a cell division protein candidate gonococcal vaccine identified by artificial intelligence. mBio 2023; 14:e0250023. [PMID: 37905891 PMCID: PMC10746169 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02500-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
A safe and effective vaccine is urgently needed to combat the global threat of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Neisseria gonorrhoeae. We screened 26 gonococcal proteins discovered by an artificial intelligence-driven platform called Efficacy Discriminative Educated Network (EDEN) trained to identify novel, protective vaccine antigens against pathogenic bacteria for efficacy in the mouse vaginal colonization model of gonorrhea. Combinations of two to three antigens adjuvanted with GLA-SE (induces TH1 responses) yielded 11 groups that were used to vaccinate mice. An inverse correlation was noted between the complement-dependent bactericidal activity of antisera from each of the 11 groups and the burden of gonococcal colonization. The combination of NGO1549 (FtsN; cell divisome protein) and NGO0265 (predicted cell division protein) most substantially reduced the burden of colonization by MDR strain WHO X. The EDEN prediction score for each group of antigens correlated positively with reductions in overall bacterial burden, providing evidence for its predictive potential. FtsN and NGO0265 administered either individually, in combination, or as a chimeric protein significantly attenuated gonococcal vaginal colonization by all three test strains. IgG in antisera from mice immunized with the chimeric NGO0265-FtsN protein supported the complement-dependent killing of all 50 (100%) gonococcal isolates tested. The efficacy of the chimeric NGO0265-FtsN vaccine required the membrane attack complex (C5b-9) of complement, evidenced by loss of efficacy in complement C9-/- mice. In conclusion, a chimeric molecule comprising NGO0265 and FtsN adjuvanted with GLA-SE elicits IgG with broad anti-gonococcal bactericidal activity, attenuates gonococcal colonization in a complement-dependent manner, and represents a promising gonococcal vaccine candidate.IMPORTANCEVaccines to curb the global spread of multidrug-resistant gonorrhea are urgently needed. Here, 26 vaccine candidates identified by an artificial intelligence-driven platform (Efficacy Discriminative Educated Network[EDEN]) were screened for efficacy in the mouse vaginal colonization model. Complement-dependent bactericidal activity of antisera and the EDEN protective scores both correlated positively with the reduction in overall bacterial colonization burden. NGO1549 (FtsN) and NGO0265, both involved in cell division, displayed the best activity and were selected for further development. Both antigens, when fused to create a chimeric protein, elicited bactericidal antibodies against a wide array of gonococcal isolates and significantly attenuated the duration and burden of gonococcal colonization of mouse vaginas. Protection was abrogated in mice that lacked complement C9, the last step in the formation of the membrane attack complex pore, suggesting complement-dependent bactericidal activity as a mechanistic correlate of protection of the vaccine. FtsN and NGO0265 represent promising vaccine candidates against gonorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunita Gulati
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Bo Zheng
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rosane B. DeOliveira
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jutamas Shaughnessy
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lisa A. Lewis
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Peter A. Rice
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Sanjay Ram
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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10
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Omeershffudin UNM, Kumar S. Emerging threat of antimicrobial resistance in Neisseria gonorrhoeae: pathogenesis, treatment challenges, and potential for vaccine development. Arch Microbiol 2023; 205:330. [PMID: 37688619 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-023-03663-0] [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: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
The continuous rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious concern as it endangers the effectiveness of healthcare interventions that rely on antibiotics in the long run. The increasing resistance of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the bacteria responsible for causing gonorrhea, to commonly used antimicrobial drugs, is a major concern. This has now become a critical global health crisis. In the coming years, there is a risk of a hidden epidemic caused by the emergence of gonococcal AMR. This will worsen the global situation. Infections caused by N. gonorrhoeae were once considered easily treatable. However, over time, they have become increasingly resistant to commonly used therapeutic medications, such as penicillin, ciprofloxacin, and azithromycin. As a result, this pathogen is developing into a true "superbug," which means that ceftriaxone is now the only available option for initial empirical treatment. Effective management strategies are urgently needed to prevent severe consequences, such as infertility and pelvic inflammatory disease, which can result from delayed intervention. This review provides a thorough analysis of the escalating problem of N. gonorrhoeae, including its pathogenesis, current treatment options, the emergence of drug-resistant mechanisms, and the potential for vaccine development. We aim to provide valuable insights for healthcare practitioners, policymakers, and researchers in their efforts to combat N. gonorrhoeae antibiotic resistance by elucidating the multifaceted aspects of this global challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umairah Natasya Mohd Omeershffudin
- Post Graduate Centre, Management and Science University, University Drive, Off Persiaran Olahraga, Section 13, 40100, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Suresh Kumar
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Management and Science University, Seksyen 13, 40100, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia.
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11
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Belcher T, Rollier CS, Dold C, Ross JDC, MacLennan CA. Immune responses to Neisseria gonorrhoeae and implications for vaccine development. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1248613. [PMID: 37662926 PMCID: PMC10470030 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1248613] [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: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neisseria gonorrheoae is the causative agent of gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection responsible for a major burden of disease with a high global prevalence. Protective immunity to infection is often not observed in humans, possible due to high variability of key antigens, induction of blocking antibodies, or a large number of infections being relatively superficial and not inducing a strong immune response. N. gonorrhoeae is a strictly human pathogen, however, studies using mouse models provide useful insights into the immune response to gonorrhea. In mice, N. gonorrhoea appears to avoid a protective Th1 response by inducing a less protective Th17 response. In mouse models, candidate vaccines which provoke a Th1 response can accelerate the clearance of gonococcus from the mouse female genital tract. Human studies indicate that natural infection often induces a limited immune response, with modest antibody responses, which may correlate with the clinical severity of gonococcal disease. Studies of cytokine responses to gonococcal infection in humans provide conflicting evidence as to whether infection induces an IL-17 response. However, there is evidence for limited induction of protective immunity from a study of female sex workers in Kenya. A controlled human infection model (CHIM) has been used to examine the immune response to gonococcal infection in male volunteers, but has not to date demonstrated protection against re-infection. Correlates of protection for gonorrhea are lacking, which has hampered the progress towards developing a successful vaccine. However, the finding that the Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B vaccines, elicit cross-protection against gonorrhea has invigorated the gonococcal vaccine field. More studies of infection in humans, either natural infection or CHIM studies, are needed to understand better gonococcal protective immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Belcher
- Jenner Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Christina Dold
- The Oxford Vaccine Group, Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan D. C. Ross
- Sexual Health and HIV, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Calman A. MacLennan
- Jenner Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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12
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Gray MC, Thomas KS, Lamb ER, Werner LM, Connolly KL, Jerse AE, Criss AK. Evaluating vaccine-elicited antibody activities against Neisseria gonorrhoeae: cross-protective responses elicited by the 4CMenB meningococcal vaccine. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.03.551882. [PMID: 37577557 PMCID: PMC10418180 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.03.551882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
The bacterial pathogen Neisseria gonorrhoeae is an urgent global health problem due to increasing numbers of infections, coupled with rampant antibiotic resistance. Vaccines against gonorrhea are being prioritized to combat drug-resistant N. gonorrhoeae. Meningococcal serogroup B vaccines such as 4CMenB are predicted by epidemiology studies to cross-protect individuals from natural infection with N. gonorrhoeae and elicit antibodies that cross-react with N. gonorrhoeae. Evaluation of vaccine candidates for gonorrhea requires a suite of assays for predicting efficacy in vitro and in animal models of infection, including the role of antibodies elicited by immunization. Here we present assays to evaluate antibody functionality after immunization: antibody binding to intact N. gonorrhoeae, serum bactericidal activity, and opsonophagocytic killing activity using primary human neutrophils (polymorphonuclear leukocytes). These assays were developed with purified antibodies against N. gonorrhoeae and used to evaluate serum from mice that were vaccinated with 4CMenB or given alum as a negative control. Results from these assays will help prioritize gonorrhea vaccine candidates for advanced preclinical to early clinical study and will contribute to identifying correlates and mechanisms of immune protection against N. gonorrhoeae .
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13
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Girgis MM, Christodoulides M. Vertebrate and Invertebrate Animal and New In Vitro Models for Studying Neisseria Biology. Pathogens 2023; 12:782. [PMID: 37375472 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12060782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The history of Neisseria research has involved the use of a wide variety of vertebrate and invertebrate animal models, from insects to humans. In this review, we itemise these models and describe how they have made significant contributions to understanding the pathophysiology of Neisseria infections and to the development and testing of vaccines and antimicrobials. We also look ahead, briefly, to their potential replacement by complex in vitro cellular models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael M Girgis
- Neisseria Research Group, Molecular Microbiology, School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
| | - Myron Christodoulides
- Neisseria Research Group, Molecular Microbiology, School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
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14
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Li X, Pan C, Li C, Wang K, Ye J, Sun P, Guo Y, Wu J, Wang H, Zhu L. Self-Assembled Proteinaceous Nanoparticles for Co-Delivery of Antigens and Cytosine Phosphoguanine (CpG) Adjuvants: Implications for Nanovaccines. ACS APPLIED NANO MATERIALS 2023; 6:7637-7648. [PMID: 37207131 PMCID: PMC10178782 DOI: 10.1021/acsanm.3c00787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Nanotechnology has developed rapidly, giving rise to "nanovaccinology". In particular, protein-based nanocarriers have gained widespread attention because of their excellent biocompatibility. As the development of flexible and rapid vaccines is challenging, modular extensible nanoparticles are urgently needed. In this study, a multifunctional nanocarrier capable of delivering various biomolecules (including polysaccharides, proteins, and nucleic acids) was designed by fusing the cholera toxin B subunit with streptavidin. Then, the nanocarrier was used to prepare a bioconjugate nanovaccine against S. flexneri by co-delivery of antigens and CpG adjuvants. Subsequent experimental results indicated that the nanovaccine with multiple components could stimulate both adaptive and innate immunity. Moreover, combining nanocarriers and CpG adjuvants with glycan antigens could improve the survival of vaccinated mice during the interval of two vaccination injections. The multifunctional nanocarrier and the design strategy demonstrated in this study could be utilized in the development of many other nanovaccines against infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen
and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China
| | - Chao Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen
and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China
| | - Caixia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen
and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China
| | - Kangfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen
and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China
| | - Jingqin Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen
and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China
| | - Peng Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen
and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China
| | - Yan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen
and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China
| | - Jun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen
and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China
| | - Hengliang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen
and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China
| | - Li Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen
and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China
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15
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The Optimal Management of Neisseria gonorrhoeae Infections. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122388. [PMID: 36557641 PMCID: PMC9784239 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Neisseria gonorrhoeae is one of the most frequent etiologic agents of STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). Untreated asymptomatic gonococcal infection in women can lead to spreading of the infection in the sexually active population and could lead to late consequences, such as sterility or ectopic pregnancies. One important issue about N. gonorrhoeae is its increasing resistance to antibiotics. This paper summarized the newest molecular antimicrobial resistance (AMR) detection assays for Neisseria gonorrhoeae connected with the latest therapeutic antimicrobials and gonococcal vaccine candidates. The assays used to detect AMR varied from the classical minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) detection to whole-genome sequencing. New drugs against multi drug resistant (MDR) N. gonorrhoeae have been proposed and were evaluated in vivo and in vitro as being efficient in decreasing the N. gonorrhoeae burden. In addition, anti-N. gonorrhoeae vaccine candidates are being researched, which have been assessed by multiple techniques. With the efforts of many researchers who are studying the detection of antimicrobial resistance in this bacterium and identifying new drugs and new vaccine candidates against it, there is hope in reducing the gonorrhea burden worldwide.
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16
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Christodoulides M, Humbert MV, Heckels JE. The potential utility of liposomes for Neisseria vaccines. Expert Rev Vaccines 2021; 20:1235-1256. [PMID: 34524062 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2021.1981865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Species of the genus Neisseria are important global pathogens. Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonococcus) causes the sexually transmitted disease gonorrhea and Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus) causes meningitis and sepsis. Liposomes are self-assembled spheres of phospholipid bilayers enclosing a central aqueous space, and they have attracted much interest and use as a delivery vehicle for Neisseria vaccine antigens. AREAS COVERED A brief background on Neisseria infections and the success of licensed meningococcal vaccines are provided. The absence of a gonococcal vaccine is highlighted. The use of liposomes for delivering Neisseria antigens and adjuvants, for the purposes of generating specific immune responses, is reviewed. The use of other lipid-based systems for antigen and adjuvant delivery is examined briefly. EXPERT OPINION With renewed interest in developing a gonococcal vaccine, liposomes remain an attractive option for delivering antigens. The discipline of nanotechnology provides additional nanoparticle-based options for gonococcal vaccine development. Future work would be needed to tailor the composition of liposomes and other nanoparticles to the specific vaccine antigen(s), in order to generate optimal anti-gonococcal immune responses. The potential use of liposomes and other nanoparticles to deliver anti-gonococcal compounds to treat infections also should be explored further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myron Christodoulides
- Neisseria Research Group, Molecular Microbiology, School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
| | - Maria Victoria Humbert
- Neisseria Research Group, Molecular Microbiology, School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
| | - John E Heckels
- Neisseria Research Group, Molecular Microbiology, School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
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17
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Harrison OB, Maiden MCJ. Recent advances in understanding and combatting Neisseria gonorrhoeae: a genomic perspective. Fac Rev 2021; 10:65. [PMID: 34557869 PMCID: PMC8442004 DOI: 10.12703/r/10-65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The sexually transmitted infection (STI) gonorrhoea remains a major global public health concern. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 87 million new cases in individuals who were 15 to 49 years of age occurred in 2016. The growing number of gonorrhoea cases is concerning given the rise in gonococci developing antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Therefore, a global action plan is needed to facilitate surveillance. Indeed, the WHO has made surveillance leading to the elimination of STIs (including gonorrhoea) a global health priority. The availability of whole genome sequence data offers new opportunities to combat gonorrhoea. This can be through (i) enhanced surveillance of the global prevalence of AMR, (ii) improved understanding of the population biology of the gonococcus, and (iii) opportunities to mine sequence data in the search for vaccine candidates. Here, we review the current status in Neisseria gonorrhoeae genomics. In particular, we explore how genomics continues to advance our understanding of this complex pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Odile B Harrison
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, The Peter Medawar Building, Oxford, UK
| | - Martin CJ Maiden
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, The Peter Medawar Building, Oxford, UK
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18
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Connolly KL, Pilligua-Lucas M, Gomez C, Costenoble-Caherty AC, Soc A, Underwood K, Macintyre AN, Sempowski GD, Jerse AE. Preclinical Testing of Vaccines and Therapeutics for Gonorrhea in Female Mouse Models of Lower and Upper Reproductive Tract Infection. J Infect Dis 2021; 224:S152-S160. [PMID: 34396408 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiab211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Murine models of Neisseria gonorrhoeae lower reproductive tract infection are valuable systems for studying N. gonorrhoeae adaptation to the female host and immune responses to infection. These models have also accelerated preclinical testing of candidate therapeutic and prophylactic products against gonorrhea. However, because N. gonorrhoeae infection is restricted to the murine cervicovaginal region, there is a need for an in vivo system for translational work on N. gonorrhoeae pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Here we discuss the need for well-characterized preclinical upper reproductive tract infection models for developing candidate products against N. gonorrhoeae PID, and report a refinement of the gonorrhea mouse model that supports sustained upper reproductive tract infection. To establish this new model for vaccine testing, we also tested the licensed meningococcal 4CMenB vaccine, which cross-protects against murine N. gonorrhoeae lower reproductive tract infection, for efficacy against N. gonorrhoeae in the endometrium and oviducts following transcervical or vaginal challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristie L Connolly
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Michelle Pilligua-Lucas
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Carolina Gomez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Anthony Soc
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Knashka Underwood
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Andrew N Macintyre
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Gregory D Sempowski
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ann E Jerse
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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19
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Bai G, Yu H, Guan X, Zeng F, Liu X, Chen B, Liu J, Tian Y. CpG immunostimulatory oligodeoxynucleotide 1826 as a novel nasal ODN adjuvant enhanced the protective efficacy of the periodontitis gene vaccine in a periodontitis model in SD rats. BMC Oral Health 2021; 21:403. [PMID: 34399747 PMCID: PMC8369760 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-021-01763-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously demonstrated that nasal administration of periodontitis gene vaccine (pVAX1-HA2-fimA) or pVAX1-HA2-fimA plus IL-15 as adjuvant provoked protective immunity in the periodontal tissue of SD rats. This study evaluated the immune effect of pVAX1-HA2-fimA plus CpG-ODN 1826 as an adjuvant in the SD rat periodontitis models to improve the efficacy of the previously used vaccine. METHODS Periodontitis was induced in maxillary second molars in SD rats receiving a ligature and infected with Porphyromonas gingivalis. Forty-two SD rats were randomly assigned to six groups: A, control without P. gingivalis; B, P. gingivalis with saline; C, P. gingivalis with pVAX1; D, P. gingivalis with pVAX1-HA2-fimA; E, P. gingivalis with pVAX1-HA2-fimA/IL-15; F, P. gingivalis with pVAX1-HA2-fimA+CpG ODN 1826 (30 µg). The levels of FimA-specific and HA2-specific secretory IgA antibodies in the saliva of rats were measured by ELISA. The levels of COX-2 and RANKL were detected by immunohistochemical assay. Morphometric analysis was used to evaluate alveolar bone loss. Major organs were observed by HE staining. RESULTS 30 μg could be the optimal immunization dose for CpG-ODN 1826 and the levels of SIgA antibody were consistently higher in the pVAX1-HA2-fimA+CpG-ODN 1826 (30 µg) group than in the other groups during weeks 1-8 (P < 0.05, except week 1 or 2). Morphometric analysis demonstrated that pVAX1-HA2-fimA+CpG-ODN 1826 (30 µg) significantly reduced alveolar bone loss in ligated maxillary molars in group F compared with groups B-E (P < 0.05). Immunohistochemical assays revealed that the levels of COX-2 and RANKL were significantly lower in group F compared with groups B-E (P < 0.05). HE staining results of the major organs indicated that pVAX1-HA2-fimA with or without CpG-ODN 1826 was not toxic for in vivo use. CONCLUSIONS These results indicated that CpG-ODN 1826 (30 µg) could be used as an effective and safe mucosal adjuvant for pVAX1-HA2-fimA in SD rats since it could elicit mucosal SIgA responses and modulate COX-2 and RANKL production during weeks 1-8, thereby inhibiting inflammation and decreasing bone loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guohui Bai
- Key Laboratory of Oral Disease Research, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Hang Yu
- Key Laboratory of Oral Disease Research, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Xiaoyan Guan
- Key Laboratory of Oral Disease Research, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China.,Hospital of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Fengjiao Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Oral Disease Research, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China.,Hospital of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Key Laboratory of Oral Disease Research, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Bin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Oral Disease Research, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China
| | - Jianguo Liu
- Key Laboratory of Oral Disease Research, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China.
| | - Yuan Tian
- Key Laboratory of Oral Disease Research, School of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China. .,Hospital of Stomatology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, 563000, China.
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20
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Lin EY, Adamson PC, Klausner JD. Epidemiology, Treatments, and Vaccine Development for Antimicrobial-Resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae: Current Strategies and Future Directions. Drugs 2021; 81:1153-1169. [PMID: 34097283 PMCID: PMC8182353 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-021-01530-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neisseria gonorrhoeae is the second most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection in the world after Chlamydia trachomatis. The pathogen has developed resistance to every antibiotic currently approved for treatment, and multidrug-resistant strains have been identified globally. The current treatment recommended by the World Health Organization is ceftriaxone and azithromycin dual therapy. However, resistance to azithromycin and ceftriaxone are increasing and treatment failures have been reported. As a result, there is a critical need to develop novel strategies for mitigating the spread of antimicrobial-resistant N. gonorrhoeae through improved diagnosis and treatment of resistant infections. Strategies that are currently being pursued include developing molecular assays to predict resistance, utilizing higher doses of ceftriaxone, repurposing older antibiotics, and developing newer agents. In addition, efforts to discover a vaccine for N. gonorrhoeae have been reignited in recent years with the cross-protectivity provided by the N. meningitidis vaccine, with several new strategies and targets. Despite the significant progress that has been made, there is still much work ahead to combat antimicrobial-resistant N. gonorrhoeae globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Y Lin
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Paul C Adamson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Le Conte Ave. CHS 52-215, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Klausner
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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21
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Jefferson A, Smith A, Fasinu PS, Thompson DK. Sexually Transmitted Neisseria gonorrhoeae Infections-Update on Drug Treatment and Vaccine Development. MEDICINES 2021; 8:medicines8020011. [PMID: 33562607 PMCID: PMC7914478 DOI: 10.3390/medicines8020011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Sexually transmitted gonorrhea, caused by the Gram-negative diplococcus Neisseria gonorrhoeae, continues to be a serious global health challenge despite efforts to eradicate it. Multidrug resistance among clinical N. gonorrhoeae isolates has limited treatment options, and attempts to develop vaccines have not been successful. Methods: A search of published literature was conducted, and information extracted to provide an update on the status of therapeutics and vaccine development for gonorrheal infection. Results: Recommended pharmacological treatment for gonorrhea has changed multiple times due to increasing acquisition of resistance to existing antibiotics by N. gonorrhoeae. Only broad-spectrum cephalosporin-based combination therapies are currently recommended for treatment of uncomplicated urogenital and anorectal gonococcal infections. With the reported emergence of ceftriaxone resistance, successful strategies addressing the global burden of gonorrhea must include vaccination. Century-old efforts at developing an effective vaccine against gonorrhea, leading to only four clinical trials, have not yielded any successful vaccine. Conclusions: While it is important to continue to explore new drugs for the treatment of gonorrhea, the historical trend of resistance acquisition suggests that any long-term strategy should include vaccine development. Advanced technologies in proteomics and in silico approaches to vaccine target identification may provide templates for future success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Jefferson
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Campbell University, Buies Creek, NC 27506, USA; (A.J.); (A.S.)
| | - Amanda Smith
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Campbell University, Buies Creek, NC 27506, USA; (A.J.); (A.S.)
| | - Pius S. Fasinu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Campbell University, Buies Creek, NC 27506, USA;
| | - Dorothea K. Thompson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, Campbell University, Buies Creek, NC 27506, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-910-893-7463
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Comprehensive Bioinformatic Assessments of the Variability of Neisseria gonorrhoeae Vaccine Candidates. mSphere 2021; 6:6/1/e00977-20. [PMID: 33536323 PMCID: PMC7860988 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00977-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
A protective vaccine is the only viable way to stop the spread of gonorrhea in the face of rising antibiotic resistance. However, the notorious phase and antigenic variation of Neisseria gonorrhoeae surface proteins remains one of the challenges in vaccine development. To facilitate vaccine advancement efforts, we carried out comprehensive bioinformatic analyses of sequence variation by comparing 34 gonorrhea antigen candidates among >5,000 clinical N. gonorrhoeae isolates deposited in the Neisseria PubMLST database. Eight protein antigens showed exceptional conservation by having a single allele variant distributed in >80% of isolates. An additional 18 vaccine candidates were represented by ≤3 alleles in >50% of N. gonorrhoeae isolates globally. Phylogenetic analyses highlighted closely related antigen variants and additionally showed that AniA and FetB were the closest between N. gonorrhoeae and N. meningitidis Up to 44% of N. meningitidis alleles for both antigens have premature stop codons, suggesting differential expression. Mapping polymorphisms to the available three-dimensional structures of 12 antigens revealed low-frequency surface polymorphisms. PorB and TbpB possessed numerous high-prevalence polymorphic sites. While TbpA was also highly variable, conserved loops were nonetheless identified. A high degree of sequence conservation, the distribution of a single antigen variant among N. gonorrhoeae strains globally, or low-frequency sequence polymorphisms in surface loops make ACP, AniA, BamA, BamE, MtrE, NspA, NGO0778, NGO1251, NGO1985, OpcA, PldA, Slam2, and ZnuD promising candidates for a gonorrhea vaccine. Finally, the commonly used N. gonorrhoeae FA1090 strain emerges as a vaccine prototype, as it carries antigen sequence types identical to the most broadly distributed antigen variants.IMPORTANCE Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the Gram-negative bacterium responsible for the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhea, is categorized as a high-priority pathogen for research and development efforts. N. gonorrhoeae's "superbug" status, its high morbidity, and the serious health impact associated with gonorrhea highlight the importance of vaccine development. One of the longstanding barriers to developing an effective vaccine against N. gonorrhoeae is the remarkable variability of surface-exposed antigens. In this report, we addressed this roadblock by applying extensive bioinformatic analyses to 34 gonorrhea antigen candidates among >5,000 clinical N. gonorrhoeae isolates. Our studies are important, as they reveal promising, conserved gonorrhea vaccine candidates and aid structural vaccinology. Moreover, these approaches are broadly applicable to other infectious diseases where surface antigen variability impedes successful vaccine design.
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