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Mellid-Carballal R, Gutierrez-Gutierrez S, Rivas C, Garcia-Fuentes M. Viral protein nanoparticles (Part 1): Pharmaceutical characteristics. Eur J Pharm Sci 2023; 187:106460. [PMID: 37156338 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2023.106460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Viral protein nanoparticles fill the gap between viruses and synthetic nanoparticles. Combining advantageous properties of both systems, they have revolutionized pharmaceutical research. Virus-like particles are characterized by a structure identical to viruses but lacking genetic material. Another type of viral protein nanoparticles, virosomes, are similar to liposomes but include viral spike proteins. Both systems are effective and safe vaccine candidates capable of overcoming the disadvantages of both traditional and subunit vaccines. Besides, their particulate structure, biocompatibility, and biodegradability make them good candidates as vectors for drug and gene delivery, and for diagnostic applications. In this review, we analyze viral protein nanoparticles from a pharmaceutical perspective and examine current research focused on their development process, from production to administration. Advances in synthesis, modification and formulation of viral protein nanoparticles are critical so that large-scale production of viral protein nanoparticle products becomes viable and affordable, which ultimately will increase their market penetration in the future. We will discuss their expression systems, modification strategies, formulation, biopharmaceutical properties, and biocompatibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocio Mellid-Carballal
- CiMUS Research Center, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Sara Gutierrez-Gutierrez
- CiMUS Research Center, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Carmen Rivas
- CiMUS Research Center, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Departamento de Biología Molecular y Celular, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB)-CSIC, Spain
| | - Marcos Garcia-Fuentes
- CiMUS Research Center, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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2
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Schwestka J, Zeh L, Tschofen M, Schubert F, Arcalis E, Esteve-Gasent M, Pedrazzini E, Vitale A, Stoger E. Generation of multi-layered protein bodies in N. benthamiana for the encapsulation of vaccine antigens. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1109270. [PMID: 36733717 PMCID: PMC9887037 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1109270] [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: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The ability of plants to assemble particulate structures such as virus-like particles and protein storage organelles allows the direct bioencapsulation of recombinant proteins during the manufacturing process, which holds promise for the development of new drug delivery vehicles. Storage organelles found in plants such as protein bodies (PBs) have been successfully used as tools for accumulation and encapsulation of recombinant proteins. The fusion of sequences derived from 27-kDa-γ-zein, a major storage protein of maize, with a protein of interest leads to the incorporation of the chimeric protein into the stable and protected environment inside newly induced PBs. While this procedure has proven successful for several, but not all recombinant proteins, the aim of this study was to refine the technology by using a combination of PB-forming proteins, thereby generating multi-layered protein assemblies in N. benthamiana. We used fluorescent proteins to demonstrate that up to three proteinaceous components can be incorporated into different layers. In addition to 27-kDa-γ-zein, which is essential for PB initiation, 16-kDa-γ-zein was identified as a key element to promote the incorporation of a third zein-component into the core of the PBs. We show that a vaccine antigen could be incorporated into the matrix of multi-layered PBs, and the protein microparticles were characterized by confocal and electron microscopy as well as flow cytometry. In future, this approach will enable the generation of designer PBs that serve as drug carriers and integrate multiple components that can be functionalized in different ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Schwestka
- Institute of Plant Biotechnology and Cell Biology, Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lukas Zeh
- Institute of Plant Biotechnology and Cell Biology, Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marc Tschofen
- Institute of Plant Biotechnology and Cell Biology, Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Fabian Schubert
- Institute of Plant Biotechnology and Cell Biology, Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Elsa Arcalis
- Institute of Plant Biotechnology and Cell Biology, Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Maria Esteve-Gasent
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Emanuela Pedrazzini
- Istituto di Biologia e Biotecnologia Agraria, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Milano, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vitale
- Istituto di Biologia e Biotecnologia Agraria, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Milano, Italy
| | - Eva Stoger
- Institute of Plant Biotechnology and Cell Biology, Department of Applied Genetics and Cell Biology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
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Microparticles and Nanoparticles from Plants-The Benefits of Bioencapsulation. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9040369. [PMID: 33920425 PMCID: PMC8069552 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9040369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The efficacy of drugs and vaccines depends on their stability and ability to interact with their targets in vivo. Many drugs benefit from encapsulation, which protects them from harsh conditions and allows targeted delivery and controlled release. Although many encapsulation methods are inexpensive, such as the formulation of tablets for oral delivery, others require complex procedures that add significantly to production costs and require low-temperature transport and storage, making them inaccessible in developing countries. In this review we consider the benefits of encapsulation technologies based on plants. Plant-derived biopolymers such as starch and the maize storage protein zein are already used as protective coatings, but plant cells used as production host provide natural in vivo bioencapsulation that survives passage through the stomach and releases drugs in the intestine, due to the presence of microbes that can digest the cell wall. Proteins can also be encapsulated in subcellular compartments such as protein bodies, which ensure stability and activity while often conferring additional immunomodulatory effects. Finally, we consider the incorporation of drugs and vaccines into plant-derived nanoparticles assembled from the components of viruses. These are extremely versatile, allowing the display of epitopes and targeting peptides as well as carrying cargoes of drugs and imaging molecules.
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Cossette B, Kelly SH, Collier JH. Intranasal Subunit Vaccination Strategies Employing Nanomaterials and Biomaterials. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 7:1765-1779. [DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c01291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Cossette
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Sean H. Kelly
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Joel H. Collier
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
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Hodgins B, Pillet S, Landry N, Ward BJ. Prime-pull vaccination with a plant-derived virus-like particle influenza vaccine elicits a broad immune response and protects aged mice from death and frailty after challenge. IMMUNITY & AGEING 2019; 16:27. [PMID: 31700523 PMCID: PMC6829930 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-019-0167-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background Administered intramuscularly (IM), plant-derived, virus-like-particle (VLP) vaccines based on the influenza hemagglutinin (HA) protein elicit both humoral and cellular responses that can protect aged mice from lethal challenge. Unlike split virus vaccines, VLPs can be administered by different routes including intranasally (IN). We evaluated novel vaccine strategies such as prime-pull (IM boosted by IN) and multi-modality vaccination (IM and IN given simultaneously). We wished to determine if these approaches would provide better quality protection in old mice after less severe (borderline-lethal) challenge (ie: immunogenicity, frailty and survival). Results Survival rates were similar in all vaccinated groups. Antibody responses were modest in all groups but tended to be higher in VLP groups compared to inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV) recipients. All VLP groups had higher splenocyte T cell responses than the split virus group. Lung homogenate chemokine/cytokine levels and virus loads were lower in the VLP groups compared to IIV recipients 3 days after challenge (p < 0.05 for viral load vs all VLP groups combined). The VLP-vaccinated groups also had less weight loss and recovered more rapidly than the IIV recipients. There was limited evidence of an immunologic or survival advantage with IN delivery of the VLP vaccine. Conclusion Compared to IIV, the plant-derived VLP vaccine induced a broader immune response in aged mice (cellular and humoral) using either traditional (IM/IM) or novel schedules (multi-modality, prime-pull).
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanna Hodgins
- 1Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec Canada
| | - Stephane Pillet
- 2Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, 1001 Boul Decarie, Room EM33248, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1 Canada.,3Medicago Inc., Quebec City, Quebec Canada
| | | | - Brian J Ward
- 2Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, 1001 Boul Decarie, Room EM33248, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1 Canada.,3Medicago Inc., Quebec City, Quebec Canada
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Xu B, Zhang W, Chen Y, Xu Y, Wang B, Zong L. Eudragit® L100-coated mannosylated chitosan nanoparticles for oral protein vaccine delivery. Int J Biol Macromol 2018; 113:534-542. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2018.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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7
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Qi J, Zhuang J, Lv Y, Lu Y, Wu W. Exploiting or overcoming the dome trap for enhanced oral immunization and drug delivery. J Control Release 2018; 275:92-106. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2018.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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A Single Intramuscular Dose of a Plant-Made Virus-Like Particle Vaccine Elicits a Balanced Humoral and Cellular Response and Protects Young and Aged Mice from Influenza H1N1 Virus Challenge despite a Modest/Absent Humoral Response. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2017; 24:CVI.00273-17. [PMID: 29021303 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.00273-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Virus-like-particle (VLP) influenza vaccines can be given intramuscularly (i.m.) or intranasally (i.n.) and may have advantages over split-virion formulations in the elderly. We tested a plant-made VLP vaccine candidate bearing the viral hemagglutinin (HA) delivered either i.m. or i.n. in young and aged mice. Young adult (5- to 8-week-old) and aged (16- to 20-month-old) female BALB/c mice received a single 3-μg dose based on the HA (A/California/07/2009 H1N1) content of a plant-made H1-VLP (i.m. or i.n.) split-virion vaccine (i.m.) or were left naive. After vaccination, humoral and splenocyte responses were assessed, and some mice were challenged. Both VLP and split vaccines given i.m. protected 100% of the young animals, but the VLP group lost the least weight and had stronger humoral and cellular responses. Compared to split-vaccine recipients, aged animals vaccinated i.m. with VLP were more likely to survive challenge (80% versus 60%). The lung viral load postchallenge was lowest in the VLP i.m. groups. Mice vaccinated with VLP i.n. had little detectable immune response, but survival was significantly increased. In both age groups, i.m. administration of the H1-VLP vaccine elicited more balanced humoral and cellular responses and provided better protection from homologous challenge than the split-virion vaccine.
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Blom RAM, Amacker M, Moser C, van Dijk RM, Bonetti R, Seydoux E, Hall SRR, von Garnier C, Blank F. Virosome-bound antigen enhances DC-dependent specific CD4 + T cell stimulation, inducing a Th1 and Treg profile in vitro. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2017; 13:1725-1737. [PMID: 28214610 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2017.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
There is considerable interest to develop antigen-carriers for immune-modulatory clinical applications, but insufficient information is available on their effects on antigen-presenting cells. We employed virosomes coupled to ovalbumin (OVA) to study their interaction with murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) and modulation of downstream T cell responses. BMDCs were treated in vitro with virosomes or liposomes prior to determining BMDC phenotype, viability, and intracellular trafficking. Antigen-specific CD4+ T cell activation was measured by co-culture of BMDCs with DO11.10 CD4+ T cells. Compared to liposomes, virosomes were rapidly taken up. Neither nanocarrier type affected BMDC viability, nor did a moderate degree of activation differ for markers such as CD40, CD80, CD86. Virosome uptake occurred via clathrin-mediated endocytosis and phagocytosis, with co-localization in late endosomes. Only BMDCs treated with OVA-coupled virosomes induced enhanced OVA-specific CD4+ T cell proliferation. Antigen-coupled virosomes are endowed with an intrinsic ability to modulate DC-dependent adaptive immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A M Blom
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Christian Moser
- Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property, Bern, Switzerland
| | - R Maarten van Dijk
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Zürich, Switzerland; Institute of Human Movement Sciences and Sport, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Raffaela Bonetti
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Emilie Seydoux
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sean R R Hall
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, University Hospital of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christophe von Garnier
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Fabian Blank
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
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10
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Kim H, Kim HJ. Yeast as an expression system for producing virus-like particles: what factors do we need to consider? Lett Appl Microbiol 2016; 64:111-123. [DOI: 10.1111/lam.12695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H.J. Kim
- Laboratory of Virology; College of Pharmacy; Chung-Ang University; Seoul South Korea
| | - H.-J. Kim
- Laboratory of Virology; College of Pharmacy; Chung-Ang University; Seoul South Korea
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11
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Shakya AK, Chowdhury MYE, Tao W, Gill HS. Mucosal vaccine delivery: Current state and a pediatric perspective. J Control Release 2016; 240:394-413. [PMID: 26860287 PMCID: PMC5381653 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2016.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Revised: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 02/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Most childhood infections occur via the mucosal surfaces, however, parenterally delivered vaccines are unable to induce protective immunity at these surfaces. In contrast, delivery of vaccines via the mucosal routes can allow antigens to interact with the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) to induce both mucosal and systemic immunity. The induced mucosal immunity can neutralize the pathogen on the mucosal surface before it can cause infection. In addition to reinforcing the defense at mucosal surfaces, mucosal vaccination is also expected to be needle-free, which can eliminate pain and the fear of vaccination. Thus, mucosal vaccination is highly appealing, especially for the pediatric population. However, vaccine delivery across mucosal surfaces is challenging because of the different barriers that naturally exist at the various mucosal surfaces to keep the pathogens out. There have been significant developments in delivery systems for mucosal vaccination. In this review we provide an introduction to the MALT, highlight barriers to vaccine delivery at different mucosal surfaces, discuss different approaches that have been investigated for vaccine delivery across mucosal surfaces, and conclude with an assessment of perspectives for mucosal vaccination in the context of the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Wenqian Tao
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - Harvinder Singh Gill
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA.
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Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus capsid, a versatile platform for foreign B-cell epitope display inducing protective humoral immune responses. Sci Rep 2016; 6:31844. [PMID: 27549017 PMCID: PMC4994115 DOI: 10.1038/srep31844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Virus-like particles (VLPs), comprised of viral structural proteins devoid of genetic material, are tunable nanoparticles that can be chemically or genetically engineered, to be used as platforms for multimeric display of foreign antigens. Here, we report the engineering of chimeric VLPs, derived from rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) for presentation of foreign B-cell antigens to the immune system. The RHDV capsid comprises 180 copies of a single capsid subunit (VP60). To evaluate the ability of chimeric RHDV VLPs to elicit protective humoral responses against foreign antigens, we tested two B-cell epitopes: a novel neutralizing B-cell epitope, derived from feline calicivirus capsid protein, and a well characterized B-cell epitope from the extracellular domain of influenza A virus M2 protein (M2e). We generated sets of chimeric RHDV VLPs by insertion of the foreign B-cell epitopes at three different locations within VP60 protein (which involved different levels of surface accessibility) and in different copy numbers per site. The immunogenic potential of the chimeric VLPs was analyzed in the mouse model. The results presented here indicated that chimeric RHDV VLPs elicit potent protective humoral responses against displayed foreign B-cell epitopes, demonstrated by both, in vitro neutralization and in vivo protection against a lethal challenge.
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14
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Transcutaneous Immunization Using Nano-sized Drug Carriers. METHODS IN PHARMACOLOGY AND TOXICOLOGY 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3121-7_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
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Takeyama N, Kiyono H, Yuki Y. Plant-based vaccines for animals and humans: recent advances in technology and clinical trials. THERAPEUTIC ADVANCES IN VACCINES 2015; 3:139-54. [PMID: 26668752 DOI: 10.1177/2051013615613272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
It has been about 30 years since the first plant engineering technology was established. Although the concept of plant-based pharmaceuticals or vaccines motivates us to develop practicable commercial products using plant engineering, there are some difficulties in reaching the final goal: to manufacture an approved product. At present, the only plant-made vaccine approved by the United States Department of Agriculture is a Newcastle disease vaccine for poultry that is produced in suspension-cultured tobacco cells. The progress toward commercialization of plant-based vaccines takes much effort and time, but several candidate vaccines for use in humans and animals are in clinical trials. This review discusses plant engineering technologies and regulations relevant to the development of plant-based vaccines and provides an overview of human and animal vaccines currently under clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsumi Takeyama
- Division of Mucosal Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kiyono
- Division of Mucosal Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan International Research and Development Center for Mucosal Vaccines, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Yuki
- Division of Mucosal Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
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16
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The application of virus-like particles as vaccines and biological vehicles. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2015; 99:10415-32. [PMID: 26454868 PMCID: PMC7080154 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-015-7000-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2015] [Revised: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Virus-like particles (VLPs) can be spontaneously self-assembled by viral structural proteins under appropriate conditions in vitro while excluding the genetic material and potential replication probability. In addition, VLPs possess several features including can be rapidly produced in large quantities through existing expression systems, highly resembling native viruses in terms of conformation and appearance, and displaying repeated cluster of epitopes. Their capsids can be modified via genetic insertion or chemical conjugation which facilitating the multivalent display of a homologous or heterogeneous epitope antigen. Therefore, VLPs are considered as a safe and effective candidate of prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines. VLPs, with a diameter of approximately 20 to 150 nm, also have the characteristics of nanometer materials, such as large surface area, surface-accessible amino acids with reactive moieties (e.g., lysine and glutamic acid residues), inerratic spatial structure, and good biocompatibility. Therefore, assembled VLPs have great potential as a delivery system for specifically carrying a variety of materials. This review summarized recent researches on VLP development as vaccines and biological vehicles, which demonstrated the advantages and potential of VLPs in disease control and prevention and diagnosis. Then, the prospect of VLP biology application in the future is discussed as well.
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17
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Jain NK, Sahni N, Kumru OS, Joshi SB, Volkin DB, Russell Middaugh C. Formulation and stabilization of recombinant protein based virus-like particle vaccines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2015; 93:42-55. [PMID: 25451136 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2014.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2013] [Revised: 10/15/2014] [Accepted: 10/18/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Vaccine formulation development has traditionally focused on improving antigen storage stability and compatibility with conventional adjuvants. More recently, it has also provided an opportunity to modify the interaction and presentation of an antigen/adjuvant to the immune system to better stimulate the desired immune responses for maximal efficacy. In the last decade, there has been a paradigm shift in vaccine antigen and formulation design involving an improved physical understanding of antigens and a better understanding of the immune system. In addition, the discovery of novel adjuvants and delivery systems promises to further improve the design of new, more effective vaccines. Here we describe some of the fundamental aspects of formulation design applicable to virus-like-particle based vaccine antigens (VLPs). Case studies are presented for commercially approved VLP vaccines as well as some investigational VLP vaccine candidates. An emphasis is placed on the biophysical analysis of vaccines to facilitate formulation and stabilization of these particulate antigens.
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18
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Vacher G, Sublet E, Gurny R, Borchard G. Establishment and first characterization of a sublingual epithelial and immune cell co-culture model. Int J Pharm 2015; 482:61-7. [PMID: 25448555 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2014.11.040] [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: 10/16/2014] [Revised: 11/11/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
We describe here the establishment and first characterization of a co-culture model of human epithelial sublingual cells (HO-1-u-1 cell line) and human dendritic cells derived from human peripheral blood monocytes (PBMC). Cell culture conditions for HO-1-u-1 cells were optimized. First characterization of phenotypic features by electron microscopy and fluorescence imaging revealed resemblance to sublingual tissue specimen from healthy donors. Successful co-culturing of epithelial and dendritic cells (DCs) was confirmed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Stimulation of HO-1-u1 cells alone and the epithelial/DC co-culture by incubation with liposomes, virosomes and influenza virus lead reproducibly to the release of inflammatory cytokine GM-CSF. This co-culture model may be suitable for elucidation of mechanisms involved in the immune response at the sublingual epithelium as well as for the evaluation of novel topical vaccines, potentially replacing cumbersome ex vivo and in vivo methods currently in place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaëlle Vacher
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, University of Lausanne, 30, Quai Ernest Ansermet, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Emmanuelle Sublet
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, University of Lausanne, 30, Quai Ernest Ansermet, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Robert Gurny
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, University of Lausanne, 30, Quai Ernest Ansermet, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gerrit Borchard
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, University of Lausanne, 30, Quai Ernest Ansermet, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland.
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Structural basis for the development of avian virus capsids that display influenza virus proteins and induce protective immunity. J Virol 2014; 89:2563-74. [PMID: 25520499 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.03025-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Bioengineering of viruses and virus-like particles (VLPs) is a well-established approach in the development of new and improved vaccines against viral and bacterial pathogens. We report here that the capsid of a major avian pathogen, infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV), can accommodate heterologous proteins to induce protective immunity. The structural units of the ~70-nm-diameter T=13 IBDV capsid are trimers of VP2, which is made as a precursor (pVP2). The pVP2 C-terminal domain has an amphipathic α helix that controls VP2 polymorphism. In the absence of the VP3 scaffolding protein, 466-residue pVP2 intermediates bearing this α helix assemble into genuine VLPs only when expressed with an N-terminal His6 tag (the HT-VP2-466 protein). HT-VP2-466 capsids are optimal for protein insertion, as they are large enough (cargo space, ~78,000 nm(3)) and are assembled from a single protein. We explored HT-VP2-466-based chimeric capsids initially using enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP). The VLP assembly yield was efficient when we coexpressed EGFP-HT-VP2-466 and HT-VP2-466 from two recombinant baculoviruses. The native EGFP structure (~240 copies/virion) was successfully inserted in a functional form, as VLPs were fluorescent, and three-dimensional cryo-electron microscopy showed that the EGFP molecules incorporated at the inner capsid surface. Immunization of mice with purified EGFP-VLPs elicited anti-EGFP antibodies. We also inserted hemagglutinin (HA) and matrix (M2) protein epitopes derived from the mouse-adapted A/PR/8/34 influenza virus and engineered several HA- and M2-derived chimeric capsids. Mice immunized with VLPs containing the HA stalk, an M2 fragment, or both antigens developed full protection against viral challenge. IMPORTANCE Virus-like particles (VLPs) are multimeric protein cages that mimic the infectious virus capsid and are potential candidates as nonliving vaccines that induce long-lasting protection. Chimeric VLPs can display or include foreign antigens, which could be a conserved epitope to elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies or several variable epitopes effective against a large number of viral strains. We report the biochemical, structural, and immunological characterization of chimeric VLPs derived from infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV), an important poultry pathogen. To test the potential of IBDV VLPs as a vaccine vehicle, we used the enhanced green fluorescent protein and two fragments derived from the hemagglutinin and the M2 matrix protein of the human murine-adapted influenza virus. The IBDV capsid protein fused to influenza virus peptides formed assemblies able to protect mice against viral challenge. Our studies establish the basis for a new generation of multivalent IBDV-based vaccines.
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Langers I, Renoux V, Reschner A, Touzé A, Coursaget P, Boniver J, Koch J, Delvenne P, Jacobs N. Natural killer and dendritic cells collaborate in the immune response induced by the vaccine against uterine cervical cancer. Eur J Immunol 2014; 44:3585-95. [PMID: 25229656 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201444594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Revised: 08/14/2014] [Accepted: 09/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Virus-like particles (VLPs) of human papillomavirus (HPV) are used as a vaccine against HPV-induced cancer, and recently we have shown that these VLPs are able to activate natural killer (NK) cells. Since NK cells collaborate with dendritic cells (DCs) to induce an immune response against viral infections and tumors, we studied the impact of this crosstalk in the context of HPV vaccination. NK cells in the presence of HPV-VLPs enhanced DC-maturation as shown by an upregulation of CD86 and HLA-DR and an increased production of IL-12p70, but not of the immunosuppressive cytokine IL-10. This activation was bidirectional. Indeed, in the presence of HPV-VLPs, DCs further activated NK cells by inducing the upregulation of cell surface activation markers (CD69 and HLA-DR). The function of NK cells was also improved as shown by an increase in IFN-γ secretion and cytotoxic activity against an HPV(+) cell line. This crosstalk between NK cells and DCs needed CD40 interaction and IL-12p70 secretion, whereas NKG2D was not implicated. Our results provide insight into how VLPs interact with innate immune cells and how NK cells and DCs play a role in the immune response induced by this vaccine agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inge Langers
- Cellular and Molecular Immunology, GIGA-Research, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
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Lin YL, Hu YC, Liang CC, Lin SY, Liang YC, Yuan HP, Chiang BL. Enterovirus-71 virus-like particles induce the activation and maturation of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells through TLR4 signaling. PLoS One 2014; 9:e111496. [PMID: 25360749 PMCID: PMC4216083 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0111496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2014] [Accepted: 09/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Enterovirus 71 (EV71) causes seasonal epidemics of hand-foot-and-mouth disease and has a high mortality rate among young children. We recently demonstrated potent induction of the humoral and cell-mediated immune response in monkeys immunized with EV71 virus-like particles (VLPs), with a morphology resembling that of infectious EV71 virions but not containing a viral genome, which could potentially be safe as a vaccine for EV71. To elucidate the mechanisms through which EV71 VLPs induce cell-mediated immunity, we studied the immunomodulatory effects of EV71 VLPs on human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs), which bind to and incorporate EV71 VLPs. DC treatment with EV71 VLPs enhanced the expression of CD80, CD86, CD83, CD40, CD54, and HLA-DR on the cell surface; increased the production of interleukin (IL)-12 p40, IL-12 p70, and IL-10 by DCs; and suppressed the capacity of DCs for endocytosis. Treatment with EV71 VLPs also enhanced the ability of DCs to stimulate naïve T cells and induced secretion of interferon (IFN)-γ by T cells and Th1 cell responses. Neutralization with antibodies against Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 suppressed the capacity of EV71 VLPs to induce the production of IL-12 p40, IL-12 p70, and IL-10 by DCs and inhibited EV71 VLPs binding to DCs. Our study findings clarified the important role for TLR4 signaling in DCs in response to EV71 VLPs and showed that EV71 VLPs induced inhibitor of kappaB alpha (IκBα) degradation and nuclear factor of kappaB (NF-κB) activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Li Lin
- Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chen Hu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Chao Liang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Yeh Lin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chih Liang
- School of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ping Yuan
- Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Bor-Luen Chiang
- Department of Medical Research, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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McNeilly CL, Crichton ML, Primiero CA, Frazer IH, Roberts MS, Kendall MAF. Microprojection arrays to immunise at mucosal surfaces. J Control Release 2014; 196:252-60. [PMID: 25285611 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2014.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Revised: 09/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The buccal mucosa (inner cheek) is an attractive site for delivery of immunotherapeutics, due to its ease of access and rich antigen presenting cell (APC) distribution. However, to date, most delivery methods to the buccal mucosa have only been topical-with the challenges of: 1) an environment where significant biomolecule degradation may occur; 2) inability to reach the APCs that are located deep in the epithelium and lamina propria; and 3) salivary flow and mucous secretion that may result in removal of the therapeutic agent before absorption has taken place. To overcome these challenges and achieve consistent, repeatable targeted delivery of immunotherapeutics to within the buccal mucosa (not merely on to the surface), we utilised microprojection arrays (Nanopatches-110 μm length projections, 3364 projections, 16 mm2 surface area) with a purpose built clip applicator. The mechanical application of Nanopatches bearing a dry-coated vaccine (commercial influenza vaccine, as a test case immunotherapeutic) released the vaccine to a depth of 47.8±14.8 μm (mean±SD, n=4), in the mouse buccal mucosa (measured using fluorescent delivered dyes and CryoSEM). This location is in the direct vicinity of APCs, facilitating antigenic uptake. Resultant systemic immune responses were similar to systemic immunization methods, and superior to comparative orally immunised mice. This confirms the Nanopatch administered vaccine was delivered into the buccal mucosa and not ingested. This study demonstrates a minimally-invasive delivery device with rapid (2 min of application time), accurate and consistent release of immunotherapeutics in to the buccal mucosa-that conceptually can be extended in to human use for broad and practical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia L McNeilly
- The University of Queensland, Delivery of Drugs and Genes Group (D(2)G(2)), The Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Michael L Crichton
- The University of Queensland, Delivery of Drugs and Genes Group (D(2)G(2)), The Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; Vaxxas Pty Ltd, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Clare A Primiero
- The University of Queensland, Delivery of Drugs and Genes Group (D(2)G(2)), The Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Ian H Frazer
- The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael S Roberts
- Therapeutics Research Centre, School of Medicine, Princess Alexandra Hospital, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; School of Pharmacy and Medical Science, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Mark A F Kendall
- The University of Queensland, Delivery of Drugs and Genes Group (D(2)G(2)), The Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; Vaxxas Pty Ltd, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia; The University of Queensland Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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Overcoming barriers in the mucosal delivery of virus-like particle-based vaccines. Ther Deliv 2014; 5:741-4. [DOI: 10.4155/tde.14.52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
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