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Pourhashem Z, Nourani L, Pirahmadi S, Yousefi H, J. Sani J, Raz A, Zakeri S, Dinparast Djadid N, Abouie Mehrizi A. Malaria transmission blocking activity of Anopheles stephensi alanyl aminopeptidase N antigen formulated with MPL, CpG, and QS21 adjuvants. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306664. [PMID: 38968270 PMCID: PMC11226095 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Malaria, a preventive and treatable disease, is still responsible for annual deaths reported in most tropical regions, principally in sub-Saharan Africa. Subunit recombinant transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) have been proposed as promising vaccines to succeed in malaria elimination and eradication. Here, a provisional study was designed to assess the immunogenicity and functional activity of alanyl aminopeptidase N (APN1) of Anopheles stephensi, as a TBV candidate, administered with MPL, CpG, and QS21 adjuvants in the murine model. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The mouse groups were immunized with recombinant APN1 (rAPN1) alone or formulated with CpG, MPL, QS-21, or a combination of adjuvants (CMQ), and the elicited immune responses were evaluated after the third immunization. The standard membrane feeding assay (SMFA) measured the functional activity of antibodies against bacterial-expressed APN1 protein in adjuvanted vaccine groups on transmission of P. falciparum (NF54) to An. stephensi mosquitoes. Evaluation of mice vaccinated with rAPN1 formulated with distinct adjuvants manifested a significant increase in the high-avidity level of anti-APN1 IgG and IgG subclasses; however, rAPN1 induced the highest level of high-avidity anti-APN1 IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG2b antibodies in the immunized vaccine group 5 (APN1/CMQ). In addition, vaccine group 5 (receiving APN1/CMQ), had still the highest level of anti-APN1 IgG antibodies relative to other immunized groups after six months, on day 180. The SMFA data indicates a trend towards higher transmission-reducing activity in groups 2 and 5, which received the antigen formulated with CpG or a combination of three adjuvants. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE The results have shown the capability of admixture to stimulate high-affinity and long-lasting antibodies against the target antigen to hinder Plasmodium parasite development in the mid-gut of An. stephensi. The attained results authenticated APN1/CMQ and APN1/CpG as a potent APN1-based TBV formulation which will be helpful in designing a vaccine in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Pourhashem
- Pasteur Institute of Iran, Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Nourani
- Pasteur Institute of Iran, Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Tehran, Iran
| | - Sakineh Pirahmadi
- Pasteur Institute of Iran, Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Tehran, Iran
| | - Hemn Yousefi
- Pasteur Institute of Iran, Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Tehran, Iran
| | - Jafar J. Sani
- Pasteur Institute of Iran, Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbasali Raz
- Pasteur Institute of Iran, Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Tehran, Iran
| | - Sedigheh Zakeri
- Pasteur Institute of Iran, Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Tehran, Iran
| | - Navid Dinparast Djadid
- Pasteur Institute of Iran, Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Tehran, Iran
| | - Akram Abouie Mehrizi
- Pasteur Institute of Iran, Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Tehran, Iran
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Zhang B, Feng H, Zhao Y, Zhang D, Yu X, Li Y, Zeng Y, Thongpoon S, Roobsoong W, Wu Y, Liu F, Sattabongkot J, Min H, Cui L, Cao Y. Evaluation of transmission-blocking potential of PvPSOP25 using transgenic murine malaria parasite and clinical isolates. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012231. [PMID: 38865344 PMCID: PMC11168624 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) aim to inhibit malaria parasite development in mosquitoes and prevent further transmission to the human host. The putative-secreted ookinete protein 25 (PSOP25), highly conserved in Plasmodium spp., is a promising TBV target. Here, we investigated PvPSOP25 from P. vivax as a TBV candidate using transgenic murine parasite P. berghei and clinical P. vivax isolates. METHODS AND FINDINGS A transgenic P. berghei line expressing PvPSOP25 (TrPvPSOP25Pb) was generated. Full-length PvPSOP25 was expressed in the yeast Pichia pastoris and used to immunize mice to obtain anti-rPvPSOP25 sera. The transmission-blocking activity of the anti-rPvPSOP25 sera was evaluated through in vitro assays and mosquito-feeding experiments. The antisera generated by immunization with rPvPSOP25 specifically recognized the native PvPSOP25 antigen expressed in TrPvPSOP25Pb ookinetes. In vitro assays showed that the immune sera significantly inhibited exflagellation and ookinete formation of the TrPvPSOP25Pb parasite. Mosquitoes feeding on mice infected with the transgenic parasite and passively transferred with the anti-rPvPSOP25 sera showed a 70.7% reduction in oocyst density compared to the control group. In a direct membrane feeding assay conducted with five clinical P. vivax isolates, the mouse anti-rPvPSOP25 antibodies significantly reduced the oocyst density while showing a negligible influence on mosquito infection prevalence. CONCLUSIONS This study supported the feasibility of transgenic murine malaria parasites expressing P. vivax antigens as a useful tool for evaluating P. vivax TBV candidates. Meanwhile, the moderate transmission-reducing activity of the generated anti-rPvPSOP25 sera necessitates further research to optimize its efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biying Zhang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Hao Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Di Zhang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xinxin Yu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yusi Li
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Ying Zeng
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Sataporn Thongpoon
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Wanlapa Roobsoong
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Yudi Wu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Jetsumon Sattabongkot
- Mahidol Vivax Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Thailand
| | - Hui Min
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Liwang Cui
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, United States of America
| | - Yaming Cao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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3
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Madabushi S, Chow KM, Song ES, Goswami A, Hersh LB, Rodgers DW. Structure of puromycin-sensitive aminopeptidase and polyglutamine binding. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287086. [PMID: 37440518 PMCID: PMC10343166 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Puromycin-sensitive aminopeptidase (E.C. 3.4.11.14, UniProt P55786), a zinc metallopeptidase belonging to the M1 family, degrades a number of bioactive peptides as well as peptides released from the proteasome, including polyglutamine. We report the crystal structure of PSA at 2.3 Ǻ. Overall, the enzyme adopts a V-shaped architecture with four domains characteristic of the M1 family aminopeptidases, but it is in a less compact conformation compared to most M1 enzymes of known structure. A microtubule binding sequence is present in a C-terminal HEAT repeat domain of the enzyme in a position where it might serve to mediate interaction with tubulin. In the catalytic metallopeptidase domain, an elongated active site groove lined with aromatic and hydrophobic residues and a large S1 subsite may play a role in broad substrate recognition. The structure with bound polyglutamine shows a possible interacting mode of this peptide, which is supported by mutation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sowmya Madabushi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry and Center for Structural Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - K. Martin Chow
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry and Center for Structural Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Eun Suk Song
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry and Center for Structural Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Anwesha Goswami
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry and Center for Structural Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Louis B. Hersh
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry and Center for Structural Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - David W. Rodgers
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry and Center for Structural Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America
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Ramelow J, Keleta Y, Niu G, Wang X, Li J. Plasmodium parasitophorous vacuole membrane protein Pfs16 promotes malaria transmission by silencing mosquito immunity. J Biol Chem 2023:104824. [PMID: 37196765 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104824] [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: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
With rising cases for the first time in years, malaria remains a significant public health burden. The sexual stage of the malaria parasite infects mosquitoes to transmit malaria from host to host. Hence, an infected mosquito plays an essential role in malaria transmission. Plasmodium falciparum is the most dominant and dangerous malaria pathogen. Previous studies identified a sexual stage-specific protein 16 (Pfs16) localized to the parasitophorous vacuole membrane (PVM). Here we elucidate the function of Pfs16 during malaria transmission. Our structural analysis identified Pfs16 as an alpha-helical integral membrane protein with one transmembrane domain connecting to two regions across PVM. ELISA assays showed that insect cell-expressed recombinant Pfs16 (rPfs16) interacted with An. gambiae midguts, and microscopy found that rPfs16 bound to midgut epithelial cells. Transmission-blocking assays demonstrated that polyclonal antibodies against Pfs16 significantly reduced the number of oocysts in mosquito midguts. However, on the contrary, feeding rPfs16 increased the number of oocysts. Further analysis revealed that Pfs16 reduced the activity of mosquito midgut caspase 3/7, a key enzyme in the mosquito Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK) immune pathway. We conclude that Pfs16 facilitates parasites to invade mosquito midguts by actively silencing the mosquito's innate immunity through its interaction with the midgut epithelial cells. Therefore, Pfs16 is a potential target to control malaria transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Ramelow
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Yacob Keleta
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Guodong Niu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Jun Li
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA.
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5
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Aleshnick M, Florez-Cuadros M, Martinson T, Wilder BK. Monoclonal antibodies for malaria prevention. Mol Ther 2022; 30:1810-1821. [PMID: 35395399 PMCID: PMC8979832 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies are highly specific proteins that are cloned from a single B cell and bind to a single epitope on a pathogen. These laboratory-made molecules can serve as prophylactics or therapeutics for infectious diseases and have an impressive capacity to modulate the progression of disease, as demonstrated for the first time on a large scale during the COVID-19 pandemic. The high specificity and natural starting point of monoclonal antibodies afford an encouraging safety profile, yet the high cost of production remains a major limitation to their widespread use. While a monoclonal antibody approach to abrogating malaria infection is not yet available, the unique life cycle of the malaria parasite affords many opportunities for such proteins to act, and preliminary research into the efficacy of monoclonal antibodies in preventing malaria infection, disease, and transmission is encouraging. This review examines the current status and future outlook for monoclonal antibodies against malaria in the context of the complex life cycle and varied antigenic targets expressed in the human and mosquito hosts, and provides insight into the strengths and limitations of this approach to curtailing one of humanity’s oldest and deadliest diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Aleshnick
- Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | | | - Thomas Martinson
- Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | - Brandon K Wilder
- Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, Oregon, USA; Department of Parasitology, U.S. Naval Medical Research 6 (NAMRU-6), Lima, Peru
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Keleta Y, Ramelow J, Cui L, Li J. Molecular interactions between parasite and mosquito during midgut invasion as targets to block malaria transmission. NPJ Vaccines 2021; 6:140. [PMID: 34845210 PMCID: PMC8630063 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-021-00401-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite considerable effort, malaria remains a major public health burden. Malaria is caused by five Plasmodium species and is transmitted to humans via the female Anopheles mosquito. The development of malaria vaccines against the liver and blood stages has been challenging. Therefore, malaria elimination strategies advocate integrated measures, including transmission-blocking approaches. Designing an effective transmission-blocking strategy relies on a sophisticated understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing the interactions between the mosquito midgut molecules and the malaria parasite. Here we review recent advances in the biology of malaria transmission, focusing on molecular interactions between Plasmodium and Anopheles mosquito midgut proteins. We provide an overview of parasite and mosquito proteins that are either targets for drugs currently in clinical trials or candidates of promising transmission-blocking vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yacob Keleta
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Julian Ramelow
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | - Liwang Cui
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA.
- Biomolecular Science Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA.
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7
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Is tumour-expressed aminopeptidase N (APN/CD13) structurally and functionally unique? Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2021; 1876:188641. [PMID: 34695533 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2021.188641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Aminopeptidase N (APN/CD13) is a multifunctional glycoprotein that acts as a peptidase, receptor, and signalling molecule in a tissue-dependent manner. The activities of APN have been implicated in the progression of many cancers, pointing toward significant therapeutic potential for cancer treatment. However, despite the tumour-specific functions of this protein that have been uncovered, the ubiquitous nature of its expression in normal tissues as generally reported remains a limitation to the potential utility of APN as a target for cancer therapeutics and drug discovery. With this in mind, we have extensively explored the literature, and present a comprehensive review that for the first-time provides evidence to support the suggestion that tumour-expressed APN may in fact be unique in structure, function, substrate specificity and activity, contrary to its nature in normal tissues. The review also focuses on the biology of APN, and its "moonlighting" functional roles in both normal physiology and cancer development. Several APN-targeting approaches that have been explored over recent decades as therapeutic strategies in cancer treatment, including APN-targeting agents reported both in preclinical and clinical studies, are also extensively discussed. This review concludes by posing critical questions about APN that remain unanswered and unexplored, hence providing opportunities for further research.
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8
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Howard GP, Bender NG, Khare P, López-Gutiérrez B, Nyasembe V, Weiss WJ, Simecka JW, Hamerly T, Mao HQ, Dinglasan RR. Immunopotentiation by Lymph-Node Targeting of a Malaria Transmission-Blocking Nanovaccine. Front Immunol 2021; 12:729086. [PMID: 34512663 PMCID: PMC8432939 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.729086] [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: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A successful malaria transmission blocking vaccine (TBV) requires the induction of a high antibody titer that leads to abrogation of parasite traversal of the mosquito midgut following ingestion of an infectious bloodmeal, thereby blocking the cascade of secondary human infections. Previously, we developed an optimized construct UF6b that elicits an antigen-specific antibody response to a neutralizing epitope of Anopheline alanyl aminopeptidase N (AnAPN1), an evolutionarily conserved pan-malaria mosquito midgut-based TBV target, as well as established a size-controlled lymph node targeting biodegradable nanoparticle delivery system that leads to efficient and durable antigen-specific antibody responses using the model antigen ovalbumin. Herein, we demonstrate that co-delivery of UF6b with the adjuvant CpG oligodeoxynucleotide immunostimulatory sequence (ODN ISS) 1018 using this biodegradable nanoparticle vaccine delivery system generates an AnAPN1-specific immune response that blocks parasite transmission in a standard membrane feeding assay. Importantly, this platform allows for antigen dose-sparing, wherein lower antigen payloads elicit higher-quality antibodies, therefore less antigen-specific IgG is needed for potent transmission-reducing activity. By targeting lymph nodes directly, the resulting immunopotentiation of AnAPN1 suggests that the de facto assumption that high antibody titers are needed for a TBV to be successful needs to be re-examined. This nanovaccine formulation is stable at -20°C storage for at least 3 months, an important consideration for vaccine transport and distribution in regions with poor healthcare infrastructure. Together, these data support further development of this nanovaccine platform for malaria TBVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory P Howard
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Nicole G Bender
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, Department of Infectious Diseases & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Prachi Khare
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, Department of Infectious Diseases & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Borja López-Gutiérrez
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, Department of Infectious Diseases & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Vincent Nyasembe
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, Department of Infectious Diseases & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - William J Weiss
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and UNTHSC Preclinical Services, University of North Texas System College of Pharmacy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Jerry W Simecka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and UNTHSC Preclinical Services, University of North Texas System College of Pharmacy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, United States
| | - Timothy Hamerly
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, Department of Infectious Diseases & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Hai-Quan Mao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Whiting School of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore MD, United States
| | - Rhoel R Dinglasan
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, Department of Infectious Diseases & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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Jakhar R, Gakhar SK. Identification and Characterization of Aminopeptidase N 1 Gene of the Indian Malaria Vector Anopheles culicifacies (Diptera: Culicidae). JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:1476-1481. [PMID: 33686425 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjab011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Aminopeptidase N1 (APN) is one of the important enzymes involved in blood digestion and is up-regulated along with several other enzymes in response to bloodmeal ingestion. APN is a zinc metalloprotease that cleaves one amino acid residue at a time from the amino terminus of the protein. The APN1 gene of the Indian malaria vector Anopheles culicifacies Giles was cloned and characterized. The An. culicifacies APN1 (AcAPN1) gene has an Open Reading Frame of 3084 basepairs which encodes a putative protein of 1027 amino acids. The coding region of the gene shares 81% and 78% similarity to the APN1 genes found in An. stephensi (Diptera: Culicidae) and An. gambiae (Diptera: Culicidae), respectively. The organization of the APN1 gene was studied in available mosquito genomes and a three-dimensional structure of AcAPN1 modeled using homology structure modeling. The enzymatic active site was predicted to consist of HEYAH and GAMEN amino acid residues, and a comparison of the protein sequences among different genera revealed the conservation of zinc-binding residues. The expression pattern of AcAPN1 showed that the gene was expressed rapidly in response to the ingestion of the bloodmeal and therefore this gene may be used to exploit its promoter region as an antiparasite candidate molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renu Jakhar
- Centre for Medical Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak-124001, Haryana, India
| | - Surendra Kumar Gakhar
- Centre for Medical Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak-124001, Haryana, India
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McCoy KD, Weldon CT, Ansumana R, Lamin JM, Stenger DA, Ryan SJ, Bardosh K, Jacobsen KH, Dinglasan RR. Are malaria transmission-blocking vaccines acceptable to high burden communities? Results from a mixed methods study in Bo, Sierra Leone. Malar J 2021; 20:183. [PMID: 33849572 PMCID: PMC8045381 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-03723-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) could help break the cycle of malaria transmission by conferring community rather than individual protection. When introducing new intervention strategies, uptake is dependent on acceptability, not just efficacy. In this exploratory study on acceptability of TBVs in Sierra Leone, it was hypothesized that TBVs would be largely acceptable to adults and health workers in areas with relatively few ongoing malaria interventions, and that (i) knowledge of malaria and vaccines, (ii) health behaviours associated with malaria and vaccines, and (iii) attitudes towards different vaccines types could lead to greater TBV acceptability. METHODS This study used a mixed methods approach in Bo, Sierra Leone, to understand community knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to malaria and vaccination in general. This included: (i) a population-based cross-sectional survey (n=615 adults), (ii) 6 focus group discussions with parents, and (iii) 20 key informant interviews. The concept of a TBV was explained to participants before they were asked about their willingness to accept this vaccine modality as part of an integrated malaria elimination programme. RESULTS This study found that most adults would be willing to receive a TBV vaccine. Respondents noted mostly positive past experiences with adult and childhood vaccinations for other infectious diseases and high levels of engagement in other malaria prevention behaviors such as bed nets. Perceived barriers to TBV acceptance were largely focused on general community-level distribution of a vaccine, including personal fears of vaccination and possible costs. After an explanation of the TBV mechanism, nearly all focus group and interview participants believed that community members would accept the vaccine as part of an integrated malaria control approach. Both parents and health workers offered insight on how to successfully roll-out a future TBV vaccination programme. CONCLUSIONS The willingness of community members in Bo, Sierra Leone to accept a TBV as part of an integrated anti-malarial strategy suggests that the atypical mechanism of TBV action might not be an obstacle to future clinical trials. This study's findings suggests that perceived general barriers to vaccination implementation, such as perceived personal fears and vaccine cost, must be addressed in future clinical and implementation research studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaci D McCoy
- CDC Southeastern Center of Excellence in Vector Borne Diseases, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Caroline T Weldon
- CDC Southeastern Center of Excellence in Vector Borne Diseases, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Rashid Ansumana
- Mercy Hospital Research Laboratory, Bo, Sierra Leone
- School of Community Health Sciences, Njala University, Bo, Sierra Leone
| | | | - David A Stenger
- Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sadie J Ryan
- CDC Southeastern Center of Excellence in Vector Borne Diseases, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Department of Geography, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kevin Bardosh
- Center for One Health Research, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kathryn H Jacobsen
- Department of Global and Community Health, College of Health and Human Services, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Rhoel R Dinglasan
- CDC Southeastern Center of Excellence in Vector Borne Diseases, Gainesville, FL, USA.
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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Immunofocusing humoral immunity potentiates the functional efficacy of the AnAPN1 malaria transmission-blocking vaccine antigen. NPJ Vaccines 2021; 6:49. [PMID: 33824336 PMCID: PMC8024329 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-021-00309-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) prevent the completion of the developmental lifecycle of malarial parasites within the mosquito vector, effectively blocking subsequent infections. The mosquito midgut protein Anopheline alanyl aminopeptidase N (AnAPN1) is the leading, mosquito-based TBV antigen. Structure-function studies identified two Class II epitopes that can induce potent transmission-blocking (T-B) antibodies, informing the design of the next-generation AnAPN1. Here, we functionally screened new immunogens and down-selected to the UF6b construct that has two glycine-linked copies of the T-B epitopes. We then established a process for manufacturing UF6b and evaluated in outbred female CD1 mice the immunogenicity of the preclinical product with the human-safe adjuvant Glucopyranosyl Lipid Adjuvant in a liposomal formulation with saponin QS21 (GLA-LSQ). UF6b:GLA-LSQ effectively immunofocused the humoral response to one of the key T-B epitopes resulting in potent T-B activity, underscoring UF6b as a prime TBV candidate to aid in malaria elimination and eradication efforts.
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Chawla J, Oberstaller J, Adams JH. Targeting Gametocytes of the Malaria Parasite Plasmodium falciparum in a Functional Genomics Era: Next Steps. Pathogens 2021; 10:346. [PMID: 33809464 PMCID: PMC7999360 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10030346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Mosquito transmission of the deadly malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum is mediated by mature sexual forms (gametocytes). Circulating in the vertebrate host, relatively few intraerythrocytic gametocytes are picked up during a bloodmeal to continue sexual development in the mosquito vector. Human-to-vector transmission thus represents an infection bottleneck in the parasite's life cycle for therapeutic interventions to prevent malaria. Even though recent progress has been made in the identification of genetic factors linked to gametocytogenesis, a plethora of genes essential for sexual-stage development are yet to be unraveled. In this review, we revisit P. falciparum transmission biology by discussing targetable features of gametocytes and provide a perspective on a forward-genetic approach for identification of novel transmission-blocking candidates in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotsna Chawla
- Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, MDC 7, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Jenna Oberstaller
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research and USF Genomics Program, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Blvd, Suite 404, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - John H. Adams
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research and USF Genomics Program, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Blvd, Suite 404, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
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De SL, Ntumngia FB, Nicholas J, Adams JH. Progress towards the development of a P. vivax vaccine. Expert Rev Vaccines 2021; 20:97-112. [PMID: 33481638 PMCID: PMC7994195 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2021.1880898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Plasmodium vivax causes significant public health problems in endemic regions. A vaccine to prevent disease is critical, considering the rapid spread of drug-resistant parasite strains, and the development of hypnozoites in the liver with potential for relapse. A minimally effective vaccine should prevent disease and transmission while an ideal vaccine provides sterile immunity. AREAS COVERED Despite decades of research, the complex life cycle, technical challenges and a lack of funding have hampered progress of P. vivax vaccine development. Here, we review the progress of potential P. vivax vaccine candidates from different stages of the parasite life cycle. We also highlight the challenges and important strategies for rational vaccine design. These factors can significantly increase immune effector mechanisms and improve the protective efficacy of these candidates in clinical trials to generate sustained protection over longer periods of time. EXPERT OPINION A vaccine that presents functionally-conserved epitopes from multiple antigens from various stages of the parasite life cycle is key to induce broadly neutralizing strain-transcending protective immunity to effectively disrupt parasite development and transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Lata De
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Blvd, Tampa – 33612, FL
| | - Francis B. Ntumngia
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Blvd, Tampa – 33612, FL
| | - Justin Nicholas
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Blvd, Tampa – 33612, FL
| | - John H. Adams
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Blvd, Tampa – 33612, FL
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Patra KP, Kaur H, Kolli SK, Wozniak JM, Prieto JH, Yates JR, Gonzalez DJ, Janse CJ, Vinetz JM. A Hetero-Multimeric Chitinase-Containing Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium gallinaceum Ookinete-Secreted Protein Complex Involved in Mosquito Midgut Invasion. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 10:615343. [PMID: 33489941 PMCID: PMC7821095 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.615343] [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: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria parasites are transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes. During its life cycle in the mosquito vector the Plasmodium ookinete escapes the proteolytic milieu of the post-blood meal midgut by traversing the midgut wall. This process requires penetration of the chitin-containing peritrophic matrix lining the midgut epithelium, which depends in part on ookinete-secreted chitinases. Plasmodium falciparum ookinetes have one chitinase (PfCHT1), whereas ookinetes of the avian-infecting parasite, P. gallinaceum, have two, a long and a short form, PgCHT1 and PgCHT2, respectively. Published data indicates that PgCHT2 forms a high molecular weight (HMW) reduction-sensitive complex; and one binding partner is the ookinete-produced von Willebrand A-domain-containing protein, WARP. Size exclusion chromatography data reported here show that P. gallinaceum PgCHT2 and its ortholog, P. falciparum PfCHT1 are covalently-linked components of a HMW chitinase-containing complex (> 1,300 kDa). Mass spectrometry of ookinete-secreted proteins isolated using a new chitin bead pull-down method identified chitinase-associated proteins in P. falciparum and P. gallinaceum ookinete-conditioned culture media. Mass spectrometry of this complex showed the presence of several micronemal proteins including von Willebrand factor A domain-related protein (WARP), ookinete surface enolase, and secreted ookinete adhesive protein (SOAP). To test the hypothesis that ookinete-produced PfCHT1 can form a high molecular homo-multimer or, alternatively, interacts with P. berghei ookinete-produced proteins to produce an HMW hetero-multimer, we created chimeric P. berghei parasites expressing PfCHT1 to replace PbCHT1, enabling the production of large numbers of PfCHT1-expressing ookinetes. We show that chimeric P. berghei ookinetes express monomeric PfCHT1, but a HMW complex containing PfCHT1 is not present. A better understanding of the chitinase-containing HMW complex may enhance development of next-generation vaccines or drugs that target malaria transmission stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kailash P Patra
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Hargobinder Kaur
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Surendra Kumar Kolli
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Jacob M Wozniak
- Department of Pharmacology and the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Judith Helena Prieto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States.,Department of Chemistry, Western Connecticut State University, Danbury, CT, United States
| | - John R Yates
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - David J Gonzalez
- Department of Pharmacology and the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Chris J Janse
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Joseph M Vinetz
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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Tagliamonte MS, Yowell CA, Elbadry MA, Boncy J, Raccurt CP, Okech BA, Goss EM, Salemi M, Dame JB. Genetic Markers of Adaptation of Plasmodium falciparum to Transmission by American Vectors Identified in the Genomes of Parasites from Haiti and South America. mSphere 2020; 5:e00937-20. [PMID: 33087522 PMCID: PMC7580960 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00937-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, was introduced into Hispaniola and other regions of the Americas through the slave trade spanning the 16th through the 19th centuries. During this period, more than 12 million Africans were brought across the Atlantic to the Caribbean and other regions of the Americas. Since malaria is holoendemic in West Africa, a substantial percentage of these individuals carried the parasite. St. Domingue on Hispaniola, now modern-day Haiti, was a major port of disembarkation, and malaria is still actively transmitted there. We undertook a detailed study of the phylogenetics of the Haitian parasites and those from Colombia and Peru utilizing whole-genome sequencing. Principal-component and phylogenetic analyses, based upon single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in protein coding regions, indicate that, despite the potential for millions of introductions from Africa, the Haitian parasites share an ancestral relationship within a well-supported monophyletic clade with parasites from South America, while belonging to a distinct lineage. This result, in stark contrast to the historical record of parasite introductions, is best explained by a severe population bottleneck experienced by the parasites introduced into the Americas. Here, evidence is presented for targeted selection of rare African alleles in genes which are expressed in the mosquito stages of the parasite's life cycle. These genetic markers support the hypothesis that the severe population bottleneck was caused by the required adaptation of the parasite to transmission by new definitive hosts among the Anopheles (Nyssorhynchus) spp. found in the Caribbean and South America.IMPORTANCE Historical data suggest that millions of P. falciparum parasite lineages were introduced into the Americas during the trans-Atlantic slave trade, which would suggest a paraphyletic origin of the extant isolates in the Western Hemisphere. Our analyses of whole-genome variants show that the American parasites belong to a well-supported monophyletic clade. We hypothesize that the required adaptation to American vectors created a severe bottleneck, reducing the effective introduction to a few lineages. In support of this hypothesis, we discovered genes expressed in the mosquito stages of the life cycle that have alleles with multiple, high-frequency or fixed, nonsynonymous mutations in the American populations which are rarely found in African isolates. These alleles appear to be in gene products critical for transmission through the anopheline vector. Thus, these results may inform efforts to develop novel transmission-blocking vaccines by identifying parasite proteins functionally interacting with the vector that are important for successful transmission. Further, to the best of our knowledge, these are the first whole-genome data available from Haitian P. falciparum isolates. Defining the genome of these parasites provides genetic markers useful for mapping parasite populations and monitoring parasite movements/introductions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano S Tagliamonte
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Charles A Yowell
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Maha A Elbadry
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Jacques Boncy
- Laboratoire National de Santé Publique, Ministère de la Santé Publique et de la Population, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Christian P Raccurt
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Quisqueya, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Bernard A Okech
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Erica M Goss
- Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Marco Salemi
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - John B Dame
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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Adedeji EO, Ogunlana OO, Fatumo S, Beder T, Ajamma Y, Koenig R, Adebiyi E. Anopheles metabolic proteins in malaria transmission, prevention and control: a review. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:465. [PMID: 32912275 PMCID: PMC7488410 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04342-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The increasing resistance to currently available insecticides in the malaria vector, Anopheles mosquitoes, hampers their use as an effective vector control strategy for the prevention of malaria transmission. Therefore, there is need for new insecticides and/or alternative vector control strategies, the development of which relies on the identification of possible targets in Anopheles. Some known and promising targets for the prevention or control of malaria transmission exist among Anopheles metabolic proteins. This review aims to elucidate the current and potential contribution of Anopheles metabolic proteins to malaria transmission and control. Highlighted are the roles of metabolic proteins as insecticide targets, in blood digestion and immune response as well as their contribution to insecticide resistance and Plasmodium parasite development. Furthermore, strategies by which these metabolic proteins can be utilized for vector control are described. Inhibitors of Anopheles metabolic proteins that are designed based on target specificity can yield insecticides with no significant toxicity to non-target species. These metabolic modulators combined with each other or with synergists, sterilants, and transmission-blocking agents in a single product, can yield potent malaria intervention strategies. These combinations can provide multiple means of controlling the vector. Also, they can help to slow down the development of insecticide resistance. Moreover, some metabolic proteins can be modulated for mosquito population replacement or suppression strategies, which will significantly help to curb malaria transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunice Oluwatobiloba Adedeji
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
| | - Olubanke Olujoke Ogunlana
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
| | - Segun Fatumo
- Department of Non-Communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, Bloomsbury, London, UK
| | - Thomas Beder
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Yvonne Ajamma
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
| | - Rainer Koenig
- Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany
| | - Ezekiel Adebiyi
- Covenant University Bioinformatics Research (CUBRe), Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
- Computer and Information Sciences, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State Nigeria
- Division of Applied Bioinformatics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), G200, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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Dadgar Pakdel J, Zakeri S, Raz A, Dinparast Djadid N. Identification, molecular characterization and expression of aminopeptidase N-1 (APN-1) from Anopheles stephensi in SF9 cell line as a candidate molecule for developing a vaccine that interrupt malaria transmission. Malar J 2020; 19:79. [PMID: 32075635 PMCID: PMC7029531 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-020-03154-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND According to the World Health Organization reports, billions of people around the world are at risk for malaria disease and it is important to consider the preventive strategies for protecting the people that are living in high risk areas. One of the main reasons of disease survival is diversity of vectors and parasites in different malaria regions that have their specific features, behaviour and biology. Therefore, specific regional strategies are necessary for successful control of malaria. One of the tools that needs to be developed for elimination and prevention of reintroduction of malaria is a vaccine that interrupt malaria transmission (VIMTs). VIMT is a broad concept that should be adjusted to the biological characteristics of the disease in each region. One type of VIMT is a vector-based vaccine that affects the sexual stage of Plasmodium life cycle. According to recent studies, the aminopeptidase N-1 of Anopheles gambiae (AgAPN-1) is as a potent vector-based VIMT with considerable inhibition activity against the sexual stage of Plasmodium parasite. METHODS Systems for rapid amplification of cDNA ends (3'-RACE) and genome walking methods were used for sequence determination of apn-1 gene from Anopheles stephensi and distinct bioinformatics software were used for structural analysis. AsAPN-1 was expressed in Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) insect cell line using the baculovirus expression system. Recombinant AsAPN-1 was purified under the hybrid condition and its biological activity was assayed. RESULTS Asapn-1 gene and its coded protein from An. stephensi were characterized for the first time in this study. Subsequently, the structural features and immunological properties of its coded protein were evaluated by in silico approaches. Enzymatic activity of the recombinant AsAPN-1, which was expressed in Sf9 insect cell line, was equal to 6 unit/μl. CONCLUSIONS Results of this study revealed that AsAPN-1 is very similar to its counterpart in An. gambiae. In silico evaluation and fundamental data which are necessary for its evaluation as a VIMT-based vaccine in the next steps were acquired in this study and those could be useful for research groups that study on malaria vaccine for countries that An. stephensi is the main malaria vector there.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javad Dadgar Pakdel
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran (PII), Pasteur Avenue, P.O. Box 1316943551, Tehran, Iran.,Trauma Research Center, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Hassan Abad Square, Imam Khomeini Avenue, PO BOX: 1136746911, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sedigheh Zakeri
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran (PII), Pasteur Avenue, P.O. Box 1316943551, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbasali Raz
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran (PII), Pasteur Avenue, P.O. Box 1316943551, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Navid Dinparast Djadid
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran (PII), Pasteur Avenue, P.O. Box 1316943551, Tehran, Iran.
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Miura K, Tachibana M, Takashima E, Morita M, Kanoi BN, Nagaoka H, Baba M, Torii M, Ishino T, Tsuboi T. Malaria transmission-blocking vaccines: wheat germ cell-free technology can accelerate vaccine development. Expert Rev Vaccines 2019; 18:1017-1027. [PMID: 31566026 PMCID: PMC11000147 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2019.1674145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Highly effective malaria vaccines are essential component toward malaria elimination. Although the leading malaria vaccine, RTS,S/AS01, with modest efficacy is being evaluated in a pilot feasibility trial, development of a malaria transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) could make a major contribution toward malaria elimination. Only a few TBV antigens have reached pre-clinical or clinical development but with several challenges including difficulties in the expression of malaria recombinant proteins and low immunogenicity in humans. Therefore, novel approaches to accelerate TBV research to preclinical development are critical to generate an efficacious TBV.Areas covered: PubMed was searched to review the progress and future prospects of malaria TBV research and development. We also reviewed registered trials at ClinicalTrials.gov as well as post-genome TBV candidate discovery research including our efforts.Expert opinion: Wheat germ cell-free protein synthesis technology can accelerate TBV development by overcoming some current challenges of TBV research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazutoyo Miura
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Mayumi Tachibana
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Japan
| | - Eizo Takashima
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Masayuki Morita
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Bernard N Kanoi
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Hikaru Nagaoka
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Minami Baba
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Japan
| | - Motomi Torii
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Japan
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Tomoko Ishino
- Division of Molecular Parasitology, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Toon, Japan
| | - Takafumi Tsuboi
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
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Jakhar R, Kumar P, Sehrawat N, Gakhar SK. A comprehensive analysis of amino-peptidase N1 protein (APN) from Anopheles culicifacies for epitope design using Immuno-informatics models. Bioinformation 2019; 15:600-612. [PMID: 31719771 PMCID: PMC6822521 DOI: 10.6026/97320630015600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Analysis of the Amino-peptidase N (APN) protein from Anopheles culicifacies as a vector based Transmission Blocking Vaccines (TBV) target has been considered for malaria vaccine development. Short peptides as potential epitopes for B cells and cytotoxic T cells and/or helper T cells were identified using prediction models provided by NetCTL and IEDB servers. Antigenicity determination, allergenicity, immunogenicity, epitope conservancy analysis, atomic interaction with HLA allele specific structure models and population coverage were investigated in this study. The analysis of the target protein helped to identify conserved regions as potential epitopes of APN in various Anopheles species. The T cell epitopes like peptides were further analyzed by using molecular docking to check interactions against the allele specific HLA models. Thus, we report the predicted B cell (VDERYRL) and T cell (RRYLATTQF for HLA class I and LKATFTVSI for HLA class II) epitopes like peptides from APN protein of Anopheles culicifacies (Diptera: Culicidae) for further consideration as vaccine candidates subsequent to in vitro and in vivo analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renu Jakhar
- Centre for Medical Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak - 124001, Haryana
| | - Pawan Kumar
- Centre for Bioinformatics, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak - 124001, Haryana
| | - Neelam Sehrawat
- Department of Genetics, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak - 124001, Haryana
| | - Surendra Kumar Gakhar
- Centre for Medical Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak - 124001, Haryana
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Abstract
In the progression of the life cycle of Plasmodium falciparum, a small proportion of asexual parasites differentiate into male or female sexual forms called gametocytes. Just like their asexual counterparts, gametocytes are contained within the infected host's erythrocytes (RBCs). However, unlike their asexual partners, they do not exit the RBC until they are taken up in a blood meal by a mosquito. In the mosquito midgut, they are stimulated to emerge from the RBC, undergo fertilization, and ultimately produce tens of thousands of sporozoites that are infectious to humans. This transmission cycle can be blocked by antibodies targeting proteins exposed on the parasite surface in the mosquito midgut, a process that has led to the development of candidate transmission-blocking vaccines (TBV), including some that are in clinical trials. Here we review the leading TBV antigens and highlight the ongoing search for additional gametocyte/gamete surface antigens, as well as antigens on the surfaces of gametocyte-infected erythrocytes, which can potentially become a new group of TBV candidates.
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21
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Antimalarial Transmission-Blocking Interventions: Past, Present, and Future. Trends Parasitol 2018; 34:735-746. [PMID: 30082147 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Malaria remains a major global health challenge. Appropriate use of current antimalarial tools has reduced the disease burden, but morbidity and mortality remain unacceptably high. It is widely accepted that, to achieve long-term control/eradication, it will be necessary to use interventions that inhibit the transmission of parasites to mosquitoes - these tools are termed transmission-blocking interventions (TBIs). This article aims to outline the rationale for the development of TBIs, with a focus on transmission-blocking drugs and (parasite-derived) transmission-blocking vaccines. We describe and summarise the current status of each of these intervention classes and attempt to identify future requirements in development, with a focus on the challenges of establishing each method within an integrated malarial control programme in the future.
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Bakhshi H, Failloux AB, Zakeri S, Raz A, Dinparast Djadid N. Mosquito-borne viral diseases and potential transmission blocking vaccine candidates. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2018; 63:195-203. [PMID: 29842982 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2018.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Mosquito-borne viral diseases (MBVDs) have a complex biological cycle involving vectors and vertebrate hosts. These viruses are responsible for many deadly diseases worldwide. Although MBVDs threaten mostly developing countries, there is growing evidence indicating that they are also of concern in western countries where local transmission of arboviruses such as West Nile, Zika, Chikungunya and Dengue viruses have been recently reported. The rapid rise in human infections caused by these viruses is attributed to rapid climate change and travel facilities. Usually, the only way to control these diseases relies on the control of vectors in the absence of licensed vaccines and specific treatments. However, the overuse of insecticides has led to the emergence of insecticide resistance in vector populations, posing significant challenges for their control. An alternative method for reducing MBVDs can be the use of Transmission Blocking Vaccines (TBVs) that limits viral infection at the mosquito vector stage. Some successes have been obtained confirming the potential application of TBVs against viruses; however, this approach remains at the developmental stage and still needs improvements. The present review aims to give an update on MBVDs and to discuss the application as well as usage of potential TBVs for the control of mosquito-borne viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Bakhshi
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran (PII), Tehran, Iran
| | - Anna-Bella Failloux
- Department of Virology, Arboviruses and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Sedigheh Zakeri
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran (PII), Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbasali Raz
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran (PII), Tehran, Iran
| | - Navid Dinparast Djadid
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran (PII), Tehran, Iran.
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Proteome-wide analysis of Anopheles culicifacies mosquito midgut: new insights into the mechanism of refractoriness. BMC Genomics 2018; 19:337. [PMID: 29739330 PMCID: PMC5941458 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-018-4729-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Midgut invasion, a major bottleneck for malaria parasites transmission is considered as a potential target for vector-parasite interaction studies. New intervention strategies are required to explore the midgut proteins and their potential role in refractoriness for malaria control in Anopheles mosquitoes. To better understand the midgut functional proteins of An. culicifacies susceptible and refractory species, proteomic approaches coupled with bioinformatics analysis is an effective means in order to understand the mechanism of refractoriness. In the present study, an integrated in solution- in gel trypsin digestion approach, along with Isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ)-Liquid chromatography/Mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) and data mining were performed to identify the proteomic profile and differentially expressed proteins in Anopheles culicifacies susceptible species A and refractory species B. RESULTS Shot gun proteomics approaches led to the identification of 80 proteins in An. culicifacies susceptible species A and 92 in refractory species B and catalogue was prepared. iTRAQ based proteomic analysis identified 48 differentially expressed proteins from total 130 proteins. Of these, 41 were downregulated and 7 were upregulated in refractory species B in comparison to susceptible species A. We report that the altered midgut proteins identified in naturally refractory mosquitoes are involved in oxidative phosphorylation, antioxidant and proteolysis process that may suggest their role in parasite growth inhibition. Furthermore, real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of few proteins indicated higher expression of iTRAQ upregulated protein in refractory species than susceptible species. CONCLUSION This study elucidates the first proteome of the midguts of An. culicifacies sibling species that attempts to analyze unique proteogenomic interactions to provide insights for better understanding of the mechanism of refractoriness. Functional implications of these upregulated proteins in refractory species may reflect the phenotypic characteristics of the mosquitoes and will improve our understandings of blood meal digestion process, parasite vector interactions and proteomes of other vectors of human diseases for development of novel vector control strategies.
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Hu X, Zhang X, Zhong J, Liu Y, Zhang C, Xie Y, Lin M, Xu C, Lu L, Zhu Q, Liu X. Expression of Cry1Ac toxin-binding region in Plutella xyllostella cadherin-like receptor and studying their interaction mode by molecular docking and site-directed mutagenesis. Int J Biol Macromol 2018; 111:822-831. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2017.12.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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BenFarhat-Touzri D, Driss F, Jemli S, Tounsi S. Molecular characterization of Cry1D-133 toxin from Bacillus thuringiensis strain HD133 and its toxicity against Spodoptera littoralis. Int J Biol Macromol 2018; 112:1-6. [PMID: 29366893 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2018.01.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Revised: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/13/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. aizawai strain HD133, known by its effectiveness against Spodoptera species, produces bipyramidal crystals encompassing the insecticidal proteins Cry1Ab, Cry1Ca and Cry1D-133 in the proportions 60:37:3, respectively. In this study, we dealt with the relevance of the low rate of Cry1D-133. The cry1D-133 gene from HD133 was cloned and sequenced. Both nucleotide and amino acid sequence similarity analyses with the cry1D genes available in the GenBank database revealed that cry1D-133 is a new variant of cry1Da-type genes with 99% identity with cry1Da1. Molecular modeling of the Cry1D-133 toxin showed that its higher toxicity is correlated to a higher number of toxin-receptor interactions. Optimal culture conditions of 4 h post-induction time, 160 rpm agitation and 37 °C post-induction temperature were determined and adopted to overproduce Cry1D-133 toxin at adequate amounts to carryout bioassays. A gradual increase of the proportion of Cry1D-133 to the HD133 insecticidal proteins forming the crystal (Cry1D-133, Cry1Ca and Cry1Ab) showed an improvement of the toxicity against Spodoptera littoralis larvae. Therefore, the potential of Cry1D-133 to enhance HD133 toxicity could promote its combination with other B. thuringiensis insecticidal proteins toxins in order to increase target range or to delay the emergence of resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalel BenFarhat-Touzri
- Laboratory of Biopesticides, Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax, University of Sfax, P.O. Box, "1177", 3018, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Fatma Driss
- Laboratory of Biopesticides, Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax, University of Sfax, P.O. Box, "1177", 3018, Sfax, Tunisia.
| | - Sonia Jemli
- Laboratory of Microbial Biotechnology and Enzyme Engineering, Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax, University of Sfax, P.O. Box, "1177", 3018, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Slim Tounsi
- Laboratory of Biopesticides, Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax, University of Sfax, P.O. Box, "1177", 3018, Sfax, Tunisia
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Sankar S, Ramamurthy M, Nandagopal B, Sridharan G. In Silico Validation of D7 Salivary Protein-derived B- and T-cell Epitopes of Aedes aegypti as Potential Vaccine to Prevent Transmission of Flaviviruses and Togaviruses to Humans. Bioinformation 2017; 13:366-375. [PMID: 29225429 PMCID: PMC5712781 DOI: 10.6026/97320630013366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mosquito (Aedes aegyptii) salivary proteins play a crucial role in facilitating viral transmission from vector-to-host due to their role in facilitating the "blood meal" of the vector. Three main proteins, D7, aegyptin and Sialokinin play a role in this process. Using in-silico programs, we identified B- and T-cell epitopes in the mosquito salivary proteins D7 long and short form. T-cell epitopes with high affinity to the most prevalent HLA MHC class-I supertypes among different population groups was chosen. It is our postulate that these epitopes could be successful in eliciting B and T cell responses, which would decrease the vector blood meal efficiency and hence protect against host infection by certain viruses. These include causative agents like Dengue viruses, Chikungunya virus, Zika and Yellow fever viruses. These viruses are of major public health importance in several countries in the Americas, Asia and Africa. Experimental evidence exists in previously published literature showing the protective effect of antibodies to certain salivary proteins in susceptible hosts. A novel approach of immunizing humans against the vector proteins to reduce transmission of viruses is now under investigation in several laboratories. We have identified the following two B cell epitopes LAALHVTAAPLWDAKDPEQF one from D7L and the other TSEYPDRQNQIEELNKLCKN from D7S. Likewise, two T cell epitopes MTSKNELDV one from D7L and the other YILCKASAF from D7S with affinity to the predominant MHC class-I supertypes were identified towards evaluation as potential vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sathish Sankar
- Sri Sakthi Amma Institute of Biomedical Research, Sri Narayani Hospital and Research Centre, Sripuram, Vellore - 632055, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mageshbabu Ramamurthy
- Sri Sakthi Amma Institute of Biomedical Research, Sri Narayani Hospital and Research Centre, Sripuram, Vellore - 632055, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Balaji Nandagopal
- Sri Sakthi Amma Institute of Biomedical Research, Sri Narayani Hospital and Research Centre, Sripuram, Vellore - 632055, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Gopalan Sridharan
- Sri Sakthi Amma Institute of Biomedical Research, Sri Narayani Hospital and Research Centre, Sripuram, Vellore - 632055, Tamil Nadu, India
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Reduction of Mosquito Survival in Mice Vaccinated with Anopheles stephensi Glucose Transporter. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:3428186. [PMID: 28804714 PMCID: PMC5540378 DOI: 10.1155/2017/3428186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Despite the fact that recent efforts to control/eradicate malaria have contributed to a significant decrease in the number of cases and deaths, the disease remains a global health challenge. Vaccines based on mosquito salivary gland antigens are a potential approach for reducing vector populations and malaria parasites. The Anopheles AGAP007752 gene encodes for a glucose transporter that is upregulated during Plasmodium infection, and its knockdown decreases the number of sporozoites in mosquito salivary glands. These results together with the fact that glucose is a vital source of energy suggested that a glucose transporter is a candidate protective antigen for the control of mosquito infestations and Plasmodium infection. To address this hypothesis, herein we investigate the effect of mice vaccination with an immunogenic peptide from mosquito glucose transporter on Anopheles stephensi fitness and Plasmodium berghei infection. We showed that vaccination with a peptide of glucose transporter reduced mosquito survival by 5% when compared to controls. However, the reduction in Plasmodium infection was not significant in mosquitoes fed on vaccinated mice. The effect of the peptide vaccination on mosquito survival is important to reduce infestation by malaria vectors. These results support further research on developing glucose transporter-based vaccines to reduce mosquito fitness.
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Drinkwater N, Lee J, Yang W, Malcolm TR, McGowan S. M1 aminopeptidases as drug targets: broad applications or therapeutic niche? FEBS J 2017; 284:1473-1488. [PMID: 28075056 PMCID: PMC7164018 DOI: 10.1111/febs.14009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
M1 aminopeptidase enzymes are a diverse family of metalloenzymes characterized by conserved structure and reaction specificity. Excluding viruses, M1 aminopeptidases are distributed throughout all phyla, and have been implicated in a wide range of functions including cell maintenance, growth and development, and defense. The structure and catalytic mechanism of M1 aminopeptidases are well understood, and make them ideal candidates for the design of small‐molecule inhibitors. As a result, many research groups have assessed their utility as therapeutic targets for both infectious and chronic diseases of humans, and many inhibitors with a range of target specificities and potential therapeutic applications have been developed. Herein, we have aimed to address these studies, to determine whether the family of M1 aminopeptidases does in fact present a universal target for the treatment of a diverse range of human diseases. Our analysis indicates that early validation of M1 aminopeptidases as therapeutic targets is often overlooked, which prevents the enzymes from being confirmed as drug targets. This validation cannot be neglected, and needs to include a thorough characterization of enzymes’ specific roles within complex physiological pathways. Furthermore, any chemical probes used in target validation must be carefully designed to ensure that specificity over the closely related enzymes has been achieved. While many drug discovery programs that target M1 aminopeptidases remain in their infancy, certain inhibitors have shown promise for the treatment of a range of conditions including malaria, hypertension, and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nyssa Drinkwater
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Jisook Lee
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Wei Yang
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Tess R Malcolm
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Sheena McGowan
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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Molecular identification and characterization of aminopeptidase N1 from Anopheles stephensi : A candidate for transmission blocking vaccines. GENE REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2016.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Abstract
This article attempts to draw together current knowledge on the biology of Plasmodium and experience gained from past control campaigns to interpret and guide current efforts to discover and develop exciting new strategies targeting the parasite with the objective of interrupting transmission. Particular note is made of the advantages of targeting often unappreciated small, yet vital, bottleneck populations to enhance both the impact and the useful lifetime of hard-won interventions. A case is made for the standardization of methods to measure transmission blockade to permit the rational comparison of how diverse interventions (drugs, vaccines, insecticides, Genetically Modified technologies) targeting disparate aspects of parasite biology may impact upon the commonly used parameter of parasite prevalence in the human population.
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Affiliation(s)
- R E Sinden
- The Jenner Institute, Oxford, United Kingdom.
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31
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Impact of exposure to mosquito transmission-blocking antibodies on Plasmodium falciparum population genetic structure. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2016; 45:138-144. [PMID: 27566334 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2016.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2016] [Revised: 08/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Progress in malaria control has led to a significant reduction of the malaria burden. Interventions that interrupt transmission are now needed to achieve the elimination goal. Transmission-blocking vaccines (TBV) that aim to prevent mosquito infections represent promising tools and several vaccine candidates targeting different stages of the parasite's lifecycle are currently under development. A mosquito-midgut antigen, the anopheline alanyl aminopeptidase (AnAPN1) is one of the lead TBV candidates; antibodies against AnAPN1 prevent ookinete invasion. In this study, we explored the transmission dynamics of Plasmodium falciparum in mosquitoes fed with anti-AnAPN1 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) vs. untreated controls, and investigated whether the parasite genetic content affects or is affected by antibody treatment. Exposure to anti-AnAPN1 mAbs was efficient at blocking parasite transmission and the effect was dose-dependent. Genetic analysis revealed a significant sib-mating within P. falciparum infra-populations infecting one host, as measured by the strong correlation between Wright's FIS and multiplicity of infection. Treatments also resulted in significant decrease in FIS as a by-product of drop in infra-population genetic diversity and concomitant increase of apparent panmictic genotyping proportions. Genetic differentiation analyses indicated that mosquitoes fed on a same donor randomly sampled blood-circulating gametocytes. We did not detect trace of selection, as the genetic differentiation between different donors did not decrease with increasing mAb concentration and was not significant between treatments for each gametocyte donor. Thus, there is apparently no specific genotype associated with the loss of diversity under mAb treatment. Finally, the anti-AnAPN1 mAbs were effective at reducing mosquito infection and a vaccine aiming at eliciting anti-AnAPN1 mAbs has a strong potential to decrease the burden of malaria in transmission-blocking interventions without any apparent selective pressure on the parasite population.
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Lecona-Valera AN, Tao D, Rodríguez MH, López T, Dinglasan RR, Rodríguez MC. An antibody against an Anopheles albimanus midgut myosin reduces Plasmodium berghei oocyst development. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:274. [PMID: 27165123 PMCID: PMC4863318 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1548-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Malaria parasites are transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes. Although several studies have identified mosquito midgut surface proteins that are putatively important for Plasmodium ookinete invasion, only a few have characterized these protein targets and demonstrated transmission-blocking activity. Molecular information about these proteins is essential for the development of transmission-blocking vaccines (TBV). The aim of the present study was to test three monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), A-140, A-78 and A-10, for their ability to recognize antigens and block oocyst infection of the midgut of Anopheles albimanus, a major malaria vector in Latin America. Method Western-blot of mAbs on antigens from midgut brush border membrane vesicles was used to select antibodies. Three mAbs were tested by membrane feeding assays to evaluate their potential transmission-blocking activity against Plasmodium berghei. The cognate antigens recognized by mAbs with oocyst-reducing activity were determined by immunoprecipitation followed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Results Only one mAb, A-140, significantly reduced oocyst infection intensity. Hence, its probable protein target in the Anopheles albimanus midgut was identified and characterized. It recognized three high-molecular mass proteins from a midgut brush border microvilli vesicle preparation. Chemical deglycosylation assays confirmed the peptide nature of the epitope recognized by mAb A-140. Immunoprecipitation followed by proteomic identification with tandem mass spectrometry revealed five proteins, presumably extracted together as a complex. Of these, AALB007909 had the highest mascot score and corresponds to a protein with a myosin head motor domain, indicating that the target of mAb A-140 is probably myosin located on the microvilli of the mosquito midgut. Conclusion These results provide support for the participation of myosin in mosquito midgut invasion by Plasmodium ookinetes. The potential inclusion of this protein in the design of new multivalent vaccine strategies for blocking Plasmodium transmission is discussed. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-016-1548-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba N Lecona-Valera
- Center of Research on Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Public Health, Av. Universidad 655, Col. Santa María Ahuacatitlán, Cuernavaca, Morelos, C. P. 62508, Mexico
| | - Dingyin Tao
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology and the Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, USA
| | - Mario H Rodríguez
- Center of Research on Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Public Health, Av. Universidad 655, Col. Santa María Ahuacatitlán, Cuernavaca, Morelos, C. P. 62508, Mexico
| | - Tomás López
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Méxic006F, Av. Universidad 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - Rhoel R Dinglasan
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology and the Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, USA
| | - María C Rodríguez
- Center of Research on Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Public Health, Av. Universidad 655, Col. Santa María Ahuacatitlán, Cuernavaca, Morelos, C. P. 62508, Mexico.
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Kakani P, Suman S, Gupta L, Kumar S. Ambivalent Outcomes of Cell Apoptosis: A Barrier or Blessing in Malaria Progression. Front Microbiol 2016; 7:302. [PMID: 27014225 PMCID: PMC4791532 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2016.00302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2015] [Accepted: 02/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The life cycle of Plasmodium in two evolutionary distant hosts, mosquito, and human, is a complex process. It is regulated at various stages of developments by a number of diverged mechanisms that ultimately determine the outcome of the disease. During the development processes, Plasmodium invades a variety of cells in two hosts. The invaded cells tend to undergo apoptosis and are subsequently removed from the system. This process also eliminates numerous parasites along with these apoptotic cells as a part of innate defense against the invaders. Plasmodium should escape the invaded cell before it undergoes apoptosis or it should manipulate host cell apoptosis for its survival. Interestingly, both these phenomena are evident in Plasmodium at different stages of development. In addition, the parasite also exhibits altruistic behavior and triggers its own killing for the selection of the best ‘fit’ progeny, removal of the ‘unfit’ parasites to conserve the nutrients and to support the host survival. Thus, the outcomes of cell apoptosis are ambivalent, favorable as well as unfavorable during malaria progression. Here we discuss that the manipulation of host cell apoptosis might be helpful in the regulation of Plasmodium development and will open new frontiers in the field of malaria research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parik Kakani
- Molecular Parasitology and Vector Biology Lab, Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, India
| | - Sneha Suman
- Molecular Parasitology and Vector Biology Lab, Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, India
| | - Lalita Gupta
- Molecular Parasitology and Vector Biology Lab, Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, India
| | - Sanjeev Kumar
- Molecular Parasitology and Vector Biology Lab, Department of Biological Sciences, Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani, India
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Ahmad TA, Eweida AE, Sheweita SA. B-cell epitope mapping for the design of vaccines and effective diagnostics. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trivac.2016.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Forbes MDE. What We Talk About When We Talk About Light. ACS CENTRAL SCIENCE 2015; 1:354-63. [PMID: 27162995 PMCID: PMC4827676 DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.5b00261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization) has declared 2015 the "International Year of Light and Light-Based Technologies". In celebration of this proclamation, this Outlook provides a general history of light and its applications, from the earliest moments of the Big Bang through its present impact on all forms of life on the planet. Special emphasis is placed on fundamental advances in the generation and use of artificial light, as well as the harvesting and use of light from the Sun and other natural sources. During the past century, the role of light in the fields of physics, chemistry, and biology has expanded to include emerging fields such as environmental engineering, agriculture, materials science, and biomedicine. In this regard, future research challenges and new potential applications in these areas, in the context of "the central science", are presented and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm D. E. Forbes
- Center for Photochemical
Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Bowling
Green State University, Bowling
Green, Ohio 43403, United States
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Mohandas N, Young ND, Jabbar A, Korhonen PK, Koehler AV, Hall RS, Hu M, Hofmann A, Gasser RB. The complement of family M1 aminopeptidases of Haemonchus contortus--Biotechnological implications. Biotechnol Adv 2015; 34:65-76. [PMID: 26597954 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2015.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2015] [Revised: 10/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Although substantial research has been focused on the 'hidden antigen' H11 of Haemonchus contortus as a vaccine against haemonchosis in small ruminants, little is know about this and related aminopeptidases. In the present article, we reviewed genomic and transcriptomic data sets to define, for the first time, the complement of aminopeptidases (designated Hc-AP-1 to Hc-AP-13) of the family M1 with homologues in Caenorhabditis elegans, characterised by zinc-binding (HEXXH) and exo-peptidase (GAMEN) motifs. The three previously published H11 isoforms (accession nos. X94187, FJ481146 and AJ249941) had most sequence similarity to Hc-AP-2 and Hc-AP-8, whereas unpublished isoforms (accession nos. AJ249942 and AJ311316) were both most similar to Hc-AP-3. The aminopeptidases characterised here had homologues in C. elegans. Hc-AP-1 to Hc-AP-8 were most similar in amino acid sequence (28-41%) to C. elegans T07F10.1; Hc-AP-9 and Hc-AP-10 to C. elegans PAM-1 (isoform b) (53-54% similar); Hc-AP-11 and Hc-AP-12 to C. elegans AC3.5 and Y67D8C.9 (26% and 50% similar, respectively); and Hc-AP-13 to C. elegans C42C1.11 and ZC416.6 (50-58% similar). Comparative analysis suggested that Hc-AP-1 to Hc-AP-8 play roles in digestion, metabolite excretion, neuropeptide processing and/or osmotic regulation, with Hc-AP-4 and Hc-AP-7 having male-specific functional roles. The analysis also indicated that Hc-AP-9 and Hc-AP-10 might be involved in the degradation of cyclin (B3) and required to complete meiosis. Hc-AP-11 represents a leucyl/cystinyl aminopeptidase, predicted to have metallopeptidase and zinc ion binding activity, whereas Hc-AP-12 likely encodes an aminopeptidase Q homologue also with these activities and a possible role in gonad function. Finally, Hc-AP-13 is predicted to encode an aminopeptidase AP-1 homologue of C. elegans with hydrolase activity, suggested to operate, possibly synergistically with a PEPT-1 ortholog, as an oligopeptide transporter in the gut for protein uptake and normal development and/or reproduction of the worm. An appraisal of structure-based amino acid sequence alignments revealed that all conceptually translated Hc-AP proteins, with the exception of Hc-AP-12, adopt a topology similar to those observed for the two subgroups of mammalian M1 aminopeptidases, which possess either three (I, II and IV) or four (I-IV) domains. In contrast, Hc-AP-12 lacks the N-terminal domain (I), but possesses a substantially expanded domain III. Although further work needs to be done to assess amino acid sequence conservation of the different aminopeptidases among individual worms within and among H. contortus populations, we hope that these insights will support future localisation, structural and functional studies of these molecules in H. contortus as well as facilitate future assessments of a recombinant subunit or cocktail vaccine against haemonchosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namitha Mohandas
- The University of Melbourne, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Neil D Young
- The University of Melbourne, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Abdul Jabbar
- The University of Melbourne, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Pasi K Korhonen
- The University of Melbourne, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Anson V Koehler
- The University of Melbourne, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Ross S Hall
- The University of Melbourne, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Min Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China
| | - Andreas Hofmann
- The University of Melbourne, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia; Structural Chemistry Program, Eskitis Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland 4111, Australia.
| | - Robin B Gasser
- The University of Melbourne, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia; State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China.
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