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Walker IS, Dini S, Aitken EH, Damelang T, Hasang W, Alemu A, Jensen ATR, Rambhatla JS, Opi DH, Duffy MF, Takashima E, Harawa V, Tsuboi T, Simpson JA, Mandala W, Taylor TE, Seydel KB, Chung AW, Rogerson SJ. A systems serology approach to identifying key antibody correlates of protection from cerebral malaria in Malawian children. BMC Med 2024; 22:388. [PMID: 39267089 PMCID: PMC11396342 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03604-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (PfEMP1) proteins are expressed on the surface of infected erythrocytes, mediating parasite sequestration in the vasculature. PfEMP1 is a major target of protective antibodies, but the features of the antibody response are poorly defined. METHODS In Malawian children with cerebral or uncomplicated malaria, we characterized the antibody response to 39 recombinant PfEMP1 Duffy binding like (DBL) domains or cysteine-rich interdomain regions (CIDRs) in detail, including measures of antibody classes, subclasses, and engagement with Fcγ receptors and complement. Using elastic net regularized logistic regression, we identified a combination of seven antibody targets and Fc features that best distinguished between children with cerebral and uncomplicated malaria. To confirm the role of the selected targets and Fc features, we measured antibody-dependent neutrophil and THP-1 cell phagocytosis of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and endothelial protein C (EPCR) co-binding infected erythrocytes. RESULTS The selected features distinguished between children with cerebral and uncomplicated malaria with 87% accuracy (median, 80-96% interquartile range) and included antibody to well-characterized DBLβ3 domains and a less well-characterized CIDRγ12 domain. The abilities of antibodies to engage C1q and FcγRIIIb, rather than levels of IgG, correlated with protection. In line with a role of FcγRIIIb binding antibodies to DBLβ3 domains, antibody-dependent neutrophil phagocytosis of ICAM-1 and EPCR co-binding IE was higher in uncomplicated malaria (15% median, 8-38% interquartile range) compared to cerebral malaria (7%, 30-15%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Antibodies associated with protection from cerebral malaria target a subset of PfEMP1 domains. The Fc features of protective antibody response include engagement of FcγRIIIb and C1q, and ability to induce antibody-dependent neutrophil phagocytosis of infected erythrocytes. Identifying the targets and Fc features of protective immunity could facilitate the development of PfEMP1-based therapeutics for cerebral malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isobel S Walker
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Saber Dini
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Elizabeth H Aitken
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Timon Damelang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Wina Hasang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Agersew Alemu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Anja T R Jensen
- Centre for Medical Parasitology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Janavi S Rambhatla
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - D Herbert Opi
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
- Burnet Institute, 85 Commercial Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
- Department of Immunology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael F Duffy
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Eizo Takashima
- Division of Malaria Research, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Visopo Harawa
- Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Programme, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Takafumi Tsuboi
- Division of Cell-Free Sciences, Proteo-Science Center, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Julie A Simpson
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Wilson Mandala
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Malawi University of Science and Technology, Thyolo, Malawi
| | - Terrie E Taylor
- Blantyre Malaria Project, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA
| | - Karl B Seydel
- Blantyre Malaria Project, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA
| | - Amy W Chung
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia
| | - Stephen J Rogerson
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia.
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia.
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Fogang B, Schoenhals M, Maloba FM, Biabi MF, Essangui E, Donkeu C, Cheteug G, Kapen M, Keumoe R, Kemleu S, Nsango S, Cornwall DH, Eboumbou C, Perraut R, Megnekou R, Lamb TJ, Ayong LS. Asymptomatic carriage of Plasmodium falciparum in children living in a hyperendemic area occurs independently of IgG responses but is associated with a balanced inflammatory cytokine ratio. Malar J 2024; 23:268. [PMID: 39232787 PMCID: PMC11375831 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-024-05086-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asymptomatic carriage of infected red blood cells (iRBCs) can be prevalent in communities regardless of transmission patterns and can occur with infection of different Plasmodium species. Clinical immunity dampens the inflammatory responses leading to disease symptoms in malaria. The aim of this study was to define the immunological correlates of asymptomatic carriage of Plasmodium falciparum in a highly exposed population. METHODS 142 asymptomatic Plasmodium-infected individuals greater than 2 years of age without fever (body temperature <37.5 ℃) were followed weekly for 10 weeks before being treated with artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT). Plasma levels of 38 cytokines were measured at baseline by Luminex and the quantity and growth inhibitory activities of circulating parasite-reactive antibodies measured. The Plasmodium antigen tested included P. falciparum merozoite extract (ME) and schizont extract (SE), and the recombinant proteins erythrocyte binding antigen 175 (EBA-175) and merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP-119). RESULTS Median levels of IgG against P. falciparum EBA-175 and MSP-119 at baseline were significantly higher in those older than 20 years of age compared with the younger age group and appeared to correlate with better parasite control. Amongst all participants there were no discernible changes in IgG levels over time. Parasite density was higher in the younger age group and associated with IL-10, TNF and MCP-1 levels. A balanced IL-10:TNF ratio was associated with asymptomatic malaria regardless of age, and balanced ratios of IL-10/TNF and IL-10/IFN-γ were the only significant correlate of maintenance of asymptomatic malaria over the course of the study in individuals 20 years of age and younger. CONCLUSION The above findings indicate that asymptomatic carriage of P. falciparum in children living in a hyperendemic area occurs independently of IgG but is associated with a balanced inflammatory cytokine ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balotin Fogang
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Department of Animal Biology and Physiology of the University of Yaoundé I, BP 812, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Matthieu Schoenhals
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Franklin M Maloba
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Marie Florence Biabi
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Douala, BP 24157, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Estelle Essangui
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Christiane Donkeu
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Department of Animal Biology and Physiology of the University of Yaoundé I, BP 812, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Glwadys Cheteug
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Buea, BP 63, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Marie Kapen
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Rodrigue Keumoe
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Sylvie Kemleu
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Sandrine Nsango
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, BP 2701, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Douglas H Cornwall
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah, 15 N Medical Drive, Salt Lake City, 84112, USA
| | - Carole Eboumbou
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, BP 2701, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Ronald Perraut
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Rosette Megnekou
- Department of Animal Biology and Physiology of the University of Yaoundé I, BP 812, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Tracey J Lamb
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah, 15 N Medical Drive, Salt Lake City, 84112, USA.
| | - Lawrence S Ayong
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaounde, Cameroon.
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Boyle MJ, Engwerda CR, Jagannathan P. The impact of Plasmodium-driven immunoregulatory networks on immunity to malaria. Nat Rev Immunol 2024; 24:637-653. [PMID: 38862638 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-024-01041-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Malaria, caused by infection with Plasmodium parasites, drives multiple regulatory responses across the immune landscape. These regulatory responses help to protect against inflammatory disease but may in some situations hamper the acquisition of adaptive immune responses that clear parasites. In addition, the regulatory responses that occur during Plasmodium infection may negatively affect malaria vaccine efficacy in the most at-risk populations. Here, we discuss the specific cellular mechanisms of immunoregulatory networks that develop during malaria, with a focus on knowledge gained from human studies and studies that involve the main malaria parasite to affect humans, Plasmodium falciparum. Leveraging this knowledge may lead to the development of new therapeutic approaches to increase protective immunity to malaria during infection or after vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle J Boyle
- Life Sciences Division, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
| | | | - Prasanna Jagannathan
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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Rosenkranz M, Nkumama IN, Ogwang R, Kraker S, Blickling M, Mwai K, Odera D, Tuju J, Fürle K, Frank R, Chepsat E, Kapulu MC, Study Team CS, Osier FH. Full-length MSP1 is a major target of protective immunity after controlled human malaria infection. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202301910. [PMID: 38803222 PMCID: PMC11106525 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202301910] [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: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1) is the most abundant protein on the surface of the invasive merozoite stages of Plasmodium falciparum and has long been considered a key target of protective immunity. We used samples from a single controlled human malaria challenge study to test whether the full-length version of MSP1 (MSP1FL) induced antibodies that mediated Fc-IgG functional activity in five independent assays. We found that anti-MSP1FL antibodies induced complement fixation via C1q, monocyte-mediated phagocytosis, neutrophil respiratory burst, and natural killer cell degranulation as well as IFNγ production. Activity in each of these assays was strongly associated with protection. The breadth of MSP1-specific Fc-mediated effector functions was more strongly associated with protection than the individual measures and closely mirrored what we have previously reported using the same assays against merozoites. Our findings suggest that MSP1FL is an important target of functional antibodies that contribute to a protective immune response against malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micha Rosenkranz
- https://ror.org/013czdx64 Centre of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Irene N Nkumama
- B Cell Immunology, German Cancer Research Centre, Heidelberg, Germany
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Rodney Ogwang
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Sara Kraker
- https://ror.org/013czdx64 Centre of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marie Blickling
- https://ror.org/013czdx64 Centre of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kennedy Mwai
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Division, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Dennis Odera
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - James Tuju
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Biotechnology and Biochemistry, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Kristin Fürle
- https://ror.org/013czdx64 Centre of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Roland Frank
- https://ror.org/013czdx64 Centre of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Emily Chepsat
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Melissa C Kapulu
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Chmi-Sika Study Team
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Faith Ha Osier
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- https://ror.org/041kmwe10 Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
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5
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Nkumama IN, Ogwang R, Odera D, Musasia F, Mwai K, Nyamako L, Murungi L, Tuju J, Fürle K, Rosenkranz M, Kimathi R, Njuguna P, Hamaluba M, Kapulu MC, Frank R, Osier FHA. Breadth of Fc-mediated effector function correlates with clinical immunity following human malaria challenge. Immunity 2024; 57:1215-1224.e6. [PMID: 38788711 PMCID: PMC7616646 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2024.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Malaria is a life-threatening disease of global health importance, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The growth inhibition assay (GIA) is routinely used to evaluate, prioritize, and quantify the efficacy of malaria blood-stage vaccine candidates but does not reliably predict either naturally acquired or vaccine-induced protection. Controlled human malaria challenge studies in semi-immune volunteers provide an unparalleled opportunity to robustly identify mechanistic correlates of protection. We leveraged this platform to undertake a head-to-head comparison of seven functional antibody assays that are relevant to immunity against the erythrocytic merozoite stage of Plasmodium falciparum. Fc-mediated effector functions were strongly associated with protection from clinical symptoms of malaria and exponential parasite multiplication, while the gold standard GIA was not. The breadth of Fc-mediated effector function discriminated clinical immunity following the challenge. These findings present a shift in the understanding of the mechanisms that underpin immunity to malaria and have important implications for vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene N Nkumama
- Centre of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany; Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute, Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya; European Vaccine Initiative, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rodney Ogwang
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute, Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Dennis Odera
- Centre of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany; Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute, Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Fauzia Musasia
- Centre of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kennedy Mwai
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute, Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya; Epidemiology and Biostatistics Division, School of Public Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Lydia Nyamako
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute, Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Linda Murungi
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute, Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - James Tuju
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute, Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya; Department of Biotechnology and Biochemistry, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Kristin Fürle
- Centre of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Micha Rosenkranz
- Centre of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rinter Kimathi
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute, Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Patricia Njuguna
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute, Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Mainga Hamaluba
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute, Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Melissa C Kapulu
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute, Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Roland Frank
- Centre of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Faith H A Osier
- Centre of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany; Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute, Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya; Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK.
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Miura K. How to Accelerate Early Stage of Malaria Vaccine Development by Optimizing Functional Assays. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:586. [PMID: 38932315 PMCID: PMC11209467 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12060586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
While two Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein-based pre-erythrocytic vaccines (PEV), RTS,S and R21, have been approved by the WHO, no blood-stage vaccine (BSV) or transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) has reached a phase 3 trial. One of the major obstacles that slows down malaria vaccine development is the shortage (or lack) of in vitro assays or animal models by which investigators can reasonably select the best vaccine formulation (e.g., antigen, adjuvant, or platform) and/or immunization strategy (e.g., interval of inoculation or route of immunization) before a human phase 2 trial. In the case of PEV, RTS,S and R21 have set a benchmark, and a new vaccine can be compared with (one of) the approved PEV directly in preclinical or early clinical studies. However, such an approach cannot be utilized for BSV or TBV development at this moment. The focus of this review is in vitro assays or in vivo models that can be used for P. falciparum BSV or TBV development, and I discuss important considerations during assay selection, standardization, qualification, validation, and interpretation of the assay results. Establishment of a robust assay/model with proper interpretation of the results is the one of key elements to accelerate future vaccine development.
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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 20852, USA
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Vianou B, Royo J, Dechavanne S, Bertin GI, Yessoufou A, Houze S, Faucher JF, Aubouy A. Monocytes, particularly nonclassical ones, lose their opsonic and nonopsonic phagocytosis capacity during pediatric cerebral malaria. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1358853. [PMID: 38835780 PMCID: PMC11148436 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1358853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Innate immunity is crucial to reducing parasite burden and contributing to survival in severe malaria. Monocytes are key actors in the innate response and, like macrophages, are plastic cells whose function and phenotype are regulated by the signals from the microenvironment. In the context of cerebral malaria (CM), monocyte response constitutes an important issue to understand. We previously demonstrated that decreased percentages of nonclassical monocytes were associated with death outcomes in CM children. In the current study, we postulated that monocyte phagocytosis function is impacted by the severity of malaria infection. Methods To study this hypothesis, we compared the opsonic and nonopsonic phagocytosis capacity of circulant monocytes from Beninese children with uncomplicated malaria (UM) and CM. For the CM group, samples were obtained at inclusion (D0) and 3 and 30 days after treatment (D3, D30). The phagocytosis capacity of monocytes and their subsets was characterized by flow cytometry and transcriptional profiling by studying genes known for their functional implication in infected-red blood cell (iRBC) elimination or immune escape. Results Our results confirm our hypothesis and highlight the higher capacity of nonclassical monocytes to phagocyte iRBC. We also confirm that a low number of nonclassical monocytes is associated with CM outcome when compared to UM, suggesting a mobilization of this subpopulation to the cerebral inflammatory site. Finally, our results suggest the implication of the inhibitory receptors LILRB1, LILRB2, and Tim3 in phagocytosis control. Discussion Taken together, these data provide a better understanding of the interplay between monocytes and malaria infection in the pathogenicity of CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bertin Vianou
- UMR152 PHARMADEV, IRD, UPS, Toulouse University, Toulouse, France
- Clinical Research Institute of Benin (IRCB), Abomey Calavi, Benin
| | - Jade Royo
- UMR152 PHARMADEV, IRD, UPS, Toulouse University, Toulouse, France
| | - Sébastien Dechavanne
- UMR261 Mère et Enfant en Milieu tropical (MERIT), Université Paris Cité, IRD, Paris, France
| | - Gwladys I Bertin
- UMR261 Mère et Enfant en Milieu tropical (MERIT), Université Paris Cité, IRD, Paris, France
| | - Akadiri Yessoufou
- Cell Biology and Physiology Laboratory, Abomey Calavi University (UAC), Abomey Calavi, Benin
| | - Sandrine Houze
- UMR261 Mère et Enfant en Milieu tropical (MERIT), Université Paris Cité, IRD, Paris, France
- French Malaria Reference Center, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), Bichat Hospital, Paris, France
- Parasitology Laboratory, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), Bichat-Claude-Bernard Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Jean-François Faucher
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Department, Limoges University Hospital, Limoges, France
- Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 1094 EpiMaCT, Inserm, Limoges University Hospital, Limoges University, Limoges, France
| | - Agnes Aubouy
- UMR152 PHARMADEV, IRD, UPS, Toulouse University, Toulouse, France
- Clinical Research Institute of Benin (IRCB), Abomey Calavi, Benin
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8
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Ogwang R, Murugu L, Nkumama IN, Nyamako L, Kai O, Mwai K, Murungi L, Idro R, Bejon P, Tuju J, Kinyanjui SM, Osier FHA. Bi-isotype immunoglobulins enhance antibody-mediated neutrophil activity against Plasmodium falciparum parasites. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1360220. [PMID: 38650925 PMCID: PMC11033408 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1360220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Malaria remains a major global health priority, and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are emerging as potential new tools to support efforts to control the disease. Recent data suggest that Fc-dependent mechanisms of immunity are important mediators of protection against the blood stages of the infection, but few studies have investigated this in the context of mAbs. We aimed to isolate mAbs agnostic to cognate antigens that target whole merozoites and simultaneously induce potent neutrophil activity measured by the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production using an antibody-dependent respiratory burst (ADRB) assay. Methods We used samples from semi-immune adults living in coastal Kenya to isolate mAbs that induce merozoite-specific ADRB activity. We then tested whether modifying the expressed IgG1 isotype to an IgG-IgA Fc region chimera would enhance the level of ADRB activity. Results We isolated a panel of nine mAbs with specificity to whole merozoites. mAb J31 induced ADRB activity in a dose-dependent fashion. Compared to IgG1, our modified antibody IgG-IgA bi-isotype induced higher ADRB activity across all concentrations tested. Further, we observed a negative hook effect at high IgG1 mAb concentrations (i.e., >200 µg/mL), but this was reversed by Fc modification. We identified MSP3.5 as the potential cognate target of mAb J31. Conclusions We demonstrate an approach to engineer mAbs with enhanced ADRB potency against blood-stage parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodney Ogwang
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lewis Murugu
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Biological Sciences, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Irene N. Nkumama
- Centre of Infectious Diseases, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lydia Nyamako
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Oscar Kai
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Kennedy Mwai
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Linda Murungi
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Richard Idro
- College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Philip Bejon
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - James Tuju
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Biological Sciences, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Sam Muchina Kinyanjui
- Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Faith H. A. Osier
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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9
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Constantinescu AE, Hughes DA, Bull CJ, Fleming K, Mitchell RE, Zheng J, Kar S, Timpson NJ, Amulic B, Vincent EE. A genome-wide association study of neutrophil count in individuals associated to an African continental ancestry group facilitates studies of malaria pathogenesis. Hum Genomics 2024; 18:26. [PMID: 38491524 PMCID: PMC10941368 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-024-00585-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 'Benign ethnic neutropenia' (BEN) is a heritable condition characterized by lower neutrophil counts, predominantly observed in individuals of African ancestry, and the genetic basis of BEN remains a subject of extensive research. In this study, we aimed to dissect the genetic architecture underlying neutrophil count variation through a linear-mixed model genome-wide association study (GWAS) in a population of African ancestry (N = 5976). Malaria caused by P. falciparum imposes a tremendous public health burden on people living in sub-Saharan Africa. Individuals living in malaria endemic regions often have a reduced circulating neutrophil count due to BEN, raising the possibility that reduced neutrophil counts modulate severity of malaria in susceptible populations. As a follow-up, we tested this hypothesis by conducting a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis of neutrophil counts on severe malaria (MalariaGEN, N = 17,056). RESULTS We carried out a GWAS of neutrophil count in individuals associated to an African continental ancestry group within UK Biobank, identifying 73 loci (r2 = 0.1) and 10 index SNPs (GCTA-COJO loci) associated with neutrophil count, including previously unknown rare loci regulating neutrophil count in a non-European population. BOLT-LMM was reliable when conducted in a non-European population, and additional covariates added to the model did not largely alter the results of the top loci or index SNPs. The two-sample bi-directional MR analysis between neutrophil count and severe malaria showed the greatest evidence for an effect between neutrophil count and severe anaemia, although the confidence intervals crossed the null. CONCLUSION Our GWAS of neutrophil count revealed unique loci present in individuals of African ancestry. We note that a small sample-size reduced our power to identify variants with low allele frequencies and/or low effect sizes in our GWAS. Our work highlights the need for conducting large-scale biobank studies in Africa and for further exploring the link between neutrophils and severe malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei-Emil Constantinescu
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- School of Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - David A Hughes
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Louisiana State University, Louisiana, USA
| | - Caroline J Bull
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- School of Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Health Data Research UK, London, UK
| | - Kathryn Fleming
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Ruth E Mitchell
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jie Zheng
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shanghai Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, National Health Commission, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai National Center for Translational Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Siddhartha Kar
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Early Cancer Insitute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nicholas J Timpson
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Borko Amulic
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Emma E Vincent
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
- School of Translational Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
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10
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Thomson-Luque R, Stabler TC, Fürle K, Silva JC, Daubenberger C. Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein 1 as asexual blood stage malaria vaccine candidate. Expert Rev Vaccines 2024; 23:160-173. [PMID: 38100310 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2023.2295430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Malaria represents a public health challenge in tropical and subtropical regions, and currently deployed control strategies are likely insufficient to drive elimination of malaria. Development and improvement of malaria vaccines might be key to reduce disease burden. Vaccines targeting asexual blood stages of the parasite have shown limited efficacy when studied in human trials conducted over the past decades. AREAS COVERED Vaccine candidates based on the merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1) were initially envisioned as one of the most promising approaches to provide immune protection against asexual blood-stage malaria. Successful immunization studies in monkey involved the use of the full-length MSP1 (MSP1FL) as vaccine construct. Vaccines using MSP1FL for immunization have the potential benefit of including numerous conserved B-cell and T-cell epitopes. This could result in improved parasite strain-transcending, protective immunity in the field. We review outcomes of clinical trials that utilized a variety of MSP1 constructs and formulations, including MSP1FL, either alone or in combination with other antigens, in both animal models and humans. EXPERT OPINION Novel approaches to analyze breadth and magnitude of effector functions of MSP1-targeting antibodies in volunteers undergoing experimental vaccination and controlled human malaria infection will help to define correlates of protective immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Thomson-Luque
- Centre for Infectious Diseases-Parasitology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Sumaya-Biotech GmbH & Co. KG Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas C Stabler
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- University of Basel Basel, Switzerland
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Kristin Fürle
- Centre for Infectious Diseases-Parasitology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Joana C Silva
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (GHTM IHMT, UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Claudia Daubenberger
- University of Basel Basel, Switzerland
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute Allschwil, Switzerland
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11
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Walker IS, Rogerson SJ. Pathogenicity and virulence of malaria: Sticky problems and tricky solutions. Virulence 2023; 14:2150456. [PMID: 36419237 PMCID: PMC9815252 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2022.2150456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections with Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax cause over 600,000 deaths each year, concentrated in Africa and in young children, but much of the world's population remain at risk of infection. In this article, we review the latest developments in the immunogenicity and pathogenesis of malaria, with a particular focus on P. falciparum, the leading malaria killer. Pathogenic factors include parasite-derived toxins and variant surface antigens on infected erythrocytes that mediate sequestration in the deep vasculature. Host response to parasite toxins and to variant antigens is an important determinant of disease severity. Understanding how parasites sequester, and how antibody to variant antigens could prevent sequestration, may lead to new approaches to treat and prevent disease. Difficulties in malaria diagnosis, drug resistance, and specific challenges of treating P. vivax pose challenges to malaria elimination, but vaccines and other preventive strategies may offer improved disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isobel S Walker
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne, The Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stephen J Rogerson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne, The Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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12
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Sekar P, Rajagopalan S, Shabani E, Kanjee U, Schureck MA, Arora G, Peterson ME, Traore B, Crompton PD, Duraisingh MT, Desai SA, Long EO. NK cell-induced damage to P.falciparum-infected erythrocytes requires ligand-specific recognition and releases parasitophorous vacuoles that are phagocytosed by monocytes in the presence of immune IgG. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011585. [PMID: 37939134 PMCID: PMC10659167 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011585] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells lyse virus-infected cells and transformed cells through polarized delivery of lytic effector molecules into target cells. We have shown that NK cells lyse Plasmodium falciparum-infected red blood cells (iRBC) via antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). A high frequency of adaptive NK cells, with elevated intrinsic ADCC activity, in people chronically exposed to malaria transmission is associated with reduced parasitemia and resistance to disease. How NK cells bind to iRBC and the outcome of iRBC lysis by NK cells has not been investigated. We applied gene ablation in inducible erythrocyte precursors and antibody-blocking experiments with iRBC to demonstrate a central role of CD58 and ICAM-4 as ligands for adhesion by NK cells via CD2 and integrin αMβ2, respectively. Adhesion was dependent on opsonization of iRBC by IgG. Live imaging and quantitative flow cytometry of NK-mediated ADCC toward iRBC revealed that damage to the iRBC plasma membrane preceded damage to P. falciparum within parasitophorous vacuoles (PV). PV were identified and tracked with a P.falciparum strain that expresses the PV membrane-associated protein EXP2 tagged with GFP. After NK-mediated ADCC, PV were either found inside iRBC ghosts or released intact and devoid of RBC plasma membrane. Electron microscopy images of ADCC cultures revealed tight NK-iRBC synapses and free vesicles similar in size to GFP+ PV isolated from iRBC lysates by cell sorting. The titer of IgG in plasma of malaria-exposed individuals that bound PV was two orders of magnitude higher than IgG that bound iRBC. This immune IgG stimulated efficient phagocytosis of PV by primary monocytes. The selective NK-mediated damage to iRBC, resulting in release of PV, and subsequent phagocytosis of PV by monocytes may combine for efficient killing and removal of intra-erythrocytic P.falciparum parasite. This mechanism may mitigate the inflammation and malaria symptoms during blood-stage P. falciparum infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Padmapriya Sekar
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Sumati Rajagopalan
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Estela Shabani
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Usheer Kanjee
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Marc A. Schureck
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Gunjan Arora
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Mary E. Peterson
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
- Malaria Infection Biology and Immunity Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Boubacar Traore
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Mali International Center for Excellence in Research, University of Sciences, Techniques, and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Peter D. Crompton
- Malaria Infection Biology and Immunity Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Manoj T. Duraisingh
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sanjay A. Desai
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Eric O. Long
- Molecular and Cellular Immunology Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
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13
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Cretin J, Adjemout M, Dieppois C, Gallardo F, Torres M, Merard Z, Sawadogo SA, Picard C, Rihet P, Paul P. A Non-Coding Fc Gamma Receptor Cis-Regulatory Variant within the 1q23 Gene Cluster Is Associated with Plasmodium falciparum Infection in Children Residing in Burkina Faso. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15711. [PMID: 37958695 PMCID: PMC10650193 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibodies play a crucial role in activating protective immunity against malaria by interacting with Fc-gamma receptors (FcγRs). Genetic variations in genes encoding FcγRs can affect immune cell responses to the parasite. In this study, our aim was to investigate whether non-coding variants that regulate FcγR expression could influence the prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum infection. Through bioinformatics approaches, we selected expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) for FCGR2A, FCGR2B, FCGR2C, FCGR3A, and FCGR3B genes encoding FcγRs (FCGR), in whole blood. We prioritized two regulatory variants, rs2099684 and rs1771575, located in open genomic regions. These variants were identified using RegVar, ImmuNexUT, and transcription factor annotations specific to immune cells. In addition to these, we genotyped the coding variants FCGR2A/rs1801274 and FCGR2B/rs1050501 in 234 individuals from a malaria-endemic area in Burkina Faso. We conducted age and family-based analyses to evaluate associations with the prevalence of malarial infection in both children and adults. The analysis revealed that the regulatory rs1771575-CC genotype was predicted to influence FCGR2B/FCGR2C/FCGR3A transcripts in immune cells and was the sole variant associated with a higher prevalence of malarial infection in children. In conclusion, this study identifies the rs1771575 cis-regulatory variant affecting several FcγRs in myeloid and neutrophil cells and associates it with the inter-individual capacity of children living in Burkina Faso to control malarial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules Cretin
- INSERM 1090, TAGC Theories and Approaches of Genomic Complexity, Campus de Luminy, Aix Marseille University, 13288 Marseille, France (M.A.); (C.D.); (F.G.); (M.T.)
- Institut MarMaRa, 13288 Marseille, France
| | - Mathieu Adjemout
- INSERM 1090, TAGC Theories and Approaches of Genomic Complexity, Campus de Luminy, Aix Marseille University, 13288 Marseille, France (M.A.); (C.D.); (F.G.); (M.T.)
- Institut MarMaRa, 13288 Marseille, France
| | - Christelle Dieppois
- INSERM 1090, TAGC Theories and Approaches of Genomic Complexity, Campus de Luminy, Aix Marseille University, 13288 Marseille, France (M.A.); (C.D.); (F.G.); (M.T.)
| | - Frederic Gallardo
- INSERM 1090, TAGC Theories and Approaches of Genomic Complexity, Campus de Luminy, Aix Marseille University, 13288 Marseille, France (M.A.); (C.D.); (F.G.); (M.T.)
| | - Magali Torres
- INSERM 1090, TAGC Theories and Approaches of Genomic Complexity, Campus de Luminy, Aix Marseille University, 13288 Marseille, France (M.A.); (C.D.); (F.G.); (M.T.)
| | - Zachary Merard
- ADES UMR, Aix Marseille University, 13288 Marseille, France (C.P.)
| | - Serge Aimé Sawadogo
- Unité de Formation en Sciences de la Santé (UFR/SDS), Université Joseph KI-ZERBO, Ouagadougou 03 BP 7021, Burkina Faso;
- Centre PrïmO-Nelson Mandela, 84 rue Sao Tomé et Principe, Ouagadougou 09 BP 706, Burkina Faso
| | - Christophe Picard
- ADES UMR, Aix Marseille University, 13288 Marseille, France (C.P.)
- Immunogenetics Laboratory, Etablissement Français du Sang PACA-Corse, 13001 Marseille, France
| | - Pascal Rihet
- INSERM 1090, TAGC Theories and Approaches of Genomic Complexity, Campus de Luminy, Aix Marseille University, 13288 Marseille, France (M.A.); (C.D.); (F.G.); (M.T.)
| | - Pascale Paul
- INSERM 1090, TAGC Theories and Approaches of Genomic Complexity, Campus de Luminy, Aix Marseille University, 13288 Marseille, France (M.A.); (C.D.); (F.G.); (M.T.)
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14
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Nziza N, Tran TM, DeRiso EA, Dolatshahi S, Herman JD, de Lacerda L, Junqueira C, Lieberman J, Ongoiba A, Doumbo S, Kayentao K, Traore B, Crompton PD, Alter G. Accumulation of Neutrophil Phagocytic Antibody Features Tracks With Naturally Acquired Immunity Against Malaria in Children. J Infect Dis 2023; 228:759-768. [PMID: 37150885 PMCID: PMC10503956 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have demonstrated the protective role of antibodies against malaria. Young children are known to be particularly vulnerable to malaria, pointing to the evolution of naturally acquired clinical immunity over time. However, whether changes in antibody functionality track with the acquisition of naturally acquired malaria immunity remains incompletely understood. METHODS Using systems serology, we characterized sporozoite- and merozoite-specific antibody profiles of uninfected Malian children before the malaria season who differed in their ability to control parasitemia and fever following Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) infection. We then assessed the contributions of individual traits to overall clinical outcomes, focusing on the immunodominant sporozoite CSP and merozoite AMA1 and MSP1 antigens. RESULTS Humoral immunity evolved with age, with an expansion of both magnitude and functional quality, particularly within blood-stage phagocytic antibody activity. Moreover, concerning clinical outcomes postinfection, protected children had higher antibody-dependent neutrophil activity along with higher levels of MSP1-specific IgG3 and IgA and CSP-specific IgG3 and IgG4 prior to the malaria season. CONCLUSIONS These data point to the natural evolution of functional humoral immunity to Pf with age and highlight particular antibody Fc-effector profiles associated with the control of malaria in children, providing clues for the design of next-generation vaccines or therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadege Nziza
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tuan M Tran
- Malaria Infection Biology and Immunity Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Elizabeth A DeRiso
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sepideh Dolatshahi
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonathan D Herman
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Luna de Lacerda
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Caroline Junqueira
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Judy Lieberman
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Aissata Ongoiba
- Malaria Research and Training Centre, Mali International Center of Excellence in Research, University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Safiatou Doumbo
- Malaria Research and Training Centre, Mali International Center of Excellence in Research, University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Kassoum Kayentao
- Malaria Research and Training Centre, Mali International Center of Excellence in Research, University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Boubacar Traore
- Malaria Research and Training Centre, Mali International Center of Excellence in Research, University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Peter D Crompton
- Malaria Infection Biology and Immunity Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Galit Alter
- Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Rosenkranz M, Fürle K, Hibbert J, Ulmer A, Ali A, Giese T, Blank A, Haefeli WE, Böhnlein E, Lanzer M, Thomson-Luque R. Multifunctional IgG/IgM antibodies and cellular cytotoxicity are elicited by the full-length MSP1 SumayaVac-1 malaria vaccine. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:112. [PMID: 37558673 PMCID: PMC10412566 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00701-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Radical control of malaria likely requires a vaccine that targets both the asymptomatic liver stages and the disease-causing blood stages of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. While substantial progress has been made towards liver stage vaccines, the development of a blood stage vaccine is lagging behind. We have recently conducted a first-in-human clinical trial to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of the recombinant, full-length merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1FL) formulated with GLA-SE as adjuvant. Here, we show that the vaccine, termed SumayaVac-1, elicited both a humoral and cellular immune response as well as a recall T cell memory. The induced IgG and IgM antibodies were able to stimulate various Fc-mediated effector mechanisms associated with protection against malaria, including phagocytosis, release of reactive oxygen species, production of IFN-γ as well as complement activation and fixation. The multifunctional activity of the humoral immune response remained for at least 6 months after vaccination and was comparable to that of naturally acquired anti-MSP1 antibodies from semi-immune adults from Kenya. We further present evidence of SumayaVac-1 eliciting a recallable cellular cytotoxicity by IFN-γ producing CD8+ T cells. Our study revitalizes MSP1FL as a relevant blood stage vaccine candidate and warrants further evaluation of SumayaVac-1 in a phase II efficacy trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micha Rosenkranz
- Center for Infectious Diseases-Parasitology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kristin Fürle
- Center for Infectious Diseases-Parasitology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Julia Hibbert
- Center for Infectious Diseases-Parasitology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anne Ulmer
- Center for Infectious Diseases-Parasitology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Arin Ali
- Center for Infectious Diseases-Parasitology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Giese
- Institute for Immunology, Heidelberg University Hospital and German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Antje Blank
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Walter E Haefeli
- Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Michael Lanzer
- Center for Infectious Diseases-Parasitology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Richard Thomson-Luque
- Center for Infectious Diseases-Parasitology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Sumaya-Biotech GmbH & Co. KG, Heidelberg, Germany.
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16
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Ofori EA, Garcia-Senosiain A, Naghizadeh M, Kana IH, Dziegiel MH, Adu B, Singh S, Theisen M. Human blood neutrophils generate ROS through FcγR-signaling to mediate protection against febrile P. falciparum malaria. Commun Biol 2023; 6:743. [PMID: 37463969 PMCID: PMC10354059 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05118-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Blood phagocytes, such as neutrophils and monocytes, generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) as a part of host defense response against infections. We investigated the mechanism of Fcγ-Receptor (FcγR) mediated ROS production in these cells to understand how they contribute to anti-malarial immunity. Plasmodium falciparum merozoites opsonized with naturally occurring IgG triggered both intracellular and extracellular ROS generation in blood phagocytes, with neutrophils being the main contributors. Using specific inhibitors, we show that both FcγRIIIB and FcγRIIA acted synergistically to induce ROS production in neutrophils, and that NADPH oxidase 2 and the PI3K intracellular signal transduction pathway were involved in this process. High levels of neutrophil ROS were also associated with protection against febrile malaria in two geographically diverse malaria endemic regions from Ghana and India, stressing the importance of the cooperation between anti-malarial IgG and neutrophils in triggering ROS-mediated parasite killing as a mechanism for naturally acquired immunity against malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebenezer Addo Ofori
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Asier Garcia-Senosiain
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mohammad Naghizadeh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ikhlaq Hussain Kana
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Morten Hanefeld Dziegiel
- Blood Bank KI 2034, Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bright Adu
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Subhash Singh
- ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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17
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Ty M, Sun S, Callaway PC, Rek J, Press KD, van der Ploeg K, Nideffer J, Hu Z, Klemm S, Greenleaf W, Donato M, Tukwasibwe S, Arinaitwe E, Nankya F, Musinguzi K, Andrew D, de la Parte L, Mori DM, Lewis SN, Takahashi S, Rodriguez-Barraquer I, Greenhouse B, Blish C, Utz PJ, Khatri P, Dorsey G, Kamya M, Boyle M, Feeney M, Ssewanyana I, Jagannathan P. Malaria-driven expansion of adaptive-like functional CD56-negative NK cells correlates with clinical immunity to malaria. Sci Transl Med 2023; 15:eadd9012. [PMID: 36696483 PMCID: PMC9976268 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.add9012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells likely play an important role in immunity to malaria, but the effect of repeated malaria on NK cell responses remains unclear. Here, we comprehensively profiled the NK cell response in a cohort of 264 Ugandan children. Repeated malaria exposure was associated with expansion of an atypical, CD56neg population of NK cells that differed transcriptionally, epigenetically, and phenotypically from CD56dim NK cells, including decreased expression of PLZF and the Fc receptor γ-chain, increased histone methylation, and increased protein expression of LAG-3, KIR, and LILRB1. CD56neg NK cells were highly functional and displayed greater antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity than CD56dim NK cells. Higher frequencies of CD56neg NK cells were associated with protection against symptomatic malaria and high parasite densities. After marked reductions in malaria transmission, frequencies of these cells rapidly declined, suggesting that continuous exposure to Plasmodium falciparum is required to maintain this modified, adaptive-like NK cell subset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen Ty
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Shenghuan Sun
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Perri C Callaway
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - John Rek
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - Jason Nideffer
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Zicheng Hu
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Sandy Klemm
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Michele Donato
- Institute for Immunity, Transplantation, and Infection, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Dean Andrew
- Queensland Institute for Medical Research, Queensland, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Saki Takahashi
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Bryan Greenhouse
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Catherine Blish
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - P J Utz
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Purvesh Khatri
- Institute for Immunity, Transplantation, and Infection, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Grant Dorsey
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Moses Kamya
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Michelle Boyle
- Queensland Institute for Medical Research, Queensland, Australia
| | - Margaret Feeney
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | - Prasanna Jagannathan
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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18
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Susceptibility to malaria in fulani, Bariba, Otamari and gando individuals living in sympatry in Benin: Role of opsonizing antibodies to Plasmodium falciparum merozoites. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13092. [PMID: 36711279 PMCID: PMC9879790 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Fulani in Africa are known to be less susceptible to Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) malaria. This study explored a potential involvement of antibody-mediated merozoite phagocytosis mechanism in this natural protection against malaria. Methods Before the start of the malaria transmission season (MTS) in Benin, the functionality of antibodies against Pf merozoites was determined by the opsonic phagocytosis (OP) assay in plasma samples from Fulani, Bariba, Otamari and Gando groups. These individuals were actively followed-up for malaria detection from the beginning to the end of MTS. Anti-GLURP Immunoglobulin G antibody quantification, malaria Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) and spleen palpation were performed before and after MTS. Results In Bariba, Otamari and Gando, but not in Fulani, plasma from adults promoted higher levels of OP than the children (P = 0.003; P = 0.012; P = 0.031 and P = 0.122). A high proportion of Fulani children had higher OP and anti-GLURP (P < 0.0001) antibody levels as compared to non-Fulani children; whereas this was not observed for Fulani adults (P = 0.223). High OP levels before MTS were significantly related to negative RDT after MTS (P = 0.011). Conclusion Our results highlight the ability of opsonizing antibodies to potentially enhance natural protection of young Fulani individuals against Pf malaria in Benin.
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19
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Ngulube P. Humoral Immune Responses to P. falciparum Circumsporozoite Protein (Pfcsp) Induced by the RTS, S Vaccine - Current Update. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:2147-2157. [PMID: 37077252 PMCID: PMC10106824 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s401247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria vaccines targeting the circumsporozoite protein (CSP) of the P. falciparum parasite have been overall relatively promising. RTS, S is a pre-erythrocytic recombinant protein-based malaria vaccine that targets CSP. RTS, S effectiveness shows some limited success regardless of its 58% efficacy for severe disease. P. falciparum circumsporozoite protein (Pfcsp) has stood to be the main candidate protein for most pre-erythrocytic stage vaccines. Studies on the structural and biophysical characteristics of antibodies specific to CSP (anti-CSP) are underway to achieve fine specificity with the CSP polymorphic regions. More recent studies have proposed the use of different kinds of monoclonal antibodies, the use of appropriate adjuvants, ideal vaccination dose and frequency, and improved targeting of particular epitopes for the robust production of functional antibodies and high complement-fixing activity as other potential methods for achieving long-lasting RTS, S. This review highlights recent findings regarding humoral immune responses to CSP elicited by RTS, S vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Ngulube
- Department of Biological Sciences, Academy of Medical Sciences, Malawi University of Science and Technology, Thyolo, Malawi
- Correspondence: Peter Ngulube, Email
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20
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Fall AKDJ, Kana IH, Dechavanne C, Garcia-Senosiain A, Guitard E, Milet J, Massougbodji A, Garcia A, Dugoujon JM, Migot-Nabias F, Theisen M, Courtin D. Naturally acquired antibodies from Beninese infants promote Plasmodium falciparum merozoite-phagocytosis by human blood leukocytes: implications for control of asymptomatic malaria infections. Malar J 2022; 21:356. [PMCID: PMC9707106 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-022-04361-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies are thought to play important roles in the protection against Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) malaria. A longitudinal cohort study performed in the Southern part of Benin, identified a group of infants who were able to control asymptomatic malaria infections (CAIG).
Methods
IgG antibodies against distinct merozoite antigens were quantified in plasma from Beninese infants. Functionality of these antibodies was assessed by the merozoite-phagocytosis assay using THP-1 cells and primary neutrophils as effector cells. Gm allotypes were determined by a serological method of haemagglutination inhibition.
Results
Purified IgG from infants in CAIG promoted higher levels of merozoite-phagocytosis than did IgG from children who were unable to control asymptomatic infections (Ologit multivariate regression model, Coef. = 0.06, 95% CI 0.02;0.10, P = 0.002). High level of merozoite-phagocytosis activity was significantly associated with high levels of IgG against AMA1 (Coef. = 1.76, 95% CI 0.39;3.14, P = 0.012) and GLURP-R2 (Coef. = 12.24, 95% CI 1.35;23.12, P = 0.028). Moreover, infants of the G3m5,6,10,11,13,14,24 phenotype showed higher merozoite-phagocytosis activity (Generalized linear model multivariate regression, Coef. = 7.46, 95% CI 0.31;14.61, P = 0.041) than those presenting other G3m phenotypes.
Conclusion
The results of the present study confirm the importance of antibodies to merozoite surface antigens in the control of asymptomatic malaria infection in Beninese infants. The study also demonstrated that G3m phenotypes impact the functional activity of IgG. This last point could have a considerable impact in the research of candidate vaccines against malaria parasites or other pathogens.
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21
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Mueller I, Vantaux A, Karl S, Laman M, Witkowski B, Pepey A, Vinit R, White M, Barry A, Beeson JG, Robinson LJ. Asia-Pacific ICEMR: Understanding Malaria Transmission to Accelerate Malaria Elimination in the Asia Pacific Region. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2022; 107:131-137. [PMID: 36228917 PMCID: PMC9662229 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.21-1336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Gaining an in-depth understanding of malaria transmission requires integrated, multifaceted research approaches. The Asia-Pacific International Center of Excellence in Malaria Research (ICEMR) is applying specifically developed molecular and immunological assays, in-depth entomological assessments, and advanced statistical and mathematical modeling approaches to a rich series of longitudinal cohort and cross-sectional studies in Papua New Guinea and Cambodia. This is revealing both the essential contribution of forest-based transmission and the particular challenges posed by Plasmodium vivax to malaria elimination in Cambodia. In Papua New Guinea, these studies document the complex host-vector-parasite interactions that are underlying both the stunning reductions in malaria burden from 2006 to 2014 and the significant resurgence in transmission in 2016 to 2018. Here we describe the novel analytical, surveillance, molecular, and immunological tools that are being applied in our ongoing Asia-Pacific ICEMR research program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivo Mueller
- Population Health & Immunity Division, Walter + Eliza Hall Institutes, Melbourne, Australia
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Stephan Karl
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
- PNG Institute of Medical Research, Madang, Papua New Guinea
| | - Moses Laman
- PNG Institute of Medical Research, Madang, Papua New Guinea
| | | | - Anais Pepey
- Institute Pasteur Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Rebecca Vinit
- PNG Institute of Medical Research, Madang, Papua New Guinea
| | | | - Alyssa Barry
- Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - James G. Beeson
- University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Leanne J. Robinson
- Population Health & Immunity Division, Walter + Eliza Hall Institutes, Melbourne, Australia
- PNG Institute of Medical Research, Madang, Papua New Guinea
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash University, Victoria, Australia
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22
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Adukpo S, Adedoja A, Esen M, Theisen M, Ntoumi F, Ojurongbe O. Humoral antimalaria immune response in Nigerian children exposed to helminth and malaria parasites. Front Immunol 2022; 13:979727. [PMID: 36159869 PMCID: PMC9494551 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.979727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Malaria and helminthic parasites are endemic in tropical countries, and co-infections might influence host-parasite interactions. In this community-based cross-sectional study, the effect that the presence of soil-transmitted helminths (STH) (Hookworm, Hymenolepis nana) and Schistosoma haematobium infections could have on the immunoglobulin (Ig) candidate protein of the malaria vaccine GMZ2 levels was evaluated. Methods Blood, stool, and urine samples were collected from 5-15-year-old children to diagnose P. falciparum (Pf), STH, and Schistosoma haematobium, respectively. Identification and quantification of the parasite load of STH and S. haematobium were achieved by light microscopy. A polymerase chain reaction was carried out to detect submicroscopic infections of P. falciparum. Plasma levels of GMZ2 specific IgG and its subclasses were quantified by ELISA. Results The median level of total IgG in individuals with co-infection with Pf/H. nana was significantly lower in the mono-infected group with Pf (p = 0.0121) or study participants without infection (p=0.0217). Similarly, the median level of IgG1 was statistically lower in Pf/H. nana group compared to Pf-group (p=0.0137). Equally, the Pf/H. nana infected individuals posted a lower level of IgG1 compared to Pf-group (p=0.0137) and IgG4 compared to the Pf-group (p=0.0144). Spearman rank correlation analyses indicated positive relationships between the densities of H. nana (ρ=0.25, p=0.015) and S. haematobium (ρ=0.36, p<0.0001). Conclusions Hookworm and H. nana infections are associated with reduced GMZ2 specific IgG levels. This study shows the possible manipulation of immune responses by helminths for their survival and transmission, which may have serious implications for vaccine development and deployment in helminth-endemic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selorme Adukpo
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Microbiology, School of Pharmacy, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ayodele Adedoja
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Osogbo, Nigeria
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Meral Esen
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Medical Parasitology at the Department of International Health, Immunology, and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Francine Ntoumi
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Infectious Disease Department, Fondation Congolaise pour la Recherche Médicale, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
| | - Olusola Ojurongbe
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Osogbo, Nigeria
- Centre for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Disease, Humboldt-Bayer Foundations Research Hub, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
- *Correspondence: Olusola Ojurongbe,
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23
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Feng G, Kurtovic L, Agius PA, Aitken EH, Sacarlal J, Wines BD, Hogarth PM, Rogerson SJ, Fowkes FJI, Dobaño C, Beeson JG. Induction, decay, and determinants of functional antibodies following vaccination with the RTS,S malaria vaccine in young children. BMC Med 2022; 20:289. [PMID: 36002841 PMCID: PMC9402280 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-022-02466-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND RTS,S is the first malaria vaccine recommended for implementation among young children at risk. However, vaccine efficacy is modest and short-lived. Antibodies play the major role in vaccine-induced immunity, but knowledge on the induction, decay, and determinants of antibody function is limited, especially among children. Antibodies that promote opsonic phagocytosis and other cellular functions appear to be important contributors to RTS,S immunity. METHODS We studied a phase IIb trial of RTS,S/AS02 conducted in young children in malaria-endemic regions of Mozambique. We evaluated the induction of antibodies targeting the circumsporozoite protein (CSP, vaccine antigen) that interact with Fcγ-receptors (FcRγs) and promote phagocytosis (neutrophils, monocytes, THP-1 cells), antibody-dependent respiratory burst (ADRB) by neutrophils, and natural killer (NK) cell activity, as well as the temporal kinetics of responses over 5 years of follow-up (ClinicalTrials.gov registry number NCT00197041). RESULTS RTS,S vaccination induced CSP-specific IgG with FcγRIIa and FcγRIII binding activity and promoted phagocytosis by neutrophils, THP-1 monocytes, and primary human monocytes, neutrophil ADRB activity, and NK cell activation. Responses were highly heterogenous among children, and the magnitude of neutrophil phagocytosis by antibodies was relatively modest, which may reflect modest vaccine efficacy. Induction of functional antibodies was lower among children with higher malaria exposure. Functional antibody magnitude and the functional activity of antibodies largely declined within a year post-vaccination, and decay were highest in the first 6 months, consistent with the decline in vaccine efficacy over that time. Decay rates varied for different antibody parameters and decay was slower for neutrophil phagocytosis. Biostatistical modelling suggested IgG1 and IgG3 contribute in promoting FcγR binding and phagocytosis, and IgG targeting the NANP-repeat and C-terminal regions CSP were similarly important for functional activities. CONCLUSIONS Results provide new insights to understand the modest and time-limited efficacy of RTS,S in children and the induction of antibody functional activities. Improving the induction and maintenance of antibodies that promote phagocytosis and cellular functions, and combating the negative effect of malaria exposure on vaccine responses are potential strategies for improving RTS,S efficacy and longevity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaoqian Feng
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Liriye Kurtovic
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Paul A Agius
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Elizabeth H Aitken
- Peter Doherty Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jahit Sacarlal
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique.,Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane (UEM), Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Bruce D Wines
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - P Mark Hogarth
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stephen J Rogerson
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Peter Doherty Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Freya J I Fowkes
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Carlota Dobaño
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça, Maputo, Mozambique.,ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - James G Beeson
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia. .,Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia. .,Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.
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24
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Babatunde KA, Adenuga OF. Neutrophils in malaria: A double-edged sword role. Front Immunol 2022; 13:922377. [PMID: 35967409 PMCID: PMC9367684 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.922377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neutrophils are the most abundant leukocytes in human peripheral blood. They form the first line of defense against invading foreign pathogens and might play a crucial role in malaria. According to World Health Organization (WHO), malaria is a globally significant disease caused by protozoan parasites from the Plasmodium genus, and it's responsible for 627,000 deaths in 2020. Neutrophils participate in the defense response against the malaria parasite via phagocytosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Neutrophils might also be involved in the pathogenesis of malaria by the release of toxic granules and the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Intriguingly, malaria parasites inhibit the anti-microbial function of neutrophils, thus making malaria patients more susceptible to secondary opportunistic Salmonella infections. In this review, we will provide a summary of the role of neutrophils during malaria infection, some contradicting mouse model neutrophil data and neutrophil-related mechanisms involved in malaria patients' susceptibility to bacterial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kehinde Adebayo Babatunde
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
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25
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Dassah S, Adu B, Tiendrebeogo RW, Singh SK, Arthur FKN, Sirima SB, Theisen M. GMZ2 Vaccine-Induced Antibody Responses, Naturally Acquired Immunity and the Incidence of Malaria in Burkinabe Children. Front Immunol 2022; 13:899223. [PMID: 35720297 PMCID: PMC9200992 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.899223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
GMZ2 is a malaria vaccine candidate evaluated in a phase 2b multi-centre trial. Here we assessed antibody responses and the association of naturally acquired immunity with incidence of malaria in one of the trial sites, Banfora in Burkina Faso. The analysis included 453 (GMZ2 = 230, rabies = 223) children aged 12-60 months old. Children were followed-up for clinical malaria episodes for 12 months after final vaccine administration. Antibody levels against GMZ2 and eleven non-GMZ2 antigens were measured on days 0 and 84 (one month after final vaccine dose). Vaccine efficacy (VE) differed by age group (interaction, (12-35 months compared to 36-60 months), p = 0.0615). During the twelve months of follow-up, VE was 1% (95% confidence interval [CI] -17%, 17%) and 23% ([CI] 3%, 40%) in the 12 - 35 and 36 - 60 months old children, respectively. In the GMZ2 group, day 84 anti-GMZ2 IgG levels were associated with reduced incidence of febrile malaria during the follow up periods of 1-6 months (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.87, 95%CI = (0.77, 0.98)) and 7-12 months (HR = 0.84, 95%CI = (0.71, 0.98)) in the 36-60 months old but not in 12-35 months old children. Multivariate analysis involving day 84 IgG levels to eleven non-vaccine antigens, identified MSP3-K1 and GLURP-R2 to be associated with reduced incidence of malaria during the 12 months of follow up. The inclusion of these antigens might improve GMZ2 vaccine efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvester Dassah
- Navrongo Health Research Centre, Navrongo, Ghana.,Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Bright Adu
- Department of Immunology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Régis W Tiendrebeogo
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology, and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Susheel K Singh
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology, and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Fareed K N Arthur
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Sodiomon B Sirima
- Groupe de Recherche Action en Senté (GRAS), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Michael Theisen
- Department for Congenital Disorders, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre for Medical Parasitology at Department of Immunology, and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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26
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Pollenus E, Gouwy M, Van den Steen PE. Neutrophils in malaria: the good, the bad or the ugly? Parasite Immunol 2022; 44:e12912. [PMID: 35175636 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Neutrophils are the most abundant circulating leukocytes in human peripheral blood. They are often the first cells to respond to an invading pathogen and might therefore play an important role in malaria. Malaria is a globally important disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, responsible for more than 400 000 deaths each year. Most of these deaths are caused by complications, including cerebral malaria, severe malarial anemia, placental malaria, renal injury, metabolic problems and malaria-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome. Neutrophils contribute in the immune defense against malaria, through clearance of parasites via phagocytosis, production of reactive oxygen species and release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). However, Plasmodium parasites diminish antibacterial functions of neutrophils, making patients more susceptible to other infections. Neutrophils might also be involved in the development of malaria complications, for example via the release of toxic granules and NETs. However, technical pitfalls in the determination of the roles of neutrophils have caused contradicting results. Further investigations need to consider these pitfalls, in order to elucidate the role of neutrophils in malaria complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Pollenus
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mieke Gouwy
- Laboratory of Molecular immunology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Philippe E Van den Steen
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute for Medical Research, KU Leuven, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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27
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Opi DH, Kurtovic L, Chan JA, Horton JL, Feng G, Beeson JG. Multi-functional antibody profiling for malaria vaccine development and evaluation. Expert Rev Vaccines 2021; 20:1257-1272. [PMID: 34530671 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2021.1981864] [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] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A vaccine would greatly accelerate current global efforts toward malaria elimination. While a partially efficacious vaccine has been achieved for Plasmodium falciparum, a major bottleneck in developing highly efficacious vaccines is a lack of reliable correlates of protection, and the limited application of assays that quantify functional immune responses to evaluate and down-select vaccine candidates in pre-clinical studies and clinical trials. AREAS COVERED In this review, we describe the important role of antibodies in immunity against malaria and detail the nature and functional activities of antibodies against the malaria-causing parasite. We highlight the growing understanding of antibody effector functions against malaria and in vitro assays to measure these functional antibody responses. We discuss the application of these assays to quantify antibody functions in vaccine development and evaluation. EXPERT OPINION It is becoming increasingly clear that multiple antibody effector functions are involved in immunity to malaria. Therefore, we propose that evaluating vaccine candidates needs to move beyond individual assays or measuring IgG magnitude alone. Instead, vaccine evaluation should incorporate the full breadth of antibody response types and harness a wider range of assays measuring functional antibody responses. We propose a 3-tier approach to implementing assays to inform vaccine evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Herbert Opi
- Life Sciences, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The Doherty Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Liriye Kurtovic
- Life Sciences, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jo-Anne Chan
- Life Sciences, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The Doherty Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jessica L Horton
- Life Sciences, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The Doherty Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Gaoqian Feng
- Life Sciences, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The Doherty Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - James G Beeson
- Life Sciences, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Medicine, The Doherty Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
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