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Qin QZ, Tang J, Wang CY, Xu ZQ, Tian M. Construction by artificial intelligence and immunovalidation of hypoallergenic mite allergen Der f 36 vaccine. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1325998. [PMID: 38601166 PMCID: PMC11004385 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1325998] [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: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The house dust mite (HDM) is widely recognized as the most prevalent allergen in allergic diseases. Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) has been successfully implemented in clinical treatment for HDM. Hypoallergenic B-cell epitope-based vaccine designed by artificial intelligence (AI) represents a significant progression of recombinant hypoallergenic allergen derivatives. Method The three-dimensional protein structure of Der f 36 was constructed using Alphafold2. AI-based tools were employed to predict B-cell epitopes, which were subsequently verified through IgE-reaction testing. Hypoallergenic Der f 36 was then synthesized, expressed, and purified. The reduced allergenicity was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), immunoblotting, and basophil activation test. T-cell response to hypoallergenic Der f 36 and Der f 36 was evaluated based on cytokine expression in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients. The immunogenicity was evaluated and compared through rabbit immunization with hypoallergenic Der f 36 and Der f 36, respectively. The inhibitory effect of the blocking IgG antibody on the specific IgE-binding activity and basophil activation of Der f 36 allergen was also examined. Results The final selected non-allergic B-cell epitopes were 25-48, 57-67, 107-112, 142-151, and 176-184. Hypoallergenic Der f 36 showed significant reduction in IgE-binding activity. The competitive inhibition of IgE-binding to Der f 36 was investigated using the hypoallergenic Der f 36, and only 20% inhibition could be achieved, which is greatly reduced when compared with inhibition by Der f 36 (98%). The hypoallergenic Der f 36 exhibited a low basophil-stimulating ratio similar to that of the negative control, and it could induce an increasing level of IFN-γ but not Th2 cytokines IL-5 and IL-13 in PBMCs. The vaccine-specific rabbit blocking IgG antibodies could inhibit the patients' IgE binding and basophil stimulation activity of Derf 36. Conclusion This study represents the first application of an AI strategy to facilitate the development of a B-cell epitope-based hypoallergenic Der f 36 vaccine, which may become a promising immunotherapy for HDM-allergic patients due to its reduced allergenicity and its high immunogenicity in inducing blocking of IgG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao-Zhi Qin
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Pediatric Department, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jian Tang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University and Jiangsu Cancer Hospital and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
| | - Cai-Yun Wang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Xu
- Research Division of Clinical Pharmacology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- National Vaccine Innovation Platform, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Man Tian
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Children’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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He R, Gu XB, Xie Y, Peng XR, Angel C, Yang GY. Transcriptome-based analysis of putative allergens of Chorioptes texanus. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:587. [PMID: 31842981 PMCID: PMC6916059 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3843-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mites of the genus Chorioptes are non-burrowing and cause mange in a wide range of domestic and wild animals including cattle, horses, sheep, goats, panda, moose, camelids, mydaus and alpacas. Molecular biology and host-parasite interactions of Chorioptes texanus are poorly understood, and only a few C. texanus genes and transcript sequences are available in public databases including the allergen genes. Methods Chorioptes texanus RNA was isolated from mites, and the transcriptome of C. texanus was analyzed using bioinformatics tools. Chorioptes texanus unigenes were compared with the allergen protein sequences from the mite allergen database website to predict the potential allergens. Chorioptes texanus putative allergen unigenes were compared with hydrolase genes by building a C. texanus hydrolase gene library with the best match of the homologous sequences. Three allergen genes were cloned and expressed, their recombinant proteins were purified and their allergenic activities were preliminarily investigated. Results Transcriptome sequencing (RNA-Seq) of C. texanus was analyzed and results demonstrated that 33,138 unigenes were assembled with an average length of 751 bp. A total of 15,130 unigenes were annotated and 5598 unigenes were enriched in 262 KEGG signaling pathways. We obtained 209 putative allergen genes and 34 putative allergen-hydrolase genes. Three recombinant allergen proteins were observed to induce different degrees of allergic reactions on rabbit skin. Conclusions The present transcriptome data provide a useful basis for understanding the host-parasite interaction and molecular biology of the C. texanus mite. The allergenic activities of recombinant Euroglyphus maynei 1-like (Eur m 1-like) protein, Dermatophagoides ptreronyssinus 1-like (Der p 1-like) protein and Dermatophagoides ptreronyssinus 7-like (Der p 7-like) protein were preliminarily investigated by intradermal skin test. Meanwhile, differences in eosinophil counts were observed in different injected sites of the skin. The identification of putative allergen genes and hydrolase genes offers opportunities for the development of new diagnostic, prevention and treatment methods.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran He
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Xiao-Bin Gu
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Yue Xie
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Xue-Rong Peng
- Department of Chemistry, College of Life and Basic Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Christiana Angel
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Sindh, 67210, Pakistan
| | - Guang-You Yang
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China.
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Huang H, Curin M, Banerjee S, Chen K, Garmatiuk T, Resch‐Marat Y, Carvalho‐Queiroz C, Blatt K, Gafvelin G, Grönlund H, Valent P, Campana R, Focke‐Tejkl M, Valenta R, Vrtala S. A hypoallergenic peptide mix containing T cell epitopes of the clinically relevant house dust mite allergens. Allergy 2019; 74:2461-2478. [PMID: 31228873 PMCID: PMC7078969 DOI: 10.1111/all.13956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Revised: 04/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Background In the house dust mite (HDM) Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Der p 1, 2, 5, 7, 21, and 23 have been identified as the most important allergens. The aim of this study was to define hypoallergenic peptides derived from the sequences of the six allergens and to use the peptides and the complete allergens to study antibody, T cell, and cytokine responses in sensitized and nonsensitized subjects. Methods IgE reactivity of HDM‐allergic and non‐HDM‐sensitized individuals to 15 HDM allergens was established using ImmunoCAP ISAC technology. Thirty‐three peptides covering the sequences of the six HDM allergens were synthesized. Allergens and peptides were tested for IgE and IgG reactivity by ELISA and ImmunoCAP, respectively. Allergenic activity was determined by basophil activation. CD4+ T cell and cytokine responses were determined in PBMC cultures by CFSE dilution and Luminex technology, respectively. Results House dust mite allergics showed IgE reactivity only to complete allergens, whereas 31 of the 33 peptides lacked relevant IgE reactivity and allergenic activity. IgG antibodies of HDM‐allergic and nonsensitized subjects were directed against peptide epitopes and higher allergen‐specific IgG levels were found in HDM allergics. PBMC from HDM‐allergics produced higher levels of IL‐5 whereas non‐HDM‐sensitized individuals mounted higher levels of IFN‐gamma, IL‐17, pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and IL‐10. Conclusion IgG antibodies in HDM‐allergic patients recognize peptide epitopes which are different from the epitopes recognized by IgE. This may explain why naturally occurring allergen‐specific IgG antibodies do not protect against IgE‐mediated allergic inflammation. A mix of hypoallergenic peptides containing T cell epitopes of the most important HDM allergens was identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huey‐Jy Huang
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Mirela Curin
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Srinita Banerjee
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Kuan‐Wei Chen
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Tetiana Garmatiuk
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Yvonne Resch‐Marat
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Claudia Carvalho‐Queiroz
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Therapeutic Immune Design Unit Karolinska Institutet Stockholm Sweden
| | - Katharina Blatt
- Division of Hematology&Hemostaseology, Department of Internal Medicine I Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Guro Gafvelin
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Therapeutic Immune Design Unit Karolinska Institutet Stockholm Sweden
| | - Hans Grönlund
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Therapeutic Immune Design Unit Karolinska Institutet Stockholm Sweden
| | - Peter Valent
- Division of Hematology&Hemostaseology, Department of Internal Medicine I Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Raffaela Campana
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Margarete Focke‐Tejkl
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Rudolf Valenta
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
- NRC Institute of Immunology FMBA of Russia Moscow Russia
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Laboratory for Immunopathology Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University Moscow Russia
| | - Susanne Vrtala
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
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Cross-reactivity of sIgE to mite and shrimp induced allergies in different age groups and clinical profiles of shrimp sIgE in vegetarians. Sci Rep 2019; 9:12548. [PMID: 31467382 PMCID: PMC6715687 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49068-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The sensitization to house dust mites (HDMs) and shrimps affects the development of hypersensitivity with an increase in age. Due to the cross-reactivity between shellfish and HDMs, HDMs were considered as the primary sensitizer for shellfish allergy. Thus, vegetarians might be sensitized to shrimp through the inadvertent inhalation of HDMs. Therefore, we assessed the prevalence of shrimp or mite allergy among different age groups and vegetarians. The serum specific-IgE (sIgE) level of HDMs and shrimp in 60 children/adolescence (un-adults), 30 adults, 30 elderly, and four vegetarian adults patients were measured. The sera with sIgE levels greater than 3.5 kUA/L were cross-reactivity examined. We found that HDMs induced higher sIgE than shrimp in un-adults. In contrast, shrimp-induced sIgE was higher in the adults and elderly patients. Moreover, adults were more frequently sensitized to shrimp and mite at the same time compared with the un-adult or elderly groups. The mite-Der p 10 not only displayed high cross-reactivity to the shrimp-Pen a 1 in all age groups and vegetarians but functioned as the major allergen to sensitize un-adults. Overall, the level of mite or shrimp sIgE is influenced by alterations in age, and vegetarians are at risk of shrimp sensitization via cross-reactivity between shrimp and mite.
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The different modes of binding of the dust mite allergens, Der f 7 and Der p 7, on a monoclonal antibody WH9 contribute to the differential reactivity. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2018; 51:478-484. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2016.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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IgE and T-cell responses to house dust mite allergen components. Mol Immunol 2018; 100:120-125. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2018.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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The effect of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus group 7 allergen (Der p 7) on dendritic cells and its role in T cell polarization. Immunobiology 2016; 221:1319-28. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2016.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Revised: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Abstract
As investigations into the innate immune responses that lead to allergic sensitization become better defined, there is a need to determine how allergens could interact with pattern recognition receptors that bind non-proteinaceous moieties. Many important allergens are not covalently bound to lipid or carbohydrate, but have structures belonging to lipid, glycan and glycolipid-binding families. These include ML-domain proteins, lipopolysaccharide-binding/cell permeability-increasing proteins, von Ebner gland lipocalins, salivary lipocalins/major urinary proteins, plant pathogenesis-related proteins PR-5 and -10, uteroglobins, non-specific lipid transfer proteins, large lipid transfer proteins and proteins with chitin and other carbohydrate-binding modules. The binding expected is overviewed with regard to importance of the allergens and their ability to elicit responses proposed from experimental models. The evidence compiled showing that allergens from the same source sensitize for different types of adaptive immune responses supports the concept that individual allergens within these sources have their own distinctive interactions with innate immunity.
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Weghofer M, Grote M, Resch Y, Casset A, Kneidinger M, Kopec J, Thomas WR, Fernández-Caldas E, Kabesch M, Ferrara R, Mari A, Purohit A, Pauli G, Horak F, Keller W, Valent P, Valenta R, Vrtala S. Identification of Der p 23, a peritrophin-like protein, as a new major Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus allergen associated with the peritrophic matrix of mite fecal pellets. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 190:3059-67. [PMID: 23460742 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1202288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The house dust mite (HDM) Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus is one of most important allergen sources and a major elicitor of allergic asthma. We screened a D. pteronyssinus expression cDNA library with IgE Abs from HDM allergic patients. A cDNA coding for a new major allergen was isolated, which showed sequence homology to peritrophins, which contain chitin-binding domains and are part of the peritrophic matrix lining the gut of arthropods. The mature Der p 23 allergen was expressed in Escherichia coli as an 8-kDa protein without its hydrophobic leader sequence and purified to homogeneity. It reacted with IgE Abs from 74% of D. pteronyssinus allergic patients (n = 347) at levels comparable to the two major HDM allergens, Der p 1 and Der p 2. Thus, Der p 23 represents a new major D. pteronyssinus allergen. Furthermore, rDer p 23 exhibited high allergenic activity as demonstrated by upregulation of CD203c expression on basophils from D. pteronyssinus allergic patients. Immunogold electron microscopy localized the allergen in the peritrophic matrix lining the midgut of D. pteronyssinus as well as on the surface of the fecal pellets. Thus, we identified a new major D. pteronyssinus allergen as peritrophin-like protein. The high allergenic activity of Der p 23 and its frequent recognition as respiratory allergen may be explained by the fact that it becomes airborne and respirable through its association with mite feces. Der p 23 may be an essential component for diagnosis and specific immunotherapy of HDM allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margit Weghofer
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
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Abstract
This overview describes the nature of the immune responses induced by the inhalation of allergens. There is a dichotomy in that B cells have multiple mechanisms that limit the amount of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibody production, whereas T-cell responses are large even in nonallergic subjects. With the possible exception of responses to cat allergen, however, T cells from nonallergic subjects have limited effector function of helping IgG antibody, and in house-dust mite allergy, this declines with age. Regulation by interleukin 10 (IL-10)-producing cells and CD25+ T-regulatory cells has been proposed, but critically, there is limited evidence for this, and many studies show the highest IL-10 production by cells from allergic subjects. Recent studies have shown the importance of nonlymphoid chemokines thymic stromal lymphopoietin and IL-27, so studying responses in situ is critical. Most sources of allergens have 1 or 2 dominant allergens, and for house-dust mite, it has been shown that people have a predictable responsiveness to high-, mid-and poor-IgE-binding proteins regardless of the total size of their response. This allergen hierarchy can be used to design improved allergen preparations and to investigate how antiallergen responses are regulated.
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Abstract
HDM allergy is associated with asthma, allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis. In many countries childhood asthma is predominantly found in HDM-allergic children with their probability of developing disease being proportional to their IgE antibody titers and the early development of Th2 responses. While the pathogenesis is complex and increasingly linked to infection the immunologically-based allergen immunotherapy and anti-IgE antibody therapy are highly beneficial. Immunotherapy could be a short-term treatment providing lifelong relief but the current regimens depend on repeated administration of allergen over years. Immunological investigations point to a contribution of responses outside the Th2 pathway and multiple potential but unproven control mechanisms. Over half of the IgE antibodies are directed to the group 1 and 2 allergens with most of remainder to the group 4, 5, 7 and 21 allergens. This hierarchy found in high and low responders provides a platform for introducing defined allergens into immunotherapy and defined reagents for investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne R Thomas
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia. wayne @ichr.uwa.edu.au
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Oseroff C, Sidney J, Tripple V, Grey H, Wood R, Broide DH, Greenbaum J, Kolla R, Peters B, Pomés A, Sette A. Analysis of T cell responses to the major allergens from German cockroach: epitope specificity and relationship to IgE production. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2012; 189:679-88. [PMID: 22706084 PMCID: PMC3392449 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1200694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Bla g allergens are major targets of IgE responses associated with cockroach allergies. However, little is known about corresponding T cell responses, despite their potential involvement in immunopathology and the clinical efficacy of specific immunotherapy. Bioinformatic predictions of the capacity of Bla g 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, and 7 peptides to bind HLA-DR, -DP, and -DQ molecules, and PBMC responses from 30 allergic donors, identified 25 T cell epitopes. Five immunodominant epitopes accounted for more than half of the response. Bla g 5, the most dominant allergen, accounted for 65% of the response, and Bla g 6 accounted for 20%. Bla g 5 induced both IL-5 and IFN-γ responses, whereas Bla g 6 induced mostly IL-5, and, conversely, Bla g 2 induced only IFN-γ. Thus, responses to allergens within a source are independently regulated, suggesting a critical role for the allergen itself, and not extraneous stimulation from other allergens or copresented immunomodulators. In comparing Ab with T cell responses for several donor/allergen combinations, we detected IgE titers in the absence of detectable T cell responses, suggesting that unlinked T cell-B cell help might support development of IgE responses. Finally, specific immunotherapy resulted in IL-5 down modulation, which was not associated with development of IFN-γ or IL-10 responses to any of the Bla g-derived peptides. In summary, the characteristics of T cell responses to Bla g allergens appear uncorrelated with IgE responses. Monitoring these responses may therefore yield important information relevant to understanding cockroach allergies and their treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Oseroff
- La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - John Sidney
- La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Victoria Tripple
- La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Howard Grey
- La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Robert Wood
- The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21201
| | | | - Jason Greenbaum
- La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Ravi Kolla
- La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Bjoern Peters
- La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Anna Pomés
- Indoor Biotechnologies, Inc., Charlottesville, VA, 22903
| | - Alessandro Sette
- La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037
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Chen KW, Blatt K, Thomas WR, Swoboda I, Valent P, Valenta R, Vrtala S. Hypoallergenic Der p 1/Der p 2 combination vaccines for immunotherapy of house dust mite allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2012; 130:435-43.e4. [PMID: 22789398 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2012.05.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2011] [Revised: 05/16/2012] [Accepted: 05/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than 50% of allergic patients have house dust mite (HDM) allergy. Group 1 and 2 allergens are the major HDM allergens. OBJECTIVE We sought to produce and perform preclinical characterization of a recombinant hypoallergenic combination vaccine for specific immunotherapy of HDM allergy. METHODS Synthetic genes coding for 2 hybrid proteins consisting of reassembled Der p 1 and Der p 2 fragments with (recombinant Der p 2 [rDer p 2]/1C) and without (rDer p 2/1S) cysteines were expressed in Escherichia coli and purified to homogeneity by means of affinity chromatography. Protein fold was determined by using circular dichroism analysis, allergenic activity was determined by testing IgE reactivity and using basophil activation assays, and the presence of T-cell epitopes was determined based on lymphoproliferation in allergic patients. Mice and rabbits were immunized to study the molecules' ability to induce an allergic response and whether they induce allergen-specific IgG capable of inhibiting allergic patients' IgE binding to the allergens, respectively. RESULTS rDer p 2/1C and rDer p 2/1S were expressed in large amounts in E coli as soluble and folded proteins. Because of the lack of disulfide bonds, rDer p 2/1S did not form aggregates and was obtained as a monomeric protein, whereas rDer p 2/1C did form aggregates. Both hypoallergens lacked relevant IgE reactivity and had reduced ability to induce allergic inflammation and allergic responses but induced similar T-cell proliferation as the wild-type allergens. Immunization with the hypoallergens (rDer p 2/1S > rDer p 2/1C) induced IgG antibodies in rabbits that inhibited the IgE reactivity of patients with HDM allergy to Der p 1 and Der p 2. CONCLUSION The preclinical characterization indicates that particularly rDer p 2/1S can be used as a safe hypoallergenic molecule for both tolerance and vaccination approaches to treat HDM allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuan-Wei Chen
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Casset A, Mari A, Purohit A, Resch Y, Weghofer M, Ferrara R, Thomas WR, Alessandri C, Chen KW, de Blay F, Valenta R, Vrtala S. Varying allergen composition and content affects the in vivo allergenic activity of commercial Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus extracts. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2012; 159:253-62. [PMID: 22722650 DOI: 10.1159/000337654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2011] [Accepted: 02/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diagnosis and immunotherapy of house-dust mite (HDM) allergy is still based on natural allergen extracts. The aim of this study was to analyze commercially available Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus extracts from different manufacturers regarding allergen composition and content and whether variations may affect their allergenic activity. METHODS Antibodies specific for several D. pteronyssinus allergens (Der p 1, 2, 5, 7, 10 and 21) were used to analyze extracts from 10 different manufacturers by immunoblotting. Sandwich ELISAs were used to quantify Der p 1 and Der p 2 in the extracts. Mite-allergic patients (n = 45) were skin-tested with the extracts and tested for immunoglobulin E (IgE) reactivity to a panel of 10 mite allergens (Der p 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10, 14, 20 and 21) by dot blot. RESULTS Only Der p 1 and Der p 2 were detected in all extracts but their concentrations and ratios showed high variability (Der p 1: 6.0-40.8 µg ml(-1); Der p 2: 1.7-45.0 µg ml(-1)). At least 1 out of 4 allergens (i.e. Der p 5, 7, 10 and 21) was not detected in 8 of the studied extracts. Mite-allergic subjects showed different IgE reactivity profiles to the individual mite allergens, the extracts showed different allergenic activity in skin-prick tests and false-negative results. CONCLUSIONS Commercially available D. pteronyssinus extracts lack important allergens, show great variability regarding allergen composition and content and some gave false-negative diagnostic test results in certain patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Casset
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Bordas-Le Floch V, Bussières L, Airouche S, Lautrette A, Bouley J, Berjont N, Horiot S, Huet A, Jain K, Lemoine P, Chabre H, Batard T, Mascarell L, Baron-Bodo V, Tourdot S, Nony E, Moingeon P. Expression and characterization of natural-like recombinant Der p 2 for sublingual immunotherapy. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2012; 158:157-67. [PMID: 22286395 DOI: 10.1159/000331143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2011] [Accepted: 07/25/2011] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recombinant allergens with a native conformation represent an alternative to natural extracts for immunotherapy and diagnostic purposes. METHODS We produced the Der p 2 mite allergen in Pichia pastoris and Escherichia coli. After purification by cation exchange chromatography, recombinant molecules were compared to their natural counterpart based upon structural (disulfide bonds, secondary structure, thermal stability) and immunological properties (antibody reactivity, basophil and T cell activation, tolerance induction in a murine sublingual immunotherapy model). RESULTS The Der p 2.0101 isoform was confirmed to be prevalent in Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus extracts. It was then produced as a secreted molecule in P. pastoris or refolded from E. coli inclusion bodies. The yeast-expressed rDer p 2 molecule exhibits a natural-like disulfide bridge distribution and secondary structure, whereas the E. coli-derived rDer p 2 presents some heterogeneity in cysteine bonds and a lower stability following thermal stress. The two recombinant as well as natural Der p 2 molecules exhibit comparable IgE recognition and activate basophil and CD4+ T cells. Sublingual immunotherapy of nDer p 2- sensitized mice using either one of the rDer p 2 molecules efficiently decreases airway hyperresponsiveness as well as Th2 responses. CONCLUSIONS Natural and recombinant Der p 2 molecules produced in P. pastoris and E. coli exhibit comparable immunological properties despite distinct structural features. Natural-like cysteine pairing is a critical parameter to identify stable, well-folded and homogenous proteins appropriate for immunotherapy and diagnostic purposes.
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Chou H, Tam MF, Lee SS, Tang RB, Lin TH, Tai HY, Chen YS, Shen HD. Asp159 is a critical core amino acid of an IgE-binding and cross-reactive epitope of a dust mite allergen Der f 7. Mol Immunol 2011; 48:2130-4. [PMID: 21820178 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2011.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2011] [Revised: 07/06/2011] [Accepted: 07/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Der f 7 and Der p 7 are important house dust mite allergens with known structure and suggested biological function recently. However, their IgE-binding determinants remain unknown. The purpose of this study is to identify the IgE-reactive epitopes of Der f 7 and the determinants of IgE-mediated cross-reactivity between Der f 7 and Der p 7. IgE-reactive determinants were identified by immunodot blot inhibition using synthetic overlapping peptides, allergen mutants, and a Der f 7 structural model. Our results showed that synthetic peptides with sequence (156)SILDP(160) on Der f 7 bind IgE in two of the 30 asthmatic serum samples tested. Recombinant Der f 7 I157A, L158A, or D159A mutants have reduced IgE-binding activity. Inhibition experiments confirmed Asp159 as a critical core residue for IgE-binding. Among Der p 7, Der f 7 and Der f 7 mutants with single substitution between residues 156 and 160, only the D159A mutant cannot inhibit significantly IgE-binding against Der p 7. Therefore, Asp159 contributes to IgE-mediated cross-reactivity between Der f 7 and Der p 7. The structural model constructed for Der f 7 suggests that the IgE-binding epitope forms a loop-like structure on the surface of the molecule. In conclusion, Asp 159 is a critical core residue of an IgE-binding and IgE-mediated cross-reactive epitope (156)SILDP(160) of Der f 7. Results obtained from this study provide more information on molecular and structural features related to allergenicity, underlying basis of IgE cross-reactivity between allergens, and in designing safer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Chou
- Department of Medical Research and Education, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Shih-Pai, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
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Thongdee D, Rabablert J, Muninnobpamas T, Wasuwat P, Pipatchaipaisan R, Tiewchareon S, Malainual N. T cell responses to der f2 mite allergens in Thai allergic patients. Health (London) 2011. [DOI: 10.4236/health.2011.37070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Woodfolk JA. Epitope-specific T-cell responses and allergic phenotypes: implications for T-cell peptide therapy. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2010; 2:309-18. [PMID: 20477080 DOI: 10.1586/1744666x.2.2.309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In the 1990s, elucidation of the primary amino acid sequence of several major allergens using molecular cloning techniques opened the door to T-cell epitope mapping studies. Such analyses underscored the complexity of the allergen-specific T-cell repertoire and the challenges to using allergen-derived peptides to identify epitope-specific differences associated with allergic and nonallergic responses. This review highlights important factors that may influence the nature of epitope-specific T-cell responses observed in vitro. These include the properties of the allergen, genetics of the host and selection of patients with defined allergic phenotypes based on serum antibody profiles and skin test reactivity. By taking these factors into account, T-cell epitope-specific differences associated with distinct allergic phenotypes can be identified. Observations at the T-cell epitope level undermine the Th1/Th2 paradigm as a model for the development of allergic versus nonallergic responses. Instead, they support the mounting data that point to a network of interactions between T helper cells and regulatory T cells, which controls the allergic response. The ability of peptides that localize to polypeptide chain 2 of the major cat allergen, Fel d 1, to preferentially induce interleukin-10 and interferon-gamma is discussed. Mechanisms whereby specific allergen-derived peptides may modify the T-cell repertoire and influence the immune outcome are also outlined. Further investigation of allergen-derived T-cell epitopes is warranted in order to optimize the design of peptide vaccines for the treatment of allergic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith A Woodfolk
- Asthma and Allergic Diseases Center, University of Virginia Health System, PO Box 801355, Charlottesville, VA 22908-1355, USA.
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Mueller GA, Edwards LL, Aloor JJ, Fessler MB, Glesner J, Pomés A, Chapman MD, London RE, Pedersen LC. The structure of the dust mite allergen Der p 7 reveals similarities to innate immune proteins. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2010; 125:909-917.e4. [PMID: 20226507 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2009.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2009] [Revised: 12/03/2009] [Accepted: 12/04/2009] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sensitization to house dust mite allergens is strongly correlated with asthma. Der p 7 elicits strong IgE antibody and T-cell responses in patients with mite allergy. However, the structure and biological function of this important allergen are unknown. Allergen function might contribute to allergenicity, as shown for the protease activity of group 1 mite allergens and the interaction with the innate immune system by group 2 mite allergens. OBJECTIVE We sought to determine the crystal structure of Der p 7 and to investigate its biological function. METHODS X-ray crystallography was used to determine the Der p 7 structure. Nuclear magnetic resonance analysis and biochemical assays were used to examine the binding of Der p 7 to predicted ligands. RESULTS Der p 7 has an elongated structure, with two 4-stranded antiparallel beta-sheets that wrap around a long C-terminal helix. The fold of Der p 7 is similar to that of LPS-binding protein (LBP), which interacts with Toll-like receptors after binding LPS and other bacterially derived lipid ligands. Nuclear magnetic resonance and biochemical assays indicate that Der p 7 does not bind LPS but binds with weak affinity to the bacterial lipopeptide polymyxin B in the predicted binding site of Der p 7. CONCLUSIONS Der p 7 binds a bacterially derived lipid product, a common feature of some allergens. The finding that the group 7, as well as the group 2, mite allergens are structurally similar to different proteins in the Toll-like receptor pathway further strengthens the connections between dust mites, innate immunity, and allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey A Mueller
- Laboratory of Structural Biology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
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20
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Weghofer M, Thomas WR, Kronqvist M, Mari A, Purohit A, Pauli G, Horak F, Grönlund H, van Hage M, Valenta R, Vrtala S. Variability of IgE reactivity profiles among European mite allergic patients. Eur J Clin Invest 2008; 38:959-65. [PMID: 19021722 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2362.2008.02048.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND House dust mites (HDM) Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus are a frequent indoor allergen source. Our aim was to determine the frequencies of IgE reactivity to purified HDM allergen molecules in mite allergic patients from different parts of Europe in order to establish an allergen panel for diagnosis of HDM allergy. MATERIALS AND METHODS Populations of D. pteronyssinus-allergic patients from Austria (n = 56), France (n = 55), Italy (n = 67) and Sweden (n = 65) and storage mite allergic patients from Sweden (n = 31) were analysed for IgE reactivity to eight purified natural (n) and recombinant (r) D. pteronyssinus allergens (nDer p 1, rDer p 2, nDer p 4, rDer p 5, rDer p 7, rDer p 8, rDer p 10 and rDer p 14) in RAST-based dot blot assays. RESULTS Using a combination of Der p 1 and Der p 2, at least 97% of the D. pteronyssinus-allergic patients could be diagnosed in each of the HDM allergic populations. However, more than 50% of the patients also reacted with other allergens and significant variabilities regarding the frequencies of IgE reactivity to individual allergen molecules were found. Patients with a predominant storage mite allergy showed none or only very weak IgE reactivity to purified D. pteronyssinus allergens. CONCLUSIONS Purified Der p 1 and Der p 2 are sufficient for the diagnosis of > or = 97% of D. pteronyssinus allergic patients in Europe, but other allergens may also play an important role for the diagnosis and treatment of HDM allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Weghofer
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology, Centre for Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
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21
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Weghofer M, Dall'Antonia Y, Grote M, Stöcklinger A, Kneidinger M, Balic N, Krauth MT, Fernández-Caldas E, Thomas WR, van Hage M, Vieths S, Spitzauer S, Horak F, Svergun DI, Konarev PV, Valent P, Thalhamer J, Keller W, Valenta R, Vrtala S. Characterization of Der p 21, a new important allergen derived from the gut of house dust mites. Allergy 2008; 63:758-67. [PMID: 18445190 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2008.01647.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The house dust mite (HDM) Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus is a major allergen source eliciting allergic asthma. The aim of the study was to identify new important HDM allergens associated with allergic asthma. METHODS A cDNA coding for a new mite allergen, designated Der p 21, was isolated using immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies from patients with allergic asthma out of a D. pteronyssinus expression cDNA library and expressed in Escherichia coli. RESULTS Circular dichroism analysis of the purified allergen showed that rDer p 21 (14 726 Da) is one of the few mite allergens with an alpha-helical secondary structure. The protein exhibited high thermal stability and refolding capacity, and, as determined by small angle X-ray scattering, formed a dimer consisting of two flat triangles. rDer p 21 bound high levels of patients' IgE antibodies and showed high allergenic activity in basophil activation experiments. Rabbit anti-Der p 21 IgG antibodies inhibited mite-allergic patients' IgE binding and allowed the ultrastructural localization of the allergen in the midgut (epithelium, lumen and faeces) of D. pteronyssinus by immunogold electron microscopy. Der p 21 revealed sequence homology with group 5 mite allergens, but IgE and IgG reactivity data and cross-inhibition studies identified it as a new mite allergen. CONCLUSIONS Der p 21 is a new important mite allergen which is liberated into the environment via faecal particles and hence may be associated with allergic asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Weghofer
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology, Center for Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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22
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The effects of dasatinib on IgE receptor-dependent activation and histamine release in human basophils. Blood 2008; 111:3097-107. [PMID: 18180381 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2007-08-104372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Dasatinib is a multitargeted drug that blocks several tyrosine kinases. Apart from its well-known antileukemic activity, the drug has attracted attention because of potential immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effects. We report that dasatinib at 1 microM completely blocks anti-IgE-induced histamine release in blood basophils in healthy donors, and allergen-induced release of histamine in sensitized individuals. In addition, dasatinib inhibited FcepsilonRI-mediated release of IL-4 and IgE-mediated up-regulation of CD13, CD63, CD164, and CD203c in basophils. The effects of dasatinib were dose-dependent (IC(50): 50-500 nM) and specific for FcepsilonRI activation in that the drug failed to inhibit C5a-induced or Ca-ionophore-induced histamine release. Interestingly, at lower concentrations, dasatinib even promoted FcepsilonRI-dependent histamine release in basophils in allergic subjects. In consecutive studies, dasatinib was found to interact with and block several FcepsilonRI downstream targets in basophils, including Btk. Correspondingly, FcepsilonRI-mediated histamine secretion in basophils was markedly reduced in Btk knockout mice and in a patient with Btk deficiency. However, the remaining "low-level" mediator secretion in Btk-deficient cells was fully blocked down again by 1 muM dasatinib. Together, these data suggest that dasatinib inhibits FcepsilonRI-mediated activation of basophils through multiple signaling molecules including Btk. Dasatinib may be an interesting agent for immunologic disorders involving Btk-dependent responses or/and FcepsilonRI activation of basophils.
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Thomas WR, Hales BJ. T and B cell responses to HDM allergens and antigens. Immunol Res 2007; 37:187-99. [PMID: 17873403 DOI: 10.1007/bf02697369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/1999] [Revised: 11/30/1999] [Accepted: 11/30/1999] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
House dust mites provide well-characterized proteins to study human responses to inhaled antigens. Even in the absence of allergy they induce a high frequency of T cell precursors. The healthy response manifests by T cell proliferation and Th1 cytokines with little antibody. Responses of allergic people include Th1 and Th2 cytokines and IgE, IgG1, and IgG4 antibodies. Regulatory cells limit effector responses in healthy people. About half the IgE and IgG antibodies bind the group 1 and 2 allergens and 30% bind the group 4, 5, and 7 allergens. Although HLA independent, the recognition of the group 1 allergen shows an immunodominant region and a T cell receptor bias. The major allergens are not produced in higher amounts than many of the poorly non-allergenic proteins. The non-allergenic mite ferritin antigen shows high T cell proliferative responses with mixed cytokine production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne R Thomas
- Centre for Child Health Research University of Western Australia, Telethon Institute for Child, Health Research, 100 Roberts Road, Subiaco, Western Australia, 6008, Australia.
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Nuttall TJ, Hill PB, Bensignor E, Willemse T. House dust and forage mite allergens and their role in human and canine atopic dermatitis. Vet Dermatol 2006; 17:223-35. [PMID: 16827665 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3164.2006.00532.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This article reviews the literature regarding the role of house dust and forage mite allergens in canine atopic dermatitis. The presence of immunoglobulin E (IgE) to these mites, especially to Dermatophagoides farinae, is common in both normal and atopic dogs. Exposure of dogs to the different mites is described both in the direct environment and in the coat of animals for house dust mites and in the food for forage mites. Allergens causing allergic disease in dogs seem to be different from those in humans. Dogs seem to react to high molecular weight allergens, compared to the low molecular weight group 1 and group 2 proteases that are commonly implicated in humans with atopic diseases. Despite numerous published studies dealing with this subject, a number of questions still need to be addressed to better understand the exact role of these mites in the pathogenesis of canine atopic dermatitis and to improve the quality of the allergens used in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J Nuttall
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Cazzola M, Polosa R. Anti-TNF-alpha and Th1 cytokine-directed therapies for the treatment of asthma. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2006; 6:43-50. [PMID: 16505611 DOI: 10.1097/01.all.0000199798.10047.74] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article examines recent work about the role of TNF-alpha and of selected Th1-related cytokines in asthma with particular emphasis on the therapeutic potential of blocking the biological activity of these mediators. RECENT FINDINGS Current research endeavours suggest that asthma pathogenesis is driven by a mixed Th1/Th2 immune response. The contribution of individual Th1-associated and Th2-associated effector mechanisms to this mixed response profile is highly heterogeneous and variations in response patterns seem to be associated with heterogeneity in clinical phenotypes. In particular, it is now acknowledged that allergen-specific Th1 responses appear to be responsible for the pathogenetic effects seen in patients suffering from the more severe chronic forms of the disease. This is important because usual treatments for asthma appear to have limited effects on the more chronic severe forms of the disease and there is a pressing need for the development of new treatment strategies. The failure of topical corticosteroids to reduce TNF-alpha and Th1-derived cytokines to a significant level in asthmatic airways may explain to a certain extent why these drugs appear to have limited effects in the more severe forms of asthma. SUMMARY It is likely that therapies blocking TNF-alpha and interfering with Th1-derived cytokines may be a considerable advance in the management of those asthma patients who are particularly resistant to typical treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Cazzola
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Unit of Pneumology and Allergology and Centre of Respiratory Clinical Pharmacology, Antonio Cardarelli Hospital, Napoli, Italy
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Cazzola M, Polosa R. Anti-TNF-α and Th1 cytokine-directed therapies for the treatment of asthma. Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2006. [DOI: 10.10.1097/01.all.0000199798.10047.74] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Weghofer M, Thomas WR, Pittner G, Horak F, Valenta R, Vrtala S. Comparison of purified Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus allergens and extract by two-dimensional immunoblotting and quantitative immunoglobulin E inhibitions. Clin Exp Allergy 2005; 35:1384-91. [PMID: 16238800 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2005.02345.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The allergens of the house dust mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Der p), one of the most important indoor allergen sources, occur as isoallergens that differ in their amino acid sequence. These variations may influence allergenic activity and thus may have impact on diagnostic tests and specific immunotherapy. OBJECTIVE We investigated whether single purified recombinant mite allergens contain the IgE epitopes of the natural Der p isoallergens. METHODS A panel of purified recombinant (rDer p 2, 5, 7, 8, 10 and 14) and two natural (nDer p 1 and 4) mite allergens were used to establish IgE reactivity profiles of Der p allergic patients and to inhibit IgE reactivity to two-dimensionally separated Der p isoallergens. In addition, we determined the percentage of Der p extract-specific IgE which could be preadsorbed with a mixture of purified mite allergens (nDer p 1, rDer p 2, 5, 7, 8 and 10) from sera of mite-allergic patients (n=18) in a non-denaturing RAST-based inhibition. RESULTS We demonstrate that single recombinant mite allergens inhibit IgE reactivity to the corresponding natural isoallergens. A mixture of purified mite allergens (nDer p 1, rDer p 2, 5, 7, 8 and 10) bound on an average 76% of Der p-specific IgE antibodies. CONCLUSION The studied recombinant and natural mite allergens contain a large portion of Der p-specific IgE and may be used for diagnostic tests and therapy of Der p allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Weghofer
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology, Center for Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Thomas WR, Hales BJ, Smith WA. Recombinant allergens for analysing T-cell responses. Methods 2004; 32:255-64. [PMID: 14962760 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2003.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2003] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
T-cell responses constitute a central element of allergic disease and a model for studying Th1 and Th2 cytokine pathways. Most studies to date have used extracts of allergens which contain variable quantities of different allergens and non-allergenic antigens. Recombinant allergens provide the tools for studying the responses to allergens in a reproducible and dose-dependent manner and the different T-cell responses of allergic and non-allergic subjects provide a method for verifying the responses and their relationship to allergic sensitisation. Most allergies show dominant responses to one or a few major allergens. These allergens have been described for the common allergies and have been produced as recombinant allergens. A particular problem for allergens is that many are mixtures of proteins from multi-gene families or are highly polymorphic. Information now exists so the sequence variation can be represented. Purified recombinant allergens produced by standard expression systems stimulate the expected T-cell responses from the peripheral blood of allergic and non-allergics to allergen extracts. Although stimulation with recombinant allergens which are not produced with a natural IgE binding activity can provide a measure of allergenicity, the altered tertiary structure can reduce Th2 responses. The sequence information now available provides the means to use PCR to produce cDNA for the production of recombinant allergens from readily available sources. The production of the highly reactive recombinant Der p 2 allergen of house dust mite from natural sources is described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne R Thomas
- Centre for Child Health Research, Telethon Institute for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, P.O. Box 855, West Perth, Western Australia 6872, Australia.
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Pittner G, Vrtala S, Thomas WR, Weghofer M, Kundi M, Horak F, Kraft D, Valenta R. Component-resolved diagnosis of house-dust mite allergy with purified natural and recombinant mite allergens. Clin Exp Allergy 2004; 34:597-603. [PMID: 15080813 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2004.1930.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mites belong to the most frequent and potent allergen sources. Immunotherapy with mite allergen extracts is frequently performed if allergen avoidance is not possible or successful. However, highly controversial results have been reported for mite-specific immunotherapy. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to develop diagnostic concepts that may contribute to an improved selection of patients for immunotherapy with Der p allergen extracts and that may be used for immunological monitoring of patients undergoing this treatment. METHODS The IgE reactivity profiles to Der p extract were determined in a Middle European mite-allergic population by IgE immunoblotting and by using a panel of seven purified natural or recombinant Der p allergens (nDer p 1, nDer p 4, rDer p 2, rDer p 5, rDer p 7, rDer p 8, rDer p 10). Furthermore, we investigated the sensitization and cross-reactivity to house-dust- and storage-mite allergen extracts by CAP FEIA measurements and by IgE competition studies. RESULTS More than 95% of the patients could be diagnosed with a combination of nDer p 1 and rDer p 2. With the methods used, we could discriminate mite-allergic patients who were mainly sensitized to the major Der p allergens (Der p 1, Der p 2) from patients with a broad sensitization profile, including highly cross-reactive allergens (e.g. Der p 10: tropomyosin) as well as reactivity to storage mites. CONCLUSIONS Diagnostic tests containing the major mite allergens (i.e. Der p 1, Der p 2) and highly cross-reactive mite allergens (e.g. Der p 10) may improve the diagnostic selection of patients for immunotherapy with Der p extracts. These tests may also be used for the immunological monitoring of patients undergoing immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Pittner
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology, Vienna General Hospital, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
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Valenta R, Ball T, Focke M, Linhart B, Mothes N, Niederberger V, Spitzauer S, Swoboda I, Vrtala S, Westritschnig K, Kraft D. Immunotherapy of allergic disease. Adv Immunol 2004; 82:105-53. [PMID: 14975256 DOI: 10.1016/s0065-2776(04)82003-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- R Valenta
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology, University of Vienna, Medical School, Austria
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Hamilton KA, Nisbet AJ, Lehane MJ, Taylor MA, Billingsley PF. A physiological and biochemical model for digestion in the ectoparasitic mite, Psoroptes ovis (Acari: Psoroptidae). Int J Parasitol 2003; 33:773-85. [PMID: 12865077 DOI: 10.1016/s0020-7519(03)00089-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Mites are an important group of arthropod pests affecting crops, animals and humans. Despite this, detailed physiological studies on these organisms remain sparse due largely to their small size. Unifying models are required to draw together the diverse information from studies on different groups and species. This paper describes a model for digestion in the parasitic mite, Psoroptes ovis, the causative agent of psoroptic mange or sheep scab disease. The limited information about this species is supplemented with data from other acarines, especially house dust mites and ticks. We review the range of enzymes and allergens found in mites and consider their possible roles in digestion in mites, generally and in particular, P. ovis. Histological studies, enzyme biochemistry and molecular biology and experimental evidence suggest that P. ovis utilises a digestive system reliant upon acid peptidases functioning in a largely intracellular environment. The actions of the digestive enzymes are supplemented by the involvement of bacteria as potential direct and indirect sources of nutrition. It is possible that some extra-corporeal digestion also takes place. The interaction of bacteria and digestive enzymes on the skin surface of the sheep may be responsible for the excessive pathological reactions evident in clinical sheep scab.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Hamilton
- Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Ave., Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, Scotland, UK
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Epton MJ, Hales BJ, Thompson PJ, Thomas WR. T cell cytokine responses to outer membrane proteins of Haemophilus influenzae and the house dust mite allergens Der p 1 in allergic and non-allergic subjects. Clin Exp Allergy 2002; 32:1589-95. [PMID: 12569979 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2222.2002.01523.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Haemophilus influenzae are ubiquitous colonizers of the nasopharynx, Little is known about the T cell cytokine responses to the antigens of these bacteria and whether or not the responses may interact with responses to aeroallergen. OBJECTIVE To measure the T cell cytokine responses to conserved outer membrane protein antigens of Haemophilus influenzae and to house dust mite allergen of subjects allergic to the house dust mite and of subjects without allergic sensitization. METHODS T cell responses were measured by in vitro proliferation and cytokine release from peripheral blood monocytes (PBMC). The allergen used was Der p 1 and outer membrane proteins were recombinant polypeptides representing the OMP6 and D15 antigens. RESULTS The PBMC of most subjects had proliferative responses to OMP6 and D15, which were highly correlated. The pattern of cytokine release was Th1 biased with high levels of IFN-gamma and usually little IL-5 or IL-13 although PBMC from a few subjects did release IL-5 independent of allergic status. IL-10 release was readily detected. There was no difference in the anti-OMP cytokine response of PBMC from subjects without any known allergy and the responses of PBMC from subjects who were highly allergic to house dust mite. The responses to the Der p 1 allergen showed the expected Th2 cytokine release. CONCLUSION The outer membrane protein antigens of the ubiquitous colonizing bacteria Haemophilus influenzae induce Th1 cytokine responses which are similar for PBMC from non-allergic individuals and subjects with a high degree of allergy to the perennial house dust mite allergen and strong Th2 responses to Der p 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Epton
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, TVW Telethon Institute for Child Health Research, West Perth, Western Australia
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Epton MJ, Smith W, Hales BJ, Hazell L, Thompson PJ, Thomas WR. Non-allergenic antigen in allergic sensitization: responses to the mite ferritin heavy chain antigen by allergic and non-allergic subjects. Clin Exp Allergy 2002; 32:1341-7. [PMID: 12220473 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2222.2002.01473.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of house dust mite proteins are non-allergenic. There is, however, no information on the type of immune responses produced to these proteins and if the responses are affected by allergic sensitization. OBJECTIVE To identify and produce a non-allergenic antigen of the house dust mite and compare antibody and T cell responses with the responses to allergens in sensitized and non-sensitized individuals. RESULTS Ferritin heavy chain was cloned from a cDNA library as a candidate non-allergen of the house dust mite. It bound IgG but not IgE in the sera of allergic and non-allergic subjects and induced high T cell proliferative responses that correlated highly with the responses to the major allergen Der p 2. The cytokine response to the non-allergen was characterized by the release of high levels of both Th1 and Th2 cytokines from the PBMC of both allergic and non-allergic subjects. In contrast, the response to Der p 2 showed the expected high level of Th2 cytokine release from the PBMC of allergic subjects, while the Th2 cytokine production from PBMC of non-allergic subjects was low and even lower than that induced by ferritin heavy chain. The levels of IFN-gamma release were similar for all groups. Der p 2 induced significantly more IL-10 than ferritin in the non-allergic group. CONCLUSION The T cell responses to a non-allergenic protein of the house dust mite were high and strongly correlated with the response to the major allergen. The non-allergenic protein induced high levels of Th1 and Th2 cytokine in both allergic and non-allergic subjects, while the allergen induced high levels of Th2 cytokine in allergic subjects and low levels in non-allergic subjects. The responses to the allergen were thus independently up- and down-regulated with no evidence of bystander regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Epton
- Centre for Child Health Research, University of Western Australia, TVW Telethon Institute for Child Health Research, Perth, Australia
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Woodfolk JA, Platts-Mills TA. Diversity of the human allergen-specific T cell repertoire associated with distinct skin test reactions: delayed-type hypersensitivity-associated major epitopes induce Th1- and Th2-dominated responses. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2001; 167:5412-9. [PMID: 11673560 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.167.9.5412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Distinct immune responses in humans to the Trichophyton rubrum Ag, Tri r 2, are associated with different patterns of T cell epitope recognition based on in vitro proliferation to peptides derived from this 29-kDa protein. Specifically, the amino-terminal immunodominant epitope, peptide 5 (P5), stimulates strong T cell proliferative responses in subjects with delayed (DTH), but not immediate (IH) hypersensitivity skin tests. Evidence of a role for cytokines or changes in epitope recognition over time was examined in responses to Trichophyton using primary PBMC cultures established from seven IH and seven DTH subjects. Responses stimulated by Tri r 2 were dominated by the Th1 cytokine IFN-gamma (IFN-gamma:IL-5 > or = 4:1) in five DTH subjects, even in the presence of Th2-dominated responses (IFN-gamma:IL-5 < or = 3:1) to a subset of major epitopes. Paradoxically, P5 induced IL-5 and IL-10 production in DTH, but not IH subjects (p = 0.003 (IL-5), p = 0.024 (IL-10)), with no significant difference in IFN-gamma levels between the two groups. In cultures from IH responders, no IL-5 was measurable after stimulation with P6 and P7 (as well as P5); this region of the molecule was shown previously to stimulate markedly reduced T cell proliferation in these individuals. Repeat proliferation assays confirmed no change in the pattern of peptide recognition after > or =20 mo in IH or DTH subjects. We conclude that T cell repertoires associated with distinct immune responses to Tri r 2 can be distinguished based on Th2 cytokine induction by DTH-associated major epitopes localizing to the amino-terminal region of the molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Woodfolk
- Asthma and Allergic Diseases Center, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
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