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Tetanus Toxin Fragment C: Structure, Drug Discovery Research and Production. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15060756. [PMID: 35745675 PMCID: PMC9227095 DOI: 10.3390/ph15060756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Tetanus toxoid (TTd) plays an important role in the pharmaceutical world, especially in vaccines. The toxoid is obtained after formaldehyde treatment of the tetanus toxin. In parallel, current emphasis in the drug discovery field is put on producing well-defined and safer drugs, explaining the interest in finding new alternative proteins. The tetanus toxin fragment C (TTFC) has been extensively studied both as a neuroprotective agent for central nervous system disorders owing to its neuronal properties and as a carrier protein in vaccines. Indeed, it is derived from a part of the tetanus toxin and, as such, retains its immunogenic properties without being toxic. Moreover, this fragment has been well characterized, and its entire structure is known. Here, we propose a systematic review of TTFC by providing information about its structural features, its properties and its methods of production. We also describe the large uses of TTFC in the field of drug discovery. TTFC can therefore be considered as an attractive alternative to TTd and remarkably offers a wide range of uses, including as a carrier, delivery vector, conjugate, booster, inducer, and neuroprotector.
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Ghotloo S, Golsaz-Shirazi F, Amiri MM, Jeddi-Tehrani M, Shokri F. Neutralization of tetanus toxin by a novel chimeric monoclonal antibody. Toxicon 2021; 201:27-36. [PMID: 34411590 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2021.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Tetanus is a life-threatening disease characterized by muscle spasm caused by neurotoxin of Clostridium tetani. Given the current passive immunotherapy of tetanus with human anti-toxin polyclonal antibodies (PAbs) and the limitations of such preparations, neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (MAbs), especially chimeric or human antibodies with reduced immunogenicity might be considered as an alternative source. METHODS A mouse-human chimeric MAb, designated c-1F2C2, was generated and its binding specificities to various recombinant fragments of tetanus toxin, generated in E. coli, were determined. In vivo toxin neutralizing activity of c-1F2C2 was evaluated and compared with that of a commercially available human anti-toxin PAb in a mouse model. The possible mechanisms of toxin neutralizing activity of c-1F2C2 were investigated by assessing its inhibitory effects on toxin receptors binding, including GT1b ganglioside receptor and those expressed on PC12 cells. RESULTS In vivo neutralizing assay showed that c-1F2C2 was able to protect mice against tetanus toxin with an estimated potency of 7.7 IU/mg comparing with 1.9 IU/mg of the commercial human anti-toxin PAb for 10 MLD toxin and 10 IU/mg versus 1.9 IU/mg of the PAb for 2.5 MLD toxin. c-1F2C2 recognized fragment C of the toxin, which is responsible for binding of the toxin to its receptor on neuronal cells. Accordingly, the chimeric MAb partially prevented the toxin from binding to its receptors on PC12 cells (37% inhibition). CONCLUSION The chimeric MAb c-1F2C2 displayed similar structural and functional characteristics compared to its murine counterpart and might be useful for passive immunotherapy of tetanus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Ghotloo
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Forough Golsaz-Shirazi
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Amiri
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmood Jeddi-Tehrani
- Monoclonal Antibody Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fazel Shokri
- Department of Immunology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Monoclonal Antibody Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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Wang Y, Wu C, Yu J, Lin S, Liu T, Zan L, Li N, Hong P, Wang X, Jia Z, Li J, Wang Y, Zhang M, Yuan X, Li C, Xu W, Zheng W, Wang X, Liao HX. Structural basis of tetanus toxin neutralization by native human monoclonal antibodies. Cell Rep 2021; 35:109070. [PMID: 33951441 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Four potent native human monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting distinct epitopes on tetanus toxin (TeNT) are isolated with neutralization potency ranging from approximately 17 mg to 6 mg each that are equivalent to 250 IU of human anti-TeNT immunoglobulin. TT0170 binds fragment B, and TT0069 and TT0155 bind fragment AB. mAb TT0067 binds fragment C and blocks the binding of TeNT to gangliosides. The co-crystal structure of TT0067 with fragment C of TeNT at a 2.0-Å resolution demonstrates that mAb TT0067 directly occupies the W pocket of one of the receptor binding sites on TeNT, resulting in blocking the binding of TeNT to ganglioside on the surface of host cells. This study reveals at the atomic level the mechanism of action by the TeNT neutralizing antibody. The key neutralization epitope on the fragment C of TeNT identified in our work provides the critical information for the development of fragment C of TeNT as a better and safer tetanus vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueming Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Trinomab Biotech Co., Ltd, Zhuhai 519040, China
| | - Changwen Wu
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jinfang Yu
- The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Protein Science, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Shujian Lin
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Tong Liu
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Institute of Biomedicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Lipeng Zan
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Institute of Biomedicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Nan Li
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Po Hong
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Trinomab Biotech Co., Ltd, Zhuhai 519040, China
| | | | - Jason Li
- Trinomab Biotech Co., Ltd, Zhuhai 519040, China
| | - Yao Wang
- Trinomab Biotech Co., Ltd, Zhuhai 519040, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaohui Yuan
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Trinomab Biotech Co., Ltd, Zhuhai 519040, China
| | - Chengming Li
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Trinomab Biotech Co., Ltd, Zhuhai 519040, China
| | - Wenwen Xu
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | | | - Xinquan Wang
- The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Protein Science, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| | - Hua-Xin Liao
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Trinomab Biotech Co., Ltd, Zhuhai 519040, China; Institute of Biomedicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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Liu FJ, Shi DY, Li ZY, Lu JS, Wang R, Pang XB, Yang ZX, Yu YZ. Evaluation of a recombinant tetanus toxin subunit vaccine. Toxicon 2020; 187:75-81. [PMID: 32889026 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Tetanus is an acute, fatal disease caused by exotoxin produced by Clostridium tetani. The current vaccine against tetanus is based on inactivated tetanus toxin (TeNT). To develop a recombinant TeNT vaccine suitable for replacement of full-length tetanus toxoid (TT) vaccine for use in humans, a recombinant non-tagged isoform of the Hc domain of the tetanus toxin (THc) was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified by sequential chromatography steps. The immunogenicity and protective effect of the THc antigen were explored and compared with those of TT in Balb/c mice. The THc-based subunit vaccine provided complete protection against TeNT challenge following a high dosage as a toxoid vaccine. While the anti-THc and neutralising antibody titres were higher for the THc-based vaccine than the TT vaccine because protective epitopes are located on the THc domain. Frequency- and dose-dependent immunoprotection were also observed in THc-immunised mice. Mice immunised with one injection of 1 μg or 4 μg THc antigen were completely protected against 102 or 103 50% mouse lethal dose (LD50) of TeNT, respectively. Furthermore, the THc protein was found to recognise and bind to ganglioside GT1b in a dose-dependent manner, and anti-THc sera antibodies also inhibited binding between THc and GT1b. Antigen on the form of recombinant non-tagged THc domain expressed in E. coli achieved strong immunoprotective potency, suggesting that it could be developed into a candidate subunit vaccine against tetanus as an alternative to the current TT vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Jia Liu
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, China; Pharmaceutical College, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475001, China
| | - Dan-Yang Shi
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, China
| | - Zhi-Ying Li
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, China; Pharmaceutical College, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475001, China
| | - Jian-Sheng Lu
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, China
| | - Rong Wang
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, China
| | - Xiao-Bin Pang
- Pharmaceutical College, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475001, China.
| | - Zhi-Xin Yang
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, China.
| | - Yun-Zhou Yu
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, China.
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Effectiveness of Fragment C Domain of Tetanus Toxin and Pramipexole in an Animal Model of Parkinson’s Disease. Neurotox Res 2019; 35:699-710. [DOI: 10.1007/s12640-018-9990-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2018] [Revised: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Netzahualcoyotzi C, Tapia R. Tetanus toxin C-fragment protects against excitotoxic spinal motoneuron degeneration in vivo. Sci Rep 2018; 8:16584. [PMID: 30410110 PMCID: PMC6224557 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-35027-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The tetanus toxin C-fragment is a non-toxic peptide that can be transported from peripheral axons into spinal motoneurons. In in vitro experiments it has been shown that this peptide activates signaling pathways associated with Trk receptors, leading to cellular survival. Because motoneuron degeneration is the main pathological hallmark in motoneuron diseases, and excitotoxicity is an important mechanism of neuronal death in this type of disorders, in this work we tested whether the tetanus toxin C-fragment is able to protect MN in the spinal cord in vivo. For this purpose, we administered the peptide to rats subjected to excitotoxic motoneuron degeneration induced by the chronic infusion of AMPA in the rat lumbar spinal cord, a well-established model developed in our laboratory. Because the intraspinal infusion of the fragment was only weakly effective, whereas the i.m. administration was remarkably neuroprotective, and because the i.m. injection of an inhibitor of Trk receptors diminished the protection, we conclude that such effects require a retrograde signaling from the neuromuscular junction to the spinal motoneurons. The protection after a simple peripheral route of administration of the fragment suggests a potential therapeutic use of this peptide to target spinal MNs exposed to excitotoxic conditions in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Citlalli Netzahualcoyotzi
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Ricardo Tapia
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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Molecular Recognition Force Spectroscopy for Probing Cell Targeted Nanoparticles In Vitro. Methods Mol Biol 2018. [PMID: 30374877 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-8894-5_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
In the development and design of cell targeted nanoparticle-based systems the density of targeting moieties plays a fundamental role in allowing maximal cell-specific interaction. Here, we describe the use of molecular recognition force spectroscopy as a valuable tool for the characterization and optimization of targeted nanoparticles toward attaining cell-specific interaction. By tailoring the density of targeting moieties at the nanoparticle surface, one can correlate the unbinding event probability between nanoparticles tethered to an atomic force microscopy tip and cells to the nanoparticle vectoring capacity. This novel approach allows for a rapid and cost-effective design of targeted nanomedicines reducing the need for long and tedious in vitro tests.
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Pereira Gomes C, Leiro V, Ferreira Lopes CD, Spencer AP, Pêgo AP. Fine tuning neuronal targeting of nanoparticles by adjusting the ligand grafting density and combining PEG spacers of different length. Acta Biomater 2018; 78:247-259. [PMID: 30092376 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2018.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Revised: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) has been extensively used to coat the surface of nanocarriers to improve their physicochemical properties and allow the grafting of targeting moieties. Still, to date there is no common agreement on the ideal PEG coverage-density or length to be used for optimum vector performance. In this study, we aimed to investigate the impact of both PEG density and length on the vectoring capacity of neuron-targeted gene-carrying trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles. The non-toxic fragment from the tetanus toxin (HC) was coupled to a 5 kDa heterobifunctional PEG (HC-PEG5k) reactive for the thiol groups inserted into the polymer backbone and grafted at different densities onto the nanoparticles. Internalization and transfection studies on neuronal versus non-neuronal cell lines allowed to determine the PEG density of 2 mol% of PEG chains per mol of primary amine groups as the one with superior biological performance. To enhance HC exposure and maximize cell-nanoparticle specific interaction, NPs containing different ratios of HC-PEG5k and 2 kDa methoxy-PEG at the same grafting density were produced. By intercalating HC-PEG5k with methoxy-PEG2k we attained the best performance in terms of internalization (higher payload delivery into cells) and transfection efficiency, using twice lower amount of HC. This outcome highlights the need for fine-tuning of PEG-modified nanoparticles towards the achievement of optimal targeting. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE The amount and exposure of targeting moieties at a nanoparticle surface are critical parameters regarding the targeting potential of nanosized delivery vectors. However, to date, few studies have considered fundamental aspects impacting the ligand-receptor pair interaction, such as the effect of spacer chain length, flexibility or conformation. By optimizing the PEG spacer density and chain length grafted into nanoparticles, we were able to establish the formulation that maximizes cell-nanoparticle specific interaction and has superior biological performance. Our work shows that the precise adjustment of the PEG coverage-density presents a significant impact on the selectivity and bioactivity of the developed formulation, emphasizing the need for the fine-tuning of PEG-modified nanoparticles for the successful development of the next-generation nanomedicines.
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Bayliss M, Donaldson MI, Nepogodiev SA, Pergolizzi G, Scott AE, Harmer NJ, Field RA, Prior JL. Structural characterisation of the capsular polysaccharide expressed by Burkholderia thailandensis strain E555:: wbiI (pKnock-KmR) and assessment of the significance of the 2-O-acetyl group in immune protection. Carbohydr Res 2017; 452:17-24. [PMID: 29024844 PMCID: PMC5697523 DOI: 10.1016/j.carres.2017.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Burkholderia pseudomallei and its close relative B. mallei are human pathogens that are classified as Tier 1 bio-threat agents. Both organisms have previously been shown to constitutively produce a capsular polysaccharide (CPS) that is both a virulence determinant and protective antigen. Extraction and purification of CPS for use as a potential vaccine candidate requires containment level 3 laboratories which is expensive and time-consuming. B. thailandensis strain E555 is closely related to B. pseudomallei and B. mallei, but is non-pathogenic to humans and based on immunological cross-reactivity has previously been shown to express a B. pseudomallei-like CPS. In this study, capsular polysaccharide isolated from an O-antigen deficient strain of B. thailandensis E555 was identified by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy as -3-)-2-O-acetyl-6-deoxy-β-d-manno-heptopyranose-(-1, and identical to that produced by B. pseudomallei. This was further substantiated by anti-CPS monoclonal antibody binding. In connection with the production of CPS fragments for use in glycoconjugate vaccines, we set out to assess the importance or otherwise of the CPS 2-OAc groups in immune protection. To this end conjugates of the native and de-O-acetylated CPS with the Hc fragment of tetanus toxin (TetHc) were used as vaccines in a mouse model of melioidosis. The level of protection provided by deacetylated CPS was significantly lower than that from native, acetylated CPS. In addition, sera from mice vaccinated with the deacetylated CPS conjugate did not recognise native CPS. This suggests that CPS extracted from B. thailandensis can be used as antigen and that the acetyl group is essential for protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Bayliss
- Chemical, Biological and Radiological Division, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 0JQ, UK.
| | - Matthew I Donaldson
- Department of Biological Chemistry, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Sergey A Nepogodiev
- Department of Biological Chemistry, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Giulia Pergolizzi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Andrew E Scott
- Chemical, Biological and Radiological Division, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 0JQ, UK
| | - Nicholas J Harmer
- Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Robert A Field
- Department of Biological Chemistry, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK.
| | - Joann L Prior
- Chemical, Biological and Radiological Division, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 0JQ, UK; University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK; London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppler Street, London, WC1 7HT, UK
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Gomes CP, Lopes CDF, Leitner M, Ebner A, Hinterdorfer P, Pêgo AP. Atomic Force Microscopy as a Tool to Assess the Specificity of Targeted Nanoparticles in Biological Models of High Complexity. Adv Healthc Mater 2017; 6. [PMID: 28752592 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201700597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Revised: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The ability to design nanoparticle delivery systems capable of selectively target their payloads to specific cell populations is still a major caveat in nanomedicine. One of the main hurdles is the fact that each nanoparticle formulation needs to be precisely tuned to match the specificities of the target cell and route of administration. In this work, molecular recognition force spectroscopy (MRFS) is presented as a tool to evaluate the specificity of neuron-targeted trimethyl chitosan nanoparticles to neuronal cell populations in biological samples of different complexity. The use of atomic force microscopy tips functionalized with targeted or non-targeted nanoparticles made it possible to assess the specific interaction of each formulation with determined cell surface receptors in a precise fashion. More importantly, the combination of MRFS with fluorescent microscopy allowed to probe the nanoparticles vectoring capacity in models of high complexity, such as primary mixed cultures, as well as specific subcellular regions in histological tissues. Overall, this work contributes for the establishment of MRFS as a powerful alternative technique to animal testing in vector design and opens new avenues for the development of advanced targeted nanomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla P. Gomes
- INEB – Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica i3S – Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde Rua Alfredo Allen 208 4200‐135 Porto Portugal
- Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto R. Dr. Roberto Frias 4200‐465 Porto Portugal
| | - Cátia D. F. Lopes
- INEB – Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica i3S – Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde Rua Alfredo Allen 208 4200‐135 Porto Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro 4200‐319 Porto Portugal
| | - Michael Leitner
- Institute of Biophysics Johannes Kepler University Gruberstraße 40 4020 Linz Austria
| | - Andreas Ebner
- Institute of Biophysics Johannes Kepler University Gruberstraße 40 4020 Linz Austria
| | - Peter Hinterdorfer
- Institute of Biophysics Johannes Kepler University Gruberstraße 40 4020 Linz Austria
| | - Ana P. Pêgo
- INEB – Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica i3S – Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde Rua Alfredo Allen 208 4200‐135 Porto Portugal
- Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto R. Dr. Roberto Frias 4200‐465 Porto Portugal
- ICBAS – Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar Universidade do Porto Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228 4050‐313 Porto Portugal
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Yang Y, Yu R, Yang X, Liu S, Fang T, Song X, Hou L, Yu C, Xu J, Fu L, Yi S, Chen W. Protection against Staphylococcus aureus and tetanus infections by a combined vaccine containing SasA and TeNT‑Hc in mice. Mol Med Rep 2017; 15:2369-2373. [PMID: 28259925 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.6227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In developing countries, trauma patients and neonates are vulnerable to Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Clostridium tetani infections. It has been suggested that a combined vaccine against the two infections may be a reliable and cost‑effective strategy. Previous studies have indicated that the S. aureus surface protein A (SasA) and the C fragment of tetanus neurotoxin (TeNT‑Hc) may be suitable candidates for a vaccine against S. aureus and tetanus infections, respectively. In the present study, mice were immunized with a combined vaccine containing SasA and TeNT‑Hc, which induced a robust immune response to both antigens, and mutual interference between SasA and TeNT‑Hc was not observed. In the S.aureus challenge model, the combined vaccine fully protected BALB/c mice against lethal intraperitoneal challenges with 3x109 colony‑forming units of a methicillin‑resistant S. aureus USA300 strain. In the TeNT challenge model, the combined vaccine conferred complete protection against a lethal dose of (2x103) xLD50 tetanus toxin. These results implied that SasA and TeNT‑Hc promising components for a combined vaccine against S. aureus and tetanus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilong Yang
- Laboratory of Vaccine and Antibody Engineering, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Fengtai, Beijing 100071, P.R. China
| | - Rui Yu
- Laboratory of Vaccine and Antibody Engineering, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Fengtai, Beijing 100071, P.R. China
| | - Xiuxu Yang
- Laboratory of Vaccine and Antibody Engineering, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Fengtai, Beijing 100071, P.R. China
| | - Shuling Liu
- Laboratory of Vaccine and Antibody Engineering, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Fengtai, Beijing 100071, P.R. China
| | - Ting Fang
- Laboratory of Vaccine and Antibody Engineering, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Fengtai, Beijing 100071, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohong Song
- Laboratory of Vaccine and Antibody Engineering, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Fengtai, Beijing 100071, P.R. China
| | - Lihua Hou
- Laboratory of Vaccine and Antibody Engineering, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Fengtai, Beijing 100071, P.R. China
| | - Changming Yu
- Laboratory of Vaccine and Antibody Engineering, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Fengtai, Beijing 100071, P.R. China
| | - Junjie Xu
- Laboratory of Vaccine and Antibody Engineering, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Fengtai, Beijing 100071, P.R. China
| | - Ling Fu
- Laboratory of Vaccine and Antibody Engineering, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Fengtai, Beijing 100071, P.R. China
| | - Shaoqiong Yi
- Laboratory of Vaccine and Antibody Engineering, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Fengtai, Beijing 100071, P.R. China
| | - Wei Chen
- Laboratory of Vaccine and Antibody Engineering, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Fengtai, Beijing 100071, P.R. China
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12
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Lopes CD, Oliveira H, Estevão I, Pires LR, Pêgo AP. In vivo targeted gene delivery to peripheral neurons mediated by neurotropic poly(ethylene imine)-based nanoparticles. Int J Nanomedicine 2016; 11:2675-83. [PMID: 27354797 PMCID: PMC4907712 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s104374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A major challenge in neuronal gene therapy is to achieve safe, efficient, and minimally invasive transgene delivery to neurons. In this study, we report the use of a nonviral neurotropic poly(ethylene imine)-based nanoparticle that is capable of mediating neuron-specific transfection upon a subcutaneous injection. Nanoparticles were targeted to peripheral neurons by using the nontoxic carboxylic fragment of tetanus toxin (HC), which, besides being neurotropic, is capable of being retrogradely transported from neuron terminals to the cell bodies. Nontargeted particles and naked plasmid DNA were used as control. Five days after treatment by subcutaneous injection in the footpad of Wistar rats, it was observed that 56% and 64% of L4 and L5 dorsal root ganglia neurons, respectively, were expressing the reporter protein. The delivery mediated by HC-functionalized nanoparticles spatially limited the transgene expression, in comparison with the controls. Histological examination revealed no significant adverse effects in the use of the proposed delivery system. These findings demonstrate the feasibility and safety of the developed neurotropic nanoparticles for the minimally invasive delivery of genes to the peripheral nervous system, opening new avenues for the application of gene therapy strategies in the treatment of peripheral neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cátia Df Lopes
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto (UPorto), Porto, Portugal; i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, NanoBiomaterials for Targeted Therapies Group, UPorto, Porto, Portugal; FMUP - Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Hugo Oliveira
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto (UPorto), Porto, Portugal
| | - Inês Estevão
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto (UPorto), Porto, Portugal
| | - Liliana Raquel Pires
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto (UPorto), Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Pêgo
- INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto (UPorto), Porto, Portugal; i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, NanoBiomaterials for Targeted Therapies Group, UPorto, Porto, Portugal; ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, UPorto, Porto, Portugal; FEUP - Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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13
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Scott AE, Christ WJ, George AJ, Stokes MGM, Lohman GJS, Guo Y, Jones M, Titball RW, Atkins TP, Campbell AS, Prior JL. Protection against Experimental Melioidosis with a Synthetic manno-Heptopyranose Hexasaccharide Glycoconjugate. Bioconjug Chem 2016; 27:1435-46. [PMID: 27124182 PMCID: PMC4911622 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.5b00525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
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Melioidosis is an emerging infectious
disease caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei and is associated with
high morbidity and mortality rates in endemic areas. Antibiotic treatment
is protracted and not always successful; even with appropriate therapy,
up to 40% of individuals presenting with melioidosis in Thailand succumb
to infection. In these circumstances, an effective vaccine has the
potential to have a dramatic impact on both the scale and the severity
of disease. Currently, no vaccines are licensed for human use. A leading
vaccine candidate is the capsular polysaccharide consisting of a homopolymer
of unbranched 1→3 linked 2-O-acetyl-6-deoxy-β-d-manno-heptopyranose. Here, we present the
chemical synthesis of this challenging antigen using a novel modular
disaccharide assembly approach. The resulting hexasaccharide was coupled
to the nontoxic Hc domain of tetanus toxin as a carrier
protein to promote recruitment of T-cell help and provide a scaffold
for antigen display. Mice immunized with the glycoconjugate developed
IgM and IgG responses capable of recognizing native capsule, and were
protected against infection with over 120 × LD50 of B. pseudomallei strain K96243. This is the first
report of the chemical synthesis of an immunologically relevant and
protective hexasaccharide fragment of the capsular polysaccharide
of B. pseudomallei and serves as the
rational starting point for the development of an effective licensed
vaccine for this emerging infectious disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew E Scott
- Defence Science and Technology Laboratory , Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JQ, United Kingdom
| | - William J Christ
- Corden Pharma International Inc. (formerly Ancora Pharmaceuticals Inc.) , Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 United States
| | - Alison J George
- Defence Science and Technology Laboratory , Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JQ, United Kingdom
| | - Margaret G M Stokes
- Defence Science and Technology Laboratory , Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JQ, United Kingdom
| | - Gregory J S Lohman
- Corden Pharma International Inc. (formerly Ancora Pharmaceuticals Inc.) , Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 United States
| | - Yuhong Guo
- Corden Pharma International Inc. (formerly Ancora Pharmaceuticals Inc.) , Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 United States
| | - Matthew Jones
- Corden Pharma International Inc. (formerly Ancora Pharmaceuticals Inc.) , Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 United States
| | - Richard W Titball
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter , Exeter, Devon EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy P Atkins
- Defence Science and Technology Laboratory , Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JQ, United Kingdom
| | - A Stewart Campbell
- Corden Pharma International Inc. (formerly Ancora Pharmaceuticals Inc.) , Woburn, Massachusetts 01801 United States
| | - Joann L Prior
- Defence Science and Technology Laboratory , Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP4 0JQ, United Kingdom
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14
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Rummel A. Two Feet on the Membrane: Uptake of Clostridial Neurotoxins. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2016; 406:1-37. [PMID: 27921176 DOI: 10.1007/82_2016_48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
The extraordinary potency of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNT) and tetanus neurotoxin (TeNT) is mediated by their high neurospecificity, targeting peripheral cholinergic motoneurons leading to flaccid and spastic paralysis, respectively, and successive respiratory failure. Complex polysialo gangliosides accumulate BoNT and TeNT on the plasma membrane. The ganglioside binding in BoNT/A, B, E, F, G, and TeNT occurs via a conserved ganglioside-binding pocket within the most carboxyl-terminal 25 kDa domain HCC, whereas BoNT/C, DC, and D display here two different ganglioside binding sites. This enrichment step facilitates subsequent binding of BoNT/A, B, DC, D, E, F, and G to the intraluminal domains of the synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2 (SV2) isoforms A-C and synaptotagmin-I/-II, respectively. Whereas an induced α-helical 20-mer Syt peptide binds via side chain interactions to the tip of the HCC domain of BoNT/B, DC and G, the preexisting, quadrilateral β-sheet helix of SV2C-LD4 binds the clinically most relevant serotype BoNT/A mainly through backbone-backbone interactions at the interface of HCC and HCN. In addition, the conserved, complex N559-glycan branch of SV2C establishes extensive interactions with BoNT/A resulting in delayed dissociation providing BoNT/A more time for endocytosis into synaptic vesicles. An analogous interaction occurs between SV2A/B and BoNT/E. Altogether, the nature of BoNT-SV2 recognition clearly differs from BoNT-Syt. Subsequently, the synaptic vesicle is recycled and the bound neurotoxin is endocytosed. Acidification of the vesicle lumen triggers membrane insertion of the translocation domain, pore formation, and finally translocation of the enzymatically active light chain into the neuronal cytosol to halt release of neurotransmitters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Rummel
- Institut Für Toxikologie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, 30623, Hannover, Germany.
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15
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Georgieva JV, Hoekstra D, Zuhorn IS. Smuggling Drugs into the Brain: An Overview of Ligands Targeting Transcytosis for Drug Delivery across the Blood-Brain Barrier. Pharmaceutics 2014; 6:557-83. [PMID: 25407801 PMCID: PMC4279133 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics6040557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2014] [Revised: 10/28/2014] [Accepted: 10/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier acts as a physical barrier that prevents free entry of blood-derived substances, including those intended for therapeutic applications. The development of molecular Trojan horses is a promising drug targeting technology that allows for non-invasive delivery of therapeutics into the brain. This concept relies on the application of natural or genetically engineered proteins or small peptides, capable of specifically ferrying a drug-payload that is either directly coupled or encapsulated in an appropriate nanocarrier, across the blood-brain barrier via receptor-mediated transcytosis. Specifically, in this process the nanocarrier-drug system ("Trojan horse complex") is transported transcellularly across the brain endothelium, from the blood to the brain interface, essentially trailed by a native receptor. Naturally, only certain properties would favor a receptor to serve as a transporter for nanocarriers, coated with appropriate ligands. Here we briefly discuss brain microvascular endothelial receptors that have been explored until now, highlighting molecular features that govern the efficiency of nanocarrier-mediated drug delivery into the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia V Georgieva
- Department of Cell Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Dick Hoekstra
- Department of Cell Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Inge S Zuhorn
- Department of Cell Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, A. Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands.
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16
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Gregory AE, Judy BM, Qazi O, Blumentritt CA, Brown KA, Shaw AM, Torres AG, Titball RW. A gold nanoparticle-linked glycoconjugate vaccine against Burkholderia mallei. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2014; 11:447-56. [PMID: 25194998 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2014.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Revised: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Burkholderia mallei are Gram-negative bacteria, responsible for the disease glanders. B. mallei has recently been classified as a Tier 1 agent owing to the fact that this bacterial species can be weaponised for aerosol release, has a high mortality rate and demonstrates multi-drug resistance. Furthermore, there is no licensed vaccine available against this pathogen. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) has previously been identified as playing an important role in generating host protection against Burkholderia infection. In this study, we present gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) functionalised with a glycoconjugate vaccine against glanders. AuNPs were covalently coupled with one of three different protein carriers (TetHc, Hcp1 and FliC) followed by conjugation to LPS purified from a non-virulent clonal relative, B. thailandensis. Glycoconjugated LPS generated significantly higher antibody titres compared with LPS alone. Further, they improved protection against a lethal inhalation challenge of B. mallei in the murine model of infection. FROM THE CLINICAL EDITOR Burkholderia mallei is associated with multi-drug resistance, high mortality and potentials for weaponization through aerosol inhalation. The authors of this study present gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) functionalized with a glycoconjugate vaccine against this Gram negative bacterium demonstrating promising results in a murine model even with the aerosolized form of B. Mallei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony E Gregory
- School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Devon, UK
| | - Barbara M Judy
- Department of Pathology, University of TX Medical Branch, Galveston, USA
| | - Omar Qazi
- Department of Chemistry, University of TX at Austin, Austin, USA
| | - Carla A Blumentritt
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, USA
| | - Katherine A Brown
- Department of Chemistry, University of TX at Austin, Austin, USA; Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Andrew M Shaw
- School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Devon, UK
| | - Alfredo G Torres
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, USA; Department of Pathology, University of TX Medical Branch, Galveston, USA.
| | - Richard W Titball
- School of Biosciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Devon, UK.
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17
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Protection against experimental melioidosis following immunisation with a lipopolysaccharide-protein conjugate. J Immunol Res 2014; 2014:392170. [PMID: 24892035 PMCID: PMC4033506 DOI: 10.1155/2014/392170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2013] [Revised: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 04/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Melioidosis is a severe infectious disease caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei. It is refractory to antibiotic treatment and there is currently no licensed vaccine. In this report we detail the construction and protective efficacy of a polysaccharide-protein conjugate composed of B. pseudomallei lipopolysaccharide and the Hc fragment of tetanus toxin. Immunisation of mice with the lipopolysaccharide-conjugate led to significantly reduced bacterial burdens in the spleen 48 hours after challenge and afforded significant protection against a lethal challenge with B. pseudomallei. The conjugate generated significantly higher levels of antigen-specific IgG1 and IgG2a than in lipopolysaccharide-immunised mice. Immunisation with the conjugate also demonstrated a bias towards Th1 type responses, evidenced by high levels of IgG2a. In contrast, immunisation with unconjugated lipopolysaccharide evoked almost no IgG2a demonstrating a bias towards Th2 type responses. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of this approach in the development of an efficacious and protective vaccine against melioidosis.
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18
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Radenovic L, Selakovic V, Olivan S, Calvo AC, Rando A, Janac B, Osta R. Neuroprotective efficiency of tetanus toxin C fragment in model of global cerebral ischemia in Mongolian gerbils. Brain Res Bull 2013; 101:37-44. [PMID: 24365489 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2013.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2013] [Revised: 11/07/2013] [Accepted: 11/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The tetanus toxin C (TTC) fragment capacity of being transported in a retrograde way through motoneurons and its nontoxic nature opens the door to a new promising therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, the TTC effect was tested for the first time in animal model of global cerebral ischemia induced by 10-min occlusion of both common carotid arteries. The aim was to evaluate the effect of TTC gene therapy treatment on the development and expression of global cerebral ischemia/reperfusion-induced oxidative stress and motor hyperactivity in Mongolian gerbils. Several oxidative stress and motor behavioral parameters were investigated between 2 h and 14 days after reperfusion. Neuroprotective efficiency of TTC was observed in the forebrain cortex, striatum, hippocampus, and cerebellum at the level of each examined oxidative stress parameter (nitric oxide level, superoxide production, superoxide dismutase activity, and index of lipid peroxidation). Additionally, TTC significantly decreased ischemia-induced motor hyperactivity based on tested parameters (locomotion, stereotypy, and rotations). As judged by biochemical as well as behavioral data, treatment with TTC for the first time showed neuroprotective efficiency by reduction of ischemia-induced oxidative stress and motor hyperactivity and can be a promising strategy for ischemia-induced neuronal damage treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidija Radenovic
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Serbia.
| | | | - Sara Olivan
- Laboratory of Genetics and Biochemistry, LAGENBIO, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ana Cristina Calvo
- Laboratory of Genetics and Biochemistry, LAGENBIO, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Amaya Rando
- Laboratory of Genetics and Biochemistry, LAGENBIO, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Branka Janac
- Institute for Biological Research, University of Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Rosario Osta
- Laboratory of Genetics and Biochemistry, LAGENBIO, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Zaragoza, Spain
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19
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Schellingerhout D, LeRoux LG, Hobbs BP, Bredow S. Impairment of retrograde neuronal transport in oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy demonstrated by molecular imaging. PLoS One 2012; 7:e45776. [PMID: 23029238 PMCID: PMC3447809 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0045776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2012] [Accepted: 08/23/2012] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The purpose of our study was to utilize a molecular imaging technology based on the retrograde axonal transport mechanism (neurography), to determine if oxaliplatin-induced neurotoxicity affects retrograde axonal transport in an animal model. MATERIALS AND METHODS Mice (n = 8/group) were injected with a cumulative dose of 30 mg/kg oxaliplatin (sufficient to induce neurotoxicity) or dextrose control injections. Intramuscular injections of Tetanus Toxin C-fragment (TTc) labeled with Alexa 790 fluorescent dye were done (15 ug/20 uL) in the left calf muscles, and in vivo fluorescent imaging performed (0-60 min) at baseline, and then weekly for 5 weeks, followed by 2-weekly imaging out to 9 weeks. Tissues were harvested for immunohistochemical analysis. RESULTS With sham treatment, TTc transport causes fluorescent signal intensity over the thoracic spine to increase from 0 to 60 minutes after injection. On average, fluorescence signal increased 722%+/-117% (Mean+/-SD) from 0 to 60 minutes. Oxaliplatin treated animals had comparable transport at baseline (787%+/-140%), but transport rapidly decreased through the course of the study, falling to 363%+/-88%, 269%+/-96%, 191%+/-58%, 121%+/-39%, 75%+/-21% with each successive week and stabilizing around 57% (+/-15%) at 7 weeks. Statistically significant divergence occurred at approximately 3 weeks (p≤0.05, linear mixed-effects regression model). Quantitative immuno-fluorescence histology with a constant cutoff threshold showed reduced TTc in the spinal cord at 7 weeks for treated animals versus controls (5.2 Arbitrary Units +/-0.52 vs 7.1 AU +/-1.38, p<0.0004, T-test). There was no significant difference in neural cell mass between the two groups as shown with NeuN staining (10.2+/-1.21 vs 10.5 AU +/-1.53, p>0.56, T-test). CONCLUSION We show-for the first time to our knowledge-that neurographic in vivo molecular imaging can demonstrate imaging changes in a model of oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy. Impaired retrograde neural transport is suggested to be an important part of the pathophysiology of oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawid Schellingerhout
- Department of Radiology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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20
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Calvo AC, Oliván S, Manzano R, Zaragoza P, Aguilera J, Osta R. Fragment C of tetanus toxin: new insights into its neuronal signaling pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2012; 13:6883-6901. [PMID: 22837670 PMCID: PMC3397502 DOI: 10.3390/ijms13066883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2012] [Revised: 05/08/2012] [Accepted: 05/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
When Clostridium tetani was discovered and identified as a Gram-positive anaerobic bacterium of the genus Clostridium, the possibility of turning its toxin into a valuable biological carrier to ameliorate neurodegenerative processes was inconceivable. However, the non-toxic carboxy-terminal fragment of the tetanus toxin heavy chain (fragment C) can be retrogradely transported to the central nervous system; therefore, fragment C has been used as a valuable biological carrier of neurotrophic factors to ameliorate neurodegenerative processes. More recently, the neuroprotective properties of fragment C have also been described in vitro and in vivo, involving the activation of Akt kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling cascades through neurotrophin tyrosine kinase (Trk) receptors. Although the precise mechanism of the molecular internalization of fragment C in neuronal cells remains unknown, fragment C could be internalized and translocated into the neuronal cytosol through a clathrin-mediated pathway dependent on proteins, such as dynamin and AP-2. In this review, the origins, molecular properties and possible signaling pathways of fragment C are reviewed to understand the biochemical characteristics of its intracellular and synaptic transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C. Calvo
- LAGENBIO (Laboratory of Genetics and Biochemistry), Faculty of Veterinary-I3A, Aragonese Institute of Health Sciences (IACS), University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; E-Mails: (A.C.C.); (S.O.); (R.M.); , (P.Z.)
| | - Sara Oliván
- LAGENBIO (Laboratory of Genetics and Biochemistry), Faculty of Veterinary-I3A, Aragonese Institute of Health Sciences (IACS), University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; E-Mails: (A.C.C.); (S.O.); (R.M.); , (P.Z.)
| | - Raquel Manzano
- LAGENBIO (Laboratory of Genetics and Biochemistry), Faculty of Veterinary-I3A, Aragonese Institute of Health Sciences (IACS), University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; E-Mails: (A.C.C.); (S.O.); (R.M.); , (P.Z.)
| | - Pilar Zaragoza
- LAGENBIO (Laboratory of Genetics and Biochemistry), Faculty of Veterinary-I3A, Aragonese Institute of Health Sciences (IACS), University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; E-Mails: (A.C.C.); (S.O.); (R.M.); , (P.Z.)
| | - José Aguilera
- Institute of Neurosciences, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Center of Biomedical Research Network in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNET), 08193, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain; E-Mail:
| | - Rosario Osta
- LAGENBIO (Laboratory of Genetics and Biochemistry), Faculty of Veterinary-I3A, Aragonese Institute of Health Sciences (IACS), University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain; E-Mails: (A.C.C.); (S.O.); (R.M.); , (P.Z.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +34-976-761621; Fax: +34-976-762949
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21
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Moreno N, Chevalier M, Ronzon F, Manin C, Dupuy M, Krell T, Rieu JP. Unbinding forces of single pertussis toxin-antibody complexes measured by atomic force spectroscopy correlate with their dissociation rates determined by surface plasmon resonance. J Mol Recognit 2012; 24:1105-14. [PMID: 22038817 DOI: 10.1002/jmr.1159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
An inactivated form of pertussis toxin (PTX) is the primary component of currently available acellular vaccines against Bordetella pertussis, the causative agent of whooping cough. The PTX analyzed here is purified at industrial scale and is subsequently inactivated using glutaraldehyde. The influence of this treatment on antibody recognition is of crucial importance and is analyzed in this study. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) experiments using PTX and its inactivated form (toxoid) with 10 different monoclonal antibodies were conducted. PTX was found to recognize the antibodies with an average affinity of 1.34 ± 0.50 nM, and chemical inactivation caused only a modest decrease in affinity by a factor of approximately 4.5. However, glutaraldehyde treatment had contrary effects on the kinetic association constant k(a) and the dissociation constant k(d) . A significant reduction in k(a) was observed, whereas the dissociation of the toxoid from the bound antibody occurred slower than PTX. These data indicate that the chemical inactivation of PTX not only reduces the velocity of antibody recognition but also stabilizes the interaction with antibodies as shown by a reduction in k(d) . The same interactions were also studied by dynamic force spectroscopy (DFS). Data reveal a correlation between the k(d) values determined by SPR and the mean unbinding force as measured by DFS. The unbinding forces of one complex were determined as a function of the loading rate to directly estimate the k(d) value. Several interactions were impossible to be analyzed using SPR because of ultratight binding. Using DFS, the unbinding forces of these interactions were determined, which in turn could be used to estimate k(d) values. The use of DFS as a technique to study ultratight binding is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadège Moreno
- Sanofi Pasteur, Bâtiment X3, 1541 avenue Marcel Mérieux, 69280, Marcy l'Etoile, France
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22
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A conformational change of C fragment of tetanus neurotoxin reduces its ganglioside-binding activity but does not destroy its immunogenicity. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2011; 18:1668-72. [PMID: 21813664 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.05244-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The C fragment of tetanus neurotoxin (TeNT-Hc) with different conformations was observed due to the four cysteine residues within it which could form different intramolecular disulfide bonds. In this study, we prepared and compared three types of monomeric TeNT-Hc with different conformational components: free sulfhydryls (50 kDa), bound sulfhydryls (44 kDa), and a mixture of the two conformational proteins (half 50 kDa and half 44 kDa). TeNT-Hc with bound sulfhydryls reduced its binding activity to ganglioside G(T1b) and neuronal PC-12 cells compared to what was seen for TeNT-Hc with free sulfhydryls. However, there was no significant difference among their immunogenicities in mice, including induction of antitetanus toxoid IgG titers, antibody types, and protective capacities against tetanus neurotoxin challenge. Our results showed that the conformational changes of TeNT-Hc resulting from disulfide bond formation reduced its ganglioside-binding activity but did not destroy its immunogenicity, and the protein still retained continuous B cell and T cell epitopes; that is, the presence of the ganglioside-binding site within TeNT-Hc may be not essential for the induction of a fully protective antitetanus response. TeNT-Hc with bound sulfhydryls may be developed into an ideal human vaccine with a lower potential for side effects.
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23
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Yu YZ, Gong ZW, Ma Y, Zhang SM, Zhu HQ, Wang WB, Du Y, Wang S, Yu WY, Sun ZW. Co-expression of tetanus toxin fragment C in Escherichia coli with thioredoxin and its evaluation as an effective subunit vaccine candidate. Vaccine 2011; 29:5978-85. [PMID: 21718736 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2011.06.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2011] [Revised: 05/02/2011] [Accepted: 06/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The receptor-binding domain of tetanus toxin (THc), which mediates the binding of the toxin to the nerve cells, is a candidate subunit vaccine against tetanus. In this study one synthetic gene encoding the THc was constructed and highly expressed in Escherichia coli by co-expression with thioredoxin (Trx). The purified THc-vaccinated mice were completely protected against an active toxin challenge in mouse models of disease and the potency of two doses of THc was comparable to that of three doses of toxoid vaccine. And a solid-phase assay showed that the anti-THc sera inhibited the binding of THc or toxoid to the ganglioside GT1b as the anti-tetanus toxoid sera. Furthermore, mice were vaccinated once or twice at four different dosages of THc and a dose-response was observed in both the antibody titer and protective efficacy with increasing dosage of THc and number of vaccinations. The data presented in the report showed that the recombinant THc expressed in E. coli is efficacious in protecting mice against challenge with tetanus toxin suggesting that the THc protein may be developed into a human subunit vaccine candidate designed for the prevention of tetanus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Zhou Yu
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, 20 Dongdajie Street, Fengtai District, Beijing 100071, PR China.
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24
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Oliveira H, Rangl M, Ebner A, Mayer B, Hinterdorfer P, Pêgo AP. Molecular recognition force spectroscopy: a new tool to tailor targeted nanoparticles. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2011; 7:1236-1241. [PMID: 21456083 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201002074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The density of targeting moieties in a nanoparticle-based gene-delivery system has been shown to play a fundamental role in its vectoring performance. Here, molecular recognition force spectroscopy is proposed as a novel screening tool to optimize the density of targeting moieties of functionalized nanoparticles towards attaining cell-specific interaction. By tailoring the nanoparticle formulation, the unbinding event probability between nanoparticles tethered to an atomic force microscopy tip and neuronal cells is directly correlated to the nanoparticle gene-vectoring capacity. Additionally, new insights into protein-receptor interaction are revealed. This novel approach opens new avenues in the field of nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Oliveira
- INEB-Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Divisão de Biomateriais, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre 823, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal
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25
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Moreno-Igoa M, Calvo AC, Penas C, Manzano R, Oliván S, Muñoz MJ, Mancuso R, Zaragoza P, Aguilera J, Navarro X, Osta Pinzolas R. Fragment C of tetanus toxin, more than a carrier. Novel perspectives in non-viral ALS gene therapy. J Mol Med (Berl) 2010; 88:297-308. [PMID: 19921501 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-009-0556-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2009] [Revised: 09/29/2009] [Accepted: 10/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The non-toxic carboxy-terminal fragment of tetanus toxin heavy chain (TTC) has been implicated in the activation of cascades responsible for trophic actions and neuroprotection by inhibition of apoptosis. Previous in vitro studies have described signalling pathways that underlie the administration of TTC to neurons. We investigated whether these properties were maintained in a mouse model of neurodegenerative disease. Naked DNA encoding for TTC was injected intramuscularly and neuromuscular function and clinical behaviour were monitored until endstage in the transgenic SOD1G93A mouse model that expresses a mutant variant of human superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1). Our results indicate that TTC treatment ameliorated the decline of hindlimb muscle innervation, significantly delayed the onset of symptoms and functional deficits, improved spinal motor neuron survival, and prolonged lifespan. Furthermore, we found that caspase-1 and caspase-3 proapoptotic genes were down-regulated in the spinal cord of treated mice. Western blot analysis showed that the active form of caspase-3 was also down-regulated after TTC treatment and survival signals, such as the significant phosphorylation of serine/threonine protein kinase Akt, were also detected. These results suggest that fragment C of tetanus toxin, TTC, provides a potential therapy for neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Moreno-Igoa
- LAGENBIO-I3A, Aragon's Institute of Health Sciences, University of Zaragoza, Miguel Servet 177, Zaragoza, Spain
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26
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Scott N, Qazi O, Wright MJ, Fairweather NF, Deonarain MP. Characterisation of a panel of anti-tetanus toxin single-chain Fvs reveals cooperative binding. Mol Immunol 2010; 47:1931-41. [PMID: 20413159 PMCID: PMC2874839 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2010.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2010] [Accepted: 02/21/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
An approach for enhancing antibody affinity is to engineer Chelating Recombinant Antibodies (CRAbs) which consist of two tandemly linked single-chain Fvs (scFvs) that bind to distinct non-overlapping epitopes on the antigen molecule leading to a synergistic decrease in KD. In order to develop this technology, the aim of this present study was to identify scFvs which can simultaneously bind to the tetanus toxin heavy chain C-terminal sub-domain (Hc), characterise their bio-physical properties and determine their functional efficacy. Over 50 antibodies specific for Hc were isolated from a human scFv phagemid library and found to bind specifically to the C-terminal sub-domain of Hc (HcC clones), the N-terminal sub-domain (HcN clones) or junctional epitopes on the whole Hc fragment only (HcJ clones). Fifteen clones were assayed in a pairwise competition binding study. The revealed, with few exceptions, that HcC clones were able to simultaneously bind to the toxin with HcN or HcJ clones. All other combinations competed for binding. Interestingly, we also observed cooperative binding with many non-competing scFv pairings which may impact upon the binding mechanism of CRAbs. We found that 14/15 clones neutralised toxin activity in a ganglioside binding assay and this effect was strongly related to affinity. This included clones that did not bind to the HcC sub-domain which is responsible for direct interaction with gangliosides on nerve cells. For 7 scFvs that underwent further characterisation we found broad variations in propensity for multimerisation, affinity and potency. The diverse array of clones characterised in this paper can be used to construct CRAbs and will prove useful in further characterisation of toxin biology and in measuring the effects of polyclonal antibody therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Scott
- Division of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
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27
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Celia C, Cosco D, Paolino D, Fresta M. Nanoparticulate devices for brain drug delivery. Med Res Rev 2010; 31:716-56. [DOI: 10.1002/med.20201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Chen C, Fu Z, Kim JJP, Barbieri JT, Baldwin MR. Gangliosides as high affinity receptors for tetanus neurotoxin. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:26569-77. [PMID: 19602728 PMCID: PMC2785345 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m109.027391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2009] [Revised: 06/19/2009] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Tetanus neurotoxin (TeNT) is an exotoxin produced by Clostridium tetani that causes paralytic death to hundreds of thousands of humans annually. TeNT cleaves vesicle-associated membrane protein-2, which inhibits neurotransmitter release in the central nervous system to elicit spastic paralysis, but the molecular basis for TeNT entry into neurons remains unclear. TeNT is a approximately 150-kDa protein that has AB structure-function properties; the A domain is a zinc metalloprotease, and the B domain encodes a translocation domain and C-terminal receptor-binding domain (HCR/T). Earlier studies showed that HCR/T bound gangliosides via two carbohydrate-binding sites, termed the lactose-binding site (the "W" pocket) and the sialic acid-binding site (the "R" pocket). Here we report that TeNT high affinity binding to neurons is mediated solely by gangliosides. Glycan array and solid phase binding analyses identified gangliosides that bound exclusively to either the W pocket or the R pocket of TeNT; GM1a bound to the W pocket, and GD3 bound to the R pocket. Using these gangliosides and mutated forms of HCR/T that lacked one or both carbohydrate-binding pocket, gangliosides binding to both of the W and R pockets were shown to be necessary for high affinity binding to neuronal and non-neuronal cells. The crystal structure of a ternary complex of HCR/T with sugar components of two gangliosides bound to the W and R supported the binding of gangliosides to both carbohydrate pockets. These data show that gangliosides are functional dual receptors for TeNT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- From the Departments of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics and
| | - Zhuji Fu
- Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226
| | - Jung-Ja P. Kim
- Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226
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29
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Chian RJ, Li J, Ay I, Celia SA, Kashi BB, Tamrazian E, Matthews JC, Bronson RT, Rossomando A, Pepinsky RB, Fishman PS, Brown RH, Francis JW. IGF-1:tetanus toxin fragment C fusion protein improves delivery of IGF-1 to spinal cord but fails to prolong survival of ALS mice. Brain Res 2009; 1287:1-19. [PMID: 19563785 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2009.06.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2009] [Accepted: 06/22/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
To improve delivery of human insulin-like growth factor-1 (hIGF-1) to brain and spinal cord, we generated a soluble IGF-1:tetanus toxin fragment C fusion protein (IGF-1:TTC) as a secreted product from insect cells. IGF-1:TTC exhibited IGF-1 and TTC activity in vitro; it increased levels of immunoreactive phosphoAkt in treated MCF-7 cells and bound to immobilized ganglioside GT1b. In mice, the fusion protein underwent retrograde transport by spinal cord motor neurons following intramuscular injection, and exhibited both TTC- and IGF-1 activity in the CNS following intrathecal infusion. Analogous to the case with TTC, intrathecal infusion of the fusion protein resulted in substantial levels of IGF-1:TTC in spinal cord tissue extracts. Tissue concentrations of hIGF-1 in lumbar spinal cords of mice infused with IGF-1:TTC were estimated to be approximately 500-fold higher than those in mice treated with unmodified recombinant hIGF-1 (rhIGF-1). Like rhIGF-1, infusion of IGF-1:TTC reduced levels of IGF-1 receptor immunoreactivity in the same extracts. Despite raising levels of exogenous hIGF-1 in spinal cord, intramuscular- or intrathecal administration of IGF-1:TTC had no significant effect on disease progression or survival of high-expressing SOD1(G93A) transgenic mice. IGF-1:TTC may prove to be neuroprotective in other animal models of CNS disease or injury known to be responsive to unmodified IGF-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru-Ju Chian
- Cecil B. Day Laboratory for Neuromuscular Research, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Building 114, 16th Street, Room 3003, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
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30
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Abstract
Tetanus neurotoxin and botulinum neurotoxins are the causative agents of tetanus and botulism. They block the release of neurotransmitters from synaptic vesicles in susceptible animals and man and act in nanogram quantities because of their ability to specifically attack motoneurons. They developed an ingenious strategy to enter neurons. This involves a concentration step via complex polysialo gangliosides at the plasma membrane and the uptake and ride in recycling synaptic vesicles initiated by binding to a specific protein receptor. Finally, the neurotoxins shut down the synaptic vesicle cycle, which they had misused before to enter their target cells, via specific cleavage of protein core components of the cellular membrane fusion machinery. The uptake of four out of seven known botulinum neurotoxins into synaptic vesicles has been demonstrated to rely on binding to intravesicular segments of the synaptic vesicle proteins synaptotagmin or synaptic vesicle protein 2. This review summarizes the present knowledge about the cell receptor molecules and the mode of toxin-receptor interaction that enables the toxins' sophisticated access to their site of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Binz
- Institut für Biochemie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Germany.
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31
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Brunger AT, Rummel A. Receptor and substrate interactions of clostridial neurotoxins. Toxicon 2009; 54:550-60. [PMID: 19268493 PMCID: PMC2756235 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2008.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2008] [Revised: 12/01/2008] [Accepted: 12/02/2008] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The high potency of clostridial neurotoxins relies predominantly on their neurospecific binding and specific hydrolysis of SNARE proteins. Their multi-step mode of mechanism can be ascribed to their multi-domain three-dimensional structure. The C-terminal H(CC)-domain interacts subsequently with complex polysialo-gangliosides such as GT1b and a synaptic vesicle protein receptor via two neighbouring binding sites, resulting in highly specific uptake of the neurotoxins at synapses of cholinergic motoneurons. After its translocation the enzymatically active light chain specifically hydrolyses specific SNARE proteins, preventing SNARE complex assembly and thereby blocking exocytosis of neurotransmitter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel T Brunger
- The Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Departments of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Structural Biology, and Photon Science, Stanford University, J.H. Clark Center, E300C, 318 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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32
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The monoclonal antibody 26 raised against tetanus toxoid also recognizes tetanus toxin and β2-glycoprotein I - its binding properties in vitro and potential applications. JOURNAL OF THE SERBIAN CHEMICAL SOCIETY 2009. [DOI: 10.2298/jsc0903245i] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A murine monoclonal IgG1 antibody, marked as MAb26, specific for tetanus toxoid has been immunochemically characterized. By performing enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) and western blot analyses, it was demonstrated that MAb26 reacted with tetanus toxoid, tetanus toxin and ?2-glycoprotein I (?2GPI). According to the results, MAb26 recognized the sequential epitope on the tetanus heavy chain. The affinity constant, calculated from Scatchard plots of MAb26 binding to tetanus toxoid, was 1.145?108 M-1 and the measurement of the relative affinity of MAb26 by ELISA using thiocyanate elution showed a significantly higher affinity of MAb26 to the toxoid (p = 0.0012) in comparison to the toxin. Additionally, the reactivity of MAb26 toward the toxoid forms increased when the tetanus toxin was detoxified using 8 mM and higher formaldehyde concentrations. The similarity of the tetanus toxoid to several sera proteins, either at the level of its conformation (IL-1?) or at the level of peptide sequences (?2GPI, laminin) favors its role in autoimmunity by the mechanism of molecular mimicry. As the induction of an autoimmune disease is dependent on the breakdown of tolerance, which could be the result of an overt hyperstimulation, the control of the presence and concentration of self-reactive epitopes in vaccine preparations is a prerequisite. In this study, it was shown that MAb26 can: 1) discriminate between the tetanus toxin and different toxoid forms, which makes it a good candidate for antibody control during vaccine preparation; 2) due to its cross-reactivity with ?2GPI, it could provide information on the presence of a potentially dangerous sequential epitope expressed at the protein surface.
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33
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Box M, Parks DA, Knight A, Hale C, Fishman PS, Fairweather NF. A Multi-domain Protein System Based on the HCFragment of Tetanus Toxin for Targeting DNA to Neuronal Cells. J Drug Target 2008; 11:333-43. [PMID: 14668054 DOI: 10.1080/1061186310001634667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
One goal of gene therapy is the targeted delivery of therapeutic genes to defined tissues. One attractive target is the central nervous system as there are several neuronal degenerative diseases which may be amenable to gene therapy. At present there is a lack of delivery systems that are able to target genes specifically to neuronal cells. Multi-domain proteins were designed and constructed to facilitate the delivery of exogenous genes to neuronal cells. Neuronal targeting activity of the proteins was achieved by inclusion of the HC fragment of tetanus toxin (TeNT), a protein with well-characterised tropism for the central nervous system. The yeast Gal4 DNA-binding domain enabled specific binding of DNA while the translocation domain from diphtheria toxin (DT) was included to facilitate crossing of the endosomal vesicle. One multi-domain protein, containing all three of these domains, was found to transfect up to 8% of neuroblastoma N18-RE105 cells with marker genes. Monitoring the transfection by confocal microscopy indicated that this protein-DNA transfection complex is to some extent localised at the cell surface, suggesting that further improvements to translocating this membrane barrier may yield higher transfection levels. The demonstration that this multi-domain protein can target genes specifically to neuronal cells is a first step in the development of novel vectors for the delivery of genes with therapeutic potential to diseased neuronal tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Box
- Department of Biological Sciences, Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, Exhibition Road SW7 2AY London, UK
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34
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Matusica D, Fenech MP, Rogers ML, Rush RA. Characterization and use of the NSC-34 cell line for study of neurotrophin receptor trafficking. J Neurosci Res 2008; 86:553-65. [PMID: 17896795 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.21507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
This study addressed the suitability of the NSC-34 cell line as a motor neuron-like model for investigating neurotrophin receptor trafficking and associated subcellular processes. Initially, culture conditions were optimized for the use of NSC-34 cells in confocal microscopy. Cell surface markers, as well as markers associated with the regulated endosomal pathway thought to be associated with neurotrophin receptor transport, were identified. The study revealed the presence of a number of molecules previously not described in the literature, including the tropomyosin-like receptor kinase C (TrkC), sortilin, the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT), and the lipid raft-associated ganglioside GT1b. The presence of both sortilin and Gt1b was of special interest, insofar as these markers have been implicated in direct relationships with the p75NTR receptor. Evidence is provided for neurotrophin-dependent internalization of p75NTR and TrkB. Both nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) increased the rate of internalization of p75NTR, with internalization dynamics comparable to those described for other cell lines. Thus, these studies not only describe components of the regulatory process governing the trafficking of this important receptor but also clearly demonstrate the value of NSC-34 cells as a suitable motor neuron model for the study of internalization and trafficking of cell surface molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dusan Matusica
- Centre for Neuroscience, Department of Human Physiology, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia.
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35
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Kegel B, Behrensdorf-Nicol HA, Bonifas U, Silberbach K, Klimek J, Krämer B, Weisser K. An in vitro assay for detection of tetanus neurotoxin activity: Using antibodies for recognizing the proteolytically generated cleavage product. Toxicol In Vitro 2007; 21:1641-9. [PMID: 17826026 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2007.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2007] [Revised: 06/22/2007] [Accepted: 06/27/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Tetanus neurotoxin (TeNT(1)) is a bacterial protease which specifically cleaves the vesicle protein synaptobrevin-2 (vesicle associated membrane protein-2, VAMP-2). This proteolytic feature of the toxin has been used to develop a sensitive endopeptidase assay for the detection of TeNT activity as an alternative to the in vivo assay for TeNT toxicity. Recombinant synaptobrevin-2 (rSyb2) is immobilized onto a microtiter plate, and the cleavage of immobilized rSyb2 by TeNT is detected with a polyclonal antibody directed against the newly generated C-terminus of the cleavage product. This antibody is shown to be a highly specific tool for detecting rSyb2 proteolysis by TeNT. The method reaches a detection limit of less than 1pg TeNT/ml. To our knowledge, this is the most sensitive in vitro assay for the detection of TeNT activity, and it is easy to perform. Besides, the assay can also detect the activity of botulinum neurotoxin type B (BoNT/B). The method can be applied to examine the toxicity of TeNT or BoNT/B preparations as well as the influence of chemicals on TeNT and BoNT/B activity. In the future, the assay may also serve as a basis for the replacement of the in vivo safety control of tetanus vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Kegel
- Paul-Ehrlich-Institut, Paul-Ehrlich-Strasse 51-59, 63225 Langen, Germany
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36
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Townsend SA, Evrony GD, Gu FX, Schulze MP, Brown RH, Langer RS. Tetanus toxin C fragment-conjugated nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery to neurons. Biomaterials 2007; 28:5176-84. [PMID: 17854886 PMCID: PMC2435502 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2007.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2007] [Accepted: 08/02/2007] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The use of nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery is often facilitated by specific conjugation of functional targeting molecules to the nanoparticle surface. We compared different biotin-binding proteins (avidin, streptavidin, or neutravidin) as crosslinkers to conjugate proteins to biodegradable nanoparticles prepared from poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA)-polyethylene glycol (PEG)-biotin polymers. Avidin gave the highest levels of overall protein conjugation, whereas neutravidin minimized protein non-specific binding to the polymer. The tetanus toxin C fragment (TTC), which is efficiently retrogradely transported in neurons and binds to neurons with high specificity and affinity, retained the ability to bind to neuroblastoma cells following amine group modifications. TTC was conjugated to nanoparticles using neutravidin, and the resulting nanoparticles were shown to selectively target neuroblastoma cells in vitro. TTC-conjugated nanoparticles have the potential to serve as drug delivery vehicles targeted to the central nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth A. Townsend
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Gilad D. Evrony
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Frank X. Gu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Martin P. Schulze
- Institute for Pharmacy and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 580, Heidelberg, 69120, Germany
| | - Robert H. Brown
- Day Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Massachusetts General Hospital East, 16 Street, Charlestown, MA, 02129, USA
| | - Robert S. Langer
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- Address to whom correspondence should be addressed: email , fax (617)258-8827
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37
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Kohda T, Ihara H, Seto Y, Tsutsuki H, Mukamoto M, Kozaki S. Differential contribution of the residues in C-terminal half of the heavy chain of botulinum neurotoxin type B to its binding to the ganglioside GT1b and the synaptotagmin 2/GT1b complex. Microb Pathog 2007; 42:72-9. [PMID: 17188834 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2006.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2006] [Accepted: 10/31/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Clostridium botulinum type B neurotoxin was effectively bound to synaptotagmin 2 (Stg2) associated with ganglioside GT1b, however, the molecular interaction between the neurotoxin and the Stg2/GT1b complex has not been identified. Previously, we found that infant botulism-related strain 111 generated a low activity of the neurotoxin (111/NT), which differed in some amino acid residues, especially in the carboxyl terminal half of the heavy chain (H(C)), from the original neurotoxin of strain Okra (Okra/NT) associated with a food-borne botulism. In this study, we evaluated the binding capabilities of site-directed mutants of Okra/H(C) to the Stg2/GT1b complex and to GT1b alone, and investigated the relationship between the toxic action and receptor binding. Replacement of K1187 and E1190 with glutamic acid and lysine, respectively, which substituted for the 111/NT residues, caused a reduction of binding affinity to the Stg2/GT1b complex, suggesting that both these residues contribute to the different binding affinity between Okra/NT and 111/NT. Substitution of four residues, H1240, S1259, W1261 and Y1262, which form a ganglioside pocket, drastically decreased the binding of H(C) to the Stg2/GT1b complex and to GT1b. Mutation in the residues, K1186, E1189, K1191 and K1260 reduced the binding of H(C) to GT1b alone, but not to the Stg2/GT1b complex. Analyses of effects of mutant toxins on toxicity of BoNT/B to cerebellar granule cells suggest the association of cell toxicity with binding to Stg2/GT1b complex but not that to GT1b alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Kohda
- Department of Veterinary Science, Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Sakai, Osaka 599-8531, Japan
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38
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Qazi O, Bolgiano B, Crane D, Svergun DI, Konarev PV, Yao ZP, Robinson CV, Brown KA, Fairweather N. The HC Fragment of Tetanus Toxin forms Stable, Concentration-dependent Dimers via an Intermolecular Disulphide Bond. J Mol Biol 2007; 365:123-34. [PMID: 17056064 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2006.09.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2006] [Revised: 09/18/2006] [Accepted: 09/19/2006] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Protein oligomerisation is a prerequisite for the toxicity of a number of bacterial toxins. Examples include the pore-forming cytotoxin streptolysin O, which oligomerises to form large pores in the membrane and the protective antigen of anthrax toxin, where a heptameric complex is essential for the delivery of lethal factor and edema factor to the cell cytosol. Binding of the clostridial neurotoxins to receptors on neuronal cells is well characterised, but little is known regarding the quaternary structure of these toxins and the role of oligomerisation in the intoxication process. We have investigated the oligomerisation of the receptor binding domain (H(C)) of tetanus toxin, which retains the binding and trafficking properties of the full-length toxin. Electrophoresis, size exclusion chromatography and mass spectrometry were used to demonstrate that H(C) undergoes concentration-dependent oligomerisation in solution. Reducing agents were found to affect H(C) oligomerisation and, using mutagenesis, Cys869 was shown to be essential for this process. Furthermore, the oligomeric state and quaternary structure of H(C) in solution was assessed using synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering. Ab initio shape analysis and rigid body modelling coupled with mutagenesis data allowed the construction of an unequivocal model of dimeric H(C) in solution. We propose a possible mechanism for H(C) oligomerisation and discuss how this may relate to toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Qazi
- Division of Cell and Molecular Biology, Centre for Molecular Microbiology and Infection, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
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39
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Qazi O, Sesardic D, Tierney R, Söderbäck Z, Crane D, Bolgiano B, Fairweather N. Reduction of the ganglioside binding activity of the tetanus toxin HC fragment destroys immunogenicity: implications for development of novel tetanus vaccines. Infect Immun 2006; 74:4884-91. [PMID: 16861677 PMCID: PMC1539629 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00500-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, the immunogenicities of the nontoxic H(C) fragment of tetanus toxin and derivatives lacking ganglioside binding activity were compared with that of tetanus toxoid after subcutaneous immunization of mice. Wild-type H(C) (H(C)WT) protein and tetanus toxoid both elicited strong antibody responses against toxoid and H(C) antigens and provided complete protection against toxin challenge. Mutants of H(C) containing deletions essential for ganglioside binding elicited lower responses than H(C)WT. H(C)M115, containing two amino acid substitutions within the ganglioside binding site, provided reduced protection against tetanus toxin challenge compared with H(C)WT, consistent with lower anti-H(C) and anti-toxoid antibody titers. Circular-dichroism spectroscopy and intrinsic fluorescence spectroscopy showed minimal structural perturbation in H(C)M115. We conclude that the presence of the ganglioside binding site within H(C) may be essential for induction of a fully protective anti-tetanus response comparable to that induced by tetanus toxoid by subcutaneous injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Qazi
- Centre for Molecular Microbiology and Infection, Imperial College London, Flowers Building, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, United Kingdom
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40
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Jayaraman S, Eswaramoorthy S, Kumaran D, Swaminathan S. Common binding site for disialyllactose and tri-peptide in C-fragment of tetanus neurotoxin. Proteins 2006; 61:288-95. [PMID: 16104015 DOI: 10.1002/prot.20595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Clostridial neurotoxins are comprised of botulinum (BoNT) and tetanus (TeNT), which share significant structural and functional similarity. Crystal structures of the binding domain of TeNT complexed with disialyllactose (DiSia) and a tri-peptide Tyr-Glu-Trp (YEW) have been determined to 2.3 and 2.2 A, respectively. Both DiSia and YEW bind in a shallow cleft region on the surface of the molecule in the beta-trefoil domain, interacting with a set of common residues, Asp1147, Asp1214, Asn1216, and Arg1226. DiSia and YEW binding at the same site in tetanus toxin provides a putative site that could be occupied either by a ganglioside moiety or a peptide. Soaking experiments with a mixture of YEW and DiSia show that YEW competes with DiSia, suggesting that YEW can be used to block ganglioside binding. A comparison with the TeNT binding domain in complex with small molecules, BoNT/A and /B, provides insight into the different modes of ganglioside binding.
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Liu JK, Teng Q, Garrity-Moses M, Federici T, Tanase D, Imperiale MJ, Boulis NM. A novel peptide defined through phage display for therapeutic protein and vector neuronal targeting. Neurobiol Dis 2005; 19:407-18. [PMID: 16023583 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2005.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2004] [Revised: 12/01/2004] [Accepted: 01/20/2005] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
A novel peptide with the binding characteristics of tetanus toxin was identified with phage display, for application in therapeutic protein and vector motor and sensory neuron targeting. A 12mer phage library was biopanned on trisialoganglioside (G(T1b)) and eluted with the tetanus toxin C fragment (rTTC). Phage ELISAs revealed increases in G(T1b) binding for the Tet1 and Tet2 phage clones when compared to peptideless phage (PLP). rTTC displaced both Tet1 and Tet2 phage clones from G(T1b), and both clones reduced rTTC-G(T1b) binding. Comparison of Tet1, Tet2, PLP, and the random phage library binding to PC12 and HEK293 cells revealed enhanced cellular binding by Tet1 and Tet2 phage. Tet1 phage binding was selective for neurons. Immunofluorescence also confirmed selective PC12 binding of Tet1 and Tet2 phage. Fluorescein-conjugated synthetic Tet1, but not Tet2, peptide showed strong binding to cultured PC12, primary motor neurons, and dorsal root ganglion (DRG) cells. Synthetic Tet1 bound DRG and motor neurons but not muscle in tissue sections. The enhanced neuronal binding affinity and specificity of Tet1, a novel 12 amino acid peptide, suggests potential utility for targeting neurotherapeutic proteins and viral vectors in the treatment of motor neuron disease, neuropathy, and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- James K Liu
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Neurological Restoration, NB2-126, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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Seatović S, Inić-Kanada A, Stojanović M, Zivković I, Jankov RM, Dimitrijević L. Development of Sandwich Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Determination of Tetanus Toxoid Concentration. J Immunoassay Immunochem 2004; 25:31-44. [PMID: 15038615 DOI: 10.1081/ias-120027224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
According to the recommendation of the World Health Organization (WHO), the use of an in vivo test for measuring of the potency of tetanus toxoid vaccine (TTdV) is still unavoidable, but the establishment of a convenient in vitro test would significantly improve the work in this field. A sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (sELISA) was developed for a rapid and sensitive quantification of tetanus toxoid (TTd). We produced four monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) designated 41, 51, 62, and 71 that reacted with TTd and recognized different antigenic determinants on TTd. We also used two of these antibodies for developing a sELISA, with MoAb 71 as an immobilized and MoAb 51 as a capture antibody. The measurement range of this assay was from 31-1000 ng/mL and the minimum detection limit for TTd was 31 ng/mL. This high sensitivity of this sELISA and its good reproducibility suggest that the developed method could be reliably used to estimate the concentration of TTd, which could be easily extrapolated to the estimation of vaccine potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasa Seatović
- Institute of Immunology and Virology-Torlak, Belgrade, Yugoslavia
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Lalli G, Bohnert S, Deinhardt K, Verastegui C, Schiavo G. The journey of tetanus and botulinum neurotoxins in neurons. Trends Microbiol 2003; 11:431-7. [PMID: 13678859 DOI: 10.1016/s0966-842x(03)00210-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Anaerobic bacteria of the genus Clostridia are a major threat to human and animal health, being responsible for pathologies ranging from food poisoning to gas gangrene. In each of these, the production of sophisticated exotoxins is the main cause of disease. The most powerful clostridial toxins are tetanus and botulinum neurotoxins, the causative agents of tetanus and botulism. They are structurally organized into three domains endowed with distinct functions: high affinity binding to neurons, membrane translocation and specific cleavage of proteins controlling neuroexocytosis. Recent discoveries regarding the mechanism of membrane recruitment and sorting of these neurotoxins within neurons make them ideal tools to uncover essential aspects of neuronal physiology in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Lalli
- MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
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Rummel A, Bade S, Alves J, Bigalke H, Binz T. Two carbohydrate binding sites in the H(CC)-domain of tetanus neurotoxin are required for toxicity. J Mol Biol 2003; 326:835-47. [PMID: 12581644 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-2836(02)01403-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Tetanus neurotoxin binds via its carboxyl-terminal H(C)-fragment selectively to neurons mediated by complex gangliosides. We investigated the lactose and sialic acid binding pockets of four recently discovered potential binding sites employing site-directed mutagenesis. Substitution of residues in the lactose binding pocket drastically decreased the binding of the H(C)-fragment to immobilized gangliosides and to rat brain synaptosomes as well as the inhibitory action of recombinant full length tetanus neurotoxin on exocytosis at peripheral nerves. The conserved motif of S(1287)XWY(1290) em leader G(1300) assisted by N1219, D1222, and H1271 within the lactose binding site comprises a typical sugar binding pocket, as also present, for example, in cholera toxin. Replacement of the main residue of the sialic acid binding site, R1226, again caused a dramatic decline in binding affinity and neurotoxicity. Since the structural integrity of the H(C)-fragment mutants was verified by circular dichroism and fluorescence spectroscopy, these data provide the first biochemical evidence that two carbohydrate interaction sites participate in the binding and uptake process of tetanus neurotoxin. The simultaneous binding of one ganglioside molecule to each of the two binding sites was demonstrated by mass spectroscopy studies, whereas ganglioside-mediated linkage of native tetanus neurotoxin molecules was ruled out by size exclusion chromatography. Hence, a subsequent displacement of one ganglioside by a glycoprotein receptor is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Rummel
- Institute of Biochemistry, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, D-30623 Hannover, Germany
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Ihara H, Kohda T, Morimoto F, Tsukamoto K, Karasawa T, Nakamura S, Mukamoto M, Kozaki S. Sequence of the gene for Clostridium botulinum type B neurotoxin associated with infant botulism, expression of the C-terminal half of heavy chain and its binding activity. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2003; 1625:19-26. [PMID: 12527421 DOI: 10.1016/s0167-4781(02)00537-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Previously, we demonstrated that the neurotoxin of strain 111 (111/NT) associated with type B infant botulism showed antigenic and biological properties different from that (Okra/NT) produced by a foodborne botulism-related strain, Okra. In this study, the neurotoxin genes of 111/NT and Okra/NT were amplified and the sequences determined. The nucleotide sequences of the genes for both neurotoxins possessed an open reading frame of 3873 bp that encoded 1291 amino acids. The identities of nucleotide sequences and amino acid sequences were 97.6% and 95.7%, respectively. The ratio of nonsynonymous to synonymous substitutions was 0.47. The amino acid substitutions between 111/NT and Okra/NT occurred mainly in the domain of the C-terminal half of heavy chain (H(C)) responsible for binding to its receptor complex of protein and ganglioside. To characterize the binding capability of the H(C), recombinant genes for the H(C) and two hybrid H(C) in which one half of Okra/NT was replaced by the homologous half of 111/NT were constructed and expressed in Escherichia coli. The binding activity of the recombinant H(C) of 111/NT to the protein receptor synaptotagmin II, in the presence of ganglioside GT1b, was 4.2-fold less than Okra/NT, consistent with the corresponding two NTs. The use of hybrid H(C) revealed that mutation of 23 residues in carboxy terminal half of H(C) (1029-1291) of Okra/NT could be attributed to the lower binding activity of 111/NT and thus the differences in binding affinity between the two BoNT/B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideshi Ihara
- Department of Earth and Life Sciences, College of Integrated Arts and Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University, Sakai, Japan
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von Bartheld CS. Axonal transport and neuronal transcytosis of trophic factors, tracers, and pathogens. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003; 58:295-314. [PMID: 14704960 DOI: 10.1002/neu.10315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Neurons can specifically internalize macromolecules, such as trophic factors, lectins, toxins, and other pathogens. Upon internalization in terminals, proteins can move retrogradely along axons, or, upon internalization at somatodendritic domains, they can move into an anterograde axonal transport pathway. Release of internalized proteins from neurons after either retrograde or anterograde axonal transport results in transcytosis and trafficking of proteins across multiple synapses. Recent studies of binding properties of several such proteins suggest that pathogens and lectins may utilize existing transport machineries designed for trafficking of trophic factors. Specific pathways may protect trophic factors, pathogens, and toxins from degradation after internalization and may target the trophic or pathogenic cargo for transcytosis after either retrograde or anterograde transport along axons. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms of sorting steps and transport pathways will further our understanding of trophic signaling and could be relevant for an understanding and possible treatment of neurological diseases such as rabies, Alzheimer's disease, and prion encephalopathies. At present, our knowledge is remarkably sparse about the types of receptors used by pathogens for trafficking, the signals that sort trophins or pathogens into recycling or degradation pathways, and the mechanisms that regulate their release from somatodendritic domains or axon terminals. This review intends to draw attention to potential convergences and parallels in trafficking of trophic and pathogenic proteins. It discusses axonal transport/trafficking mechanisms that may help to understand and eventually treat neurological diseases by targeted drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher S von Bartheld
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada 89557, USA.
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Verastegui C, Lalli G, Bohnert S, Meunier FA, Schiavo G. CLOSTRIDIAL NEUROTOXINS. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2002. [DOI: 10.1081/txr-120014404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Calabi E, Calabi F, Phillips AD, Fairweather NF. Binding of Clostridium difficile surface layer proteins to gastrointestinal tissues. Infect Immun 2002; 70:5770-8. [PMID: 12228307 PMCID: PMC128314 DOI: 10.1128/iai.70.10.5770-5778.2002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Clostridium difficile is the etiological agent of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, a potentially serious condition frequently affecting elderly hospitalized patients. While tissue damage is primarily induced by two toxins, the mechanism of gut colonization, and particularly the role of bacterial adherence to the mucosa, remains to be clarified. Previous studies have shown binding of C. difficile whole cells to cultured cell lines and suggested the existence of multiple adhesins, only one of which has been molecularly characterized. In this paper, we have investigated tissue binding of C. difficile surface layer proteins (SLPs), which are the predominant outer surface components and are encoded by the slpA gene. The adherence of C. difficile to HEp-2 cells was studied by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and fluorescence-activated cell sorter analysis, which showed that antibodies to the high-molecular-weight (MW) SLP inhibited adherence. Immunohistochemical analysis of human gastrointestinal tissue sections revealed strong binding both to the surface epithelium lining the digestive cavities and to the subjacent lamina propria, while glands were negative. A similar pattern was observed in the mouse. By using purified recombinant SLPs, we show that binding is largely mediated by the high-MW SLP. By Western blotting analysis, we have identified two potential ligands of the C. difficile SLPs, one of which may be specific to the gut. By using purified extracellular matrix components immobilized on nitrocellulose, we also show SLP binding to collagen I, thrombospondin, and vitronectin, but not to collagen IV, fibronectin, or laminin. These results raise the possibility that the SLPs play a role both in the initial colonization of the gut by C. difficile and in the subsequent inflammatory reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Calabi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Centre for Molecular Microbiology and Infection, Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, London SW7 2AY, United Kingdom
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Mahfoud R, Garmy N, Maresca M, Yahi N, Puigserver A, Fantini J. Identification of a common sphingolipid-binding domain in Alzheimer, prion, and HIV-1 proteins. J Biol Chem 2002; 277:11292-6. [PMID: 11792705 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111679200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The V3 loop of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 surface envelope glycoprotein gp120 is a sphingolipid-binding domain mediating the attachment of HIV-1 to plasma membrane microdomains (rafts). Sphingolipid-induced conformational changes in gp120 are required for HIV-1 fusion. Galactosylceramide and sphingomyelin have been detected in highly purified preparations of prion rods, suggesting that the prion protein (PrP) may interact with selected sphingolipids. Moreover, a major conformational transition of the Alzheimer beta-amyloid peptide has been observed upon interaction with sphingolipid-containing membranes. Structure similarity searches with the combinatorial extension method revealed the presence of a V3-like domain in the human prion protein PrP and in the Alzheimer beta-amyloid peptide. In each case, synthetic peptides derived from the predicted V3-like domain were found to interact with monomolecular films of galactosylceramide and sphingomyelin at the air-water interface. The V3-like domain of PrP is a disulfide-linked loop (Cys(179)-Cys(214)) that includes the E200K mutation site associated with familial Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. This mutation abrogated sphingomyelin recognition. The identification of a common sphingolipid-binding motif in gp120, PrP, and beta-amyloid peptide underscores the role of lipid rafts in the pathogenesis of HIV-1, Alzheimer, and prion diseases and may provide new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radhia Mahfoud
- Institut Méditerranéen de Recherche en Nutrition, Unité Mixte de Recherche-Institut National de la recherche Agronomique 1111, Faculté des Sciences St-Jérôme, 13397 Marseille Cedex 20, France
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Miana-Mena FJ, Roux S, Benichou JC, Osta R, Brûlet P. Neuronal activity-dependent membrane traffic at the neuromuscular junction. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2002; 99:3234-9. [PMID: 11880654 PMCID: PMC122502 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.052023599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
During development and also in adulthood, synaptic connections are modulated by neuronal activity. To follow such modifications in vivo, new genetic tools are designed. The nontoxic C-terminal fragment of tetanus toxin (TTC) fused to a reporter gene such as LacZ retains the retrograde and transsynaptic transport abilities of the holotoxin itself. In this work, the hybrid protein is injected intramuscularly to analyze in vivo the mechanisms of intracellular and transneuronal traffics at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ). Traffic on both sides of the synapse are strongly dependent on presynaptic neural cell activity. In muscle, a directional membrane traffic concentrates beta-galactosidase-TTC hybrid protein into the NMJ postsynaptic side. In neurons, the probe is sorted across the cell to dendrites and subsequently to an interconnected neuron. Such fusion protein, sensitive to presynaptic neuronal activity, would be extremely useful to analyze morphological changes and plasticity at the NMJ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Javier Miana-Mena
- Laboratorio de Genética Bioquimica y Grupos Sanguineos, Departamento de Anatomia, Embriologia y Genética Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria de la Universidad de Zaragoza, Calle de Miguel Servet, 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
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