|
1
|
Navanukraw P, Chotimanukul S, Udomthanaisit L, Setthawong P, Saehlee S, Seetaha S, Choowongkomon K, Chatdarong K. Antibody fragments targeting the extracellular domain of follicular stimulating hormone receptor for contraception in male dogs and cats. Theriogenology 2024; 226:110-119. [PMID: 38875921 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
The increased LH levels resulting from the absence of negative feedback after castration has been linked to long-term health issues. A need exists for an alternative contraceptive agent that functions without interfering the LH pathways. This study aimed to develop antibody fragments against the follicular-stimulating hormone receptor (anti-FSHr) using phage-display technology and evaluate its effects on Sertoli cell functions. Phage clones against the extracellular domain of dog and cat FSHr selected from an antibody fragment phagemid library were analyzed for binding kinetics by surface plasmon resonance. Sertoli cells were isolated from testes of adult animals (five dogs and five cats). Efficacy test was performed by treating Sertoli cell cultures (SCCs) with anti-FSHr antibody fragments compared with untreated in triplicates. Expressions of androgen binding protein (ABP), inhibin subunit beta B (IHBB) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) mRNA in SCCs were quantified by RT-qPCR. The results demonstrated that the molecular weight of the purified dog and cat anti-FSHr antibody fragment was 25 kDa and 15 kDa, respectively. Based on protein molecular weight, the antibody fragment of dogs and cats was therefore, so-called single-chain variable fragments (scFv) and nanobody (nb), respectively. The binding affinity with dissociation constant (KD) was 2.32 × 10-7 M and 2.83 × 10-9 M for dog and cat anti-FSHr antibody fragments, respectively. The cross-binding kinetic interactions between the dog anti-FSHr scFv and the cat ECD of FSHr could not be fitted to the curves to determine the binding kinetics. However, the cross-binding affinity KD between the cat anti-FSHr nb and the dog ECD FSHr was 1.75 × 10-4 M. The mRNA expression of ABP, IHBB and VEGFA in SCCs was less (P < 0.05) in both dogs (12.26, 4.07 and 5.11 folds, respectively) and cats (39.53, 14.07 and 20.29 folds, respectively) treated with anti-FSHr antibody fragments, indicating the Sertoli cell functions were suppressed. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the establishment of species-specific antibody fragments against FSHr in SCCs for dogs and cats. The fragment proteins illustrate potential to be developed as non-surgical contraceptive agent targeting FSHr in companion animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pakpoom Navanukraw
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sroisuda Chotimanukul
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Larindhorn Udomthanaisit
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Piyathip Setthawong
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Siriwan Saehlee
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Supaphorn Seetaha
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Kaywalee Chatdarong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
|
2
|
Pan F, Fu W, Zhang B, Han M, Xie H, Yi Q, Qian W, Cui J, Cao M, Li Y, Jia Y, Fang F, Ling Y, Li Y, Liu Y. Effects of Vaccination against Recombinant FSH or LH Receptor Subunits on Gonadal Development and Functioning Male Rats. Vet Sci 2024; 11:176. [PMID: 38668443 PMCID: PMC11054695 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11040176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) play key roles in regulating testosterone secretion and spermatogenesis in male mammals, respectively, and they maintain the fertility of male animals by binding to their corresponding receptors. We designed and prepared a recombinant LH receptor (LHR) subunit vaccine and a recombinant FSH receptor (FSHR) subunit vaccine and used male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats as a model to examine their effects on testicular development, spermatogenesis, and testosterone secretion in prepubertal and pubertal mammals. Both vaccines (LHR-DTT and FSHR-DTT) significantly decreased the serum testosterone level in prepubertal rats (p < 0.05) but had no effect on the testosterone secretion in pubertal rats; both vaccines decreased the number of cell layers in the seminiferous tubules and reduced spermatogenesis in prepubertal and pubertal rats. Subunit vaccine FSHR-DTT decreased the sperm density in the epididymis in both prepubertal and pubertal rats (p < 0.01) and lowered testicular index and sperm motility in pubertal rats (p < 0.05), whereas LHR-DTT only reduced the sperm density in the epididymis in pubertal rats (p < 0.05). These results indicate that the FSHR subunit vaccine may be a promising approach for immunocastration, but it still needs improvements in effectiveness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fuqiang Pan
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Wanzhen Fu
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Bochao Zhang
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Mengdi Han
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Huihui Xie
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Qing Yi
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Wei Qian
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Jiankun Cui
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Meng Cao
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yanqiuhong Li
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yuke Jia
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Fugui Fang
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
- Anhui Provinciale Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
- Linquan County Modern Agriculture Technology Cooperation and Extension Service Center, Fuyang 236000, China
| | - Yinghui Ling
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
- Anhui Provinciale Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
- Linquan County Modern Agriculture Technology Cooperation and Extension Service Center, Fuyang 236000, China
| | - Yunsheng Li
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
- Anhui Provinciale Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
- Linquan County Modern Agriculture Technology Cooperation and Extension Service Center, Fuyang 236000, China
| | - Ya Liu
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
- Anhui Provinciale Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
- Linquan County Modern Agriculture Technology Cooperation and Extension Service Center, Fuyang 236000, China
| |
Collapse
|
|
3
|
Navanukraw P, Chotimanukul S, Kemthong T, Choowongkomon K, Chatdarong K. Impaired Testicular Function without Altering Testosterone Concentration Using an Anti-Follicular-Stimulating Hormone Receptor (Anti-FSHr) Single-Chain Variable Fragment (scFv) in Long-Tailed Macaques ( Macaca fascicularis). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2282. [PMID: 37508065 PMCID: PMC10376863 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
FSHr antibodies have been shown to inhibit the differentiation of spermatogonia to primary spermatocytes, resulting in infertility without a pathological effect on reproductive organs. The aim of this study was to develop single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) against the follicular-stimulating hormone receptor (anti-FSHr) using phage-display technology and to evaluate the effects of intratesticular administration of the anti-FSHr scFv on testicular function and testosterone production. A phage clone against the extracellular domain of FSHr selected from a scFv phagemid library was analyzed for binding kinetics by surface plasmon resonance. Using ultrasound guidance, three adult macaques (M. fascicularis) were administered with 1 mL of 0.4 mg/mL anti-FSHr scFv (treatment) and 1 mL sterile phosphate buffer solution (control) into the left and right rete testis, respectively. Testicular appearance and volume, ejaculate quality, and serum testosterone levels were recorded on day 0 (before injection) and on days 7, 28, and 56 (after injection). Testicular tissue biopsies were performed on day 7 and day 56 to quantify the mRNA expressions of androgen binding protein (ABP), inhibin subunit beta B (IHBB), and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA). The results demonstrated that the anti-FSHr scFv molecule was calculated as 27 kDa with a dissociation constant (KD) of 1.03 µM. The volume of the anti-FSHr scFv-injected testicle was reduced on days 28 and 56 compared with day 0 (p < 0.05). Total sperm number was reduced from day 0 (36.4 × 106 cells) to day 56 (1.6 × 106 cells) (p < 0.05). The percentage of sperm motility decreased from day 0 (81.7 ± 1.0%) to day 7 (23.3 ± 1.9%), day 28 (41.7 ± 53.4%), and day 56 (8.3 ± 1.9%) (p < 0.05). Sperm viability on day 0 was 86.8 ± 0.5%, which reduced to 64.2 ± 1.5%, 67.1 ± 2.2%, and 9.3 ± 1.1% on days 7, 28, and 56, respectively (p < 0.05). The expression of ABP and VEGFA on days 7 (14.2- and 3.2-fold) and 56 (5.6- and 5.5-fold) was less in the scFv-treated testicle compared with the controls (p < 0.05). On day 56, the expression of IHBB was less (p < 0.05) in the treated testis (1.3-fold) compared with the controls. Serum testosterone levels were unchanged throughout the study period (p > 0.05). This study characterized the anti-FSHr scFv and demonstrated that treatment with anti-FSHr ameliorates testicular function without altering testosterone levels, offering a potential alternative contraceptive for the long-tailed macaques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pakpoom Navanukraw
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Sroisuda Chotimanukul
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Taratorn Kemthong
- National Primate Research Center of Thailand, Chulalongkorn University, Saraburi 18110, Thailand
| | - Kiattawee Choowongkomon
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Kasetsart University, Bangkok 10900, Thailand
| | - Kaywalee Chatdarong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
|
4
|
Meng F, Yao H, Li J, Zhuo Y, Yu G, Bu G, Cao X, Du X, Liang Q, Zeng X, Han X. Effects of active immunization against a 13-amino acid receptor-binding epitope of FSHβ on fertility regulation in female mice. Reprod Biol 2022; 22:100669. [PMID: 35772190 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2022.100669] [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: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is crucial for ovarian folliculogenesis and thus essential for female fertility. Here, we developed a novel FSH vaccine based on the tandem of a 13-amino acid receptor-binding epitope of FSHβ (FSHβ13AA-T) and used a mouse model to test its efficacy in female fertility regulation. Compared to placebo-immunized controls, FSHβ13AA-T vaccination: induced a marked (P < 0.05) antibody generation; reduced (P < 0.05) serum concentrations of FSH, inhibin B and 17β-estradiol; disrupted (P < 0.05) normal estrous cyclicity; delayed (P = 0.08) establishment of pregnancy; blocked (P < 0.05) folliculogenesis; and reduced (P < 0.05) litter size. Mechanistically, FSH vaccination reduced (P < 0.05) ovarian estrogen production by decreasing Lhcgr, Cyp19a1 and HSD3β1 expression, and suppressed ovarian follicular development by decreasing ovarian Fshr, Inhα, Foxo3a, Bmp15 and Cdh1 expression. Overall, vaccination of female mice with FSHβ13AA-T substantially disrupted FSH-dependent ovarian steroidogenesis and folliculogenesis, and caused subfertility. Therefore, vaccines based on FSHβ13AA-T have potential as anti-fertility/contraceptive agents in females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fengyan Meng
- Isotope Research Lab, Biological Engineering and Application Biology Department, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Huan Yao
- Isotope Research Lab, Biological Engineering and Application Biology Department, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Jiaxin Li
- Isotope Research Lab, Biological Engineering and Application Biology Department, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Yong Zhuo
- Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Guozhi Yu
- Isotope Research Lab, Biological Engineering and Application Biology Department, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Guixian Bu
- Isotope Research Lab, Biological Engineering and Application Biology Department, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Xiaohan Cao
- Isotope Research Lab, Biological Engineering and Application Biology Department, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - XiaoGang Du
- Isotope Research Lab, Biological Engineering and Application Biology Department, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Qiuxia Liang
- Isotope Research Lab, Biological Engineering and Application Biology Department, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Xianyin Zeng
- Isotope Research Lab, Biological Engineering and Application Biology Department, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China
| | - Xingfa Han
- Isotope Research Lab, Biological Engineering and Application Biology Department, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an 625014, China.
| |
Collapse
|
|
5
|
DNA Vaccine Targeting Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Receptor and Its Application in Animal Contraception. Mol Biotechnol 2018; 61:73-83. [PMID: 30448908 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-018-0137-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Overpopulation of free-roaming and wildlife animals negatively affects economy and public health in many parts of the world. Contraceptive vaccines are viewed as a valuable option for reducing numbers of unwanted animals. This study develops vaccines for potential use in animal contraception exploiting a DNA platform. Objectives of the study were to generate DNA constructs directed against gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GnRHR), a crucial molecular player in animal reproduction, and characterize them for ability to promote immune responses and suppression of reproductive parameters in vivo. DNA constructs were created to encode for a recombinant protein composed of two domains: GnRHR, the target antigen, and ubiquitin (Ub), a support protein. Ub-GnRHR constructs administered intramuscularly or intradermally or containing different promoters were compared. CMV and EF1α promoters were shown to be superior to CAG. In fertility trials, mice immunized intradermally with Ub-GnRHR construct driven by EF1α had a significantly lower number of fetuses. Importantly, the impaired fertility was achieved with a single DNA immunization and without the use of adjuvants. The study demonstrated for the first time that targeting the GnRH receptor with DNA-based vaccines could be a viable option for animal contraception.
Collapse
|
|
6
|
Fan S, Zhao Y, Pan Z, Gao Z, Liang Z, Pan Z, Feng W. ZNF185-derived peptide induces fertility suppression in mice. J Pept Sci 2018; 24:e3121. [PMID: 30270484 DOI: 10.1002/psc.3121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2018] [Revised: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Zinc finger protein 185 (ZNF185) belongs to the ZNF family and is involved in male reproduction. However, it is unclear whether ZNF185 may be a target candidate for contraceptive vaccines. In this study, antigenic peptides derived from ZNF185 were prepared, and their immune contraceptive effects were investigated using mice. Results from enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISAs) showed that peptide immunization induced an antibody titre increase that reached a peak in week 12. Peptide-3 and peptide-4 were then chosen for subsequent experiments. The results of the fertility assays showed that peptide immunization inhibited the mating and fertility rates of the mice, whereas there were no obvious changes in the number of pups per litter. Subsequently, epididymal sperm was analysed. The results demonstrated that the sperm count and sperm motility were significantly decreased in the peptide group, while the amount of abnormal sperm was significantly increased in the peptide-3 group. The male reproductive organs were also evaluated. There were no obvious differences in testis or epididymal weights, in the diameters of the seminiferous tubules, or in the thicknesses of the seminiferous epithelium between the peptide group and the phosphate buffer saline (PBS) group. In addition, histological analysis indicated that there were no obvious pathologic changes in testis and epididymal histology in the peptide group; however, the number of spermatozoa present in the epididymal lumen of the peptide group was significantly decreased when compared with the PBS group. Our study demonstrates for the first time that peptides derived from ZNF185 may induce fertility suppression in mice without damaging reproductive organs. These peptides have the potential to be used as a male contraceptive vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shutong Fan
- College of Bioscience and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Yuhan Zhao
- College of Public Health and Management, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Zhiwei Pan
- Laizhou Development Zone Hospital, Yantai, China
| | - Zhiqin Gao
- College of Bioscience and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Zumu Liang
- College of Bioscience and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Zhifang Pan
- College of Bioscience and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Weiguo Feng
- College of Bioscience and Technology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, China
| |
Collapse
|
|
7
|
Xu P, Tang S, Jiang L, Yang L, Zhang D, Feng S, Zhao T, Dong Y, He W, Wang R, Zhang J, Liang Z. Nanomaterial-dependent immunoregulation of dendritic cells and its effects on biological activities of contraceptive nanovaccines. J Control Release 2016; 225:252-68. [PMID: 26826303 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2016.01.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Revised: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Nanovehicles are promising delivery systems for various vaccines. Nevertheless, different biophysicochemical properties of nanoparticles (NPs), dominating their in vitro and in vivo performances for vaccination, remain unclear. We attempted to elucidate the effects of NPs and their pH-sensitivity on in vitro and in vivo efficacy of resulting prophylactic nanovaccines containing a contraceptive peptide (FSHR). To this end, pH-responsive and non-responsive nanovaccines were produced using acetalated β-cyclodextrin (Ac-bCD) and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), respectively. Meanwhile, FSHR derived from an epitope of the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor was used as the model antigen. FSHR-containing Ac-bCD and PLGA NPs were successfully prepared by a nanoemulsion technique, leading to well-shaped nanovaccines with high loading efficiency. The pH-sensitivity of Ac-bCD and PLGA nanovaccines was examined by in vitro hydrolysis and antigen release studies. Nanovaccines could be effectively engulfed by dendritic cells (DCs) via endocytosis in both dose and time dependent manners, and their intracellular trafficking was closely related to the pH-sensitivity of the carrier materials. Furthermore, nanovaccines could induce the secretion of inflammatory cytokines by DCs and T cells co-cultured with the stimulated DCs. In vivo evaluations demonstrated that nanovaccines were more potent than that based on the complete Freund's adjuvant, with respect to inducing anti-FSHR antibody, reducing the sperm count, inhibiting the sperm motility, and increasing the teratosperm rate. Immunization of male mice with nanovaccines notably decreased the parturition incidence of the mated females. Consequently, both in vitro and in vivo activities of FSHR could be considerably augmented by NPs. More importantly, our studies indicated that the pH-responsive nanovaccine was not superior over the non-responsive counterpart for the examined peptide antigen.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pingping Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hospital 81 of PLA, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Shuai Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Luping Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Lihua Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tangshan Workers' Hospital of Hebei Province, Tangshan 063000, China
| | - Dinglin Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Shibin Feng
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Tingting Zhao
- Institute of Immunology, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Yajun Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Wei He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China
| | - Ruibing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Jianxiang Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
| | - Zhiqing Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China.
| |
Collapse
|
|
8
|
Xu C, Li YC, Yang H, Long Y, Chen MJ, Qin YF, Xia YK, Song L, Gu AH, Wang XR. The preparation and application of N-terminal 57 amino acid protein of the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor as a candidate male contraceptive vaccine. Asian J Androl 2014; 16:623-30. [PMID: 24713829 PMCID: PMC4104094 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.125910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2013] [Revised: 11/10/2013] [Accepted: 12/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), which is expressed only on Sertoli cells and plays a key role in spermatogenesis, has been paid attention for its potential in male contraception vaccine research and development. This study introduces a method for the preparation and purification of human FSHR 57-amino acid protein (FSHR-57aa) as well as determination of its immunogenicity and antifertility effect. A recombinant pET-28a(+)-FSHR-57aa plasmid was constructed and expressed in Escherichia coli strain BL21 Star TM (DE3) and the FSHR-57aa protein was separated and collected by cutting the gel and recovering activity by efficient refolding dialysis. The protein was identified by Western blot and high-performance liquid chromatography analysis with a band of nearly 7 kDa and a purity of 97.4%. Male monkeys were immunized with rhFSHR-57aa protein and a gradual rising of specific serum IgG antibody was found which reached a plateau on day 112 (16 weeks) after the first immunization. After mating of one male with three female monkeys, the pregnancy rate of those mated with males immunized against FSHR-57aa was significantly decreased while the serum hormone levels of testosterone and estradiol were not disturbed in the control or the FSHR-57aa groups. By evaluating pathological changes in testicular histology, we found that the blood-testis barrier remained intact, in spite of some small damage to Sertoli cells. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that the rhFSHR-57aa protein might be a feasible male contraceptive which could affect sperm production without disturbing hormone levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying-Chun Li
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hua Yang
- Yangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yan Long
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Min-Jian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu-Feng Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan-Kai Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing, China
| | - Ling Song
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing, China
| | - Ai-Hua Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin-Ru Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
|
9
|
Garside D, Gebril A, Alsaadi M, Ferro VA. Fertility control in wildlife: review of current status, including novel and future technologies. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 753:467-88. [PMID: 25091920 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-0820-2_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Overpopulation of selected groups of animals is widely recognised as an issue that can have adverse effects on several current global problems, such as animal and human health, conservation and environmental changes. This review will, therefore, focus on recent novel contraception together with future technologies that may provide additional contraceptive methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Garside
- Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, South Kensington, London, UK
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
|
10
|
Gupta SK, Shrestha A, Minhas V. Milestones in contraceptive vaccines development and hurdles in their application. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2013; 10:911-25. [PMID: 24262991 DOI: 10.4161/hv.27202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Contraceptive vaccines have been proposed for controlling the growing human population and wildlife population management. Multiple targets such as gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH), luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, gonadotropin receptors, sperm-specific proteins and zona pellucida glycoproteins have been exploited to develop contraceptive vaccine and their efficacy investigated and shown in various experimental animal models. Vaccines based on GnRH have found application in immuno-castration of male pigs for prevention of boar-taint. Vaccines based on zona pellucida glycoproteins have shown promising results for population management of wild horses and white-tailed deer. Phase II clinical trials in women with β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG)-based contraceptive vaccine established proof of principle that these can be developed for human application. Block in fertility by β-hCG contraceptive vaccine was reversible. Further research inputs are required to establish the safety of contraceptive vaccines, improve their immunogenicity and to develop novel vaccine delivery platforms for providing long lasting immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satish Kumar Gupta
- Reproductive Cell Biology Laboratory; National Institute of Immunology; Aruna Asaf Ali Marg; New Delhi, India
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
|
11
|
Zhang X, Hong S, Kang Y, Zheng Y, Sun H, Xu C. Expression and purification of the extracellular domain of the human follicle-stimulating hormone receptor using Escherichia coli. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2013; 40:501-8. [PMID: 24147778 DOI: 10.1111/jog.12203] [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: 04/03/2013] [Accepted: 06/05/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM Although much is known about the structure and biological functions of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) receptor (FSHR), the interaction of FSHR and FSH has been challenging to characterize due to the limited quantity of active FSHR protein produced by simple methods. The goal of this study was to express and purify the extracellular domain (ECD) of human FSHR (hFSHR). METHODS Total RNA was isolated from normal human ovary tissue. cDNA for hFSHR ECD were amplified and subsequently ligated into the pET32a(+) vector. The plasmid vector construct was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction and sequencing. Expression in Escherichia coli Rosetta (DE3) pLysS strain was induced by isopropyl-thio-β-D-thiogalactoside, and the recombinant products were purified by immuno-affinity chromatography using an Ni-NTA and High-Q column. The recombinant protein was confirmed by western blotting. RESULTS Following induction, E. coli expressed a recombinant protein of approximately 65 kDa in size, whereas the non-induced E. coli did not express the recombinant protein. The recombinant fragments purified using a High-Q column demonstrated a single band and an abundant yield. The recombinant protein was soluble and specifically recognized by an antibody for hFSHR. Additionally, four mutation sites were detected that resulted in amino acid shifts at position 112 Asn/Thr, 197 Glu/Ala, 198 Leu/Val and 307 Ala/Thr. CONCLUSION The recombinant hFSHR ECD protein was expressed and purified. This method could be easily scaled for increased production and may facilitate additional applications utilizing FSHR in assisted reproductive technology, a contraceptive FSH vaccine and FSHR-targeted therapeutic agents used to treat ovarian cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|