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Adame M, Vázquez H, Juárez-López D, Corzo G, Amezcua M, López D, González Z, Schcolnik-Cabrera A, Morales-Martínez A, Villegas E. Expression and characterization of scFv-6009FV in Pichia pastoris with improved ability to neutralize the neurotoxin Cn2 from Centruroides noxius. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 275:133461. [PMID: 38945343 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133461] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Small single-chain variable fragments (scFv) are promising biomolecules to inhibit and neutralize toxins and to act as antivenoms. In this work, we aimed to produce a functional scFv-6009FV in the yeast Pichia pastoris, which inhibits the pure Cn2 neurotoxin and the whole venom of Centruroides noxius. We were able to achieve yields of up to 31.6 ± 2 mg/L in flasks. Furthermore, the protein showed a structure of 6.1 % α-helix, 49.1 % β-sheet, and 44.8 % of random coil by CD. Mass spectrometry confirmed the amino acid sequence and showed no glycosylation profile for this molecule. Purified scFv-6009FV allowed us to develop anti-scFvs in rabbits, which were then used in affinity columns to purify other scFvs. Determination of its half-maximal inhibitory concentration value (IC50) was 40 % better than the scFvs produced by E. coli as a control. Finally, we found that scFv-6009FV was able to inhibit ex vivo the pure Cn2 toxin and the whole venom from C. noxius in murine rescue experiments. These results demonstrated that under the conditions assayed here, P. pastoris is suited to produce scFv-6009FV that, compared to scFvs produced by E. coli, maintains the characteristics of an antibody and neutralizes the Cn2 toxin more effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariel Adame
- Departamento de Productos Naturales, Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Hilda Vázquez
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Daniel Juárez-López
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Gerardo Corzo
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Mónica Amezcua
- Departamento de Productos Naturales, Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Daniela López
- Departamento de Productos Naturales, Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Zuriel González
- Departamento de Productos Naturales, Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | | | - Adriana Morales-Martínez
- Departamento de Productos Naturales, Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Elba Villegas
- Departamento de Productos Naturales, Centro de Investigación en Biotecnología, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México.
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Romero-Moreno JA, Serrano-Posada H, Olamendi-Portugal T, Possani LD, Becerril B, Riaño-Umbarila L. Development of a human antibody fragment cross-neutralizing scorpion toxins. Mol Immunol 2023; 155:165-174. [PMID: 36812764 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2023.02.006] [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: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Previously, it was demonstrated that from the single chain fragment variable (scFv) 3F it is possible to generate variants capable of neutralizing the Cn2 and Css2 toxins, as well as their respective venoms (Centruroides noxius and Centruroides suffusus). Despite this success, it has not been easy to modify the recognition of this family of scFvs toward other dangerous scorpion toxins. The analysis of toxin-scFv interactions and in vitro maturation strategies allowed us to propose a new maturation pathway for scFv 3F to broaden recognition toward other Mexican scorpion toxins. From maturation processes against toxins CeII9 from C. elegans and Ct1a from C. tecomanus, the scFv RAS27 was developed. This scFv showed an increased affinity and cross-reactivity for at least 9 different toxins while maintaining recognition for its original target, the Cn2 toxin. In addition, it was confirmed that it can neutralize at least three different toxins. These results constitute an important advance since it was possible to improve the cross-reactivity and neutralizing capacity of the scFv 3F family of antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Alberto Romero-Moreno
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62250, Mexico
| | - Hugo Serrano-Posada
- Investigador por México, CONACyT-Laboratorio de Biología Sintética, Estructural y Molecular, Laboratorio de Agrobiotecnología, Tecnoparque CLQ, Universidad de Colima, Carretera Los Limones-Loma de Juárez, Colima 28627, Mexico
| | - Timoteo Olamendi-Portugal
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62250, Mexico
| | - Lourival D Possani
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62250, Mexico
| | - Baltazar Becerril
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62250, Mexico.
| | - Lidia Riaño-Umbarila
- Investigadora por México, CONACyT-Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62250, Mexico.
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3
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López-Giraldo E, Carrillo E, Titaux-Delgado G, Cano-Sánchez P, Colorado A, Possani LD, Río-Portilla FD. Structural and functional studies of scorpine: A channel blocker and cytolytic peptide. Toxicon 2023; 222:106985. [PMID: 36436588 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.106985] [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: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Scorpine is an antimicrobial and antimalarial peptide isolated from Pandinus imperator scorpion venom. As there are few functional and structural studies reported on scorpine-like peptides, we investigated the recombinant truncated N- and C-terminal domains as well as complete scorpine using biological assays and determined the N- and C-terminal structures using solution nuclear magnetic resonance. The study was conducted using recombinant N- and C-terminal peptides and complete scorpine expressed in Escherichia coli. The results showed that N-scorpine presented a random coil structure in water and adopted α-helical folding in the presence of 50% trifluoroethanol (TFE). C-scorpine contains three disulfide bonds with two structural domains: an unstructured N-terminal domain in water that can form a typical secondary alpha-helix structure in 50% TFE and a C-terminal domain with the CS-αβ motif. Our findings demonstrate cytolytic activity associated with C-scorpine, N-scorpine, and scorpine, as well as channel blocking activity associated with the C-scorpine domain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elisa Carrillo
- Center for Membrane Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Alland Colorado
- Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, CdMx, Mexico
| | - Lourival D Possani
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
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4
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Colomar-Carando N, Gauthier L, Merli P, Loiacono F, Canevali P, Falco M, Galaverna F, Rossi B, Bosco F, Caratini M, Mingari MC, Locatelli F, Vivier E, Meazza R, Pende D. Exploiting Natural Killer Cell Engagers to Control Pediatric B-cell Precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Cancer Immunol Res 2022; 10:291-302. [PMID: 35078821 PMCID: PMC9662914 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-21-0843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells represent a promising cell type in antitumor immunotherapy for efficacy and safety, particularly in the treatment of hematologic malignancies. NK cells have been shown to exert antileukemia activity in the context of haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo-HSCT). Products have been developed to boost the activation of NK cells only when cross-linked by tumor cells, avoiding any off-target effect. Here, we tested the in vitro effect of different NK-cell engagers (NKCE), which trigger either NKp46 or NKp30 together with CD16A, and target either CD19 or CD20 to induce killing of pediatric B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP-ALL). Target cells were NALM-16 and MHH-CALL-4 cell lines and four primary leukemias, while effector cells were resting NK cells derived from healthy donors and pediatric patients with leukemia after αβT/B-depleted haplo-HSCT. The NK cell-resistant MHH-CALL-4 was efficiently killed using all NKCEs. Boosting of NK activity against MHH-CALL-4 was also evident by degranulation and IFNγ production. Because of the lack of CD20 and high expression of CD19 on primary BCP-ALL, we focused on NKCEs targeting CD19. NKp46- and NKp30-based NKCEs displayed similar potency at inducing NK-cell activity, even when challenged with primary BCP-ALL blasts. Their efficacy was shown also using NK cells derived from transplanted patients. NKCE-induced activation against BCP-ALL can override HLA-specific inhibitory interactions, although the strongest response was observed by the alloreactive NK-cell subset. These data support the therapeutic use of NKp46/CD16A/CD19-NKCE to fight refractory/relapsed leukemia in pretransplantation or posttransplantation settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Colomar-Carando
- Laboratory of Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Pietro Merli
- Department of Hematology/Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Roma, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Loiacono
- Laboratory of Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Paolo Canevali
- Laboratory of Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Michela Falco
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Integrated Department of Services and Laboratories, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genova, Italy
| | - Federica Galaverna
- Department of Hematology/Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Roma, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Maria Cristina Mingari
- Laboratory of Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Franco Locatelli
- Department of Hematology/Oncology and Cell and Gene Therapy, IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, Roma, Italy.,Department of Gynecology/Obstetrics and Pediatrics, Sapienza University, Roma, Italy
| | - Eric Vivier
- Innate Pharma, Marseille, France.,Aix Marseille University, CNRS, INSERM, CIML, Marseille, France.,APHM, Hôpital de la Timone, Marseille-Immunopôle, Marseille, France
| | - Raffaella Meazza
- Laboratory of Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Daniela Pende
- Laboratory of Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy.,Corresponding Author: Daniela Pende, Laboratory of Immunology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Largo Rosanna Benzi 10, Genova 16132, Italy. Phone: 39-010-555-8220; E-mail:
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5
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López-Giraldo AE, Olamendi-Portugal T, Riaño-Umbarila L, Becerril B, Possani LD, Delepierre M, del Río-Portilla F. The three-dimensional structure of the toxic peptide Cl13 from the scorpion Centruroides limpidus. Toxicon 2020; 184:158-166. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Dissecting Toxicity: The Venom Gland Transcriptome and the Venom Proteome of the Highly Venomous Scorpion Centruroides limpidus (Karsch, 1879). Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11050247. [PMID: 31052267 PMCID: PMC6563264 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11050247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Venom glands and soluble venom from the Mexican scorpion Centruroides limpidus (Karsch, 1879) were used for transcriptomic and proteomic analyses, respectively. An RNA-seq was performed by high-throughput sequencing with the Illumina platform. Approximately 80 million reads were obtained and assembled into 198,662 putative transcripts, of which 11,058 were annotated by similarity to sequences from available databases. A total of 192 venom-related sequences were identified, including Na+ and K+ channel-acting toxins, enzymes, host defense peptides, and other venom components. The most diverse transcripts were those potentially coding for ion channel-acting toxins, mainly those active on Na+ channels (NaScTx). Sequences corresponding to β- scorpion toxins active of K+ channels (KScTx) and λ-KScTx are here reported for the first time for a scorpion of the genus Centruroides. Mass fingerprint corroborated that NaScTx are the most abundant components in this venom. Liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectometry (LC-MS/MS) allowed the identification of 46 peptides matching sequences encoded in the transcriptome, confirming their expression in the venom. This study corroborates that, in the venom of toxic buthid scorpions, the more abundant and diverse components are ion channel-acting toxins, mainly NaScTx, while they lack the HDP diversity previously demonstrated for the non-buthid scorpions. The highly abundant and diverse antareases explain the pancreatitis observed after envenomation by this species.
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7
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Leong SW, Lim TS, Ismail A, Choong YS. Integration of molecular dynamics simulation and hotspot residues grafting for de novo scFv design against Salmonella Typhi TolC protein. J Mol Recognit 2017; 31:e2695. [PMID: 29230887 DOI: 10.1002/jmr.2695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
With the development of de novo binders for protein targets from non-related scaffolds, many possibilities for therapeutics and diagnostics have been created. In this study, we described the use of de novo design approach to create single-chain fragment variable (scFv) for Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serovar Typhi TolC protein. Typhoid fever is a global health concern in developing and underdeveloped countries. Rapid typhoid diagnostics will improve disease management and therapy. In this work, molecular dynamics simulation was first performed on a homology model of TolC protein in POPE membrane bilayer to obtain the central structure that was subsequently used as the target for scFv design. Potential hotspot residues capable of anchoring the binders to the target were identified by docking "disembodied" amino acid residues against TolC surface. Next, scFv scaffolds were selected from Protein Data Bank to harbor the computed hotspot residues. The hotspot residues were then incorporated into the scFv scaffold complementarity determining regions. The designs recapitulated binding energy, shape complementarity, and interface surface area of natural protein-antibody interfaces. This approach has yielded 5 designs with high binding affinity against TolC that may be beneficial for the future development of antigen-based detection agents for typhoid diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siew Wen Leong
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Theam Soon Lim
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Asma Ismail
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Yee Siew Choong
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden, Penang, Malaysia
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8
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Santibáñez-López CE, Francke OF, Ureta C, Possani LD. Scorpions from Mexico: From Species Diversity to Venom Complexity. Toxins (Basel) 2015; 8:E2. [PMID: 26712787 PMCID: PMC4728524 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Revised: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 12/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Scorpions are among the oldest terrestrial arthropods, which are distributed worldwide, except for Antarctica and some Pacific islands. Scorpion envenomation represents a public health problem in several parts of the world. Mexico harbors the highest diversity of scorpions in the world, including some of the world's medically important scorpion species. The systematics and diversity of Mexican scorpion fauna has not been revised in the past decade; and due to recent and exhaustive collection efforts as part of different ongoing major revisionary systematic projects, our understanding of this diversity has changed compared with previous assessments. Given the presence of several medically important scorpion species, the study of their venom in the country is also important. In the present contribution, the diversity of scorpion species in Mexico is revised and updated based on several new systematic contributions; 281 different species are recorded. Commentaries on recent venomic, ecological and behavioral studies of Mexican scorpions are also provided. A list containing the most important peptides identified from 16 different species is included. A graphical representation of the different types of components found in these venoms is also revised. A map with hotspots showing the current knowledge on scorpion distribution and areas explored in Mexico is also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos E Santibáñez-López
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca Morelos 62210, Mexico.
| | - Oscar F Francke
- Colección Nacional de Arácnidos, Instituto de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Circuito exterior s/n, Ciudad Universitaria, Copilco, Coyoacán A.P. 70-233, Distrito Federal 04510, Mexico.
| | - Carolina Ureta
- Laboratorio de Genética Molecular, Desarrollo y Evolución de Plantas, Departamento de Ecología Funcional, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 70-275, Ciudad Universitaria, Distrito Federal 04510, Mexico.
| | - Lourival D Possani
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca Morelos 62210, Mexico.
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Riaño-Umbarila L, Ledezma-Candanoza LM, Serrano-Posada H, Fernández-Taboada G, Olamendi-Portugal T, Rojas-Trejo S, Gómez-Ramírez IV, Rudiño-Piñera E, Possani LD, Becerril B. Optimal Neutralization of Centruroides noxius Venom Is Understood through a Structural Complex between Two Antibody Fragments and the Cn2 Toxin. J Biol Chem 2015; 291:1619-1630. [PMID: 26589800 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.685297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The current trend of using recombinant antibody fragments in research to develop novel antidotes against scorpion stings has achieved excellent results. The polyclonal character of commercial antivenoms, obtained through the immunization of animals and which contain several neutralizing antibodies that recognize different epitopes on the toxins, guarantees the neutralization of the venoms. To avoid the use of animals, we aimed to develop an equivalent recombinant antivenom composed of a few neutralizing single chain antibody fragments (scFvs) that bind to two different epitopes on the scorpion toxins. In this study, we obtained scFv RU1 derived from scFv C1. RU1 showed a good capacity to neutralize the Cn2 toxin and whole venom of the scorpion Centruroides noxius. Previously, we had produced scFv LR, obtained from a different parental fragment (scFv 3F). LR also showed a similar neutralizing capacity. The simultaneous administration of both scFvs resulted in improved protection, which was translated as a rapid recovery of previously poisoned animals. The crystallographic structure of the ternary complex scFv LR-Cn2-scFv RU1 allowed us to identify the areas of interaction of both scFvs with the toxin, which correspond to non-overlapping sites. The epitope recognized by scFv RU1 seems to be related to a greater efficiency in the neutralization of the whole venom. In addition, the structural analysis of the complex helped us to explain the cross-reactivity of these scFvs and how they neutralize the venom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Riaño-Umbarila
- From the Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, México and
| | - Luis M Ledezma-Candanoza
- From the Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, México and
| | - Hugo Serrano-Posada
- the Laboratorio de Bioingeniería, Universidad de Colima, Km. 9 carretera Coquimatlán-Colima, C.P. 28400 Coquimatlán, Colima, México
| | - Guillermo Fernández-Taboada
- From the Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, México and
| | - Timoteo Olamendi-Portugal
- From the Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, México and
| | - Sonia Rojas-Trejo
- From the Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, México and
| | - Ilse V Gómez-Ramírez
- From the Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, México and
| | - Enrique Rudiño-Piñera
- From the Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, México and
| | - Lourival D Possani
- From the Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, México and
| | - Baltazar Becerril
- From the Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, México and.
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10
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Levin M, Davies AM, Liljekvist M, Carlsson F, Gould HJ, Sutton BJ, Ohlin M. Human IgE against the major allergen Bet v 1--defining an epitope with limited cross-reactivity between different PR-10 family proteins. Clin Exp Allergy 2014; 44:288-99. [PMID: 24447087 PMCID: PMC4215112 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2013] [Revised: 09/24/2013] [Accepted: 10/25/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Background The interaction between IgE and allergen is a key event at the initiation of an allergic response, and its characteristics have substantial effects on the clinical manifestation. Despite this, the molecular details of the interaction between human IgE and the major birch allergen Bet v 1, one of the most potent tree allergens, still remain poorly investigated. Objective To isolate Bet v 1-specific human monoclonal IgE and characterize their interaction with the allergen. Methods Recombinant human IgE were isolated from a combinatorial antibody fragment library and their interaction with Bet v 1 assessed using various immunological assays. The structure of one such IgE in the single-chain fragment variable format was determined using X-ray crystallography. Results We present four novel Bet v 1-specific IgE, for one of which we solve the structure, all with their genetic origin in the IGHV5 germline gene, and demonstrate that they target two non-overlapping epitopes on the surface of Bet v 1, thereby fulfilling the basic criteria for FcεRI cross-linkage. We further define these epitopes and for one epitope pinpoint single amino acid residues important for the interaction with human IgE. This provides a potential explanation, at the molecular level, for the differences in recognition of isoforms of Bet v 1 and other allergens in the PR-10 protein family displayed by IgE targeting this epitope. Finally, we present the first high-resolution structure of a human allergen-specific IgE fragment in the single-chain fragment variable (scFv) format. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance We here display the usefulness of allergen-specific human monoclonal IgE as a tool in studies of the crucial molecular interaction taking place at the initiation of an allergic response. Such studies may aid us in development of better diagnostic tools and guide us in the development of new therapeutic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Levin
- Department of Immunotechnology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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11
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In vivo neutralization of α-cobratoxin with high-affinity llama single-domain antibodies (VHHs) and a VHH-Fc antibody. PLoS One 2013; 8:e69495. [PMID: 23894495 PMCID: PMC3718736 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0069495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2013] [Accepted: 06/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Small recombinant antibody fragments (e.g. scFvs and VHHs), which are highly tissue permeable, are being investigated for antivenom production as conventional antivenoms consisting of IgG or F(ab')2 antibody fragments do not effectively neutralize venom toxins located in deep tissues. However, antivenoms composed entirely of small antibody fragments may have poor therapeutic efficacy due to their short serum half-lives. To increase serum persistence and maintain tissue penetration, we prepared low and high molecular mass antivenom antibodies. Four llama VHHs were isolated from an immune VHH-displayed phage library and were shown to have high affinity, in the low nM range, for α-cobratoxin (α-Cbtx), the most lethal component of Naja kaouthia venom. Subsequently, our highest affinity VHH (C2) was fused to a human Fc fragment to create a VHH2-Fc antibody that would offer prolonged serum persistence. After in planta (Nicotiana benthamiana) expression and purification, we show that our VHH2-Fc antibody retained high affinity binding to α-Cbtx. Mouse α-Cbtx challenge studies showed that our highest affinity VHHs (C2 and C20) and the VHH2-Fc antibody effectively neutralized lethality induced by α-Cbtx at an antibody:toxin molar ratio as low as ca. 0.75×:1. Further research towards the development of an antivenom therapeutic involving these anti-α-Cbtx VHHs and VHH2-Fc antibody molecules should involve testing them as a combination, to determine whether they maintain tissue penetration capability and low immunogenicity, and whether they exhibit improved serum persistence and therapeutic efficacy.
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Gordon D, Chen R, Chung SH. Computational methods of studying the binding of toxins from venomous animals to biological ion channels: theory and applications. Physiol Rev 2013; 93:767-802. [PMID: 23589832 PMCID: PMC3768100 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00035.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The discovery of new drugs that selectively block or modulate ion channels has great potential to provide new treatments for a host of conditions. One promising avenue revolves around modifying or mimicking certain naturally occurring ion channel modulator toxins. This strategy appears to offer the prospect of designing drugs that are both potent and specific. The use of computational modeling is crucial to this endeavor, as it has the potential to provide lower cost alternatives for exploring the effects of new compounds on ion channels. In addition, computational modeling can provide structural information and theoretical understanding that is not easily derivable from experimental results. In this review, we look at the theory and computational methods that are applicable to the study of ion channel modulators. The first section provides an introduction to various theoretical concepts, including force-fields and the statistical mechanics of binding. We then look at various computational techniques available to the researcher, including molecular dynamics, brownian dynamics, and molecular docking systems. The latter section of the review explores applications of these techniques, concentrating on pore blocker and gating modifier toxins of potassium and sodium channels. After first discussing the structural features of these channels, and their modes of block, we provide an in-depth review of past computational work that has been carried out. Finally, we discuss prospects for future developments in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Gordon
- Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Acton, ACT 0200, Australia.
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Rodríguez-Rodríguez ER, Ledezma-Candanoza LM, Contreras-Ferrat LG, Olamendi-Portugal T, Possani LD, Becerril B, Riaño-Umbarila L. A Single Mutation in Framework 2 of the Heavy Variable Domain Improves the Properties of a Diabody and a Related Single-Chain Antibody. J Mol Biol 2012; 423:337-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2012.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2012] [Revised: 07/02/2012] [Accepted: 07/06/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Chen R, Chung SH. Conserved functional surface of antimammalian scorpion β-toxins. J Phys Chem B 2012; 116:4796-800. [PMID: 22471309 DOI: 10.1021/jp300127j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Scorpion β-toxins bind to the voltage-sensing domain of voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels and trap the voltage-sensing domain in the activated state. Two structurally similar β-toxins from scorpions, Css4 and Cn2, selectively target different subtypes of mammalian NaV channels. While the receptor site on the channels is known, the functional surface of the toxins remains to be understood. Here, we predict the binding modes of Css4 and Cn2 to the voltage-sensing domains of NaV1.2 and NaV1.6, respectively, with a molecular docking method and molecular dynamics simulations. The dissociation constants for the predicted toxin-channel complexes derived with umbrella sampling simulations are in accord with experiment. Our calculations suggest that the functional surface of Cn2 and Css4 is primarily formed by the loop between positions 8 and 18, centered on the two charged residues Lys13 and Glu15.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Chen
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University , Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
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15
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Fabrichny IP, Mondielli G, Conrod S, Martin-Eauclaire MF, Bourne Y, Marchot P. Structural insights into antibody sequestering and neutralizing of Na+ channel α-type modulator from old world scorpion venom. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:14136-48. [PMID: 22371498 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.315382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The Old World scorpion Androctonus australis hector (Aah) produces one of the most lethal venoms for humans. Peptidic α-toxins AahI to AahIV are responsible for its potency, with AahII accounting for half of it. All four toxins are high affinity blockers of the fast inactivation phase of mammalian voltage-activated Na(+) channels. However, the high antigenic polymorphism of α-toxins prevents production of a polyvalent neutralizing antiserum, whereas the determinants dictating their trapping by neutralizing antibodies remain elusive. From an anti-AahII mAb, we generated an antigen binding fragment (Fab) with high affinity and selectivity for AahII and solved a 2.3 Å-resolution crystal structure of the complex. Sequestering of the C-terminal region of the bound toxin within a groove formed by the Fab combining loops is associated with a toxin orientation and main and side chain conformations that dictate the AahII antigenic specificity and efficient neutralization. From an anti-AahI mAb, we also preformed and crystallized a high affinity AahI-Fab complex. The 1.6 Å-resolution structure solved revealed a Fab molecule devoid of a bound AahI and with combining loops involved in packing interactions, denoting expulsion of the bound antigen upon crystal formation. Comparative analysis of the groove-like combining site of the toxin-bound anti-AahII Fab and planar combining surface of the unbound anti-AahI Fab along with complementary data from a flexible docking approach suggests occurrence of distinctive trapping orientations for the two toxins relative to their respective Fab. This study provides complementary templates for designing new molecules aimed at capturing Aah α-toxins and suitable for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor P Fabrichny
- Faculté de Médecine Secteur Nord, Centre de Recherche en Neurobiologie-Neurophysiologie de Marseille, CRN2M, CNRS/Aix-Marseille Université UMR-6231, Institut Fédératif de Recherche Jean Roche, CS80011, F-13344 Marseille cedex 15, France
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Quintero-Hernández V, Del Pozo-Yauner L, Pedraza-Escalona M, Juárez-González VR, Alcántara-Recillas I, Possani LD, Becerril B. Evaluation of three different formats of a neutralizing single chain human antibody against toxin Cn2: neutralization capacity versus thermodynamic stability. Immunol Lett 2012; 143:152-60. [PMID: 22306104 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2012.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2011] [Revised: 01/18/2012] [Accepted: 01/20/2012] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The single-chain antibody fragment (scFv) 6009F, obtained by directed evolution, neutralizes the effects of the Cn2 toxin, which is the major toxic component of Centruroides noxius scorpion venom. In this work we compared the neutralization capacity and the thermodynamic stability of scFv 6009F with those of two other derived formats: Fab 6009F and diabody 6009F. Additionally, the affinity constants to Cn2 toxin of the three recombinant antibody fragments were determined by means of BIAcore. We found a correlation between the thermodynamic stability of these antibody fragments with their neutralization capacity. The order of thermodynamic stability determined was Fab≫scFv>diabody. The Fab and scFv were capable of neutralizing the toxic effects of Cn2 and whole venom but the diabody was unable to fully neutralize intoxication. In silico analysis of the diabody format indicates that the reduction of stability and neutralization capacity could be explained by a less cooperative interface between the heavy and the light variable domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Quintero-Hernández
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, Mexico
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