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Ozberk V, Zaman M, Lepletier A, Eskandari S, Kaden J, Mills JL, Calcutt A, Dooley J, Huo Y, Langshaw EL, Ulett GC, Batzloff MR, Good MF, Pandey M. A Glycolipidated-liposomal peptide vaccine confers long-term mucosal protection against Streptococcus pyogenes via IL-17, macrophages and neutrophils. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5963. [PMID: 37749129 PMCID: PMC10520070 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41410-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucosally active subunit vaccines are an unmet clinical need due to lack of licensed immunostimulants suitable for vaccine antigens. Here, we show that intranasal administration of liposomes incorporating: the Streptococcus pyogenes peptide antigen, J8; diphtheria toxoid as a source of T cell help; and the immunostimulatory glycolipid, 3D(6-acyl) PHAD (PHAD), is able to induce long-lived humoral and cellular immunity. Mice genetically deficient in either mucosal antibodies or total antibodies are protected against S. pyogenes respiratory tract infection. Utilizing IL-17-deficient mice or depleting cellular subsets using antibodies, shows that the cellular responses encompassing, CD4+ T cells, IL-17, macrophages and neutrophils have important functions in vaccine-mediated mucosal immunity. Overall, these data demonstrate the utility of a mucosal vaccine platform to deliver multi-pronged protective responses against a highly virulent pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Ozberk
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Mehfuz Zaman
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Ailin Lepletier
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Sharareh Eskandari
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Jacqualine Kaden
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Jamie-Lee Mills
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Ainslie Calcutt
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Jessica Dooley
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Yongbao Huo
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Emma L Langshaw
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Glen C Ulett
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Science, and Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Michael R Batzloff
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Michael F Good
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.
| | - Manisha Pandey
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.
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2
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Reynolds S, Rafeek RAM, Hamlin A, Lepletier A, Pandey M, Ketheesan N, Good MF. Streptococcus pyogenes vaccine candidates do not induce autoimmune responses in a rheumatic heart disease model. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:9. [PMID: 36739443 PMCID: PMC9899064 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00604-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
We have developed a candidate vaccine to protect against multiple strains of Streptococcus pyogenes infections. The candidate vaccine contains two synthetic peptides derived from S. pyogenes proteins: the M-protein epitope, p*17 and the IL-8 degrading S. pyogenes Cell-Envelope Proteinase (SpyCEP) epitope, K4S2. In this study we utilise a rat autoimmune valvulitis model that displays both the cardiac and neurobehavioural pathology associated with post-streptococcal sequelae, to assess if the vaccine candidate antigens induce autoimmune complications and inflammatory pathology. Each antigen was conjugated to carrier protein diphtheria toxoid (DT) and independently assessed for potential to induce autoimmune pathology in female Lewis rats. Rats were administered three subcutaneous doses, and one intranasal dose over a four-week study with a two-week recovery period. A positive control group received recombinant S. pyogenes M5 (rM5) protein, and the negative control group received PBS. Rats that received rM5 developed significant cardiac and neurological pathologies. There was no evidence of these pathologies in the PBS control group, or the rats administered either P*17-DT or K4S2-DT. This study provides further preclinical evidence of the safety of the vaccine candidates p*17 and K4S2 and their appropriateness as candidates in human clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Reynolds
- grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland Australia
| | - Rukshan Ahamed Mohamed Rafeek
- grid.1020.30000 0004 1936 7371School of Science & Technology, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales Australia
| | - Adam Hamlin
- grid.1020.30000 0004 1936 7371School of Science & Technology, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales Australia
| | - Ailin Lepletier
- grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland Australia
| | - Manisha Pandey
- grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland Australia
| | - Natkunam Ketheesan
- grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland Australia ,grid.1020.30000 0004 1936 7371School of Science & Technology, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales Australia
| | - Michael F. Good
- grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland Australia
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McMillan DJ, Rafeek RAM, Norton RE, Good MF, Sriprakash KS, Ketheesan N. In Search of the Holy Grail: A Specific Diagnostic Test for Rheumatic Fever. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:674805. [PMID: 34055941 PMCID: PMC8160110 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.674805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Current diagnosis of Acute Rheumatic Fever and Rheumatic Heart Disease (ARF/RHD) relies on a battery of clinical observations aided by technologically advanced diagnostic tools and non-specific laboratory tests. The laboratory-based assays fall into two categories: those that (1) detect "evidence of preceding streptococcal infections" (ASOT, anti-DNAse B, isolation of the Group A Streptococcus from a throat swab) and (2) those that detect an ongoing inflammatory process (ESR and CRP). These laboratory tests are positive during any streptococcal infection and are non-specific for the diagnosis of ARF/RHD. Over the last few decades, we have accumulated considerable knowledge about streptococcal biology and the immunopathological mechanisms that contribute to the development, progression and exacerbation of ARF/RHD. Although our knowledge is incomplete and many more years will be devoted to understanding the exact molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the spectrum of clinical manifestations of ARF/RHD, in this commentary we contend that there is sufficient understanding of the disease process that using currently available technologies it is possible to identify pathogen associated peptides and develop a specific test for ARF/RHD. It is our view that with collaboration and sharing of well-characterised serial blood samples from patients with ARF/RHD from different regions, antibody array technology and/or T-cell tetramers could be used to identify streptococcal peptides specific to ARF/RHD. The availability of an appropriate animal model for this uniquely human disease can further facilitate the determination as to whether these peptides are pathognomonic. Identification of such peptides will also facilitate testing of potential anti-streptococcal vaccines for safety and avoid potential candidates that may pre-dispose potential vaccine recipients to adverse outcomes. Such peptides can also be readily incorporated into a universally affordable point of care device for both primary and tertiary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. McMillan
- School of Science and Technology, Engineering and Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | - Rukshan A. M. Rafeek
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert E. Norton
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
- Pathology Queensland, Townsville University Hospital, Douglas, QLD, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Michael F. Good
- Laboratory of Vaccines for the Developing World, Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Kadaba S. Sriprakash
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
- Queensland Institute of Medical Research Berghofer (QIMR) Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Natkunam Ketheesan
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
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Rafeek RAM, Sikder S, Hamlin AS, Andronicos NM, McMillan DJ, Sriprakash KS, Ketheesan N. Requirements for a Robust Animal Model to Investigate the Disease Mechanism of Autoimmune Complications Associated With ARF/RHD. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:675339. [PMID: 34026876 PMCID: PMC8131511 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.675339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of Acute Rheumatic Fever/Rheumatic Heart Disease (ARF/RHD) and associated neurobehavioral complications including Sydenham's chorea (SC) is complex. Disease complications triggered by Group A streptococcal (GAS) infection are confined to human and determining the early events leading to pathology requires a robust animal model that reflects the hallmark features of the disease. However, modeling these conditions in a laboratory animal, of a uniquely human disease is challenging. Animal models including cattle, sheep, pig, dog, cat, guinea pigs rats and mice have been used extensively to dissect molecular mechanisms of the autoimmune inflammatory responses in ARF/RHD. Despite the characteristic limitations of some animal models, several rodent models have significantly contributed to better understanding of the fundamental mechanisms underpinning features of ARF/RHD. In the Lewis rat autoimmune valvulitis model the development of myocarditis and valvulitis with the infiltration of mononuclear cells along with generation of antibodies that cross-react with cardiac tissue proteins following exposure to GAS antigens were found to be similar to ARF/RHD. We have recently shown that Lewis rats injected with recombinant GAS antigens simultaneously developed cardiac and neurobehavioral changes. Since ARF/RHD is multifactorial in origin, an animal model which exhibit the characteristics of several of the cardinal diagnostic criteria observed in ARF/RHD, would be advantageous to determine the early immune responses to facilitate biomarker discovery as well as provide a suitable model to evaluate treatment options, safety and efficacy of vaccine candidates. This review focuses on some of the common small animals and their advantages and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rukshan A. M. Rafeek
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | - Suchandan Sikder
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Adam S. Hamlin
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | | | - David J. McMillan
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
- School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD, Australia
| | - Kadaba S. Sriprakash
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
- Queensland Institute of Medical Research Berghofer, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Natkunam Ketheesan
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
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5
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Preclinical safety and immunogenicity of Streptococcus pyogenes (Strep A) peptide vaccines. Sci Rep 2021; 11:127. [PMID: 33420258 PMCID: PMC7794325 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-80508-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
We have developed two candidate vaccines to protect against multiple strains of Strep A infections. The candidates are combinatorial synthetic peptide vaccines composed of a M protein epitope (J8 or p*17) and a non-M protein epitope (K4S2). To enhance immunogenicity, each peptide is conjugated to the carrier protein CRM197 (CRM) and formulated with aluminium hydroxide adjuvant Alhydrogel (Alum) to make the final vaccines, J8-CRM + K4S2-CRM/Alum and p*17-CRM + K4S2-CRM/Alum. The safety and toxicity of each vaccine was assessed. Sprague Dawley rats were administered three intramuscular doses, over a six-week study with a 4-week recovery period. A control group received CRM only formulated with Alum (CRM/Alum). There was no evidence of systemic toxicity in the rats administered either vaccine. There was an associated increase in white blood cell, lymphocyte and monocyte counts, increased adrenal gland weights, adrenocortical hypertrophy, and increased severity of granulomatous inflammation at the sites of injection and the associated inguinal lymph nodes. These changes were considered non-adverse. All rats administered vaccine developed a robust and sustained immunological response. The absence of clinical toxicity and the development of an immunological response in the rats suggests that the vaccines are safe for use in a phase 1 clinical trial in healthy humans.
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Dooley LM, Ahmad TB, Pandey M, Good MF, Kotiw M. Rheumatic heart disease: A review of the current status of global research activity. Autoimmun Rev 2020; 20:102740. [PMID: 33333234 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2020.102740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is a serious and long-term consequence of acute rheumatic fever (ARF), an autoimmune sequela of a mucosal infection by Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus, Strep A). The pathogenesis of ARF and RHD is complex and not fully understood but involves host and bacterial factors, molecular mimicry, and aberrant host innate and adaptive immune responses that result in loss of self-tolerance and subsequent cross-reactivity with host tissues. RHD is entirely preventable yet claims an estimated 320 000 lives annually. The major burden of disease is carried by developing nations and Indigenous populations within developed nations, including Australia. This review will focus on the epidemiology, pathogenesis and treatment of ARF and RHD in Australia, where: streptococcal pyoderma, rather than streptococcal pharyngitis, and Group C and Group G Streptococcus, have been implicated as antecedents to ARF; the rates of RHD in remote Indigenous communities are persistently among the highest in the world; government register-based programs coordinate disease screening and delivery of prophylaxis with variable success; and researchers are making significant progress in the development of a broad-spectrum vaccine against Strep A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne M Dooley
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia; Institute for Life Sciences and the Environment, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Tarek B Ahmad
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia; Institute for Life Sciences and the Environment, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Manisha Pandey
- The Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Michael F Good
- The Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Michael Kotiw
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia; Institute for Life Sciences and the Environment, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia.
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7
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M-protein based vaccine induces immunogenicity and protection from Streptococcus pyogenes when delivered on a high-density microarray patch (HD-MAP). NPJ Vaccines 2020; 5:74. [PMID: 32802413 PMCID: PMC7414110 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-020-00222-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We evaluated vaccination against Streptococcus pyogenes with the candidate vaccine, J8-DT, delivered by a high-density microarray patch (HD-MAP). We showed that vaccination with J8-DT eluted from a coated HD-MAP (J8-DT/HD-MAP), induced similar total IgG responses to that generated by vaccination with J8-DT adjuvanted with Alum (J8-DT/Alum). We evaluated the effect of dose reduction and the number of vaccinations on the antibody response profile of vaccinated mice. A reduction in the number of vaccinations (from three to two) with J8-DT/HD-MAP induced comparable antibody responses to three vaccinations with intramuscular J8-DT/Alum. Vaccine-induced protection against an S. pyogenes skin challenge was assessed. J8-DT/HD-MAP vaccination led to a significant reduction in the number of S. pyogenes colony forming units in skin (92.9%) and blood (100%) compared to intramuscular vaccination with unadjuvanted J8-DT. The protection profile was comparable to that of intramuscular J8-DT/Alum. J8-DT/HD-MAP induced a shift in the antibody isotype profile, with a bias towards Th1-related isotypes, compared to J8-DT/Alum (Th2 bias). Based on the results of this study, the use of J8-DT/HD-MAP should be considered in future clinical development and control programs against S. pyogenes. Furthermore, the innate characteristics of the technology, such as vaccine stability and increased coverage, ease of use, reduction of sharp waste and the potential reduction of dose may be advantageous compared to current vaccination methods.
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8
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Campbell PT, Frost H, Smeesters PR, Kado J, Good MF, Batzloff M, Geard N, McVernon J, Steer A. Investigation of group A Streptococcus immune responses in an endemic setting, with a particular focus on J8. Vaccine 2018; 36:7618-7624. [PMID: 30401621 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.10.091] [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: 09/06/2018] [Revised: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Sustained control of group A Streptococcus (GAS) infections in settings of poverty has proven to be challenging, and an effective vaccine may be the most practical long-term strategy to reduce GAS-related disease burden. Candidate GAS vaccines based on the J8 peptide have demonstrated promising immunogenicity in mice, however, less is known about the role of J8 antibodies in the human immune response to GAS infection. We analysed the stimulation of J8 antibodies in response to infection, and the role of existing J8 antibodies in protection against subsequent infection, using data collected in the Fijian population: (1) cross sectional population serosurvey; (2) paired serum collection for assessment of M-specific and J8 antibody responses; and (3) longitudinal assessment of GAS infection and immunity. Median J8 antibody concentrations peaked in the 5-14 year age group, but there was no sustained increase with age. J8 antibody concentration was neither a significant predictor of time to next infection, nor did it show any relationship to the time since last recorded skin infection. Similarly, J8 antibody fold changes over a defined period were associated neither with the time since last skin infection, nor the number of intervening skin infections. While strong M-specific antibody responses were observed for skin infection, similarly strong J8 antibody responses were not observed. There is no indication that antibodies to the J8 antigen would be useful as either a marker of GAS infection or a measure of population immunity, with J8 antibody responses to infection fleeting, if existent at all.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Therese Campbell
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory Epidemiology Unit, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Hannah Frost
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Molecular Bacteriology Laboratory, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Pierre R Smeesters
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Molecular Bacteriology Laboratory, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium; Department of Pediatrics, Academic Children Hospital Queen Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium; Centre for International Child Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Joseph Kado
- Department of Paediatrics, Colonial War Memorial Hospital, Fiji; College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Fiji National University, Fiji; Fiji Rheumatic Heart Disease Control Program, Suva, Fiji; Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western, Australia
| | - Michael F Good
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael Batzloff
- Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicholas Geard
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory Epidemiology Unit, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Australia; School of Computing and Information Systems, Melbourne School of Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jodie McVernon
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory Epidemiology Unit, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and The University of Melbourne, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrew Steer
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for International Child Health, University of Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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9
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Structure of ScpC, a virulence protease from Streptococcus pyogenes, reveals the functional domains and maturation mechanism. Biochem J 2018; 475:2847-2860. [DOI: 10.1042/bcj20180145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Revised: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Group A Streptococcus (GAS; Streptococcus pyogenes) causes a wide range of infections, including pharyngitis, impetigo, and necrotizing fasciitis, and results in over half a million deaths annually. GAS ScpC (SpyCEP), a 180-kDa surface-exposed, subtilisin-like serine protease, acts as an essential virulence factor that helps S. pyogenes evade the innate immune response by cleaving and inactivating C-X-C chemokines. ScpC is thus a key candidate for the development of a vaccine against GAS and other pathogenic streptococcal species. Here, we report the crystal structures of full-length ScpC wild-type, the inactive mutant, and the ScpC–AEBSF inhibitor complex. We show ScpC to be a multi-domain, modular protein consisting of nine structural domains, of which the first five constitute the PR + A region required for catalytic activity. The four unique C-terminal domains of this protein are similar to collagen-binding and pilin proteins, suggesting an additional role for ScpC as an adhesin that might mediate the attachment of S. pyogenes to various host tissues. The Cat domain of ScpC is similar to subtilisin-like proteases with significant difference to dictate its specificity toward C-X-C chemokines. We further show that ScpC does not undergo structural rearrangement upon maturation. In the ScpC–inhibitor complex, the bound inhibitor breaks the hydrogen bond between active-site residues, which is essential for catalysis. Guided by our structure, we designed various epitopes and raised antibodies capable of neutralizing ScpC activity. Collectively, our results demonstrate the structure, maturation process, inhibition, and substrate recognition of GAS ScpC, and reveal the presence of functional domains at the C-terminal region.
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10
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Sekuloski S, Batzloff MR, Griffin P, Parsonage W, Elliott S, Hartas J, O’Rourke P, Marquart L, Pandey M, Rubin FA, Carapetis J, McCarthy J, Good MF. Evaluation of safety and immunogenicity of a group A streptococcus vaccine candidate (MJ8VAX) in a randomized clinical trial. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0198658. [PMID: 29965967 PMCID: PMC6028081 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Group A streptococcus (GAS) is a serious human pathogen that affects people of different ages and socio-economic levels. Although vaccination is potentially one of the most effective methods to control GAS infection and its sequelae, few prototype vaccines have been investigated in humans. In this study, we report the safety and immunogenicity of a novel acetylated peptide-protein conjugate vaccine candidate MJ8VAX (J8-DT), when delivered intramuscularly to healthy adults. METHODS A randomized, double-blinded, controlled Phase I clinical trial was conducted in 10 healthy adult participants. Participants were randomized 4:1 to receive the vaccine candidate (N = 8) or placebo (N = 2). A single dose of the vaccine candidate (MJ8VAX), contained 50 μg of peptide conjugate (J8-DT) adsorbed onto aluminium hydroxide and re-suspended in PBS in a total volume of 0.5 mL. Safety of the vaccine candidate was assessed by monitoring local and systemic adverse reactions following intramuscular administration. The immunogenicity of the vaccine was assessed by measuring the levels of peptide (anti-J8) and toxoid carrier (anti-DT)-specific antibodies in serum samples. RESULTS No serious adverse events were reported over 12 months of study. A total of 13 adverse events (AEs) were recorded, two of which were assessed to be associated with the vaccine. Both were mild in severity. No local reactogenicity was recorded in any of the participants. MJ8VAX was shown to be immunogenic, with increase in vaccine-specific antibodies in the participants who received the vaccine. The maximum level of vaccine-specific antibodies was detected at 28 days post immunization. The level of these antibodies decreased with time during follow-up. Participants who received the vaccine also had a corresponding increase in anti-DT serum antibodies. CONCLUSIONS Intramuscular administration of MJ8VAX was demonstrated to be safe and immunogenic. The presence of DT in the vaccine formulation resulted in a boost in the level of anti-DT antibodies. TRIAL REGISTRATION ACTRN12613000030774.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Sekuloski
- Clinical Tropical Medicine Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Michael R. Batzloff
- The Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul Griffin
- Clinical Tropical Medicine Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- Q-Pharm Pty Ltd, Brisbane, Australia
- Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Mater Hospital and Mater Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - William Parsonage
- Australian Centre for Health Service Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - Jon Hartas
- The Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Peter O’Rourke
- Clinical Tropical Medicine Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Louise Marquart
- Clinical Tropical Medicine Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Manisha Pandey
- The Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Fran A. Rubin
- Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jonathan Carapetis
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia and Perth Children’s Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - James McCarthy
- Clinical Tropical Medicine Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
- The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Michael F. Good
- The Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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11
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Ozberk V, Pandey M, Good MF. Contribution of cryptic epitopes in designing a group A streptococcal vaccine. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2018; 14:2034-2052. [PMID: 29873591 PMCID: PMC6150013 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2018.1462427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A successful vaccine needs to target multiple strains of an organism. Streptococcus pyogenes is an organism that utilizes antigenic strain variation as a successful defence mechanism to circumvent the host immune response. Despite numerous efforts, there is currently no vaccine available for this organism. Here we review and discuss the significant obstacles to vaccine development, with a focus on how cryptic epitopes may provide a strategy to circumvent the obstacles of antigenic variation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Ozberk
- a Griffith University, Institute for Glycomics , Gold Coast Campus, Queensland , Australia
| | - Manisha Pandey
- a Griffith University, Institute for Glycomics , Gold Coast Campus, Queensland , Australia
| | - Michael F Good
- a Griffith University, Institute for Glycomics , Gold Coast Campus, Queensland , Australia
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Physicochemical characterisation, immunogenicity and protective efficacy of a lead streptococcal vaccine: progress towards Phase I trial. Sci Rep 2017; 7:13786. [PMID: 29062085 PMCID: PMC5653875 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-14157-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, group A streptococcal infections are responsible for over 500,000 deaths per year. A safe vaccine that does not induce autoimmune pathology and that affords coverage for most GAS serotypes is highly desired. We have previously demonstrated that a vaccine based on the conserved M-protein epitope, J8 was safe and immunogenic in a pilot Phase I study. We subsequently improved vaccine efficacy by incorporation of a B-cell epitope from the IL-8 protease, SpyCEP, which protected IL-8 and enhanced neutrophil ingress to the site of infection. We have now substituted the carrier protein, diphtheria toxoid with its superior analogue, CRM197 which provides better immunogenicity and is widely used in licenced human vaccines. The new vaccine was compared with the DT conjugate vaccine to confirm that these modifications have not altered the physicochemical properties of the vaccine. This vaccine, when tested in an animal model of GAS infection, demonstrated significant reduction in systemic and local GAS burden, with comparable efficacy to the DT conjugate vaccine. The vaccine was shown to be equally effective in the presence of human plasma and in the presence of pre-existing DT-specific antibodies, thus minimising concerns regarding its potential efficacy in humans.
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Nordström T, Pandey M, Calcutt A, Powell J, Phillips ZN, Yeung G, Giddam AK, Shi Y, Haselhorst T, von Itzstein M, Batzloff MR, Good MF. Enhancing Vaccine Efficacy by Engineering a Complex Synthetic Peptide To Become a Super Immunogen. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 199:2794-2802. [PMID: 28904125 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1700836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Peptides offer enormous promise as vaccines to prevent and protect against many infectious and noninfectious diseases. However, to date, limited vaccine efficacy has been reported and none have been licensed for human use. Innovative ways to enhance their immunogenicity are being tested, but rational sequence modification as a means to improve immune responsiveness has been neglected. Our objective was to establish a two-step generic protocol to modify defined amino acids of a helical peptide epitope to create a superior immunogen. Peptide variants of p145, a conserved helical peptide epitope from the M protein of Streptococcus pyogenes, were designed by exchanging one amino acid at a time, without altering their α-helical structure, which is required for correct antigenicity. The immunogenicities of new peptides were assessed in outbred mice. Vaccine efficacy was assessed in a skin challenge and invasive disease model. Out of 86 variants of p145, seven amino acid substitutions were selected and made the basis of the design for 18 new peptides. Of these, 13 were more immunogenic than p145; 7 induced Abs with significantly higher affinity for p145 than Abs induced by p145 itself; and 1 peptide induced more than 10,000-fold greater protection following challenge than the parent peptide. This peptide also only required a single immunization (compared with three immunizations with the parent peptide) to induce complete protection against invasive streptococcal disease. This study defines a strategy to rationally improve the immunogenicity of peptides and will have broad applicability to the development of vaccines for infectious and noninfectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Therése Nordström
- The QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland 4029, Australia; and
| | - Manisha Pandey
- The QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland 4029, Australia; and .,Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Ainslie Calcutt
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Jessica Powell
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Zachary N Phillips
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Grace Yeung
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Ashwini K Giddam
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Yun Shi
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Thomas Haselhorst
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Mark von Itzstein
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Michael R Batzloff
- The QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland 4029, Australia; and.,Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Michael F Good
- The QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland 4029, Australia; and .,Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Queensland 4222, Australia
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