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Ahmed M, Farris E, Swanson RV, Das S, Yang Y, Martin T, Khader SA. Saponin TQL1055 adjuvant-containing vaccine confers protection upon Mycobacterium tuberculosis challenge in mice. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2302070. [PMID: 38190806 PMCID: PMC10793695 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2302070] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB), caused by the intracellular pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), affects the lungs of infected individuals (pulmonary TB) but can also affect other sites (extrapulmonary TB). The only licensed vaccine Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) protects infants and young children but exhibits variable efficacy in protecting against adult pulmonary TB. Poor compliance and prolonged treatment regimens associated with the use of chemotherapy has contributed to the development of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) Mtb. Thus, there is an urgent need for the design of more effective vaccines against TB. The development of safe and novel adjuvants for human use is critical. In this study, we demonstrate that saponin-based TQL1055 adjuvant when formulated with a TLR4 agonist (PHAD) and Mtb specific immunodominant antigens (ESAT-6 and Ag85B) and delivered intramuscularly in mice, the SA-TB vaccine induced potent lung immune responses. Additionally, the SA-TB vaccine conferred significant protection against Mtb infection, comparable with levels induced by BCG. These findings support the development of a SA-TB vaccine comprising TQL1055, as a novel, safe and effective TB vaccine for potential use in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mushtaq Ahmed
- Department of Microbiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Eric Farris
- Adjuvance Technologies Inc, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Rosemary V. Swanson
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Shibali Das
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Yan Yang
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Shabaana A. Khader
- Department of Microbiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Al-Osaimi HM, Kanan M, Marghlani L, Al-Rowaili B, Albalawi R, Saad A, Alasmari S, Althobaiti K, Alhulaili Z, Alanzi A, Alqarni R, Alsofiyani R, Shrwani R. A systematic review on malaria and dengue vaccines for the effective management of these mosquito borne diseases: Improving public health. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2024; 20:2337985. [PMID: 38602074 PMCID: PMC11017952 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2337985] [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: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Insect vector-borne diseases (VBDs) pose significant global health challenges, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. The WHO has launched the "Global Vector Control Response (GVCR) 2017-2030" to address these diseases, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to vector control. This systematic review investigates the potential of malaria and dengue vaccines in controlling mosquito-borne VBDs, aiming to alleviate disease burdens and enhance public health. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, the review incorporated 39 new studies out of 934 identified records. It encompasses various studies assessing malaria and dengue vaccines, emphasizing the significance of vaccination as a preventive measure. The findings indicate variations in vaccine efficacy, duration of protection, and safety considerations for each disease, influencing public health strategies. The review underscores the urgent need for vaccines to combat the increasing burden of VBDs like malaria and dengue, advocating for ongoing research and investment in vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hind M. Al-Osaimi
- Department of Pharmacy Services Administration, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh Second Health Cluster, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Kanan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Lujain Marghlani
- Department of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Badria Al-Rowaili
- Pharmaceutical Services Department, Northern Area Armed Forces Hospital, King Khalid Military, Hafr Al Batin, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem Albalawi
- Department of Medicine, Tabuk University, Tabuk, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Abrar Saad
- Pharmacy Department, Royal Commission Hospital, Yanbu, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Saba Alasmari
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled Althobaiti
- Department of Medicine, Taif University, Ta’if, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Zainab Alhulaili
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Dammam Medical Complex, Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Abeer Alanzi
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz Hospital, Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Rawan Alqarni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, King Khalid University, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Razan Alsofiyani
- Department of Medicine, Taif University, Ta’if, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem Shrwani
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Ariefta NR, Sofian FF, Aboshi T, Kuncoro H, Dinata DI, Shiono Y, Nishikawa Y. Evaluation of the antiplasmodial and anti-Toxoplasma activities of several Indonesian medicinal plant extracts. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 331:118269. [PMID: 38697409 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Malaria, caused by Plasmodium parasites, remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. At the same time, the prevalence of toxoplasmosis has been reported to be 30% worldwide. Traditional medicines have long played a vital role in discovering and developing novel drugs, and this approach is essential in the face of increasing resistance to current antimalarial and anti-Toxoplasma drugs. In Indonesian traditional medicine, various plants are used for their therapeutic properties. This study focuses on eleven medicinal plants from which nineteen extracts were obtained and screened for their potential medicinal benefits against malaria and toxoplasmosis. AIMS OF THE STUDY The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of extracts from Indonesian medicinal plants to inhibit Plasmodium falciparum, a parasite responsible for malaria, and Toxoplasma gondii, an opportunistic parasite responsible for toxoplasmosis. METHODS Nineteen extracts from eleven plants were subjected to in vitro screening against P. falciparum 3D7 (a chloroquine-sensitive strain) and the T. gondii RH strain. In vitro treatments were conducted on P. falciparum 3D7 and K1 (multidrug-resistant strains) using the potent extracts, and in vivo assessments were carried out with mice infected with P. yoelii 17XNL. LCMS analysis was also conducted to identify the main components of the most effective extract. RESULTS Seven extracts showed significant antiplasmodial activity (>80% inhibition) at a concentration of 100 μg/ml. These extracts were obtained from Dysoxylum parasiticum (Osbeck) Kosterm., Elaeocarpus glaber (Bl.) Bijdr., Eleutherine americana Merr., Kleinhovia hospita L., Peronema canescens Jack, and Plectranthus scutellarioides (L.) R.Br. Notably, the D. parasiticum ethyl acetate extract exhibited high selectivity and efficacy both in vitro and in vivo. Herein, the key active compounds oleamide and erucamide were identified, which had IC50 values (P. falciparum 3D7/K1) of 17.49/23.63 μM and 32.49/51.59 μM, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study highlight the antimalarial potential of plant extracts collected from Indonesia. Particularly, extracts from D. parasiticum EtOH and EtOAc stood out for their low toxicity and strong antiplasmodial properties, with the EtOAc extract emerging as a notably promising antimalarial candidate. Key compounds identified within this extract demonstrate the complexity of extracts' action against malaria, potentially targeting both the parasite and the host. This suggests a promising approach for developing new antimalarial strategies that tackle the multifaceted challenges of drug resistance and disease management. Future investigations are necessary to unlock the full therapeutic potential of these extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanang Rudianto Ariefta
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan.
| | - Ferry Ferdiansyah Sofian
- Department of Life, Food, and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Yamagata University, Wakaba-machi 1-23, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, 997-8555, Japan; Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jatinangor, Sumedang, West Java, 45363, Indonesia.
| | - Takako Aboshi
- Department of Life, Food, and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Yamagata University, Wakaba-machi 1-23, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, 997-8555, Japan.
| | - Hadi Kuncoro
- Pharmaceutical Research and Development Laboratory of Farmaka Tropis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Mulawarman, Samarinda, East Kalimantan, 75119, Indonesia.
| | - Deden Indra Dinata
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis and Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bhakti Kencana University, Soekarno-Hatta 754, Bandung, West Java, 40286, Indonesia.
| | - Yoshihito Shiono
- Department of Life, Food, and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Yamagata University, Wakaba-machi 1-23, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, 997-8555, Japan.
| | - Yoshifumi Nishikawa
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan.
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da Silva Oliveira DD, Paz F, Brito NPF, Krüger A, Martinho ACC, Lapierre TJWJD, de Oliveira Souza F, Maltarollo VG, Kronenberger T, Mendes MS, Nonato MC, Pilau EJ, Wrenger C, Wunderlich G, Rezende Júnior CDO. Synthesis, design, and optimization of a potent and selective series of pyridylpiperazines as promising antimalarial agents. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 275:116621. [PMID: 38944935 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116621] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
An optimization of the pyridylpiperazine series against Plasmodium falciparum has been performed, exploring a structure-activity relationship carried out on the toluyl fragment of hit 1, a compound with low micromolar activity against Plasmodium falciparum discovered by high-throughput screening. After confirming the crucial role played by this aryl fragment in the antiplasmodial activity, the replacement of the ortho-methyl substituent of 1 by halogenated ones led to an improvement for four analogs, either in terms of potency, expected pharmacokinetics profile, or both. Further introduction of endocyclic nitrogens in this fragment identified two more optimized compounds, 20 and 23, which are expected to be much more metabolically stable than 1. Additional assessment of the cytotoxicity, Ligand Lipophilic Efficiency, potency against the chloroquine-resistant Dd2 strain and in silico ADMET predictions revealed a satisfactory profile for most compounds, ultimately identifying the four optimized compounds 7, 9, 20 and 23 as promising compounds for further lead optimization of this series against Plasmodium falciparum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas Davison da Silva Oliveira
- Laboratório de Síntese de Candidatos a Fármacos, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), Uberlândia, MG, 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Franciarli Paz
- Unit for Drug Discovery, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nícolas Peterson Ferreira Brito
- Laboratório de Síntese de Candidatos a Fármacos, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), Uberlândia, MG, 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Arne Krüger
- Unit for Drug Discovery, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Clara Cassiano Martinho
- Laboratório de Síntese de Candidatos a Fármacos, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), Uberlândia, MG, 38400-902, Brazil
| | | | - Felipe de Oliveira Souza
- Laboratório de Biomoléculas e Espectrometria de Massas (LaBioMass), State University of Maringá (UEM), Maringá, PR, 807020-900, Brazil
| | - Vinícius G Maltarollo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Thales Kronenberger
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner-site Tübingen, 72076, Tübingen, Germany; School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, 70211, Finland
| | - Marina Sena Mendes
- Laboratório de Cristalografia de Proteínas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14040-903, Brazil; Center for the Research and Advancement of Fragments and Molecular Targets, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14040-903, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina Nonato
- Laboratório de Cristalografia de Proteínas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14040-903, Brazil; Center for the Research and Advancement of Fragments and Molecular Targets, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, 14040-903, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Jorge Pilau
- Laboratório de Biomoléculas e Espectrometria de Massas (LaBioMass), State University of Maringá (UEM), Maringá, PR, 807020-900, Brazil
| | - Carsten Wrenger
- Unit for Drug Discovery, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gerhard Wunderlich
- Unit for Drug Discovery, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Celso de Oliveira Rezende Júnior
- Laboratório de Síntese de Candidatos a Fármacos, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), Uberlândia, MG, 38400-902, Brazil.
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5
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Yadav M, Dahiya N, Janjoter S, Kataria D, Dixit R, Sehrawat N. A review on RNA interference studies in Anophelines to reveal candidate genes for malaria transmission blocking vaccine. Life Sci 2024; 351:122822. [PMID: 38866221 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122822] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Malaria is a major public health concern. The development of parasite-based vaccine RTS/AS01 has some therapeutic value but its lower efficacy is one of the major limitations. Mosquito-based transmission-blocking vaccines could have a higher potential for parasite inhibition within the mosquitoes. Several genes of mosquito midgut, salivary gland, hemolymph, etc. get activate in response to the Plasmodium-infected blood and helps in parasite invasion directly or indirectly inside the mosquito. The studies of such genes provided a new insight into developing the more efficient vaccines. In the field of malaria genetics research, RNAi has become an innovative strategy used to identify mosquito candidate genes for transmission-blocking vaccines. This review targeted the gene studies that have been conducted in the period 2000-2023 in different malaria vectors against different malarial parasites using the RNAi approach to reveal mosquito novel gene candidates for vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahima Yadav
- Department of Genetics, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, India
| | - Nisha Dahiya
- Department of Genetics, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, India
| | - Sangeeta Janjoter
- Department of Genetics, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, India
| | - Divya Kataria
- Department of Genetics, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, India
| | | | - Neelam Sehrawat
- Department of Genetics, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, India.
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Dziwornu GA, Seanego D, Fienberg S, Clements M, Ferreira J, Sypu VS, Samanta S, Bhana AD, Korkor CM, Garnie LF, Teixeira N, Wicht KJ, Taylor D, Olckers R, Njoroge M, Gibhard L, Salomane N, Wittlin S, Mahato R, Chakraborty A, Sevilleno N, Coyle R, Lee MCS, Godoy LC, Pasaje CF, Niles JC, Reader J, van der Watt M, Birkholtz LM, Bolscher JM, de Bruijni MHC, Coulson LB, Basarab GS, Ghorpade SR, Chibale K. 2,8-Disubstituted-1,5-naphthyridines as Dual Inhibitors of Plasmodium falciparum Phosphatidylinositol-4-kinase and Hemozoin Formation with In Vivo Efficacy. J Med Chem 2024; 67:11401-11420. [PMID: 38918002 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c01154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Structure-activity relationship studies of 2,8-disubstituted-1,5-naphthyridines, previously reported as potent inhibitors of Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) phosphatidylinositol-4-kinase β (PI4K), identified 1,5-naphthyridines with basic groups at 8-position, which retained Plasmodium PI4K inhibitory activity but switched primary mode of action to the host hemoglobin degradation pathway through inhibition of hemozoin formation. These compounds showed minimal off-target inhibitory activity against the human phosphoinositide kinases and MINK1 and MAP4K kinases, which were associated with the teratogenicity and testicular toxicity observed in rats for the PfPI4K inhibitor clinical candidate MMV390048. A representative compound from the series retained activity against field isolates and lab-raised drug-resistant strains of Pf. It was efficacious in the humanized NSG mouse malaria infection model at a single oral dose of 32 mg/kg. This compound was nonteratogenic in the zebrafish embryo model of teratogenicity and has a low predicted human dose, indicating that this series has the potential to deliver a preclinical candidate for malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Godwin Akpeko Dziwornu
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Donald Seanego
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Stephen Fienberg
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Monica Clements
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Jasmin Ferreira
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Venkata S Sypu
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Sauvik Samanta
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Ashlyn D Bhana
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Constance M Korkor
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Larnelle F Garnie
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Nicole Teixeira
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Kathryn J Wicht
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Department of Chemistry and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Dale Taylor
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory 7925, South Africa
| | - Ronald Olckers
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory 7925, South Africa
| | - Mathew Njoroge
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory 7925, South Africa
| | - Liezl Gibhard
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory 7925, South Africa
| | - Nicolaas Salomane
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Sergio Wittlin
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, 4123 Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, 4001 Basel, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Nicole Sevilleno
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton CB10 1SA, U.K
| | - Rachael Coyle
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton CB10 1SA, U.K
| | - Marcus C S Lee
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton CB10 1SA, U.K
| | - Luiz C Godoy
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Charisse Flerida Pasaje
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Jacquin C Niles
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Janette Reader
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Mariette van der Watt
- Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Lyn-Marié Birkholtz
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Judith M Bolscher
- TropIQ Health Sciences, Transistorweg 5, 6534 AT Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Lauren B Coulson
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory, Cape Town 7925, South Africa
| | - Gregory S Basarab
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Observatory 7925, South Africa
| | - Sandeep R Ghorpade
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Kelly Chibale
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council Drug Discovery and Development Research Unit, Department of Chemistry and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
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Berreiros-Hortala H, Vilchez-Pinto G, Diaz-Perales A, Garrido-Arandia M, Tome-Amat J. Virus-like Particles as Vaccines for Allergen-Specific Therapy: An Overview of Current Developments. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7429. [PMID: 39000536 PMCID: PMC11242184 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune engineering and modulation are the basis of a novel but powerful tool to treat immune diseases using virus-like particles (VLPs). VLPs are formed by the viral capsid without genetic material making them non-infective. However, they offer a wide variety of possibilities as antigen-presenting platforms, resulting in high immunogenicity and high efficacy in immune modulation, with low allergenicity. Both animal and plant viruses are being studied for use in the treatment of food allergies. These formulations are combined with adjuvants, T-stimulatory epitopes, TLR ligands, and other immune modulators to modulate or enhance the immune response toward the presented allergen. Here, the authors present an overview of VLP production systems, their immune modulation capabilities, and the applicability of actual VLP-based formulations targeting allergic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Berreiros-Hortala
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)-Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA/CSIC), Campus de Montegancedo UPM, Pozuelo de Alarcón, 28223 Madrid, Spain; (H.B.-H.); (G.V.-P.); (A.D.-P.); (M.G.-A.)
- Departamento de Biotecnología-Biología Vegetal, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Alimentaria y de Biosistemas, UPM, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Gonzalo Vilchez-Pinto
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)-Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA/CSIC), Campus de Montegancedo UPM, Pozuelo de Alarcón, 28223 Madrid, Spain; (H.B.-H.); (G.V.-P.); (A.D.-P.); (M.G.-A.)
- Departamento de Biotecnología-Biología Vegetal, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Alimentaria y de Biosistemas, UPM, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Araceli Diaz-Perales
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)-Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA/CSIC), Campus de Montegancedo UPM, Pozuelo de Alarcón, 28223 Madrid, Spain; (H.B.-H.); (G.V.-P.); (A.D.-P.); (M.G.-A.)
- Departamento de Biotecnología-Biología Vegetal, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Alimentaria y de Biosistemas, UPM, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria Garrido-Arandia
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)-Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA/CSIC), Campus de Montegancedo UPM, Pozuelo de Alarcón, 28223 Madrid, Spain; (H.B.-H.); (G.V.-P.); (A.D.-P.); (M.G.-A.)
- Departamento de Biotecnología-Biología Vegetal, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Alimentaria y de Biosistemas, UPM, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jaime Tome-Amat
- Centro de Biotecnología y Genómica de Plantas, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)-Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA/CSIC), Campus de Montegancedo UPM, Pozuelo de Alarcón, 28223 Madrid, Spain; (H.B.-H.); (G.V.-P.); (A.D.-P.); (M.G.-A.)
- Departamento de Biotecnología-Biología Vegetal, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Alimentaria y de Biosistemas, UPM, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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8
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Amen A, Yoo R, Fabra-García A, Bolscher J, Stone WJR, Bally I, Dergan-Dylon S, Kucharska I, de Jong RM, de Bruijni M, Bousema T, Richter King C, MacGill RS, Sauerwein RW, Julien JP, Poignard P, Jore MM. Target-agnostic identification of human antibodies to Plasmodium falciparum sexual forms reveals cross stage recognition of glutamate-rich repeats. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.11.03.565335. [PMID: 37961136 PMCID: PMC10635103 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.03.565335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Circulating sexual stages of Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) can be transmitted from humans to mosquitoes, thereby furthering the spread of malaria in the population. It is well established that antibodies (Abs) can efficiently block parasite transmission. In search for naturally acquired Ab targets on sexual stages, we established an efficient method for target-agnostic single B cell activation followed by high-throughput selection of human monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) reactive to sexual stages of Pf in the form of gamete and gametocyte extract. We isolated mAbs reactive against a range of Pf proteins including well-established targets Pfs48/45 and Pfs230. One mAb, B1E11K, was cross-reactive to various proteins containing glutamate-rich repetitive elements expressed at different stages of the parasite life cycle. A crystal structure of two B1E11K Fab domains in complex with its main antigen, RESA, expressed on asexual blood stages, showed binding of B1E11K to a repeating epitope motif in a head-to-head conformation engaging in affinity-matured homotypic interactions. Thus, this mode of recognition of Pf proteins, previously described only for PfCSP, extends to other repeats expressed across various stages. The findings augment our understanding of immune-pathogen interactions to repeating elements of the Plasmodium parasite proteome and underscore the potential of the novel mAb identification method used to provide new insights into the natural humoral immune response against Pf . Impact Statement A naturally acquired human monoclonal antibody recognizes proteins expressed at different stages of the Plasmodium falciparum lifecycle through affinity-matured homotypic interactions with glutamate-rich repeats.
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9
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García-López L, Zamora-Vélez A, Vargas-Montes M, Sanchez-Arcila JC, Fasquelle F, Betbeder D, Gómez-Marín JE. Human T-cell activation with Toxoplasma gondii antigens loaded in maltodextrin nanoparticles. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202302486. [PMID: 38724195 PMCID: PMC11082450 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is the most prevalent parasitic zoonosis worldwide, causing ocular and neurological diseases. No vaccine has been approved for human use. We evaluated the response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) to a novel construct of Toxoplasma gondii total antigen in maltodextrin nanoparticles (NP/TE) in individuals with varying infectious statuses (uninfected, chronic asymptomatic, or ocular toxoplasmosis). We analyzed the concentration of IFN-γ after NP/TE ex vivo stimulation using ELISA and the immunophenotypes of CD4+ and CD8+ cell populations using flow cytometry. In addition, serotyping of individuals with toxoplasmosis was performed by ELISA using GRA6-derived polypeptides. Low doses of NP/TE stimulation (0.9 μg NP/0.3 μg TE) achieved IFN-γ-specific production in previously exposed human PBMCs without significant differences in the infecting serotype. Increased IFN-γ expression in CD4+ effector memory cell subsets was found in patients with ocular toxoplasmosis with NP/TE but not with TE alone. This is the first study to show how T-cell subsets respond to ex vivo stimulation with a vaccine candidate for human toxoplasmosis, providing crucial insights for future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura García-López
- https://ror.org/01358s213 GEPAMOL Group, Center for Biomedical Research CIBM, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Quindío, Armenia, Colombia
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Merced, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Alejandro Zamora-Vélez
- https://ror.org/01358s213 GEPAMOL Group, Center for Biomedical Research CIBM, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Quindío, Armenia, Colombia
| | - Mónica Vargas-Montes
- https://ror.org/01358s213 GEPAMOL Group, Center for Biomedical Research CIBM, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Quindío, Armenia, Colombia
| | | | | | | | - Jorge Enrique Gómez-Marín
- https://ror.org/01358s213 GEPAMOL Group, Center for Biomedical Research CIBM, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Quindío, Armenia, Colombia
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10
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Tortorice D, Rappuoli R, Bloom DE. The economic case for scaling up health research and development: Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2321978121. [PMID: 38885387 PMCID: PMC11214072 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2321978121] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, governments directly funded vaccine research and development (R&D), quickly leading to multiple effective vaccines and resulting in enormous health and economic benefits to society. We develop a simple economic model showing this feat could potentially be repeated for other health challenges. Based on inputs from the economic and medical literatures, the model yields estimates of optimal R&D spending on treatments and vaccines for known diseases. Taking a global and societal perspective, we estimate the social benefits of such spending and a corresponding rate of return. Applications to Streptococcus A vaccines and Alzheimer's disease treatments demonstrate the potential of enhanced research and development funding to unlock massive global health and health-related benefits. We estimate that these benefits range from 2 to 60 trillion (2020 US$) and that the corresponding rates of return on R&D spending range from 12% to 23% per year for 30 y. We discuss the current shortfall in R&D spending and public policies that can move current funding closer to the optimal level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Tortorice
- Department of Economics and Accounting, College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, MA01610
| | | | - David E. Bloom
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA02115
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11
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Travassos R, Martins SA, Fernandes A, Correia JDG, Melo R. Tailored Viral-like Particles as Drivers of Medical Breakthroughs. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6699. [PMID: 38928403 PMCID: PMC11204272 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126699] [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: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the recognized potential of nanoparticles, only a few formulations have progressed to clinical trials, and an even smaller number have been approved by the regulatory authorities and marketed. Virus-like particles (VLPs) have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional nanoparticles due to their safety, biocompatibility, immunogenicity, structural stability, scalability, and versatility. Furthermore, VLPs can be surface-functionalized with small molecules to improve circulation half-life and target specificity. Through the functionalization and coating of VLPs, it is possible to optimize the response properties to a given stimulus, such as heat, pH, an alternating magnetic field, or even enzymes. Surface functionalization can also modulate other properties, such as biocompatibility, stability, and specificity, deeming VLPs as potential vaccine candidates or delivery systems. This review aims to address the different types of surface functionalization of VLPs, highlighting the more recent cutting-edge technologies that have been explored for the design of tailored VLPs, their importance, and their consequent applicability in the medical field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Travassos
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, CTN, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139.7), 2695-066 Bobadela, Portugal; (R.T.); (S.A.M.); (A.F.)
| | - Sofia A. Martins
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, CTN, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139.7), 2695-066 Bobadela, Portugal; (R.T.); (S.A.M.); (A.F.)
| | - Ana Fernandes
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, CTN, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139.7), 2695-066 Bobadela, Portugal; (R.T.); (S.A.M.); (A.F.)
| | - João D. G. Correia
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, CTN, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139.7), 2695-066 Bobadela, Portugal; (R.T.); (S.A.M.); (A.F.)
- Departamento de Engenharia e Ciências Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, CTN, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139.7), 2695-066 Bobadela, Portugal
| | - Rita Melo
- Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Nucleares, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, CTN, Estrada Nacional 10 (km 139.7), 2695-066 Bobadela, Portugal; (R.T.); (S.A.M.); (A.F.)
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12
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Olawade DB, Wada OZ, Ezeagu CN, Aderinto N, Balogun MA, Asaolu FT, David-Olawade AC. Malaria vaccination in Africa: A mini-review of challenges and opportunities. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38565. [PMID: 38875411 PMCID: PMC11175883 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Malaria remains an endemic public health concern in Africa, significantly contributing to morbidity and mortality rates. The inadequacies of traditional prevention measures, like integrated vector management and antimalarial drugs, have spurred efforts to strengthen the development and deployment of malaria vaccines. In addition to existing interventions like insecticide-treated bed nets and artemisinin-based combination therapies, malaria vaccine introduction and implementation in Africa could drastically reduce the disease burden and hasten steps toward malaria elimination. The malaria vaccine rollout is imminent as optimistic results from final clinical trials are anticipated. Thus, determining potential hurdles to malaria vaccine delivery and uptake in malaria-endemic regions of sub-Saharan Africa will enhance decisions and policymakers' preparedness to facilitate efficient and equitable vaccine delivery. A multisectoral approach is recommended to increase funding and resources, active community engagement and participation, and the involvement of healthcare providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B. Olawade
- Department of Allied and Public Health, School of Health, Sport and Bioscience, University of East London, London, UK
| | - Ojima Z. Wada
- Division of Sustainable Development, College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Chiamaka Norah Ezeagu
- Department of Public Health, School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - Nicholas Aderinto
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
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13
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Li Y, Rodriguez-Otero MR, Champion JA. Self-assembled protein vesicles as vaccine delivery platform to enhance antigen-specific immune responses. Biomaterials 2024; 311:122666. [PMID: 38879893 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122666] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Self-assembling protein nanoparticles are beneficial platforms for enhancing the often weak and short-lived immune responses elicited by subunit vaccines. Their benefits include multivalency, similar sizes as pathogens and control of antigen orientation. Previously, the design, preparation, and characterization of self-assembling protein vesicles presenting fluorescent proteins and enzymes on the outer vesicle surface have been reported. Here, a full-size model antigen protein, ovalbumin (OVA), was genetically fused to the recombinant vesicle building blocks and incorporated into protein vesicles via self-assembly. Characterization of OVA protein vesicles showed room temperature stability and tunable size. Immunization of mice with OVA protein vesicles induced strong antigen-specific humoral and cellular immune responses. This work demonstrates the potential of protein vesicles as a modular platform for delivering full-size antigen proteins that can be extended to pathogen antigens to induce antigen specific immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yirui Li
- BioEngineering Program, Georgia Institute of Technology, USA
| | - Mariela R Rodriguez-Otero
- BioEngineering Program, Georgia Institute of Technology, USA; School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, USA
| | - Julie A Champion
- BioEngineering Program, Georgia Institute of Technology, USA; School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, USA.
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14
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Laurenson AJ, Laurens MB. A new landscape for malaria vaccine development. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012309. [PMID: 38935630 PMCID: PMC11210751 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J. Laurenson
- Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology Program, Graduate Program in Life Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Matthew B. Laurens
- Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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15
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McNitt SA, Dick JK, Hernandez Castaneda M, Sangala JA, Pierson M, Macchietto M, Burrack KS, Crompton PD, Seydel KB, Hamilton SE, Hart GT. Phenotype and function of IL-10 producing NK cells in individuals with malaria experience. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.11.593687. [PMID: 38798324 PMCID: PMC11118352 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.11.593687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Plasmodium falciparum infection can trigger high levels of inflammation that lead to fever and sometimes severe disease. People living in malaria-endemic areas gradually develop resistance to symptomatic malaria and control both parasite numbers and the inflammatory response. We previously found that adaptive natural killer (NK) cells correlate with reduced parasite load and protection from symptoms. We also previously found that murine NK cell production of IL-10 can protect mice from experimental cerebral malaria. Human NK cells can also secrete IL-10, but it was unknown what NK cell subsets produce IL-10 and if this is affected by malaria experience. We hypothesize that NK cell immunoregulation may lower inflammation and reduce fever induction. Here, we show that NK cells from subjects with malaria experience make significantly more IL-10 than subjects with no malaria experience. We then determined the proportions of NK cells that are cytotoxic and produce interferon gamma and/or IL-10 and identified a signature of adaptive and checkpoint molecules on IL-10-producing NK cells. Lastly, we find that co-culture with primary monocytes, Plasmodium -infected RBCs, and antibody induces IL-10 production by NK cells. These data suggest that NK cells may contribute to protection from malaria symptoms via IL-10 production.
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16
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Ciubotariu II, Broyles BK, Xie S, Thimmapuram J, Mwenda MC, Mambwe B, Mulube C, Matoba J, Schue JL, Moss WJ, Bridges DJ, He Q, Carpi G. Diversity and selection analyses identify transmission-blocking antigens as the optimal vaccine candidates in Plasmodium falciparum. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.05.11.24307175. [PMID: 38766239 PMCID: PMC11100930 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.11.24307175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Background A highly effective vaccine for malaria remains an elusive target, at least in part due to the under-appreciated natural parasite variation. This study aimed to investigate genetic and structural variation, and immune selection of leading malaria vaccine candidates across the Plasmodium falciparum's life cycle. Methods We analyzed 325 P. falciparum whole genome sequences from Zambia, in addition to 791 genomes from five other African countries available in the MalariaGEN Pf3k Rdatabase. Ten vaccine antigens spanning three life-history stages were examined for genetic and structural variations, using population genetics measures, haplotype network analysis, and 3D structure selection analysis. Findings Among the ten antigens analyzed, only three in the transmission-blocking vaccine category display P. falciparum 3D7 as the dominant haplotype. The antigens AMA1, CSP, MSP119 and CelTOS, are much more diverse than the other antigens, and their epitope regions are under moderate to strong balancing selection. In contrast, Rh5, a blood stage antigen, displays low diversity yet slightly stronger immune selection in the merozoite-blocking epitope region. Except for CelTOS, the transmission-blocking antigens Pfs25, Pfs48/45, Pfs230, Pfs47, and Pfs28 exhibit minimal diversity and no immune selection in epitopes that induce strain-transcending antibodies, suggesting potential effectiveness of 3D7-based vaccines in blocking transmission. Interpretations These findings offer valuable insights into the selection of optimal vaccine candidates against P. falciparum. Based on our results, we recommend prioritizing conserved merozoite antigens and transmission-blocking antigens. Combining these antigens in multi-stage approaches may be particularly promising for malaria vaccine development initiatives. Funding Purdue Department of Biological Sciences; Puskas Memorial Fellowship; National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (U19AI089680).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilinca I. Ciubotariu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Bradley K. Broyles
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Shaojun Xie
- Bioinformatics Core, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | | | - Mulenga C. Mwenda
- PATH-Malaria Control and Elimination Partnership in Africa (MACEPA), National Malaria Elimination Centre, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Brenda Mambwe
- PATH-Malaria Control and Elimination Partnership in Africa (MACEPA), National Malaria Elimination Centre, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Conceptor Mulube
- PATH-Malaria Control and Elimination Partnership in Africa (MACEPA), National Malaria Elimination Centre, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Jessica L. Schue
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - William J. Moss
- The W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Qixin He
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Giovanna Carpi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
- Purdue Institute of Inflammation, Immunology and Infectious Disease, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
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17
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Cui Y, Ho M, Hu Y, Shi Y. Vaccine adjuvants: current status, research and development, licensing, and future opportunities. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:4118-4137. [PMID: 38591323 PMCID: PMC11180427 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02861e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Vaccines represent one of the most significant inventions in human history and have revolutionized global health. Generally, a vaccine functions by triggering the innate immune response and stimulating antigen-presenting cells, leading to a defensive adaptive immune response against a specific pathogen's antigen. As a key element, adjuvants are chemical materials often employed as additives to increase a vaccine's efficacy and immunogenicity. For over 90 years, adjuvants have been essential components in many human vaccines, improving their efficacy by enhancing, modulating, and prolonging the immune response. Here, we provide a timely and comprehensive review of the historical development and the current status of adjuvants, covering their classification, mechanisms of action, and roles in different vaccines. Additionally, we perform systematic analysis of the current licensing processes and highlights notable examples from clinical trials involving vaccine adjuvants. Looking ahead, we anticipate future trends in the field, including the development of new adjuvant formulations, the creation of innovative adjuvants, and their integration into the broader scope of systems vaccinology and vaccine delivery. The article posits that a deeper understanding of biochemistry, materials science, and vaccine immunology is crucial for advancing vaccine technology. Such advancements are expected to lead to the future development of more effective vaccines, capable of combating emerging infectious diseases and enhancing public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Cui
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Megan Ho
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Yongjie Hu
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Yuan Shi
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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18
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Kim MJ, Chu KB, Yoon KW, Kang HJ, Lee DH, Moon EK, Quan FS. Virus-like particles expressing microneme-associated antigen of Plasmodium berghei confer better protection than those expressing apical membrane antigen 1. PARASITES, HOSTS AND DISEASES 2024; 62:193-204. [PMID: 38835260 PMCID: PMC11150920 DOI: 10.3347/phd.24017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Malaria is a global disease affecting a large portion of the world's population. Although vaccines have recently become available, their efficacies are suboptimal. We generated virus-like particles (VLPs) that expressed either apical membrane antigen 1 (AMA1) or microneme-associated antigen (MIC) of Plasmodium berghei and compared their efficacy in BALB/c mice. We found that immune sera acquired from AMA1 VLP- or MIC VLP-immunized mice specifically interacted with the antigen of choice and the whole P. berghei lysate antigen, indicating that the antibodies were highly parasite-specific. Both VLP vaccines significantly enhanced germinal center B cell frequencies in the inguinal lymph nodes of mice compared with the control, but only the mice that received MIC VLPs showed significantly enhanced CD4+ T cell responses in the blood following P. berghei challenge infection. AMA1 and MIC VLPs significantly suppressed TNF-α and interleukin-10 production but had a negligible effect on interferon-γ. Both VLPs prevented excessive parasitemia buildup in immunized mice, although parasite burden reduction induced by MIC VLPs was slightly more effective than that induced by AMA1. Both VLPs were equally effective at preventing body weight loss. Our findings demonstrated that the MIC VLP was an effective inducer of protection against murine experimental malaria and should be the focus of further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Ju Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Korea
| | - Ki Back Chu
- Department of Parasitology, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan 47392,
Korea
- Department of Infectious Disease and Malaria, Paik Institute of Clinical Research, Inje University, Busan 47392,
Korea
| | - Keon-Woong Yoon
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Korea
| | - Hae-Ji Kang
- Department of Microbiology, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju 38066,
Korea
| | - Dong-Hun Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Korea
| | - Eun-Kyung Moon
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul 02447,
Korea
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul 02447,
Korea
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Korea
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19
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Oladejo M, Tijani AO, Puri A, Chablani L. Adjuvants in cutaneous vaccination: A comprehensive analysis. J Control Release 2024; 369:475-492. [PMID: 38569943 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.03.045] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Skin is the body's largest organ and serves as a protective barrier from physical, thermal, and mechanical environmental challenges. Alongside, the skin hosts key immune system players, such as the professional antigen-presenting cells (APCs) like the Langerhans cells in the epidermis and circulating macrophages in the blood. Further, the literature supports that the APCs can be activated by antigen or vaccine delivery via multiple routes of administration through the skin. Once activated, the stimulated APCs drain to the associated lymph nodes and gain access to the lymphatic system. This further allows the APCs to engage with the adaptive immune system and activate cellular and humoral immune responses. Thus, vaccine delivery via skin offers advantages such as reliable antigen delivery, superior immunogenicity, and convenient delivery. Several preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated the significance of vaccine delivery using various routes of administration via skin. However, such vaccines often employ adjuvant/(s), along with the antigen of interest. Adjuvants augment the immune response to a vaccine antigen and improve the therapeutic efficacy. Due to these reasons, adjuvants have been successfully used with infectious disease vaccines, cancer immunotherapy, and immune-mediated diseases. To capture these developments, this review will summarize preclinical and clinical study results of vaccine delivery via skin in the presence of adjuvants. A focused discussion regarding the FDA-approved adjuvants will address the experiences of using such adjuvant-containing vaccines. In addition, the challenges and regulatory concerns with these adjuvants will be discussed. Finally, the review will share the prospects of adjuvant-containing vaccines delivered via skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Oladejo
- Department of Immunotherapeutics and Biotechnology, Jerry H Hodge School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Abilene, TX 79601, USA
| | - Akeemat O Tijani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Ashana Puri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bill Gatton College of Pharmacy, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA.
| | - Lipika Chablani
- Wegmans School of Pharmacy, St. John Fisher University, 3690 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14618, USA.
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20
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Abucayon EG, Sweeney S, Matyas GR. A Reliable Quantification of Cholesterol and 25-Hydroxycholesterol in Liposomal Adjuvant Formulation by Liquid Chromatography High-Resolution Tandem Mass Spectrometry. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:19637-19644. [PMID: 38708252 PMCID: PMC11064170 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c01524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Cholesterol, as one of the major components of liposomes, plays a critical role in modulating membrane bilayer permeability, fluidity, and structural stability. Controlling these quality attributes is essential to maintaining the efficacy and fitness of the liposomes in various applications. However, during the manufacture and storage of liposomes, cholesterol has a propensity to undergo oxidative degradation. Hence, an analytical tool that is capable of determining not only the identity and quantity of cholesterol but also its associated degradants is a prerequisite to effective process control and product quality and safety assessments. In this view, a new liquid chromatography electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) method with parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) was developed and qualified to accurately quantify cholesterol and monitor the formation of 25-hydroxycholesterol degradant in liposomal drug formulations without the use of an isotopic internal standard (IS). The method was qualified according to the FDA Quality Guidance for Industry: Q2(R1). Study results showed that the method presents good specificity for cholesterol and 25-hydroxycholesterol detection in the liposomal matrix, good sensitivity characterized by LOD/LOQ in the nanomolar range, and accuracy within the range of 80 to 120%. The described method enables accurate evaluation of in-process and product release samples of Army Liposome Formulation with QS21 (ALFQ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Erwin G. Abucayon
- U.S.
Military HIV Research Program, Center for Infectious Diseases Research, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, 503 Robert Grant Avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910, United States
- Henry
M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, 6720A Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, Maryland 20817, United States
| | - Scott Sweeney
- Avanti
Polar Lipids, LLC, 700
Industrial Park Drive, Alabaster, Alabama 35007, United States
| | - Gary R. Matyas
- U.S.
Military HIV Research Program, Center for Infectious Diseases Research, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, 503 Robert Grant Avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland 20910, United States
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21
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Huffman A, Zhang X, Lanka M, Zheng J, Masci AM, He Y. Ontological representation, modeling, and analysis of parasite vaccines. J Biomed Semantics 2024; 15:4. [PMID: 38664818 PMCID: PMC11044459 DOI: 10.1186/s13326-024-00307-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pathogenic parasites are responsible for multiple diseases, such as malaria and Chagas disease, in humans and livestock. Traditionally, pathogenic parasites have been largely an evasive topic for vaccine design, with most successful vaccines only emerging recently. To aid vaccine design, the VIOLIN vaccine knowledgebase has collected vaccines from all sources to serve as a comprehensive vaccine knowledgebase. VIOLIN utilizes the Vaccine Ontology (VO) to standardize the modeling of vaccine data. VO did not model complex life cycles as seen in parasites. With the inclusion of successful parasite vaccines, an update in parasite vaccine modeling was needed. RESULTS VIOLIN was expanded to include 258 parasite vaccines against 23 protozoan species, and 607 new parasite vaccine-related terms were added to VO since 2022. The updated VO design for parasite vaccines accounts for parasite life stages and for transmission-blocking vaccines. A total of 356 terms from the Ontology of Parasite Lifecycle (OPL) were imported to VO to help represent the effect of different parasite life stages. A new VO class term, 'transmission-blocking vaccine,' was added to represent vaccines able to block infectious transmission, and one new VO object property, 'blocks transmission of pathogen via vaccine,' was added to link vaccine and pathogen in which the vaccine blocks the transmission of the pathogen. Additionally, our Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) of 140 parasite antigens used in the parasitic vaccines identified enriched features. For example, significant patterns, such as signal, plasma membrane, and entry into host, were found in the antigens of the vaccines against two parasite species: Plasmodium falciparum and Toxoplasma gondii. The analysis found 18 out of the 140 parasite antigens involved with the malaria disease process. Moreover, a majority (15 out of 54) of P. falciparum parasite antigens are localized in the cell membrane. T. gondii antigens, in contrast, have a majority (19/24) of their proteins related to signaling pathways. The antigen-enriched patterns align with the life cycle stage patterns identified in our ontological parasite vaccine modeling. CONCLUSIONS The updated VO modeling and GSEA analysis capture the influence of the complex parasite life cycles and their associated antigens on vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Huffman
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan Medicine School, 48109, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Xumeng Zhang
- College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, University of Michigan, 48109, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Meghana Lanka
- College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, University of Michigan, 48109, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jie Zheng
- Unit for Laboratory Animal Medicine, University of Michigan Medicine School, 48109, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Anna Maria Masci
- Department of Data Impact and Governance, MD Anderson Cancer Center University of Texas, TX, 77030, Houston, USA
| | - Yongqun He
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan Medicine School, 48109, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Unit for Laboratory Animal Medicine, University of Michigan Medicine School, 48109, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medicine School, 48109, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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22
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Chinawa AT, Ossai EN, Onukwuli VO, Nduagubam OC, Uwaezuoke NA, Okafor CN, Chinawa JM. Willingness to accept malaria vaccines amongst women presenting at outpatient and immunization clinics in Enugu state, Southeast Nigeria. Malar J 2024; 23:117. [PMID: 38664783 PMCID: PMC11044559 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-024-04914-1] [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: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are giant steps taken in the introduction of the novel malaria vaccine poised towards reducing mortality and morbidity associated with malaria. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine the knowledge of malaria vaccine and factors militating against willingness to accept the vaccine among mothers presenting in nine hospitals in Enugu metropolis. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study carried out among 491 mothers who presented with their children in nine hospitals in Enugu metropolis, South-East Nigeria. A pre-tested and interviewer-administered questionnaire was used in this study. RESULTS A majority of the respondents, 72.1% were aware of malaria vaccine. A majority of the respondents, 83.1% were willing to receive malaria vaccine. Similarly, a majority of the mothers, 92.9%, were willing to vaccinate baby with the malaria vaccine, while 81.1% were willing to vaccinate self and baby with the malaria vaccine. The subjects who belong to the low socio-economic class were five times less likely to vaccinate self and baby with malaria vaccine when compared with those who were in the high socio-economic class (AOR = 0.2, 95% CI 0.1-0.5). Mothers who had good knowledge of malaria vaccination were 3.3 times more likely to vaccinate self and baby with malaria vaccine when compared with those who had poor knowledge of malaria vaccination (AOR = 3.3, 95% CI 1-6-6.8). CONCLUSION Although the study documented a high vaccine acceptance among the mothers, there exists a poor knowledge of the malaria vaccine among them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Awoere T Chinawa
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine ESUT, Enugu, Nigeria
| | - Edmund N Ossai
- Department of Community Medicine, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
| | | | - Obinna C Nduagubam
- Department of Paediatrics, College of Medicine, Enugu State University of Technology, Enugu, Nigeria
| | | | - Chinyere N Okafor
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine UNEC, Enugu, Nigeria.
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23
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Chinawa AT, Ossai EN, Onukwuli VO, Nduagubam OC, Uwaezuoke NA, Okafor CN, Chinawa JM. Willingness to accept malaria vaccines amongst women presenting at outpatient and immunization clinics in Enugu state, Southeast Nigeria. Malar J 2024; 23:117. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1186/s12936-024-04914-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
There are giant steps taken in the introduction of the novel malaria vaccine poised towards reducing mortality and morbidity associated with malaria.
Objectives
This study aimed to determine the knowledge of malaria vaccine and factors militating against willingness to accept the vaccine among mothers presenting in nine hospitals in Enugu metropolis.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional study carried out among 491 mothers who presented with their children in nine hospitals in Enugu metropolis, South-East Nigeria. A pre-tested and interviewer-administered questionnaire was used in this study.
Results
A majority of the respondents, 72.1% were aware of malaria vaccine. A majority of the respondents, 83.1% were willing to receive malaria vaccine. Similarly, a majority of the mothers, 92.9%, were willing to vaccinate baby with the malaria vaccine, while 81.1% were willing to vaccinate self and baby with the malaria vaccine. The subjects who belong to the low socio-economic class were five times less likely to vaccinate self and baby with malaria vaccine when compared with those who were in the high socio-economic class (AOR = 0.2, 95% CI 0.1–0.5). Mothers who had good knowledge of malaria vaccination were 3.3 times more likely to vaccinate self and baby with malaria vaccine when compared with those who had poor knowledge of malaria vaccination (AOR = 3.3, 95% CI 1–6–6.8).
Conclusion
Although the study documented a high vaccine acceptance among the mothers, there exists a poor knowledge of the malaria vaccine among them.
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24
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Nguyen W, Boulet C, Dans MG, Loi K, Jarman KE, Watson GM, Tham WH, Fairhurst KJ, Yeo T, Fidock DA, Wittlin S, Chowdury M, de Koning-Ward TF, Chen G, Yan D, Charman SA, Baud D, Brand S, Jackson PF, Cowman AF, Gilson PR, Sleebs BE. Activity refinement of aryl amino acetamides that target the P. falciparum STAR-related lipid transfer 1 protein. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 270:116354. [PMID: 38554474 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116354] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Malaria is a devastating disease that causes significant morbidity worldwide. The development of new antimalarial chemotypes is urgently needed because of the emergence of resistance to frontline therapies. Independent phenotypic screening campaigns against the Plasmodium asexual parasite, including our own, identified the aryl amino acetamide hit scaffold. In a prior study, we identified the STAR-related lipid transfer protein (PfSTART1) as the molecular target of this antimalarial chemotype. In this study, we combined structural elements from the different aryl acetamide hit subtypes and explored the structure-activity relationship. It was shown that the inclusion of an endocyclic nitrogen, to generate the tool compound WJM-715, improved aqueous solubility and modestly improved metabolic stability in rat hepatocytes. Metabolic stability in human liver microsomes remains a challenge for future development of the aryl acetamide class, which was underscored by modest systemic exposure and a short half-life in mice. The optimized aryl acetamide analogs were cross resistant to parasites with mutations in PfSTART1, but not to other drug-resistant mutations, and showed potent binding to recombinant PfSTART1 by biophysical analysis, further supporting PfSTART1 as the likely molecular target. The optimized aryl acetamide analogue, WJM-715 will be a useful tool for further investigating the druggability of PfSTART1 across the lifecycle of the malaria parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Nguyen
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia
| | | | - Madeline G Dans
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia
| | - Katie Loi
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia
| | - Kate E Jarman
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia
| | - Gabrielle M Watson
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia
| | - Wai-Hong Tham
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia
| | - Kate J Fairhurst
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Columbia University, Irving Medical Center, New York, 10032, NY, USA
| | - Tomas Yeo
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Columbia University, Irving Medical Center, New York, 10032, NY, USA
| | - David A Fidock
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Columbia University, Irving Medical Center, New York, 10032, NY, USA; Center for Malaria Therapeutics and Antimicrobial Resistance, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University, Irving Medical Center, New York, 10032, NY, USA
| | - Sergio Wittlin
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, 4123, Allschwi, Switzerland; University of Basel, 4003, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mrittika Chowdury
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3216, Australia; Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, 3216, Australia
| | - Tania F de Koning-Ward
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, 3216, Australia; Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, 3216, Australia
| | - Gong Chen
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Dandan Yan
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Susan A Charman
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Delphine Baud
- Medicines for Malaria Venture, ICC, Route de Pré-Bois 20, 1215, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stephen Brand
- Medicines for Malaria Venture, ICC, Route de Pré-Bois 20, 1215, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Paul F Jackson
- Global Public Health, Janssen R&D LLC, La Jolla, 92121, USA
| | - Alan F Cowman
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia
| | - Paul R Gilson
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, 3004, Australia
| | - Brad E Sleebs
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia.
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25
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Nyalundja AD, Bugeme PM, Guillaume AS, Ntaboba AB, Hatu’m VU, Tamuzi JL, Ndwandwe D, Iwu-Jaja C, Wiysonge CS, Katoto PDMC. Socio-Demographic Factors Influencing Malaria Vaccine Acceptance for Under-Five Children in a Malaria-Endemic Region: A Community-Based Study in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:380. [PMID: 38675762 PMCID: PMC11055057 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12040380] [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: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Two novel vaccines against malaria are proposed as a complementary control tool to prevent and reduce Plasmodium falciparum related disease and death in under-five children from moderate to high malaria transmission regions. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has committed to eradicate malaria by 2030, and significant efforts have been deployed to strengthen control and elimination measures. We aimed to understand factors influencing the malaria vaccine acceptability among the general population in eastern DRC. We conducted a survey among adult Congolese in Bukavu in March 2022. The questionnaire was adapted from the Behavioral and Social Drivers of vaccine uptake (BeSD) framework and was administered online and physically. Multivariate logistic regressions were built, and estimates were represented as adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). Out of 1612 adults (median age: 39 years, 46.15% female) surveyed, only 7.26% were aware of the malaria vaccine. However, 46.53% expressed willingness to vaccinate themselves, and 52.60% were open to vaccinating their under-five children. Adjusting for confounding factors, non-student/non-healthcare worker professions (aOR = 0.58, 95%CI [0.42-0.78]) and middle-income status (aOR = 1.87, 95%CI [1.25-2.80]) were significantly associated with self-vaccination acceptance. Age played a role in under-five child vaccination acceptability, with 25 to over 64 years showing increased acceptability compared to the 18-24 age group. Additionally, non-student/non-healthcare worker professions (aOR = 1.88, 95%CI [1.37-2.59]), medium education levels (aOR = 2.64, 95%CI [1.29-5.79]), and residing in semi-rural areas (aOR = 1.63, 95%CI [1.27-2.10]) were predictors of under-five child vaccination acceptance. The acceptability of the malaria vaccine for self and for under-five children was suboptimal for effective malaria control in this community in the DRC. Our study constitutes a call for the Expanded Program on Immunization to closely work with various stakeholders to strengthen risk communication for community engagement prior to and during the introduction of this novel and lifesaving tool, malaria vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arsene Daniel Nyalundja
- Center for Tropical Diseases and Global Health (CTDGH), Catholic University of Bukavu (UCB), Bukavu 285, Democratic Republic of the Congo; (A.D.N.); (P.M.B.)
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu (UCB), Bukavu 285, Democratic Republic of the Congo; (A.S.G.); (A.B.N.); (V.U.H.)
| | - Patrick Musole Bugeme
- Center for Tropical Diseases and Global Health (CTDGH), Catholic University of Bukavu (UCB), Bukavu 285, Democratic Republic of the Congo; (A.D.N.); (P.M.B.)
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Ashuza Shamamba Guillaume
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu (UCB), Bukavu 285, Democratic Republic of the Congo; (A.S.G.); (A.B.N.); (V.U.H.)
| | - Alain Balola Ntaboba
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu (UCB), Bukavu 285, Democratic Republic of the Congo; (A.S.G.); (A.B.N.); (V.U.H.)
| | - Victoire Urbain Hatu’m
- Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Bukavu (UCB), Bukavu 285, Democratic Republic of the Congo; (A.S.G.); (A.B.N.); (V.U.H.)
| | - Jacques Lukenze Tamuzi
- Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa;
| | - Duduzile Ndwandwe
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town 7501, South Africa; (D.N.); (C.I.-J.); (C.S.W.)
| | - Chinwe Iwu-Jaja
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town 7501, South Africa; (D.N.); (C.I.-J.); (C.S.W.)
| | - Charles S. Wiysonge
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town 7501, South Africa; (D.N.); (C.I.-J.); (C.S.W.)
- Vaccine-Preventable Diseases Program, World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville P.O. Box 06, Congo
| | - Patrick D. M. C. Katoto
- Center for Tropical Diseases and Global Health (CTDGH), Catholic University of Bukavu (UCB), Bukavu 285, Democratic Republic of the Congo; (A.D.N.); (P.M.B.)
- Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa;
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town 7501, South Africa; (D.N.); (C.I.-J.); (C.S.W.)
- Centre for General Medicine and Global Health, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
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26
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Rodrigues TC, Figueiredo DB, Gonçalves VM, Kaneko K, Saleem IY, Miyaji EN. Liposome-based dry powder vaccine immunization targeting the lungs induces broad protection against pneumococcus. J Control Release 2024; 368:184-198. [PMID: 38395155 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.02.028] [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: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Streptococcus pneumoniae is an important human pathogen. Currently used conjugate vaccines are effective against invasive disease, but protection is restricted to serotypes included in the formulation, leading to serotype replacement. Furthermore, protection against non-invasive disease is reported to be considerably lower. The development of a serotype-independent vaccine is thus important and Pneumococcal surface protein A (PspA) is a promising vaccine candidate. PspA shows some diversity and can be classified in 6 clades and 3 families, with families 1 and 2 being the most frequent in clinical isolates. The ideal vaccine should thus induce protection against the two most common families of PspA. The aim of this work was to develop a liposome-based vaccine containing PspAs from family 1 and 2 and to characterize its immune response. Liposomes (LP) composed of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) and 3β-[N-(N',N'-dimethylaminoethane)-carbamoyl]cholesterol (DC-Chol) with or without α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer) were produced by microfluidics, encapsulating PspA from clade 1 (PspA1, family 1) and/or clade 4 (PspA4Pro, family 2) followed by spray-drying with trehalose to form nanocomposite microparticles carriers (NCMP). LP/NCMPs showed good stability and preservation of protein activity. LP/NCMPs containing PspA1 and/or PspA4Pro were used for immunization of mice targeting the lungs. High serum IgG antibody titers against both PspA1 and PspA4Pro were detected in animals immunized with LP/NCMPs containing α-GalCer, with a balance of IgG1 and IgG2a titers. IgG in sera from immunized mice bound to pneumococcal strains from different serotypes and expressing different PspA clades, indicating broad recognition. Mucosal IgG and IgA were also detected. Importantly, immunization with LP/NCMPs induced full protection against strains expressing PspAs from family 1 and 2. Furthermore, CD4+ resident memory T cells were detected in the lungs of the immunized animals that survived the challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- T C Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Bacteriologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação Interunidades em Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - D B Figueiredo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Interunidades em Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - V M Gonçalves
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Interunidades em Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - K Kaneko
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom
| | - I Y Saleem
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, Merseyside, United Kingdom.
| | - E N Miyaji
- Laboratório de Bacteriologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação Interunidades em Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Palacpac NMQ, Ishii KJ, Arisue N, Tougan T, Horii T. Immune tolerance caused by repeated P. falciparum infection against SE36 malaria vaccine candidate antigen and the resulting limited polymorphism. Parasitol Int 2024; 99:102845. [PMID: 38101534 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2023.102845] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
The call for second generation malaria vaccines needs not only the identification of novel candidate antigens or adjuvants but also a better understanding of immune responses and the underlying protective processes. Plasmodium parasites have evolved a range of strategies to manipulate the host immune system to guarantee survival and establish parasitism. These immune evasion strategies hamper efforts to develop effective malaria vaccines. In the case of a malaria vaccine targeting the N-terminal domain of P. falciparum serine repeat antigen 5 (SE36), now in clinical trials, we observed reduced responsiveness (lowered immunogenicity) which may be attributed to immune tolerance/immune suppression. Here, immunogenicity data and insights into the immune responses to SE36 antigen from epidemiological studies and clinical trials are summarized. Documenting these observations is important to help identify gaps for SE36 continued development and engender hope that highly effective blood-stage/multi-stage vaccines can be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirianne Marie Q Palacpac
- Department of Malaria Vaccine Development, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Ken J Ishii
- Center for Vaccine and Adjuvant Research, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0085, Japan; Laboratory of Vaccine Science, Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan; Division of Vaccine Science, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-8639, Japan.
| | - Nobuko Arisue
- Department of Molecular Protozoology, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Takahiro Tougan
- Department of Molecular Protozoology, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Toshihiro Horii
- Department of Malaria Vaccine Development, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
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28
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Avalos-Padilla Y, Fernàndez-Busquets X. Nanotherapeutics against malaria: A decade of advancements in experimental models. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2024; 16:e1943. [PMID: 38426407 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Malaria, caused by different species of protists of the genus Plasmodium, remains among the most common causes of death due to parasitic diseases worldwide, mainly for children aged under 5. One of the main obstacles to malaria eradication is the speed with which the pathogen evolves resistance to the drug schemes developed against it. For this reason, it remains urgent to find innovative therapeutic strategies offering sufficient specificity against the parasite to minimize resistance evolution and drug side effects. In this context, nanotechnology-based approaches are now being explored for their use as antimalarial drug delivery platforms due to the wide range of advantages and tuneable properties that they offer. However, major challenges remain to be addressed to provide a cost-efficient and targeted therapeutic strategy contributing to malaria eradication. The present work contains a systematic review of nanotechnology-based antimalarial drug delivery systems generated during the last 10 years. This article is categorized under: Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Infectious Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunuen Avalos-Padilla
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona), Barcelona, Spain
- Nanomalaria Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
- Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Institute (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Xavier Fernàndez-Busquets
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic-Universitat de Barcelona), Barcelona, Spain
- Nanomalaria Group, Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
- Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Institute (IN2UB), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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29
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Lehnert T, Gijs MAM. Microfluidic systems for infectious disease diagnostics. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:1441-1493. [PMID: 38372324 DOI: 10.1039/d4lc00117f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Microorganisms, encompassing both uni- and multicellular entities, exhibit remarkable diversity as omnipresent life forms in nature. They play a pivotal role by supplying essential components for sustaining biological processes across diverse ecosystems, including higher host organisms. The complex interactions within the human gut microbiota are crucial for metabolic functions, immune responses, and biochemical signalling, particularly through the gut-brain axis. Viruses also play important roles in biological processes, for example by increasing genetic diversity through horizontal gene transfer when replicating inside living cells. On the other hand, infection of the human body by microbiological agents may lead to severe physiological disorders and diseases. Infectious diseases pose a significant burden on global healthcare systems, characterized by substantial variations in the epidemiological landscape. Fast spreading antibiotic resistance or uncontrolled outbreaks of communicable diseases are major challenges at present. Furthermore, delivering field-proven point-of-care diagnostic tools to the most severely affected populations in low-resource settings is particularly important and challenging. New paradigms and technological approaches enabling rapid and informed disease management need to be implemented. In this respect, infectious disease diagnostics taking advantage of microfluidic systems combined with integrated biosensor-based pathogen detection offers a host of innovative and promising solutions. In this review, we aim to outline recent activities and progress in the development of microfluidic diagnostic tools. Our literature research mainly covers the last 5 years. We will follow a classification scheme based on the human body systems primarily involved at the clinical level or on specific pathogen transmission modes. Important diseases, such as tuberculosis and malaria, will be addressed more extensively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Lehnert
- Laboratory of Microsystems, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland.
| | - Martin A M Gijs
- Laboratory of Microsystems, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland.
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Balmith M, Basson C, Brand SJ. The Malaria Burden: A South African Perspective. J Trop Med 2024; 2024:6619010. [PMID: 38434493 PMCID: PMC10907104 DOI: 10.1155/2024/6619010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Malaria is a deadly disease caused by protozoan pathogens of the Plasmodium parasite. Transmission to humans occurs through the bite of an infected female Anopheles mosquito. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 247 million cases of malaria were recorded worldwide in 2021, with approximately 619 000 malaria deaths. The initial signs of malaria can be mild and challenging to diagnose due to the signs and symptoms being similar to those of other illnesses. The malaria burden remains largely concentrated in the WHO sub-Saharan African region and has been recognised as a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality. This review aims to contribute to the existing knowledge on malaria in South Africa, a region within sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on the epidemiology and life cycle of the malaria parasite as well as diagnostic approaches for detecting malaria. In addition, nonpharmacological and pharmacological interventions for treating and preventing malaria infections will also be discussed herein. While there has been a significant reduction in the global burden of this disease, malaria remains a public health issue in South Africa. As such, the implementation of effective preventative measures and strategies, early diagnosis, and appropriate treatment regimens are crucial to reducing the malaria burden in South Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa Balmith
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Charlise Basson
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Sarel J. Brand
- Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Pharmacology, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Locke E, Flores-Garcia Y, Mayer BT, MacGill RS, Borate B, Salgado-Jimenez B, Gerber MW, Mathis-Torres S, Shapiro S, King CR, Zavala F. Establishing RTS,S/AS01 as a benchmark for comparison to next-generation malaria vaccines in a mouse model. NPJ Vaccines 2024; 9:29. [PMID: 38341502 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-024-00819-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
New strategies are needed to reduce the incidence of malaria, and promising approaches include vaccines targeting the circumsporozoite protein (CSP). To improve upon the malaria vaccine, RTS,S/AS01, it is essential to standardize preclinical assays to measure the potency of next-generation vaccines against this benchmark. We focus on RTS,S/AS01-induced antibody responses and functional activity in conjunction with robust statistical analyses. Transgenic Plasmodium berghei sporozoites containing full-length P. falciparum CSP (tgPb-PfCSP) allow two assessments of efficacy: quantitative reduction in liver infection following intravenous challenge, and sterile protection from mosquito bite challenge. Two or three doses of RTS,S/AS01 were given intramuscularly at 3-week intervals, with challenge 2-weeks after the last vaccination. Minimal inter- and intra-assay variability indicates the reproducibility of the methods. Importantly, the range of this model is suitable for screening more potent vaccines. Levels of induced anti-CSP antibody 2A10 equivalency were also associated with activity: 105 μg/mL (95% CI: 68.8, 141) reduced liver infection by 50%, whereas 285 μg/mL (95% CI: 166, 404) is required for 50% sterile protection from mosquito bite challenge. Additionally, the liver burden model was able to differentiate between protected and non-protected human plasma samples from a controlled human malaria infection study, supporting these models' relevance and predictive capability. Comparison in animal models of CSP-based vaccine candidates to RTS,S/AS01 is now possible under well controlled conditions. Assessment of the quality of induced antibodies, likely a determinant of durability of protection in humans, should be possible using these methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Locke
- Center for Vaccine Innovation and Access, PATH, Washington, DC, 20001, USA
| | - Yevel Flores-Garcia
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Bryan T Mayer
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchison Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Randall S MacGill
- Center for Vaccine Innovation and Access, PATH, Washington, DC, 20001, USA
| | - Bhavesh Borate
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchison Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Berenice Salgado-Jimenez
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Monica W Gerber
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchison Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Shamika Mathis-Torres
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sarah Shapiro
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - C Richter King
- Center for Vaccine Innovation and Access, PATH, Washington, DC, 20001, USA
| | - Fidel Zavala
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Dar A, Godara P, Prusty D, Bashir M. Plasmodium falciparum topoisomerases: Emerging targets for anti-malarial therapy. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116056. [PMID: 38171145 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Different metabolic pathways like DNA replication, transcription, and recombination generate topological constrains in the genome. These topological constraints are resolved by essential molecular machines known as topoisomerases. To bring changes in DNA topology, the topoisomerases create a single or double-stranded nick in the template DNA, hold the nicked ends to let the tangled DNA pass through, and finally re-ligate the breaks. The DNA nicking and re-ligation activities as well as ATPase activities (when present) in topoisomerases are subjected to inhibition by several anticancer and antibacterial drugs, thus establishing these enzymes as successful targets in anticancer and antibacterial therapies. The anti-topoisomerase drugs interfere with the functioning of these enzymes and result in the accumulation of DNA tangles or lethal genomic breaks, thereby promoting host cell (or organism) death. The potential of topoisomerases in the human malarial parasite, Plasmodium falciparum in antimalarial drug development has received little attention so far. Interestingly, the parasite genome encodes orthologs of topoisomerases found in eukaryotes, prokaryotes, and archaea, thus, providing an enormous opportunity for investigating these enzymes for antimalarial therapeutics. This review focuses on the features of Plasmodium falciparum topoisomerases (PfTopos) with respect to their closer counterparts in other organisms. We will discuss overall advances and basic challenges with topoisomerase research in Plasmodium falciparum and our attempts to understand the interaction of PfTopos with classical and new-generation topoisomerase inhibitors using in silico molecular docking approach. The recent episodes of parasite resistance against artemisinin, the only effective antimalarial drug at present, further highlight the significance of investigating new drug targets including topoisomerases in antimalarial therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Dar
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, 190006, India.
| | - Priya Godara
- Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, Rajasthan, India
| | | | - Masarat Bashir
- COTS, Sheri-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Mirgund, Srinagar, India
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Lopez-Perez M, Jain A, Davies DH, Vásquez-Jiménez JM, Herrera SM, Oñate J, Felgner PL, Herrera S, Arévalo-Herrera M. Profiling the antibody response of humans protected by immunization with Plasmodium vivax radiation-attenuated sporozoites. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2790. [PMID: 38307966 PMCID: PMC10837454 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53175-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Malaria sterile immunity has been reproducibly induced by immunization with Plasmodium radiation-attenuated sporozoites (RAS). Analyses of sera from RAS-immunized individuals allowed the identification of P. falciparum antigens, such as the circumsporozoite protein (CSP), the basis for the RTS, S and R21Matrix-M vaccines. Similar advances in P. vivax (Pv) vaccination have been elusive. We previously reported 42% (5/12) of sterile protection in malaria-unexposed, Duffy-positive (Fy +) volunteers immunized with PvRAS followed by a controlled human malaria infection (CHMI). Using a custom protein microarray displaying 515 Pv antigens, we found a significantly higher reactivity to PvCSP and one hypothetical protein (PVX_089630) in volunteers protected against P. vivax infection. In mock-vaccinated Fy + volunteers, a strong antibody response to CHMI was also observed. Although the Fy- volunteers immunized with non-irradiated Pv-infected mosquitoes (live sporozoites) did not develop malaria after CHMI, they recognized a high number of antigens, indicating the temporary presence of asexual parasites in peripheral blood. Together, our findings contribute to the understanding of the antibody response to P. vivax infection and allow the identification of novel parasite antigens as vaccine candidates.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT01082341.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Lopez-Perez
- Malaria Vaccine and Drug Development Center (MVDC), Cali, Colombia
| | - Aarti Jain
- Department Physiology & Biophysics, Vaccine R&D Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - D Huw Davies
- Department Physiology & Biophysics, Vaccine R&D Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Philip L Felgner
- Department Physiology & Biophysics, Vaccine R&D Center, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Sócrates Herrera
- Malaria Vaccine and Drug Development Center (MVDC), Cali, Colombia
- Caucaseco Scientific Research Center, Cali, Colombia
| | - Myriam Arévalo-Herrera
- Malaria Vaccine and Drug Development Center (MVDC), Cali, Colombia.
- Caucaseco Scientific Research Center, Cali, Colombia.
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González JEH, Salas-Sarduy E, Alvarez LH, Valiente PA, Arni RK, Pascutti PG. Three Decades of Targeting Falcipains to Develop Antiplasmodial Agents: What have we Learned and What can be Done Next? Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:2234-2263. [PMID: 37711130 DOI: 10.2174/0929867331666230913165219] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Malaria is a devastating infectious disease that affects large swathes of human populations across the planet's tropical regions. It is caused by parasites of the genus Plasmodium, with Plasmodium falciparum being responsible for the most lethal form of the disease. During the intraerythrocytic stage in the human hosts, malaria parasites multiply and degrade hemoglobin (Hb) using a battery of proteases, which include two cysteine proteases, falcipains 2 and 3 (FP-2 and FP-3). Due to their role as major hemoglobinases, FP-2 and FP-3 have been targeted in studies aiming to discover new antimalarials and numerous inhibitors with activity against these enzymes, and parasites in culture have been identified. Nonetheless, cross-inhibition of human cysteine cathepsins remains a serious hurdle to overcome for these compounds to be used clinically. In this article, we have reviewed key functional and structural properties of FP-2/3 and described different compound series reported as inhibitors of these proteases during decades of active research in the field. Special attention is also paid to the wide range of computer-aided drug design (CADD) techniques successfully applied to discover new active compounds. Finally, we provide guidelines that, in our understanding, will help advance the rational discovery of new FP-2/3 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Enrique Hernández González
- Multiuser Center for Biomolecular Innovation, IBILCE/UNESP, São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UZA II, University of Vienna, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - Emir Salas-Sarduy
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas Dr. Rodolfo Ugalde, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, CONICET, San Martín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Escuela de Bio y Nanotecnología (EByN), Universidad de San Martín (UNSAM), San Martín, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Pedro Alberto Valiente
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular & Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Pedro Geraldo Pascutti
- Laboratório de Modelagem e Dinâmica Molecular, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Mura M, Misganaw B, Gautam A, Robinson T, Chaudhury S, Bansal N, Martins AJ, Tsang J, Hammamieh R, Bergmann-Leitner E. Human transcriptional signature of protection after Plasmodium falciparum immunization and infectious challenge via mosquito bites. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2282693. [PMID: 38010150 PMCID: PMC10760396 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2282693] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The identification of immune correlates of protection against infectious pathogens will accelerate the design and optimization of recombinant and subunit vaccines. Systematic analyses such as immunoprofiling including serological, cellular, and molecular assessments supported by computational tools are key to not only identify correlates of protection but also biomarkers of disease susceptibility. The current study expands our previous cellular and serological profiling of vaccine-induced responses to a whole parasite malaria vaccine. The irradiated sporozoite model was chosen as it is considered the most effective vaccine against malaria. In contrast to whole blood transcriptomics analysis, we stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) with sporozoites and enriched for antigen-specific cells prior to conducting transcriptomics analysis. By focusing on transcriptional events triggered by antigen-specific stimulation, we were able to uncover quantitative and qualitative differences between protected and non-protected individuals to controlled human malaria infections and identified differentially expressed genes associated with sporozoite-specific responses. Further analyses including pathway and gene set enrichment analysis revealed that vaccination with irradiated sporozoites induced a transcriptomic profile associated with Th1-responses, Interferon-signaling, antigen-presentation, and inflammation. Analyzing longitudinal time points not only post-vaccination but also post-controlled human malaria infection further revealed that the transcriptomic profile of protected vs non-protected individuals was not static but continued to diverge over time. The results lay the foundation for comparing protective immune signatures induced by various vaccine platforms to uncover immune correlates of protection that are common across platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Mura
- Immunology Core, Biologics Research & Development, WRAIR-Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
- Host-Pathogen Interactions, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, IRBA-Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, Brétigny-sur-Orge, France
| | - Burook Misganaw
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Center for Military Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
- Vysnova Inc, Landover, MD, USA
| | - Aarti Gautam
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Center for Military Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Tanisha Robinson
- Immunology Core, Biologics Research & Development, WRAIR-Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Sidhartha Chaudhury
- Center of Enabling Capabilties, WRAIR-Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Neha Bansal
- Multiscale Systems Biology Section, Laboratory of Immune System Biology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Andrew J. Martins
- Multiscale Systems Biology Section, Laboratory of Immune System Biology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - John Tsang
- Multiscale Systems Biology Section, Laboratory of Immune System Biology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
- NIH Center for Human Immunology, NIAID, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Rasha Hammamieh
- Medical Readiness Systems Biology, Center for Military Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Elke Bergmann-Leitner
- Immunology Core, Biologics Research & Development, WRAIR-Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
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Gao W, Qiu Y, Zhu L, Yu X, Yang F, Chen M, He G, Liu Y, Cui L, Liu F, Zhu X, Cao Y. A dual-antigen malaria vaccine targeting Pb22 and Pbg37 was able to induce robust transmission-blocking activity. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:455. [PMID: 38098083 PMCID: PMC10720250 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06071-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite years of effort to develop an effective vaccine against malaria infection, a vaccine that provides individuals with sufficient protection against malaria illness and death in endemic areas is not yet available. The development of transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) is a promising strategy for malaria control. A dual-antigen malaria vaccine targeting both pre- and post-fertilization antigens could effectively improve the transmission-blocking activity of vaccines against the sexual stages of the parasite. METHODS A chimeric recombinant protein Pb22-Pbg37 (Plasmodium berghei 22-P. berghei G37) composed of 19-218 amino acids (aa) of Pb22 and the N-terminal 26-88 aa of Pbg37 was designed and expressed in the Escherichia coli expression system. The antibody titers of the fusion (Pb22-Pbg37) and mixed (Pb22+Pbg37) antigens, as well as those of Pb22 and Pbg37 single antigens were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Immunofluorescence and western blot assays were performed to test the reactivity of the antisera with the native proteins in the parasite. The induction of transmission-blocking activity (TBA) by Pb22-Pbg37 and Pb22+Pbg37 were evaluated by in vitro gametocyte activation, gamete and exflagellation center formation, ookinete conversion, and in the direct mosquito feeding assay. RESULTS The Pb22-Pbg37 fusion protein was successfully expressed in vitro. Co-administration of Pb22 and Pbg37 as a fusion or mixed protein elicited comparable antibody responses in mice and resulted in responses to both antigens. Most importantly, both the mixed and fusion antigens induced antibodies with significantly higher levels of TBA than did each of the individual antigens when administered alone. In addition, the efficacy of vaccination with the Pb22-Pbg37 fusion protein was equivalent to that of vaccination with the mixed single antigens. CONCLUSIONS Dual-antigen vaccines, which expand/lengthen the period during which the transmission-blocking antibodies can act during sexual-stage development, can provide a promising higher transmission-reducing activity compared to single antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyan Gao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, NO. 155, Nanjing Street, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Qiu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
- Department of Cardiovascular Ultrasound, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning, China
| | - Liying Zhu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinxin Yu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Muyan Chen
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang He
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinjie Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Liwang Cui
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaotong Zhu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yaming Cao
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
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Bolton JS, MacGill RS, Locke E, Regules JA, Bergmann-Leitner ES. Novel antibody competition binding assay identifies distinct serological profiles associated with protection. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1303446. [PMID: 38152401 PMCID: PMC10752609 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1303446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pre-erythrocytic malaria vaccines hold the promise of inducing sterile protection thereby preventing the morbidity and mortality associated with Plasmodium infection. The main surface antigen of P. falciparum sporozoites, i.e., the circumsporozoite protein (CSP), has been extensively explored as a target of such vaccines with significant success in recent years. Systematic adjuvant selection, refinements of the immunization regimen, and physical properties of the antigen may all contribute to the potential of increasing the efficacy of CSP-based vaccines. Protection appears to be dependent in large part on CSP antibodies. However due to a knowledge gap related to the exact correlates of immunity, there is a critical need to improve our ability to down select candidates preclinically before entering clinical trials including with controlled human malaria infections (CHMI). Methods We developed a novel multiplex competition assay based on well-characterized monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that target crucial epitopes across the CSP molecule. This new tool assesses both, quality and epitope-specific concentrations of vaccine-induced antibodies by measuring their equivalency with a panel of well-characterized, CSP-epitope-specific mAbs. Results Applying this method to RTS,S-immune sera from a CHMI trial demonstrated a quantitative epitope-specificity profile of antibody responses that can differentiate between protected vs. nonprotected individuals. Aligning vaccine efficacy with quantitation of the epitope fine specificity results of this equivalency assay reveals the importance of epitope specificity. Discussion The newly developed serological equivalence assay will inform future vaccine design and possibly even adjuvant selection. This methodology can be adapted to other antigens and disease models, when a panel of relevant mAbs exists, and could offer a unique tool for comparing and down-selecting vaccine formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica S. Bolton
- Biologics Research & Development, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | - Randall S. MacGill
- Center for Vaccine Innovation and Access, PATH, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Emily Locke
- Center for Vaccine Innovation and Access, PATH, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Jason A. Regules
- Biologics Research & Development, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | - Elke S. Bergmann-Leitner
- Biologics Research & Development, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), Silver Spring, MD, United States
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Chauhan S, Khasa YP. Challenges and Opportunities in the Process Development of Chimeric Vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1828. [PMID: 38140232 PMCID: PMC10747103 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11121828] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccines are integral to human life to protect them from life-threatening diseases. However, conventional vaccines often suffer limitations like inefficiency, safety concerns, unavailability for non-culturable microbes, and genetic variability among pathogens. Chimeric vaccines combine multiple antigen-encoding genes of similar or different microbial strains to protect against hyper-evolving drug-resistant pathogens. The outbreaks of dreadful diseases have led researchers to develop economical chimeric vaccines that can cater to a large population in a shorter time. The process development begins with computationally aided omics-based approaches to design chimeric vaccines. Furthermore, developing these vaccines requires optimizing upstream and downstream processes for mass production at an industrial scale. Owing to the complex structures and complicated bioprocessing of evolving pathogens, various high-throughput process technologies have come up with added advantages. Recent advancements in high-throughput tools, process analytical technology (PAT), quality-by-design (QbD), design of experiments (DoE), modeling and simulations, single-use technology, and integrated continuous bioprocessing have made scalable production more convenient and economical. The paradigm shift to innovative strategies requires significant attention to deal with major health threats at the global scale. This review outlines the challenges and emerging avenues in the bioprocess development of chimeric vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yogender Pal Khasa
- Department of Microbiology, University of Delhi South Campus, New Delhi 110021, India;
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Ranjha R, Singh K, Baharia RK, Mohan M, Anvikar AR, Bharti PK. Age-specific malaria vulnerability and transmission reservoir among children. GLOBAL PEDIATRICS 2023; 6:None. [PMID: 38440360 PMCID: PMC10911094 DOI: 10.1016/j.gpeds.2023.100085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Purpose The pediatric population, especially under-five children, is highly susceptible to malaria and accounts for 76 % of global malaria deaths according to the World Malaria Report 2022. The purpose of this manuscript is to discuss the various factors involved in the susceptibility of the pediatric population to Malaria and the importance of this age group for malaria elimination. Methodology Data on pediatric malaria epidemiology that includes prevalence, risk factors, immune factors, socioeconomic factors, control methods, etc. were extracted from published literature using PubMed and Google Scholar. This data was further correlated with malaria incidence data from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC). Results The younger age group is vulnerable to severe malaria due to an immature immune system. The risk of infection and clinical disease increases after the waning of maternal immunity. In the initial years of life, the developing brain is more susceptible to malaria infection and its after-effects. The pediatric population may act as a malaria transmission reservoir due to parasite density and asymptomatic infections. WHO recommended RTS,S/AS01 has limitations and may not be applicable in all settings to propel malaria elimination. Conclusion The diagnosis of malaria is based on clinical suspicion and confirmed with microscopy and/or rapid diagnostic testing. The school-age pediatric population serves as a transmission reservoir in the form of asymptomatic malaria since they have acquired some immunity due to exposure in early childhood. Targeting the hidden reservoir in the pediatric population and protecting this vulnerable group will be essential for malaria elimination from the countries targeting elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritesh Ranjha
- ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, India
| | - Kuldeep Singh
- ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, India
| | | | - Mradul Mohan
- ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, India
| | - Anup R Anvikar
- ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Praveen K. Bharti
- ICMR-National Institute of Malaria Research, New Delhi, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, India
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Douradinha B. Does hydrogen peroxide contribute to the immunity against Malaria induced by whole attenuated plasmodial sporozoites? Mol Biochem Parasitol 2023; 256:111589. [PMID: 37604406 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2023.111589] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Plasmodium sporozoites can block apoptotic pathways within host hepatocytes, ensuring the survival of the parasite. However, attenuated plasmodial sporozoites are unable to prevent apoptosis, which provides many parasite antigens to immune cells. This exposure leads to protection against Malaria in both human and animal models. If these hosts are later inoculated with infectious sporozoites, apoptosis of infected hepatocytes will occur, preventing parasite development. Considering that hydrogen peroxide can induce apoptosis, it is plausible that it plays a role in the mechanisms associated with the protection mediated by attenuated plasmodial sporozoites. Based on published results that describe the relationship between Plasmodium, hydrogen peroxide, and apoptosis, a rational explanation can be provided for this hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Douradinha
- Nykode Therapeutics ASA, Oslo Science Park, Gaustadalléen 21, Oslo 0349, Norway.
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Waithera MW, Sifuna MW, Kimani SK, Takei M. Drug selection pressure and fitness cost for artemether-resistant Plasmodium berghei ANKA parasites in vivo. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2023; 62:107012. [PMID: 37865152 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2023.107012] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical use of artemisinin-based combination therapies is threatened by increasing failure rates due to the emergence and spread of multiple drug resistance genes in most human Plasmodium strains. The aim of this study was to generate artemether-resistant (AMR) parasites from Plasmodium berghei ANKA (AMS), and determine their fitness cost. METHODS Artemether resistance was generated by increasing drug pressure doses gradually for 9 months. Effective doses (ED50 and ED90) were determined using the 4-day suppressive test, and the indices of resistance (I) at 50% and 90% (I50 and I90) were determined using the ratio of either ED50 or ED90 of AMR to AMS, respectively. The stability of the AMR parasites was evaluated by: five drug-free passages (5DFPs), 3 months of cryopreservation (CP), and drug-free serial passages (DFSPs) for 4 months. Analysis of variance was used to compare differences in growth rates between AMR and AMS with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS ED50 and ED90 of AMS were 0.61 and 3.43 mg/kg/day respectively. I50 and I90 after 20 cycles of artemether selection pressure were 19.67 and 21.45, respectively; 5DFP values were 39.16 and 15.27, respectively; 3-month CP values were 29.36 and 10.79, respectively; and DFSP values were 31.34 and 12.29, respectively. The mean parasitaemia value of AMR (24.70% ± 3.60) relative to AMS (37.66% ± 3.68) at Day 7 post infection after DFSPs revealed a fitness cost of 34.41%. CONCLUSION A moderately stable AMRP. berghei line was generated. Known and unknown mutations may be involved in modulating artemether resistance, and therefore molecular investigations are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milka Wambui Waithera
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Division of Fundamental Engineering, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Martin Wekesa Sifuna
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Division of Fundamental Engineering, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | | | - Masahiro Takei
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Division of Fundamental Engineering, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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Girgis ST, Adika E, Nenyewodey FE, Senoo Jnr DK, Ngoi JM, Bandoh K, Lorenz O, van de Steeg G, Harrott AJR, Nsoh S, Judge K, Pearson RD, Almagro-Garcia J, Saiid S, Atampah S, Amoako EK, Morang'a CM, Asoala V, Adjei ES, Burden W, Roberts-Sengier W, Drury E, Pierce ML, Gonçalves S, Awandare GA, Kwiatkowski DP, Amenga-Etego LN, Hamilton WL. Drug resistance and vaccine target surveillance of Plasmodium falciparum using nanopore sequencing in Ghana. Nat Microbiol 2023; 8:2365-2377. [PMID: 37996707 PMCID: PMC10686832 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-023-01516-6] [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: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Malaria results in over 600,000 deaths annually, with the highest burden of deaths in young children living in sub-Saharan Africa. Molecular surveillance can provide important information for malaria control policies, including detection of antimalarial drug resistance. However, genome sequencing capacity in malaria-endemic countries is limited. We designed and implemented an end-to-end workflow to detect Plasmodium falciparum antimalarial resistance markers and diversity in the vaccine target circumsporozoite protein (csp) using nanopore sequencing in Ghana. We analysed 196 clinical samples and showed that our method is rapid, robust, accurate and straightforward to implement. Importantly, our method could be applied to dried blood spot samples, which are readily collected in endemic settings. We report that P. falciparum parasites in Ghana are mostly susceptible to chloroquine, with persistent sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine resistance and no evidence of artemisinin resistance. Multiple single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified in csp, but their significance is uncertain. Our study demonstrates the feasibility of nanopore sequencing for malaria genomic surveillance in endemic countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia T Girgis
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | - Edem Adika
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Felix E Nenyewodey
- Navrongo Health Research Centre (NHRC), Ghana Health Service, Navrongo, Upper East Region, Ghana
| | - Dodzi K Senoo Jnr
- Navrongo Health Research Centre (NHRC), Ghana Health Service, Navrongo, Upper East Region, Ghana
| | - Joyce M Ngoi
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Kukua Bandoh
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Oliver Lorenz
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | - Guus van de Steeg
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | | | - Sebastian Nsoh
- Navrongo Health Research Centre (NHRC), Ghana Health Service, Navrongo, Upper East Region, Ghana
| | - Kim Judge
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | - Richard D Pearson
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | | | - Samirah Saiid
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Solomon Atampah
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Enock K Amoako
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Collins M Morang'a
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Victor Asoala
- Navrongo Health Research Centre (NHRC), Ghana Health Service, Navrongo, Upper East Region, Ghana
| | - Elrmion S Adjei
- Ledzokuku Krowor Municipal Assembly (LEKMA) Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | - William Burden
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | | | - Eleanor Drury
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | - Megan L Pierce
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | - Sónia Gonçalves
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK
| | - Gordon A Awandare
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | | | - Lucas N Amenga-Etego
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana.
| | - William L Hamilton
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, UK.
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK.
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Onyango OH, Mwenda CM, Gitau G, Muoma J, Okoth P. In-silico analysis of potent Mosquirix vaccine adjuvant leads. J Genet Eng Biotechnol 2023; 21:155. [PMID: 38032502 PMCID: PMC10689608 DOI: 10.1186/s43141-023-00590-x] [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: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND World Health Organization recommend the use of malaria vaccine, Mosquirix, as a malaria prevention strategy. However, Mosquirix has failed to reduce the global burden of malaria because of its inefficacy. The Mosquirix vaccine's modest effectiveness against malaria, 36% among kids aged 5 to 17 months who need at least four doses, fails to aid malaria eradication. Therefore, highly effective and efficacious malaria vaccines are required. The well-characterized P. falciparum circumsporozoite surface protein can be used to discover adjuvants that can increase the efficacy of Mosquirix. Therefore, the study sought to undertake an in-silico discovery of Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite surface protein inhibitors with pharmacological properties on Mosquirix using hierarchical virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulation. RESULTS Monoclonal antibody L9, an anti-Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite surface protein molecule, was used to identify Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite surface protein inhibitors with pharmacological properties on Mosquirix during a virtual screening process in ZINCPHARMER that yielded 23 hits. After drug-likeness and absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity property analysis in the SwissADME web server, only 9 of the 23 hits satisfied the requirements. The 9 compounds were docked with Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite surface protein using the PyRx software to understand their interactions. ZINC25374360 (-8.1 kcal/mol), ZINC40144754 (-8.3 kcal/mol), and ZINC71996727 (-8.9 kcal/mol) bound strongly to Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite surface protein with binding affinities of less than -8.0 kcal/mol. The stability of these molecularly docked Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite surface protein-inhibitor complexes were assessed through molecular dynamics simulation using GROMACS 2022. ZINC25374360 and ZINC71996727 formed stable complexes with Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite surface protein. They were subjected to in vitro validation for their inhibitory potential. The IC50 values ranging between 250 and 350 ng/ml suggest inhibition of parasite development. CONCLUSION Therefore, the two Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite surface protein inhibitors can be used as vaccine adjuvants to increase the efficacy of the existing Mosquirix vaccine. Nevertheless, additional in vivo tests, structural optimization studies, and homogenization analysis are essential to determine the anti-plasmodial action of these adjuvants in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Okello Harrison Onyango
- Department of Biological Sciences (Molecular Biology, Computational Biology, and Bioinformatics Section), School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, P.O. BOX 190-50100, Kakamega, Kenya.
| | - Cynthia Mugo Mwenda
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pure and Applied Sciences, Meru University of Science and Technology, P.O. BOX 972-60200, Meru, Kenya
| | - Grace Gitau
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, School of Biological and Life Sciences, The Technical University of Kenya, P.O. BOX 52428-00200, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - John Muoma
- Department of Biological Sciences (Molecular Biology, Computational Biology, and Bioinformatics Section), School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, P.O. BOX 190-50100, Kakamega, Kenya
| | - Patrick Okoth
- Department of Biological Sciences (Molecular Biology, Computational Biology, and Bioinformatics Section), School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, P.O. BOX 190-50100, Kakamega, Kenya
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Nettere D, Unnithan S, Rodgers N, Nohara J, Cray P, Berry M, Jones C, Armand L, Li SH, Berendam SJ, Fouda GG, Cain DW, Spence TN, Granek JA, Davenport CA, Edwards RJ, Wiehe K, Van Rompay KKA, Moody MA, Permar SR, Pollara J. Conjugation of HIV-1 envelope to hepatitis B surface antigen alters vaccine responses in rhesus macaques. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:183. [PMID: 38001122 PMCID: PMC10673864 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00775-y] [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: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
An effective HIV-1 vaccine remains a critical unmet need for ending the AIDS epidemic. Vaccine trials conducted to date have suggested the need to increase the durability and functionality of vaccine-elicited antibodies to improve efficacy. We hypothesized that a conjugate vaccine based on the learned response to immunization with hepatitis B virus could be utilized to expand T cell help and improve antibody production against HIV-1. To test this, we developed an innovative conjugate vaccine regimen that used a modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) co-expressing HIV-1 envelope (Env) and the hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg) as a prime, followed by two Env-HBsAg conjugate protein boosts. We compared the immunogenicity of this conjugate regimen to matched HIV-1 Env-only vaccines in two groups of 5 juvenile rhesus macaques previously immunized with hepatitis B vaccines in infancy. We found expansion of both HIV-1 and HBsAg-specific circulating T follicular helper cells and elevated serum levels of CXCL13, a marker for germinal center activity, after boosting with HBsAg-Env conjugate antigens in comparison to Env alone. The conjugate vaccine elicited higher levels of antibodies binding to select HIV Env antigens, but we did not observe significant improvement in antibody functionality, durability, maturation, or B cell clonal expansion. These data suggests that conjugate vaccination can engage both HIV-1 Env and HBsAg specific T cell help and modify antibody responses at early time points, but more research is needed to understand how to leverage this strategy to improve the durability and efficacy of next-generation HIV vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Nettere
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Shakthi Unnithan
- Department of Statistics, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Nicole Rodgers
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Junsuke Nohara
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Paul Cray
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Madison Berry
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Caroline Jones
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Lawrence Armand
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Shuk Hang Li
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Stella J Berendam
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- GSK Rockville Center for Vaccines Research, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Genevieve G Fouda
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Derek W Cain
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Taylor N Spence
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Joshua A Granek
- Quantitative Sciences Core, Duke University Center for AIDS Research, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Clemontina A Davenport
- Quantitative Sciences Core, Duke University Center for AIDS Research, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Robert J Edwards
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kevin Wiehe
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Koen K A Van Rompay
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - M Anthony Moody
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Sallie R Permar
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Justin Pollara
- Department of Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
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Yang J, Liu Y, Zhong D, Xu L, Gao H, Keasling JD, Luo X, Chou HH. Combinatorial optimization and spatial remodeling of CYPs to control product profile. Metab Eng 2023; 80:119-129. [PMID: 37703999 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymben.2023.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Activating inert substrates is a challenge in nature and synthetic chemistry, but essential for creating functionally active molecules. In this work, we used a combinatorial optimization approach to assemble cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYPs) and reductases (CPRs) to achieve a target product profile. By creating 110 CYP-CPR pairs and iteratively screening different pairing libraries, we demonstrated a framework for establishing a CYP network that catalyzes six oxidation reactions at three different positions of a chemical scaffold. Target product titer was improved by remodeling endoplasmic reticulum (ER) size and spatially controlling the CYPs' configuration on the ER. Out of 47 potential products that could be synthesized, 86% of the products synthesized by the optimized network was our target compound quillaic acid (QA), the aglycone backbone of many pharmaceutically important saponins, and fermentation achieved QA titer 2.23 g/L.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiazeng Yang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for the Intelligent Microbial Manufacturing of Medicines, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Center for Synthetic Biochemistry, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055, China
| | - Yuguang Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Center for Synthetic Biochemistry, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055, China
| | - Dacai Zhong
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Center for Synthetic Biochemistry, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055, China
| | - Linlin Xu
- Center for Synthetic Biochemistry, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055, China
| | - Haixin Gao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Center for Synthetic Biochemistry, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055, China
| | - Jay D Keasling
- Center for Synthetic Biochemistry, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055, China; Joint BioEnergy Institute, Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA; Biological Systems and Engineering Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering & Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Biosustainability, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Xiaozhou Luo
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for the Intelligent Microbial Manufacturing of Medicines, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Center for Synthetic Biochemistry, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055, China
| | - Howard H Chou
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for the Intelligent Microbial Manufacturing of Medicines, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China; Center for Synthetic Biochemistry, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 518055, China.
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Mercuri M, Hackett K, Upshur R, Emerson CI. Expediting approval for medical countermeasures to address high burden disease: an ethical justification to move beyond emergency use authorisation. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e013480. [PMID: 37918871 PMCID: PMC10626867 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-013480] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Addressing global health crises requires a receptive and expedient policy environment to minimise delays in making available potentially life-saving technologies. Over time, the policy environment has adapted to ensure that communities have expedited access to promising technologies, such as vaccines, that can mitigate morbidity and mortality. Emergency authorisations are one such policy mechanism. While these have been employed successfully for several diseases, such as influenza, Ebola and COVID-19, the policy mechanism is tied to contexts where key bodies have designated the disease an 'emergency', whereas no equivalent mechanism exists for those failing to acquire the designation (eg, malaria and tuberculosis). In this paper, we examine ethical issues associated with emergency authorisations. We argue that there is no moral difference between those diseases considered emergencies and many that fail to be designated as such with respect to impact on affected communities. Thus, tying access to an expedient policy mechanism for approval to an emergency designation is ethically unjustified-it should be based on considerations of risks and benefits, the disease burden and the values of the communities that carry those risks and not contingent on if the disease is designated an emergency. We suggest the need to further enhance the policy environment to ensure access to similar expedited approval programmes irrespective of if a disease is an emergency. Levelling the field for access to expedited approval programmes across diseases can help in moving towards achieving global health equity but is not a panacea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew Mercuri
- Institute on Ethics & Policy for Innovation, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Dala Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Philosophy, McMaster University Faculty of Humanities, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kristy Hackett
- Institute on Ethics & Policy for Innovation, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Dala Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ross Upshur
- Dala Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Claudia Isabel Emerson
- Institute on Ethics & Policy for Innovation, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Philosophy, McMaster University Faculty of Humanities, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Bailey BL, Nguyen W, Cowman AF, Sleebs BE. Chemo-proteomics in antimalarial target identification and engagement. Med Res Rev 2023; 43:2303-2351. [PMID: 37232495 PMCID: PMC10947479 DOI: 10.1002/med.21975] [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: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Humans have lived in tenuous battle with malaria over millennia. Today, while much of the world is free of the disease, areas of South America, Asia, and Africa still wage this war with substantial impacts on their social and economic development. The threat of widespread resistance to all currently available antimalarial therapies continues to raise concern. Therefore, it is imperative that novel antimalarial chemotypes be developed to populate the pipeline going forward. Phenotypic screening has been responsible for the majority of the new chemotypes emerging in the past few decades. However, this can result in limited information on the molecular target of these compounds which may serve as an unknown variable complicating their progression into clinical development. Target identification and validation is a process that incorporates techniques from a range of different disciplines. Chemical biology and more specifically chemo-proteomics have been heavily utilized for this purpose. This review provides an in-depth summary of the application of chemo-proteomics in antimalarial development. Here we focus particularly on the methodology, practicalities, merits, and limitations of designing these experiments. Together this provides learnings on the future use of chemo-proteomics in antimalarial development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brodie L. Bailey
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Medical BiologyThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - William Nguyen
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Medical BiologyThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Alan F. Cowman
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Medical BiologyThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Brad E. Sleebs
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Medical BiologyThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
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Good MF, Yanow SK. Hiding in plain sight: an epitope-based strategy for a subunit malaria vaccine. Trends Parasitol 2023; 39:929-935. [PMID: 37684152 PMCID: PMC10592166 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2023.08.006] [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: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Recent data suggest that approaches to developing a subunit blood-stage malaria vaccine may be misdirected. While antigenic polymorphism is recognized as a challenge, efforts to counter this have primarily involved enhancing the quantity and quality of antibody with potent adjuvants, identifying conserved target proteins, or combining multiple antigens to broaden the immune response. However, paradoxically, evidence has emerged that narrowing, rather than broadening, the immune response may be required to obtain an immune response protective against multiple Plasmodium strains. Non-immunodominant, conserved epitopes are crucial. The evidence comes from studying the immune response to red cell surface-expressed antigens but should also be applicable to merozoite surface antigens. Strategies to define the targets of these highly focused immune responses are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael F Good
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia.
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49
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Ajayi MY, Emeto DC. Awareness and acceptability of malaria vaccine among caregivers of under-5 children in Northern Nigeria. Malar J 2023; 22:329. [PMID: 37907916 PMCID: PMC10619215 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-023-04768-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria vaccine, RTS, S/AS01, has demonstrated modest efficacy against malaria and holds promises for children living in areas where malaria transmission is high. This study assessed caregivers' awareness and willingness to accept the vaccine and provided vital information for policymakers, health workers, and social mobilizers on critical areas to focus on promoting the new vaccine uptake before its arrival for use in Nigeria. METHODS The study was a community-based cross-sectional survey. A multistage sampling technique was used to select four states in Northern Nigeria, where the incidence and prevalence of malaria are highest in the country and 504 caregivers of under-five children were interviewed. A semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used and data analysis was done with p-value at 0.05. RESULTS Two hundred and three (40.3%) respondents were aware of malaria vaccine while four hundred and sixty-three (91.9%) were willing to accept the vaccine when it is introduced for use in the country. Level of education (AOR; 0.42; CI 0.23-0.78), employment status (AOR; 3.03; CI 1.82-5.03), previous experience of other childhood vaccinations (AOR; 4.87; CI 2.89-8.20), and caregivers having suffered malaria within the last one year (AOR; 1.85; CI 1.10 -3.13) significantly predicted malaria vaccine awareness. Awareness of the new malaria vaccine (AOR = 6.88; 95% CI 1.53-30.99), and previous experience of other childhood vaccinations (AOR = 6.16; 95% CI 2.54-14.94) were significant predictors of the vaccine acceptability. CONCLUSION Caregiver's awareness of the new malaria vaccine was inadequate. There is a need to intensify efforts on social and behavioural communication change activities tailoring messages on the vaccine to address uptake hesitancy. Also, an intense community engagement with focus on providing information on the safety of the vaccine is encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Yetunde Ajayi
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
- Leaders of Africa Institute, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Daniel Chukwuyere Emeto
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Leaders of Africa Institute, Accra, Ghana
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Mabrouk MT, Zidan AA, Aly N, Mohammed MT, Ghantous F, Seaman MS, Lovell JF, Nasr ML. Circularized Nanodiscs for Multivalent Mosaic Display of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Antigens. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1655. [PMID: 38005987 PMCID: PMC10675430 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11111655] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of vaccine-evading SARS-CoV-2 variants urges the need for vaccines that elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs). Here, we assess covalently circularized nanodiscs decorated with recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoproteins from several variants for eliciting bnAbs with vaccination. Cobalt porphyrin-phospholipid (CoPoP) was incorporated into the nanodisc to allow for anchoring and functional orientation of spike trimers on the nanodisc surface through their His-tag. Monophosphoryl-lipid (MPLA) and QS-21 were incorporated as immunostimulatory adjuvants to enhance vaccine responses. Following optimization of nanodisc assembly, spike proteins were effectively displayed on the surface of the nanodiscs and maintained their conformational capacity for binding with human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) as verified using electron microscopy and slot blot assay, respectively. Six different formulations were prepared where they contained mono antigens; four from the year 2020 (WT, Beta, Lambda, and Delta) and two from the year 2021 (Omicron BA.1 and BA.2). Additionally, we prepared a mosaic nanodisc displaying the four spike proteins from year 2020. Intramuscular vaccination of CD-1 female mice with the mosaic nanodisc induced antibody responses that not only neutralized matched pseudo-typed viruses, but also neutralized mismatched pseudo-typed viruses corresponding to later variants from year 2021 (Omicron BA.1 and BA.2). Interestingly, sera from mosaic-immunized mice did not effectively inhibit Omicron spike binding to human ACE-2, suggesting that some of the elicited antibodies were directed towards conserved neutralizing epitopes outside the receptor binding domain. Our results show that mosaic nanodisc vaccine displaying spike proteins from 2020 can elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies that can neutralize mismatched viruses from a following year, thus decreasing immune evasion of new emerging variants and enhancing healthcare preparedness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moustafa T. Mabrouk
- Division of Engineering in Medicine and Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.T.M.)
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA;
| | - Asmaa A. Zidan
- Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Nihal Aly
- Division of Engineering in Medicine and Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.T.M.)
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21526, Egypt
| | - Mostafa T. Mohammed
- Division of Engineering in Medicine and Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.T.M.)
- Clinical Pathology Department, Minia University, Minia 61519, Egypt
| | - Fadi Ghantous
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Michael S. Seaman
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jonathan F. Lovell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA;
| | - Mahmoud L. Nasr
- Division of Engineering in Medicine and Division of Renal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (M.T.M.)
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
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