|
1
|
Esteban I, Pastor-Quiñones C, Usero L, Aurrecoechea E, Franceschini L, Esprit A, Gelpí JL, Martínez-Jiménez F, López-Bigas N, Breckpot K, Thielemans K, Leal L, Gómez CE, Sisteré-Oró M, Meyerhans A, Esteban M, Alonso MJ, García F, Plana M. Assessment of Human SARS CoV-2-Specific T-Cell Responses Elicited In Vitro by New Computationally Designed mRNA Immunogens (COVARNA). Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 12:15. [PMID: 38250827 PMCID: PMC10820377 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12010015] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant changes and advances in the field of vaccination, including the implementation and widespread use of encapsidated mRNA vaccines in general healthcare practice. Here, we present two new mRNAs expressing antigenic parts of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and provide data supporting their functionality. The first mRNA, called RBD-mRNA, encodes a trimeric form of the virus spike protein receptor binding domain (RBD). The other mRNA, termed T-mRNA, codes for the relevant HLA I and II spike epitopes. The two mRNAs (COVARNA mRNAs) were designed to be used for delivery to cells in combination, with the RBD-mRNA being the primary source of antigen and the T-mRNA working as an enhancer of immunogenicity by supporting CD4 and CD8 T-cell activation. This innovative approach substantially differs from other available mRNA vaccines, which are largely directed to antibody production by the entire spike protein. In this study, we first show that both mRNAs are functionally transfected into human antigen-presenting cells (APCs). We obtained peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) samples from three groups of voluntary donors differing in their immunity against SARS-CoV-2: non-infected (naïve), infected-recovered (convalescent), and vaccinated. Using an established method of co-culturing autologous human dendritic cells (hDCs) with T-cells, we detected proliferation and cytokine secretion, thus demonstrating the ability of the COVARNA mRNAs to activate T-cells in an antigen-specific way. Interestingly, important differences in the intensity of the response between the infected-recovered (convalescent) and vaccinated donors were observed, with the levels of T-cell proliferation and cytokine secretion (IFNγ, IL-2R, and IL-13) being higher in the vaccinated group. In summary, our data support the further study of these mRNAs as a combined approach for future use as a vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ignasi Esteban
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (E.A.); or (L.L.); (F.G.)
| | - Carmen Pastor-Quiñones
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (E.A.); or (L.L.); (F.G.)
| | - Lorena Usero
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (E.A.); or (L.L.); (F.G.)
| | - Elena Aurrecoechea
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (E.A.); or (L.L.); (F.G.)
| | - Lorenzo Franceschini
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (L.F.); (A.E.); (K.B.); (K.T.)
| | - Arthur Esprit
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (L.F.); (A.E.); (K.B.); (K.T.)
| | - Josep Lluís Gelpí
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisco Martínez-Jiménez
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (F.M.-J.); (N.L.-B.)
| | - Núria López-Bigas
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (F.M.-J.); (N.L.-B.)
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (L.F.); (A.E.); (K.B.); (K.T.)
| | - Kris Thielemans
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (L.F.); (A.E.); (K.B.); (K.T.)
| | - Lorna Leal
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (E.A.); or (L.L.); (F.G.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Elena Gómez
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain; (C.E.G.); (M.E.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Sisteré-Oró
- Infection Biology Laboratory, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Andreas Meyerhans
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain;
- Infection Biology Laboratory, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Mariano Esteban
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain; (C.E.G.); (M.E.)
| | - María José Alonso
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Campus Vida, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain;
| | - Felipe García
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (E.A.); or (L.L.); (F.G.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montserrat Plana
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (E.A.); or (L.L.); (F.G.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
|
2
|
Elizalde-Torrent A, Borgognone A, Casadellà M, Romero-Martin L, Escribà T, Parera M, Rosales-Salgado Y, Díaz-Pedroza J, Català-Moll F, Noguera-Julian M, Brander C, Paredes R, Olvera A. Vaccination with an HIV T-Cell Immunogen (HTI) Using DNA Primes Followed by a ChAdOx1-MVA Boost Is Immunogenic in Gut Microbiota-Depleted Mice despite Low IL-22 Serum Levels. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1663. [PMID: 38005995 PMCID: PMC10675013 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11111663] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the important role of gut microbiota in the maturation of the immune system, little is known about its impact on the development of T-cell responses to vaccination. Here, we immunized C57BL/6 mice with a prime-boost regimen using DNA plasmid, the Chimpanzee Adenovirus, and the modified Vaccinia Ankara virus expressing a candidate HIV T-cell immunogen and compared the T-cell responses between individuals with an intact or antibiotic-depleted microbiota. Overall, the depletion of the gut microbiota did not result in significant differences in the magnitude or breadth of the immunogen-specific IFNγ T-cell response after vaccination. However, we observed marked changes in the serum levels of four cytokines after vaccinating microbiota-depleted animals, particularly a significant reduction in IL-22 levels. Interestingly, the level of IL-22 in serum correlated with the abundance of Roseburia in the large intestine of mice in the mock and vaccinated groups with intact microbiota. This short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacterium was significantly reduced in the vaccinated, microbiota-depleted group. Therefore, our results indicate that, although microbiota depletion reduces serum levels of IL-22, the powerful vaccine regime used could have overcome the impact of microbiota depletion on IFNγ-producing T-cell responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleix Elizalde-Torrent
- Irsicaixa—AIDS Research Institute, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; (A.E.-T.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (L.R.-M.); (T.E.); (M.P.); (F.C.-M.); (M.N.-J.); (C.B.); (R.P.)
| | - Alessandra Borgognone
- Irsicaixa—AIDS Research Institute, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; (A.E.-T.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (L.R.-M.); (T.E.); (M.P.); (F.C.-M.); (M.N.-J.); (C.B.); (R.P.)
| | - Maria Casadellà
- Irsicaixa—AIDS Research Institute, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; (A.E.-T.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (L.R.-M.); (T.E.); (M.P.); (F.C.-M.); (M.N.-J.); (C.B.); (R.P.)
| | - Luis Romero-Martin
- Irsicaixa—AIDS Research Institute, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; (A.E.-T.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (L.R.-M.); (T.E.); (M.P.); (F.C.-M.); (M.N.-J.); (C.B.); (R.P.)
- Departament de Biologia Cellular, Fisiologia i Immunologia, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Cerdanyola del Valles, Spain
| | - Tuixent Escribà
- Irsicaixa—AIDS Research Institute, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; (A.E.-T.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (L.R.-M.); (T.E.); (M.P.); (F.C.-M.); (M.N.-J.); (C.B.); (R.P.)
| | - Mariona Parera
- Irsicaixa—AIDS Research Institute, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; (A.E.-T.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (L.R.-M.); (T.E.); (M.P.); (F.C.-M.); (M.N.-J.); (C.B.); (R.P.)
| | - Yaiza Rosales-Salgado
- Fundació Institut d’Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (Y.R.-S.); (J.D.-P.)
| | - Jorge Díaz-Pedroza
- Fundació Institut d’Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP), 08916 Badalona, Spain; (Y.R.-S.); (J.D.-P.)
| | - Francesc Català-Moll
- Irsicaixa—AIDS Research Institute, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; (A.E.-T.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (L.R.-M.); (T.E.); (M.P.); (F.C.-M.); (M.N.-J.); (C.B.); (R.P.)
| | - Marc Noguera-Julian
- Irsicaixa—AIDS Research Institute, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; (A.E.-T.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (L.R.-M.); (T.E.); (M.P.); (F.C.-M.); (M.N.-J.); (C.B.); (R.P.)
- Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Vic—Universitat Central de Catalunya (UVic-UCC), 08500 Vic, Spain
- CIBERINFEC—ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Christian Brander
- Irsicaixa—AIDS Research Institute, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; (A.E.-T.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (L.R.-M.); (T.E.); (M.P.); (F.C.-M.); (M.N.-J.); (C.B.); (R.P.)
- Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Vic—Universitat Central de Catalunya (UVic-UCC), 08500 Vic, Spain
- CIBERINFEC—ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain
- Aelix Therapeutics, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roger Paredes
- Irsicaixa—AIDS Research Institute, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; (A.E.-T.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (L.R.-M.); (T.E.); (M.P.); (F.C.-M.); (M.N.-J.); (C.B.); (R.P.)
- Facultat de Medicina, Universitat de Vic—Universitat Central de Catalunya (UVic-UCC), 08500 Vic, Spain
- CIBERINFEC—ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Fight AIDS Foundation, Infectious Diseases Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Infectious Diseases Service, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Alex Olvera
- Irsicaixa—AIDS Research Institute, 08916 Barcelona, Spain; (A.E.-T.); (A.B.); (M.C.); (L.R.-M.); (T.E.); (M.P.); (F.C.-M.); (M.N.-J.); (C.B.); (R.P.)
- CIBERINFEC—ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Facultat de Ciències, Tecnologia i Enginyeries, Universitat de Vic—Universitat Central de Catalunya (UVic-UCC), 08500 Vic, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
|
3
|
Li Y, Wang M, Peng X, Yang Y, Chen Q, Liu J, She Q, Tan J, Lou C, Liao Z, Li X. mRNA vaccine in cancer therapy: Current advance and future outlook. Clin Transl Med 2023; 13:e1384. [PMID: 37612832 PMCID: PMC10447885 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.1384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines are a relatively new class of vaccines that have shown great promise in the immunotherapy of a wide variety of infectious diseases and cancer. In the past 2 years, SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines have contributed tremendously against SARS-CoV2, which has prompted the arrival of the mRNA vaccine research boom, especially in the research of cancer vaccines. Compared with conventional cancer vaccines, mRNA vaccines have significant advantages, including efficient production of protective immune responses, relatively low side effects and lower cost of acquisition. In this review, we elaborated on the development of cancer vaccines and mRNA cancer vaccines, as well as the potential biological mechanisms of mRNA cancer vaccines and the latest progress in various tumour treatments, and discussed the challenges and future directions for the field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youhuai Li
- Department of Breast SurgeryBaoji Municipal Central HospitalWeibin DistrictBaojiShaanxiChina
| | - Mina Wang
- Graduate SchoolBeijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
- Department of Acupuncture and MoxibustionBeijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese MedicineCapital Medical UniversityBeijing Key Laboratory of Acupuncture NeuromodulationBeijingChina
| | - Xueqiang Peng
- Department of General SurgeryThe Fourth Affiliated HospitalChina Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Yingying Yang
- Clinical Research CenterShanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal MedicineShanghai Institute of Maternal‐Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic OncologyShanghai First Maternity and Infant HospitalSchool of MedicineTongji UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Qishuang Chen
- Graduate SchoolBeijing University of Chinese MedicineBeijingChina
| | - Jiaxing Liu
- Department of General SurgeryThe Fourth Affiliated HospitalChina Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Qing She
- Department of Breast SurgeryBaoji Municipal Central HospitalWeibin DistrictBaojiShaanxiChina
| | - Jichao Tan
- Department of Breast SurgeryBaoji Municipal Central HospitalWeibin DistrictBaojiShaanxiChina
| | - Chuyuan Lou
- Department of OphthalmologyXi'an People's Hospital (Xi'an Fourth Hospital)Xi'anShaanxiChina
| | - Zehuan Liao
- School of Biological SciencesNanyang Technological UniversitySingaporeSingapore
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC)Karolinska InstitutetSweden
| | - Xuexin Li
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics (MBB)Karolinska InstitutetBiomedicumStockholmSweden
| |
Collapse
|
|
4
|
Akbari E, Seyedinkhorasani M, Bolhassani A. Conserved multiepitope vaccine constructs: A potent HIV-1 therapeutic vaccine in clinical trials. Braz J Infect Dis 2023; 27:102774. [PMID: 37156468 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjid.2023.102774] [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: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the success of Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) in preventing HIV-1-associated clinical progression to AIDS, it is unable to eliminate the viral reservoirs and eradicate the HIV-1 infection. Therapeutic vaccination is an alternative approach to alter the HIV-1 infection course. It can induce effective HIV-1-specific immunity to control viremia and eliminate the need for lifelong ART. Immunological data from spontaneous HIV-1 controllers have shown that cross-reactive T-cell responses are the key immune mechanism in HIV-1 control. Directing these responses toward preferred HIV-1 epitopes is a promising strategy in therapeutic vaccine settings. Designing novel immunogens based on the HIV-1 conserved regions containing a wide range of critical T- and B-cell epitopes of the main viral antigens (conserved multiepitope approaches) supplies broad coverage of global diversity in HIV-1 strains and Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) alleles. It can also prevent immune induction to undesirable decoy epitopes theoretically. The efficacy of different novel HIV-1 immunogens based on the conserved and/or functional protective site of HIV-1 proteome has been evaluated in multiple clinical trials. Most of these immunogens were generally safe and able to induce potent HIV-1-specific immunity. However, despite these findings, several candidates have demonstrated limited efficacy in viral replication control. In this study, we used the PubMed and ClinicalTrial.gov databases to review the rationale of designing curative HIV-1 vaccine immunogens based on the conserved favorable site of the virus. Most of these studies evaluate the efficacy of vaccine candidates in combination with other therapeutics and/or with new formulations and immunization protocols. This review briefly describes the design of conserved multiepitope constructs and outlines the results of these vaccine candidates in the recent clinical pipeline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elahe Akbari
- Pasteur Institute of Iran, Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Azam Bolhassani
- Pasteur Institute of Iran, Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
|
5
|
He Q, Gao H, Tan D, Zhang H, Wang JZ. mRNA cancer vaccines: Advances, trends and challenges. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:2969-2989. [PMID: 35345451 PMCID: PMC8942458 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients exhibit good tolerance to messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines, and the choice of encoded molecules is flexible and diverse. These vaccines can be engineered to express full-length antigens containing multiple epitopes without major histocompatibility complex (MHC) restriction, are relatively easy to control and can be rapidly mass produced. In 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first mRNA-based coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine produced by Pfizer and BioNTech, which has generated enthusiasm for mRNA vaccine research and development. Based on the above characteristics and the development of mRNA vaccines, mRNA cancer vaccines have become a research hotspot and have undergone rapid development, especially in the last five years. This review analyzes the advances in mRNA cancer vaccines from various perspectives, including the selection and expression of antigens/targets, the application of vectors and adjuvants, different administration routes, and preclinical evaluation, to reflect the trends and challenges associated with these vaccines.
Collapse
|
|
6
|
Alameh MG, Weissman D, Pardi N. Messenger RNA-Based Vaccines Against Infectious Diseases. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2022; 440:111-145. [PMID: 32300916 DOI: 10.1007/82_2020_202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
In vitro-transcribed, messenger RNA-based infectious disease vaccines have the potential to successfully address many of the weaknesses of traditional vaccine platforms, such as the lack of potency and/or durability of vaccine protection, time-consuming, and expensive manufacturing, and, in some cases, safety issues. This optimism is fueled by a great deal of impressive recent data demonstrating that mRNA vaccines have many of the attributes that are necessary for a viable new vaccine class for human use. This review briefly describes mRNA vaccine types, discusses the most relevant and recent publications on infectious disease mRNA vaccines, and highlights the hurdles that need to be overcome to bring this promising novel vaccine modality to the clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Drew Weissman
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Norbert Pardi
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| |
Collapse
|
|
7
|
Zeng C, Zhang C, Walker PG, Dong Y. Formulation and Delivery Technologies for mRNA Vaccines. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2022; 440:71-110. [PMID: 32483657 PMCID: PMC8195316 DOI: 10.1007/82_2020_217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have become a versatile technology for the prevention of infectious diseases and the treatment of cancers. In the vaccination process, mRNA formulation and delivery strategies facilitate effective expression and presentation of antigens, and immune stimulation. mRNA vaccines have been delivered in various formats: encapsulation by delivery carriers, such as lipid nanoparticles, polymers, peptides, free mRNA in solution, and ex vivo through dendritic cells. Appropriate delivery materials and formulation methods often boost the vaccine efficacy which is also influenced by the selection of a proper administration route. Co-delivery of multiple mRNAs enables synergistic effects and further enhances immunity in some cases. In this chapter, we overview the recent progress and existing challenges in the formulation and delivery technologies of mRNA vaccines with perspectives for future development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunxi Zeng
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, 43210, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Chengxiang Zhang
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, 43210, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Patrick G Walker
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Yizhou Dong
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, 43210, Columbus, OH, USA. .,The Center for Clinical and Translational Science, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA. .,The Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA. .,Dorothy M. Davis Heart & Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, 43210, Columbus, OH, USA. .,Department of Radiation Oncology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
|
8
|
Rouf NZ, Biswas S, Tarannum N, Oishee LM, Muna MM. Demystifying mRNA vaccines: an emerging platform at the forefront of cryptic diseases. RNA Biol 2021; 19:386-410. [PMID: 35354425 PMCID: PMC8973339 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2022.2055923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have been studied for decades, but only recently, during the COVID-19 pandemic, has the technology garnered noteworthy attention. In contrast to traditional vaccines, mRNA vaccines elicit a more balanced immune response, triggering both humoral and cellular components of the adaptive immune system. However, some inherent hurdles associated with stability, immunogenicity, in vivo delivery, along with the novelty of the technology, have generated scepticism in the adoption of mRNA vaccines. Recent developments have pushed to bypass these issues and the approval of mRNA-based vaccines to combat COVID-19 has further highlighted the feasibility, safety, efficacy, and rapid development potential of this platform, thereby pushing it to the forefront of emerging therapeutics. This review aims to demystify mRNA vaccines, delineating the evolution of the technology which has emerged as a timely solution to COVID-19 and exploring the immense potential it offers as a prophylactic option for other cryptic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nusrat Zahan Rouf
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, & Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, ManchesterM13 9PT, UK
| | - Sumit Biswas
- Department of Neurophysiology, Retinal Physiology and Gene Therapy, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, University of Marburg, Deutschhausstrasse. 2D-35037, Marburg, Germany
| | - Nawseen Tarannum
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research, Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, & Health, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, ManchesterM13 9PT, UK
| | - Labiba Mustabina Oishee
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, LoughboroughLE12 5RD, UK
| | - Mutia Masuka Muna
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo14260, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
|
9
|
Ong GH, Lian BSX, Kawasaki T, Kawai T. Exploration of Pattern Recognition Receptor Agonists as Candidate Adjuvants. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:745016. [PMID: 34692565 PMCID: PMC8526852 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.745016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Adjuvants are used to maximize the potency of vaccines by enhancing immune reactions. Components of adjuvants include pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associate molecular patterns (DAMPs) that are agonists for innate immune receptors. Innate immune responses are usually activated when pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs) recognize PAMPs derived from invading pathogens or DAMPs released by host cells upon tissue damage. Activation of innate immunity by PRR agonists in adjuvants activates acquired immune responses, which is crucial to enhance immune reactions against the targeted pathogen. For example, agonists for Toll-like receptors have yielded promising results as adjuvants, which target PRR as adjuvant candidates. However, a comprehensive understanding of the type of immunological reaction against agonists for PRRs is essential to ensure the safety and reliability of vaccine adjuvants. This review provides an overview of the current progress in development of PRR agonists as vaccine adjuvants, the molecular mechanisms that underlie activation of immune responses, and the enhancement of vaccine efficacy by these potential adjuvant candidates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guang Han Ong
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunobiology, Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST), Ikoma, Japan
| | - Benedict Shi Xiang Lian
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunobiology, Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST), Ikoma, Japan
| | - Takumi Kawasaki
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunobiology, Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST), Ikoma, Japan
| | - Taro Kawai
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunobiology, Division of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST), Ikoma, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
|
10
|
Usero L, Miralles L, Esteban I, Pastor-Quiñones C, Maleno MJ, Leal L, García F, Plana M. Feasibility of using monocyte-derived dendritic cells obtained from cryopreserved cells for DC-based vaccines. J Immunol Methods 2021; 498:113133. [PMID: 34480950 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2021.113133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The study of the effect of cryopreservation on the functionality of monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MDDCs) and dendritic cells (DCs) is essential for their use in different clinical applications such as DCs-based vaccines. Its full maturation and its optimal functionality are crucial for DCs based immunotherapy. In this study, we compared MDDCs derived from fresh and cryopreserved PBMCs in the aspects of phenotype and its effect on T cells at the level of proliferation and cytokine secretion. We pulsed MDDCs obtained from fresh and cryopreserved PBMCs with two different stimuli, CEF and SEA, and the expression maturation markers and cytokine secretion were analyzed. Our results showed that the cryopreservation had no effects in the phenotype of the MDDCs obtained, cell viability, maturation markers expression and/or cytokines secretion, independently whether MDDCs had been generated from fresh or cryopreserved PBMCs. Thus, this study suggests that the use of cryopreserved cells is a good method to keep the cells before use in immunotherapy, avoiding the variability within same individual due to severe blood draws. Even so, the interpretation and comparison of different results should be done considering the different cryopreservation techniques and assays, and their effects on PBMCs, specifically on MDDC and DC cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Usero
- AIDS Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) - Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Laia Miralles
- AIDS Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) - Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Ignasi Esteban
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | - Maria José Maleno
- AIDS Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) - Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Lorna Leal
- Infectious Diseases Service and AIDS Research Group, IDIBAPS - Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Felipe García
- Infectious Diseases Service and AIDS Research Group, IDIBAPS - Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Montserrat Plana
- AIDS Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) - Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
|
11
|
Minnaert AK, Vanluchene H, Verbeke R, Lentacker I, De Smedt SC, Raemdonck K, Sanders NN, Remaut K. Strategies for controlling the innate immune activity of conventional and self-amplifying mRNA therapeutics: Getting the message across. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 176:113900. [PMID: 34324884 PMCID: PMC8325057 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The recent approval of messenger RNA (mRNA)-based vaccines to combat the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic highlights the potential of both conventional mRNA and self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA) as a flexible immunotherapy platform to treat infectious diseases. Besides the antigen it encodes, mRNA itself has an immune-stimulating activity that can contribute to vaccine efficacy. This self-adjuvant effect, however, will interfere with mRNA translation and may influence the desired therapeutic outcome. To further exploit its potential as a versatile therapeutic platform, it will be crucial to control mRNA's innate immune-stimulating properties. In this regard, we describe the mechanisms behind the innate immune recognition of mRNA and provide an extensive overview of strategies to control its innate immune-stimulating activity. These strategies range from modifications to the mRNA backbone itself, optimization of production and purification processes to the combination with innate immune inhibitors. Furthermore, we discuss the delicate balance of the self-adjuvant effect in mRNA vaccination strategies, which can be both beneficial and detrimental to the therapeutic outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- An-Katrien Minnaert
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Helena Vanluchene
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Rein Verbeke
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Ine Lentacker
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Stefaan C De Smedt
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Koen Raemdonck
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Niek N Sanders
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Katrien Remaut
- Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), Ghent, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
|
12
|
Gómez CE, Perdiguero B, Usero L, Marcos-Villar L, Miralles L, Leal L, Sorzano CÓS, Sánchez-Corzo C, Plana M, García F, Esteban M. Enhancement of the HIV-1-Specific Immune Response Induced by an mRNA Vaccine through Boosting with a Poxvirus MVA Vector Expressing the Same Antigen. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9090959. [PMID: 34579196 PMCID: PMC8473054 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9090959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of a vaccine against HIV remains a major target goal in the field. The recent success of mRNA vaccines against the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is pointing out a new era of vaccine designs against pathogens. Here, we have generated two types of mRNA vaccine candidates against HIV-1; one based on unmodified vectors and the other on 1-methyl-3′-pseudouridylyl modified vectors expressing a T cell multiepitopic construct including protective conserved epitopes from HIV-1 Gag, Pol and Nef proteins (referred to as RNA-TMEP and RNA-TMEPmod, respectively) and defined their biological and immunological properties in cultured cells and in mice. In cultured cells, both mRNA vectors expressed the corresponding protein, with higher levels observed in the unmodified mRNA, leading to activated macrophages with differential induction of innate immune molecules. In mice, intranodal administration of the mRNAs induced the activation of specific T cell (CD4 and CD8) responses, and the levels were markedly enhanced after a booster immunization with the poxvirus vector MVA-TMEP expressing the same antigen. This immune activation was maintained even three months later. These findings revealed a potent combined immunization regimen able to enhance the HIV-1-specific immune responses induced by an mRNA vaccine that might be applicable to human vaccination programs with mRNA and MVA vectors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Elena Gómez
- Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain; (B.P.); (L.M.-V.); (C.S.-C.)
- Correspondence: (C.E.G.); (M.E.)
| | - Beatriz Perdiguero
- Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain; (B.P.); (L.M.-V.); (C.S.-C.)
| | - Lorena Usero
- AIDS Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (L.U.); (L.M.); (L.L.); (M.P.); (F.G.)
| | - Laura Marcos-Villar
- Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain; (B.P.); (L.M.-V.); (C.S.-C.)
| | - Laia Miralles
- AIDS Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (L.U.); (L.M.); (L.L.); (M.P.); (F.G.)
| | - Lorna Leal
- AIDS Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (L.U.); (L.M.); (L.L.); (M.P.); (F.G.)
| | | | - Cristina Sánchez-Corzo
- Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain; (B.P.); (L.M.-V.); (C.S.-C.)
| | - Montserrat Plana
- AIDS Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (L.U.); (L.M.); (L.L.); (M.P.); (F.G.)
| | - Felipe García
- AIDS Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (L.U.); (L.M.); (L.L.); (M.P.); (F.G.)
| | - Mariano Esteban
- Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain; (B.P.); (L.M.-V.); (C.S.-C.)
- Correspondence: (C.E.G.); (M.E.)
| |
Collapse
|
|
13
|
Khalid K, Padda J, Khedr A, Ismail D, Zubair U, Al-Ewaidat OA, Padda S, Cooper AC, Jean-Charles G. HIV and Messenger RNA (mRNA) Vaccine. Cureus 2021; 13:e16197. [PMID: 34367800 PMCID: PMC8341208 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.16197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a part of the lentivirus genus of the retroviridae family that incorporates its genome into the host DNA via a series of complex steps. HIV can be classified into two types, HIV-type 1 (HIV-1) and HIV-type 2 (HIV-2), with HIV-1 being the most common type worldwide. Seventy-six million people have been infected since the start of the pandemic, with a mortality rate of 33 million. Even after 40 years, no cure has been developed for this pandemic. The development of the mRNA vaccine has led to further research for the utilization of mRNA vaccine in HIV, in attempts to create a prophylactic and therapeutic treatment. Although messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine has been around for many years, it has recently drawn attention due to its role and response in the unforeseen coronavirus pandemic. mRNA vaccine has faced its fair-share of challenges, but it also offers many advantages compared to conventional vaccines such as safety, efficacy, rapid preparation, and versatility. mRNA vaccine has shown promising results and has great potential. In this review, we discuss the types of mRNA vaccine, along with development, delivery, advantages, challenges, and how we are working to overcome these challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khizer Khalid
- Internal Medicine, Gutteridge Jean-Charles (JC) Medical Center, Orlando, USA
| | - Jaskamal Padda
- Internal Medicine, Gutteridge Jean-Charles (JC) Medical Center, Orlando, USA
| | - Anwar Khedr
- Internal Medicine, Gutteridge Jean-Charles (JC) Medical Center, Orlando, USA
| | - Dina Ismail
- Internal Medicine, Gutteridge Jean-Charles (JC) Medical Center, Orlando, USA
| | - Ujala Zubair
- Family Medicine, Gutteridge Jean-Charles (JC) Medical Center, Orlando, USA
| | - Ola A Al-Ewaidat
- Internal Medicine, Gutteridge Jean-Charles (JC) Medical Center, Orlando, USA
| | - Sandeep Padda
- Internal Medicine, Gutteridge Jean-Charles (JC) Medical Center, Orlando, USA
| | | | - Gutteridge Jean-Charles
- Internal Medicine, Advent Health & Orlando Health Hospital/Gutteridge Jean-Charles (JC) Medical Center, Orlando, USA
| |
Collapse
|
|
14
|
Huang J, Yuen D, Mintern JD, Johnston APR. Opportunities for innovation: Building on the success of lipid nanoparticle vaccines. Curr Opin Colloid Interface Sci 2021; 55:101468. [PMID: 34093062 PMCID: PMC8164502 DOI: 10.1016/j.cocis.2021.101468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations of messenger RNA (mRNA) have demonstrated high efficacy as vaccines against SARS-CoV-2. The success of these nanoformulations underscores the potential of LNPs as a delivery system for next-generation biological therapies. In this article, we highlight the key considerations necessary for engineering LNPs as a vaccine delivery system and explore areas for further optimisation. There remain opportunities to improve the protection of mRNA, optimise cytosolic delivery, target specific cells, minimise adverse side-effects and control the release of RNA from the particle. The modular nature of LNP formulations and the flexibility of mRNA as a payload provide many pathways to implement these strategies. Innovation in LNP vaccines is likely to accelerate with increased enthusiasm following recent successes; however, any advances will have implications for a broad range of therapeutic applications beyond vaccination such as gene therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Huang
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 399 Royal Parade, Parkville VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Daniel Yuen
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 399 Royal Parade, Parkville VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Justine D Mintern
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Melbourne, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, 30 Flemington Rd, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Angus P R Johnston
- Drug Delivery, Disposition and Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 399 Royal Parade, Parkville VIC 3052, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
|
15
|
Esteban I, Pastor-Quiñones C, Usero L, Plana M, García F, Leal L. In the Era of mRNA Vaccines, Is There Any Hope for HIV Functional Cure? Viruses 2021; 13:501. [PMID: 33803790 PMCID: PMC8003302 DOI: 10.3390/v13030501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Over 36 million people worldwide are infected with HIV. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has proven to be highly effective to prevent HIV-1 transmission, clinical progression and death. Despite this success, the number of HIV-1 infected individuals continues increasing and ART should be taken for life. Therefore, there are two main priorities: the development of preventive vaccines to protect from HIV acquisition and achieve an efficient control of HIV infection in the absence of ART (functional cure). In this sense, in the last few years, there has been a broad interest in new and innovative approaches such as mRNA-based vaccines. RNA-based immunogens represent a promising alternative to conventional vaccines because of their high potency, capacity for rapid development and potential for low-cost manufacture and safe administration. Some mRNA-based vaccines platforms against infectious diseases have demonstrated encouraging results in animal models and humans. However, their application is still limited because the instability and inefficient in vivo delivery of mRNA. Immunogens, design, immunogenicity, chemical modifications on the molecule or the vaccine delivery methods are all crucial interventions for improvement. In this review we, will present the current knowledge and challenges in this research field. mRNA vaccines hold great promises as part of a combined strategy, for achieving HIV functional cure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ignasi Esteban
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (M.P.); (F.G.)
| | - Carmen Pastor-Quiñones
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (M.P.); (F.G.)
| | - Lorena Usero
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (M.P.); (F.G.)
| | - Montserrat Plana
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (M.P.); (F.G.)
| | - Felipe García
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (M.P.); (F.G.)
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lorna Leal
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (M.P.); (F.G.)
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
|
16
|
McGowan E, Rosenthal R, Fiore-Gartland A, Macharia G, Balinda S, Kapaata A, Umviligihozo G, Muok E, Dalel J, Streatfield CL, Coutinho H, Dilernia D, Monaco DC, Morrison D, Yue L, Hunter E, Nielsen M, Gilmour J, Hare J. Utilizing Computational Machine Learning Tools to Understand Immunogenic Breadth in the Context of a CD8 T-Cell Mediated HIV Response. Front Immunol 2021; 12:609884. [PMID: 33679745 PMCID: PMC7930081 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.609884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Predictive models are becoming more and more commonplace as tools for candidate antigen discovery to meet the challenges of enabling epitope mapping of cohorts with diverse HLA properties. Here we build on the concept of using two key parameters, diversity metric of the HLA profile of individuals within a population and consideration of sequence diversity in the context of an individual's CD8 T-cell immune repertoire to assess the HIV proteome for defined regions of immunogenicity. Using this approach, analysis of HLA adaptation and functional immunogenicity data enabled the identification of regions within the proteome that offer significant conservation, HLA recognition within a population, low prevalence of HLA adaptation and demonstrated immunogenicity. We believe this unique and novel approach to vaccine design as a supplement to vitro functional assays, offers a bespoke pipeline for expedited and rational CD8 T-cell vaccine design for HIV and potentially other pathogens with the potential for both global and local coverage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ed McGowan
- IAVI Human Immunology Laboratory, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Rosenthal
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Fiore-Gartland
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Gladys Macharia
- IAVI Human Immunology Laboratory, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sheila Balinda
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI) and London School of Health and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Anne Kapaata
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI) and London School of Health and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Gisele Umviligihozo
- Project San Francisco (PSF) Center for Family Health Research (CFHR), Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Erick Muok
- Project San Francisco (PSF) Center for Family Health Research (CFHR), Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Jama Dalel
- IAVI Human Immunology Laboratory, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Helen Coutinho
- IAVI Human Immunology Laboratory, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dario Dilernia
- Emory Vaccine Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | | | - Ling Yue
- Emory Vaccine Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Eric Hunter
- Emory Vaccine Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Morten Nielsen
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Jill Gilmour
- IAVI Human Immunology Laboratory, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
|
17
|
Mu Z, Haynes BF, Cain DW. HIV mRNA Vaccines-Progress and Future Paths. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:134. [PMID: 33562203 PMCID: PMC7915550 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9020134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic introduced the world to a new type of vaccine based on mRNA encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). Instead of delivering antigenic proteins directly, an mRNA-based vaccine relies on the host's cells to manufacture protein immunogens which, in turn, are targets for antibody and cytotoxic T cell responses. mRNA-based vaccines have been the subject of research for over three decades as a platform to protect against or treat a variety of cancers, amyloidosis and infectious diseases. In this review, we discuss mRNA-based approaches for the generation of prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines to HIV. We examine the special immunological hurdles for a vaccine to elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies and effective T cell responses to HIV. Lastly, we outline an mRNA-based HIV vaccination strategy based on the immunobiology of broadly neutralizing antibody development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zekun Mu
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (Z.M.); (B.F.H.)
- Department of Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Barton F. Haynes
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (Z.M.); (B.F.H.)
- Department of Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Derek W. Cain
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA; (Z.M.); (B.F.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
|
18
|
D'haese S, Lacroix C, Garcia F, Plana M, Ruta S, Vanham G, Verrier B, Aerts JL. Off the beaten path: Novel mRNA-nanoformulations for therapeutic vaccination against HIV. J Control Release 2020; 330:1016-1033. [PMID: 33181204 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2020.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Over the last few years, immunotherapy for HIV in general and therapeutic vaccination in particular, has received a tremendous boost, both in preclinical research and in clinical applications. This interest is based on the evidence that the immune system plays a crucial role in controlling HIV infection, as shown for long-term non-progressors and elite controllers, and that immune responses can be manipulated towards targeting conserved epitopes. So far, the most successful approach has been vaccination with autologous dendritic cells (DCs) loaded ex vivo with antigens and activation signals. Although this approach offers much promise, it also comes with significant drawbacks such as the requirement of a specialized infrastructure and expertise, as well as major challenges for logistics and storage, making it extremely time consuming and costly. Therefore, methods are being developed to avoid the use of ex vivo generated, autologous DCs. One of these methods is based on mRNA for therapeutic vaccination. mRNA has proven to be a very promising vaccine platform, as the coding information for any desired protein, including antigens and activation signals, can be generated in a very short period of time, showing promise both as an off-the-shelf therapy and as a personalized approach. However, an important drawback of this approach is the short half-life of native mRNA, due to the presence of ambient RNases. In addition, proper immunization requires that the antigens are expressed, processed and presented at the right immunological site (e.g. the lymphoid tissues). An ambivalent aspect of mRNA as a vaccine is its capacity to induce type I interferons, which can have beneficial adjuvant effects, but also deleterious effects on mRNA stability and translation. Thus, proper formulation of the mRNA is crucially important. Many approaches for RNA formulation have already been tested, with mixed success. In this review we discuss the state-of-the-art and future trends for mRNA-nanoparticle formulations for HIV vaccination, both in the prophylactic and in the therapeutic setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sigrid D'haese
- Neuro-Aging & Viro-Immunotherapy (NAVI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Céline Lacroix
- Institute for the Biology and Chemistry of Proteins (IBCP), Lyon, France
| | | | | | - Simona Ruta
- Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Guido Vanham
- Institute of Tropical Medicine and University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bernard Verrier
- Institute for the Biology and Chemistry of Proteins (IBCP), Lyon, France
| | - Joeri L Aerts
- Neuro-Aging & Viro-Immunotherapy (NAVI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
|
19
|
Xu S, Yang K, Li R, Zhang L. mRNA Vaccine Era-Mechanisms, Drug Platform and Clinical Prospection. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6582. [PMID: 32916818 PMCID: PMC7554980 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA)-based drugs, notably mRNA vaccines, have been widely proven as a promising treatment strategy in immune therapeutics. The extraordinary advantages associated with mRNA vaccines, including their high efficacy, a relatively low severity of side effects, and low attainment costs, have enabled them to become prevalent in pre-clinical and clinical trials against various infectious diseases and cancers. Recent technological advancements have alleviated some issues that hinder mRNA vaccine development, such as low efficiency that exist in both gene translation and in vivo deliveries. mRNA immunogenicity can also be greatly adjusted as a result of upgraded technologies. In this review, we have summarized details regarding the optimization of mRNA vaccines, and the underlying biological mechanisms of this form of vaccines. Applications of mRNA vaccines in some infectious diseases and cancers are introduced. It also includes our prospections for mRNA vaccine applications in diseases caused by bacterial pathogens, such as tuberculosis. At the same time, some suggestions for future mRNA vaccine development about storage methods, safety concerns, and personalized vaccine synthesis can be found in the context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuqin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; (S.X.); (K.Y.)
| | - Kunpeng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; (S.X.); (K.Y.)
| | - Rose Li
- M.B.B.S., School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China;
| | - Lu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; (S.X.); (K.Y.)
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, Shanghai 200438, China
| |
Collapse
|
|
20
|
Zhang M, Sun J, Li M, Jin X. Modified mRNA-LNP Vaccines Confer Protection against Experimental DENV-2 Infection in Mice. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2020; 18:702-712. [PMID: 32913878 PMCID: PMC7452130 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtm.2020.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Dengue virus (DENV) infection is a major global public health concern, and there is no effective vaccine for it. In this study, we describe the design and characterization of three nucleotide-modified mRNA vaccines (prME-mRNA, E80-mRNA, and NS1-mRNA) for DENV-2. Our results showed that vaccination with E80-mRNA alone or a combination of E80-mRNA and NS1-mRNA can induce high levels of neutralizing antibodies and antigen-specific T cell responses; furthermore, these vaccines confer complete protection against DENV-2 challenge in immunocompetent mice. These data provide foundations for further development of a tetravalent DENV vaccine based on nucleotide-modified mRNA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengling Zhang
- Viral Disease and Vaccine Translational Research Unit, CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Sun
- Viral Disease and Vaccine Translational Research Unit, CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Li
- Viral Disease and Vaccine Translational Research Unit, CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institut Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xia Jin
- Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
|
21
|
The Evolution of Dendritic Cell Immunotherapy against HIV-1 Infection: Improvements and Outlook. J Immunol Res 2020; 2020:9470102. [PMID: 32537473 PMCID: PMC7267878 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9470102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DC) are key phagocytic cells that play crucial roles in both the innate and adaptive immune responses against the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). By processing and presenting pathogen-derived antigens, dendritic cells initiate a directed response against infected cells. They activate the adaptive immune system upon recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) on infected cells. During the course of HIV-1 infection, a successful adaptive (cytotoxic CD8+ T-cell) response is necessary for preventing the progression and spread of infection in a variety of cells. Dendritic cells have thus been recognized as a valuable tool in the development of immunotherapeutic approaches and vaccines effective against HIV-1. The advancements in dendritic cell vaccines in cancers have paved the way for applications of this form of immunotherapy to HIV-1 infection. Clinical trials with patients infected with HIV-1 who are well-suppressed by antiretroviral therapy (ART) were recently performed to assess the efficacy of DC vaccines, with the goal of mounting an HIV-1 antigen-specific T-cell response, ideally to clear infection and eliminate the need for long-term ART. This review summarizes and compares methods and efficacies of a number of DC vaccine trials utilizing autologous dendritic cells loaded with HIV-1 antigens. The potential for advancement and novel strategies of improving efficacy of this type of immunotherapy is also discussed.
Collapse
|
|
22
|
Role of Dendritic Cells in Exposing Latent HIV-1 for the Kill. Viruses 2019; 12:v12010037. [PMID: 31905690 PMCID: PMC7019604 DOI: 10.3390/v12010037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of effective yet nontoxic strategies to target the latent human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) reservoir in antiretroviral therapy (ART)-suppressed individuals poses a critical barrier to a functional cure. The ‘kick and kill’ approach to HIV eradication entails proviral reactivation during ART, coupled with generation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) or other immune effectors equipped to eliminate exposed infected cells. Pharmacological latency reversal agents (LRAs) that have produced modest reductions in the latent reservoir ex vivo have not impacted levels of proviral DNA in HIV-infected individuals. An optimal cure strategy incorporates methods that facilitate sufficient antigen exposure on reactivated cells following the induction of proviral gene expression, as well as the elimination of infected targets by either polyfunctional HIV-specific CTLs or other immune-based strategies. Although conventional dendritic cells (DCs) have been used extensively for the purpose of inducing antigen-specific CTL responses in HIV-1 clinical trials, their immunotherapeutic potential as cellular LRAs has been largely ignored. In this review, we discuss the challenges associated with current HIV-1 eradication strategies, as well as the unharnessed potential of ex vivo-programmed DCs for both the ‘kick and kill’ of latent HIV-1.
Collapse
|
|
23
|
Ko EJ, Robert-Guroff M. Dendritic Cells in HIV/SIV Prophylactic and Therapeutic Vaccination. Viruses 2019; 12:v12010024. [PMID: 31878130 PMCID: PMC7019216 DOI: 10.3390/v12010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs) are involved in human and simian immunodeficiency virus (HIV and SIV) pathogenesis but also play a critical role in orchestrating innate and adaptive vaccine-specific immune responses. Effective HIV/SIV vaccines require strong antigen-specific CD4 T cell responses, cytotoxic activity of CD8 T cells, and neutralizing/non-neutralizing antibody production at mucosal and systemic sites. To develop a protective HIV/SIV vaccine, vaccine regimens including DCs themselves, protein, DNA, mRNA, virus vectors, and various combinations have been evaluated in different animal and human models. Recent studies have shown that DCs enhanced prophylactic HIV/SIV vaccine efficacy by producing pro-inflammatory cytokines, improving T cell responses, and recruiting effector cells to target tissues. DCs are also targets for therapeutic HIV/SIV vaccines due to their ability to reverse latency, present antigen, and augment T and B cell immunity. Here, we review the complex interactions of DCs over the course of HIV/SIV prophylactic and therapeutic immunizations, providing new insights into development of advanced DC-targeted HIV/SIV vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Ju Ko
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Korea
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Advanced Convergence Technology & Science, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Korea
- Correspondence: (E.-J.K.); (M.R.-G.)
| | - Marjorie Robert-Guroff
- Vaccine Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Correspondence: (E.-J.K.); (M.R.-G.)
| |
Collapse
|
|
24
|
Jong WD, Leal L, Buyze J, Pannus P, Guardo A, Salgado M, Mothe B, Molto J, Moron-Lopez S, Gálvez C, Florence E, Vanham G, Gorp EV, Brander C, Allard S, Thielemans K, Martinez-Picado J, Plana M, García F, Gruters RA. Therapeutic Vaccine in Chronically HIV-1-Infected Patients: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Phase IIa Trial with HTI-TriMix. Vaccines (Basel) 2019; 7:E209. [PMID: 31817794 PMCID: PMC6963294 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines7040209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic vaccinations aim to re-educate human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1-specific immune responses to achieve durable control of HIV-1 replication in virally suppressed infected individuals after antiretroviral therapy (ART) is interrupted. In a double blinded, placebo-controlled phase IIa multicenter study, we investigated the safety and immunogenicity of intranodal administration of the HIVACAT T cell Immunogen (HTI)-TriMix vaccine. It consists of naked mRNA based on cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) targets of subdominant and conserved HIV-1 regions (HTI), in combination with mRNAs encoding constitutively active TLR4, the ligand for CD40 and CD70 as adjuvants (TriMix). We recruited HIV-1-infected individuals under stable ART. Study-arms HTI-TriMix, TriMix or Water for Injection were assigned in an 8:3:3 ratio. Participants received three vaccinations at weeks 0, 2, and 4 in an inguinal lymph node. Two weeks after the last vaccination, immunogenicity was evaluated using ELISpot assay. ART was interrupted at week 6 to study the effect of the vaccine on viral rebound. The vaccine was considered safe and well tolerated. Eighteen percent (n = 37) of the AEs were considered definitely related to the study product (grade 1 or 2). Three SAEs occurred: two were unrelated to the study product, and one was possibly related to ART interruption (ATI). ELISpot assays to detect T cell responses using peptides covering the HTI sequence showed no significant differences in immunogenicity between groups. There were no significant differences in viral load rebound dynamics after ATI between groups. The vaccine was safe and well tolerated. We were not able to demonstrate immunogenic effects of the vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wesley de Jong
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus MC, 3015 Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lorna Leal
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínic-HIVACAT, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS)-HIVACAT, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jozefien Buyze
- Clinical trials unit, Clinical Sciences Department, Institute of Tropical Medicine of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Pieter Pannus
- Virology Unit, Biomedical Sciences Department, Institute of Tropical Medicine of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Alberto Guardo
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS)-HIVACAT, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Salgado
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research Institute- HIVACAT, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Beatriz Mothe
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research Institute- HIVACAT, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Lluita contra la Sida, Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), 085000 Vic, Spain
| | - Jose Molto
- Fundació Lluita contra la Sida, Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Sara Moron-Lopez
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research Institute- HIVACAT, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Cristina Gálvez
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research Institute- HIVACAT, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Eric Florence
- Virology Unit, Biomedical Sciences Department, Institute of Tropical Medicine of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Guido Vanham
- Virology Unit, Biomedical Sciences Department, Institute of Tropical Medicine of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Eric van Gorp
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus MC, 3015 Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, 3015 Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christian Brander
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research Institute- HIVACAT, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), 085000 Vic, Spain
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sabine Allard
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kris Thielemans
- eTheRNA, BVBA (eTheRNA), 2845 Niel, Belgium
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Javier Martinez-Picado
- IrsiCaixa AIDS Research Institute- HIVACAT, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- University of Vic - Central University of Catalonia (UVic-UCC), 085000 Vic, Spain
- eTheRNA, BVBA (eTheRNA), 2845 Niel, Belgium
| | - Montserrat Plana
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS)-HIVACAT, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Felipe García
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Clínic-HIVACAT, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS)-HIVACAT, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rob A Gruters
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus MC, 3015 Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
|
25
|
Preclinical evaluation of an mRNA HIV vaccine combining rationally selected antigenic sequences and adjuvant signals (HTI-TriMix): Erratum Phase I clinical trial of an intranodally administered mRNA-based therapeutic vaccine against HIV-1 infection: Erratum. AIDS 2019; 33:1957. [PMID: 31490219 DOI: 10.1097/01.aids.0000579184.27339.a8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
|
26
|
Aligholipour Farzani T, Földes K, Ergünay K, Gurdal H, Bastug A, Ozkul A. Immunological Analysis of a CCHFV mRNA Vaccine Candidate in Mouse Models. Vaccines (Basel) 2019; 7:vaccines7030115. [PMID: 31527460 PMCID: PMC6789841 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines7030115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of new vaccine platforms against viral diseases is considered urgent. In recent years, mRNA constructs have attracted great interest in this field due to unique advantages over conventional gene transfer platforms. In the present study, we developed a new naked conventional mRNA vaccine expressing the non-optimized small (S) segment of the Ank-2 strain of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever virus (CCHFV). We then analyzed its single and booster dose immunogenicity and protection potential in the challenge assay in two mice models, including IFNα/β/γR-/- and C57BL/6. The results obtained from the immunological assays, namely IL-4 and IFN-gamma ELISPOT, intracellular IFN-gamma staining, in-house sandwich ELISA, and survival data, demonstrated that our construct elicited the production of anti-nucleocapsid (N) specific immune responses in both mice models. A 100% protection rate was only obtained in the booster dose group of IFNα/β/γR-/- mice, indicating that this platform needs further optimization in future studies. In conclusion, we assessed a novel approach in CCHFV vaccination by introducing a conventional mRNA platform which can be considered in future experiments as an efficient and safe way to battle this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Katalin Földes
- Virology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, 06110 Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Koray Ergünay
- Virology Unit, Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, 06100 Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Hakan Gurdal
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ankara University, 06100 Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Aliye Bastug
- Infectious Disease Department, Ankara Numune Training and Research Hospital, 06800 Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Aykut Ozkul
- Virology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, 06110 Ankara, Turkey.
- Biotechnology Institute, Ankara University, 06560 Ankara, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
|
27
|
Intranodal administration of mRNA encoding nucleoprotein provides cross-strain immunity against influenza in mice. J Transl Med 2019; 17:242. [PMID: 31345237 PMCID: PMC6659201 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-019-1991-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Current human influenza vaccines lack the adaptability to match the mutational rate of the virus and therefore require annual revisions. Because of extensive manufacturing times and the possibility that antigenic alterations occur during viral vaccine strain production, an inherent risk exists for antigenic mismatch between the new influenza vaccine and circulating viruses. Targeting more conserved antigens such as nucleoprotein (NP) could provide a more sustainable vaccination strategy by inducing long term and heterosubtypic protection against influenza. We previously demonstrated that intranodal mRNA injection can induce potent antigen-specific T-cell responses. In this study, we investigated whether intranodal administration of mRNA encoding NP can induce T-cell responses capable of protecting against a heterologous influenza virus challenge. Methods BALB/c mice were immunized in the inguinal lymph nodes with different vaccination regimens of mRNA encoding NP. Immune responses were compared with NP DNA vaccination via IFN-γ ELISPOT and in vivo cytotoxicity. For survival experiments, mice were prime-boost vaccinated with 17 µg NP mRNA and infected with 1LD50 of H1N1 influenza virus 8 weeks after boost. Weight was monitored and viral titers, cytokines and immune cell populations in the bronchoalveolar lavage, and IFN-γ responses in the spleen were analyzed. Results Our results demonstrate that NP mRNA induces superior systemic T-cell responses against NP compared to classical DNA vaccination. These responses were sustained for several weeks even at low vaccine doses. Upon challenge infection, vaccination with NP mRNA resulted in reduced lung viral titers and improved recovery from infection. Finally, we show that vaccination with NP mRNA affects the immune response in infected lungs by lowering immune cell infiltration while increasing the fraction of T cells, monocytes and MHC II+ alveolar macrophages within immune infiltrates. This change was associated with altered levels of both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Conclusions These findings suggest that intranodal vaccination with NP mRNA induces cross-strain immunity against influenza, but also highlight a paradox of influenza immunity, whereby robust immune responses can provide protection, but can also transiently exacerbate symptoms during infection. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12967-019-1991-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
|
|
28
|
da Silva LT, Santillo BT, de Almeida A, Duarte AJDS, Oshiro TM. Using Dendritic Cell-Based Immunotherapy to Treat HIV: How Can This Strategy be Improved? Front Immunol 2018; 9:2993. [PMID: 30619346 PMCID: PMC6305438 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Harnessing dendritic cells (DC) to treat HIV infection is considered a key strategy to improve anti-HIV treatment and promote the discovery of functional or sterilizing cures. Although this strategy represents a promising approach, the results of currently published trials suggest that opportunities to optimize its performance still exist. In addition to the genetic and clinical characteristics of patients, the efficacy of DC-based immunotherapy depends on the quality of the vaccine product, which is composed of precursor-derived DC and an antigen for pulsing. Here, we focus on some factors that can interfere with vaccine production and should thus be considered to improve DC-based immunotherapy for HIV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laís Teodoro da Silva
- Laboratorio de Investigacao em Dermatologia e Imunodeficiencias, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruna Tereso Santillo
- Laboratorio de Investigacao em Dermatologia e Imunodeficiencias, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alexandre de Almeida
- Laboratorio de Investigacao em Dermatologia e Imunodeficiencias, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alberto Jose da Silva Duarte
- Laboratorio de Investigacao em Dermatologia e Imunodeficiencias, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Telma Miyuki Oshiro
- Laboratorio de Investigacao em Dermatologia e Imunodeficiencias, Hospital das Clinicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
|
29
|
Leal L, Guardo AC, Morón-López S, Salgado M, Mothe B, Heirman C, Pannus P, Vanham G, van den Ham HJ, Gruters R, Andeweg A, Van Meirvenne S, Pich J, Arnaiz JA, Gatell JM, Brander C, Thielemans K, Martínez-Picado J, Plana M, García F. Phase I clinical trial of an intranodally administered mRNA-based therapeutic vaccine against HIV-1 infection. AIDS 2018; 32:2533-2545. [PMID: 30289805 PMCID: PMC6221380 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000002026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The efficacy of therapeutic vaccines against HIV-1 infection has been modest. New inerts to redirect responses to vulnerable sites are urgently needed to improve these results. Design: We performed the first-in-human clinical trial with naked mRNA (iHIVARNA) combining a dendritic cell activation strategy (TriMix:CD40L+CD70+caTLR4 RNA) with a novel HIV immunogen sequences (HTI immunogen). Methods: A dose escalation, phase I clinical trial was performed in 21 chronic HIV-1-infected patients under ART who received three intranodal doses of mRNA (weeks 0, 2 and 4) as follow: TriMix-100 g, TriMix-300 g, TriMix-300 g with HTI-300 g, TriMix-300 g with HTI-600 g, TriMix-300 g with HTI-900 g. Primary end-point was safety and secondary-exploratory end-points were immunogenicity, changes in viral reservoir and transcriptome. Results: Overall, the vaccine was secure and well tolerated. There were 31 grade 1/2 and 1 grade 3 adverse events, mostly unrelated to the vaccination. Patients who received the highest dose showed a moderate increase in T-cell responses spanning HTI sequence at week 8. In addition, the proportion of responders receiving any dose of HTI increased from 31% at w0 to 80% postvaccination. The intervention had no impact on caHIV-DNA levels, however, caHIV-RNA expression and usVL were transiently increased at weeks 5 and 6 in the highest dose of iHIVARNA, and these changes were positively correlated with HIV-1-specific-induced immune responses. Conclusion: This phase I dose-escalating trial showed that iHIVARNA administration was safe and well tolerated, induced moderate HIV-specific T-cell responses and transiently increased different viral replication readouts. These data support further exploration of iHIVARNA in a phase II study. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02413645
Collapse
|
|
30
|
Kint S, Van Hecke C, Cole B, Vandekerckhove L, Sips M. Highlights from the HIV Cure and Reservoir Symposium, 11–12 September 2017, Ghent, Belgium. J Virus Erad 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/s2055-6640(20)30241-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
|
|
31
|
Mothe B, Brander C. HIV T-Cell Vaccines. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1075:31-51. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-0484-2_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
|
32
|
|