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He L, Zhu Z, Qi C. β-Glucan-A promising immunocyte-targeting drug delivery vehicle: Superiority, applications and future prospects. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 339:122252. [PMID: 38823919 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.122252] [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: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Drug delivery technologies that could convert promising therapeutics into successful therapies have been under broad research for many years. Recently, β-glucans, natural-occurring polysaccharides extracted from many organism species such as yeast, fungi and bacteria, have attracted increasing attention to serve as drug delivery carriers. With their unique structure and innate immunocompetence, β-glucans are considered as promising carriers for targeting delivery especially when applied in the vaccine construction and oral administration of therapeutic agents. In this review, we focus on three types of β-glucans applied in the drug delivery system including yeast β-glucan, Schizophyllan and curdlan, highlighting the benefits of β-glucan based delivery system. We summarize how β-glucans as delivery vehicles have aided various therapeutics ranging from macromolecules including proteins, peptides and nucleic acids to small molecular drugs to reach desired cells or organs in terms of loading strategies. We also outline the challenges and future directions for developing the next generation of β-glucan based delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuyang He
- The Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Changzhou 213003, China
| | - Zhichao Zhu
- The Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Changzhou 213003, China
| | - Chunjian Qi
- The Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Changzhou 213003, China.
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2
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Krejčová G, Ruphuy G, Šalamúnová P, Sonntag E, Štěpánek F, Bajgar A. Inhibition of mevalonate pathway by macrophage-specific delivery of atorvastatin prevents their pro-inflammatory polarisation. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 33:323-337. [PMID: 38367277 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12900] [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: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Adjustment of the cellular metabolism of pro-inflammatory macrophages is essential for their bactericidal function; however, it underlies the development of many human diseases if induced chronically. Therefore, intervention of macrophage metabolic polarisation has been recognised as a potent strategy for their treatment. Although many small-molecule inhibitors affecting macrophage metabolism have been identified, their in vivo administration requires a tool for macrophage-specific delivery to limit their potential side effects. Here, we establish Drosophila melanogaster as a simple experimental model for in vivo testing of macrophage-specific delivery tools. We found that yeast-derived glucan particles (GPs) are suitable for macrophage-specific delivery of small-molecule inhibitors. Systemic administration of GPs loaded with atorvastatin, the inhibitor of hydroxy-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase (Hmgcr), leads to intervention of mevalonate pathway specifically in macrophages, without affecting HMGCR activity in other tissues. Using this tool, we demonstrate that mevalonate pathway is essential for macrophage pro-inflammatory polarisation and individual's survival of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Krejčová
- Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Biology Centre CAS, Institute of Entomology, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Gabriela Ruphuy
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Šalamúnová
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Erik Sonntag
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - František Štěpánek
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Adam Bajgar
- Faculty of Science, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Biology Centre CAS, Institute of Entomology, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
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3
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Wang R, Oliveira LVN, Hester MM, Carlson D, Christensen D, Specht CA, Levitz SM. Protection against experimental cryptococcosis elicited by Cationic Adjuvant Formulation 01-adjuvanted subunit vaccines. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012220. [PMID: 38976694 PMCID: PMC11257399 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012220] [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: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The fungal infection, cryptococcosis, is responsible for >100,000 deaths annually. No licensed vaccines are available. We explored the efficacy and immune responses of subunit cryptococcal vaccines adjuvanted with Cationic Adjuvant Formulation 01 (CAF01). CAF01 promotes humoral and T helper (Th) 1 and Th17 immune responses and has been safely used in human vaccine trials. Four subcutaneous vaccines, each containing single recombinant Cryptococcus neoformans protein antigens, partially protected mice from experimental cryptococcosis. Protection increased, up to 100%, in mice that received bivalent and quadrivalent vaccine formulations. Vaccinated mice that received a pulmonary challenge with C. neoformans had an influx of leukocytes into the lung including robust numbers of polyfunctional CD4+ T cells which produced interferon gamma (IFNγ), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), and interleukin (IL)-17 upon ex vivo antigenic stimulation. Cytokine-producing lung CD8+ T cells were also found, albeit in lesser numbers. A significant, durable IFNγ response was observed in the lungs, spleen, and blood. Moreover, IFNγ secretion following ex vivo stimulation directly correlated with fungal control in the lungs. Thus, we have developed multivalent cryptococcal vaccines which protect mice from experimental cryptococcosis using an adjuvant which has been safely tested in humans. These preclinical studies suggest a path towards human cryptococcal vaccine trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiying Wang
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Lorena V. N. Oliveira
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Maureen M. Hester
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Diana Carlson
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | | | - Charles A. Specht
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Stuart M. Levitz
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
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4
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Lin H, Han R, Wu W. Glucans and applications in drug delivery. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 332:121904. [PMID: 38431411 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.121904] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Glucan is a natural polysaccharide widely distributed in cereals and microorganisms that has various biological activities, including immunomodulatory, anti-infective, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor activities. In addition to wide applications in the broad fields of food, healthcare, and biomedicines, glucans hold promising potential as drug delivery carrier materials or ligands. Specifically, glucan microparticles or yeast cell wall particles are naturally enclosed vehicles with an interior cavity that can be exploited to carry and deliver drug payloads. The biological activities and targeting capacities of glucans depend largely on the recognition of glucan moieties by receptors such as dectin-1 and complement receptor 3, which are widely expressed on the cell membranes of mononuclear phagocytes, dendritic cells, neutrophils, and some lymphocytes. This review summarizes the chemical structures, sources, fundamental properties, extraction methods, and applications of these materials, with an emphasis on drug delivery. Glucans are utilized mainly as vaccine adjuvants, targeting ligands and as carrier materials for various drug entities. It is believed that glucans and glucan microparticles may be useful for the delivery of both small-molecule and macromolecular drugs, especially for potential treatment of immune-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hewei Lin
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery of MOE, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Rongze Han
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery of MOE, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Wei Wu
- Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery of MOE, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200443, China; Center for Medical Research and Innovation, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University Pudong Medical Center, Shanghai 201399, China; Fudan Zhangjiang Institute, Shanghai 201203, China.
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5
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Whelan AO, Flick-Smith HC, Walker NJ, Abraham A, Levitz SM, Ostroff GR, Oyston PCF. A glucan-particle based tularemia subunit vaccine induces T-cell immunity and affords partial protection in an inhalation rat infection model. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0294998. [PMID: 38713688 PMCID: PMC11075878 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294998] [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: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Tularemia is a zoonotic disease caused by the facultative intracellular gram-negative bacterium Francisella tularensis. F. tularensis has a very low infection dose by the aerosol route which can result in an acute, and potentially lethal, infection in humans. Consequently, it is classified as a Category A bioterrorism agent by the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and is a pathogen of concern for the International Biodefence community. There are currently no licenced tularemia vaccines. In this study we report on the continued assessment of a tularemia subunit vaccine utilising β-glucan particles (GPs) as a vaccine delivery platform for immunogenic F. tularensis antigens. Using a Fischer 344 rat infection model, we demonstrate that a GP based vaccine comprising the F. tularensis lipopolysaccharide antigen together with the protein antigen FTT0814 provided partial protection of F344 rats against an aerosol challenge with a high virulence strain of F. tularensis, SCHU S4. Inclusion of imiquimod as an adjuvant failed to enhance protective efficacy. Moreover, the level of protection afforded was dependant on the challenge dose. Immunological characterisation of this vaccine demonstrated that it induced strong antibody immunoglobulin responses to both polysaccharide and protein antigens. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the FTT0814 component of the GP vaccine primed CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells from immunised F344 rats to express interferon-γ, and CD4+ cells to express interleukin-17, in an antigen specific manner. These data demonstrate the development potential of this tularemia subunit vaccine and builds on a body of work highlighting GPs as a promising vaccine platform for difficult to treat pathogens including those of concern to the bio-defence community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam O. Whelan
- CBR Division, Dstl Porton Down, Salisbury, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Ambily Abraham
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Stuart M. Levitz
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Gary R. Ostroff
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
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6
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Wang R, Oliveira LVN, Hester MM, Carlson D, Christensen D, Specht CA, Levitz SM. Protection against experimental cryptococcosis elicited by Cationic Adjuvant Formulation 01-adjuvanted subunit vaccines. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.24.591045. [PMID: 38712080 PMCID: PMC11071535 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.24.591045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
The fungal infection, cryptococcosis, is responsible for >100,000 deaths annually. No licensed vaccines are available. We explored the efficacy and immune responses of subunit cryptococcal vaccines adjuvanted with Cationic Adjuvant Formulation 01 (CAF01). CAF01 promotes humoral and T helper (Th) 1 and Th17 immune responses and has been safely used in human vaccine trials. Four subcutaneous vaccines, each containing single recombinant Cryptococcus neoformans protein antigens, partially protected mice from experimental cryptococcosis. Protection increased, up to 100%, in mice that received bivalent and quadrivalent vaccine formulations. Vaccinated mice that received a pulmonary challenge with C. neoformans had an influx of leukocytes into the lung including robust numbers of polyfunctional CD4+ T cells which produced Interferon gamma (IFNγ), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), and interleukin (IL)-17 upon ex vivo antigenic stimulation. Cytokine-producing lung CD8+ T cells were also found, albeit in lesser numbers. A significant, durable IFNγ response was observed in the lungs, spleen, and blood. Moreover, IFNγ secretion following ex vivo stimulation directly correlated with fungal clearance in the lungs. Thus, we have developed multivalent cryptococcal vaccines which protect mice from experimental cryptococcosis using an adjuvant which has been safely tested in humans. These preclinical studies suggest a path towards human cryptococcal vaccine trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiying Wang
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Lorena V. N. Oliveira
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Maureen M. Hester
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Diana Carlson
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Dennis Christensen
- Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Present address: Croda Pharma, Diplomvej 381, Lyngby 2800, Denmark
| | - Charles A. Specht
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Stuart M. Levitz
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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7
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Moradkasani S, Maurin M, Farrokhi AS, Esmaeili S. Development, Strategies, and Challenges for Tularemia Vaccine. Curr Microbiol 2024; 81:126. [PMID: 38564047 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-024-03658-0] [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: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Francisella tularensis is a facultative intracellular bacterial pathogen that affects both humans and animals. It was developed into a biological warfare weapon as a result. In this article, the current status of tularemia vaccine development is presented. A live-attenuated vaccine that was designed over 50 years ago using the less virulent F. tularensis subspecies holarctica is the only prophylactic currently available, but it has not been approved for use in humans or animals. Other promising live, killed, and subunit vaccine candidates have recently been developed and tested in animal models. This study will investigate some possible vaccines and the challenges they face during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safoura Moradkasani
- National Reference Laboratory for Plague, Tularemia and Q Fever, Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Akanlu, KabudarAhang, Hamadan, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatics, Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Max Maurin
- CNRS, Grenoble INP, CHU Grenoble Alpes, TIMC-IMAG, Universite Grenoble Alpes, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Saber Esmaeili
- National Reference Laboratory for Plague, Tularemia and Q Fever, Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Akanlu, KabudarAhang, Hamadan, Iran.
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatics, Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
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8
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Pan C, Ye J, Zhang S, Li X, Shi Y, Guo Y, Wang K, Sun P, Wu J, Wang H, Zhu L. Production of a promising modular proteinaceous self-assembled delivery system for vaccination. NANOSCALE 2023. [PMID: 37326289 DOI: 10.1039/d2nr06718h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Recently, there have been enormous advances in nano-delivery materials, especially safer and more biocompatible protein-based nanoparticles. Generally, proteinaceous nanoparticles (such as ferritin and virus-like particles) are self-assembled from some natural protein monomers. However, to ensure their capability of assembly, it is difficult to upgrade the protein structure through major modifications. Here, we have developed an efficient orthogonal modular proteinaceous self-assembly delivery system that could load antigens with an attractive coupling strategy. In brief, we constructed a nanocarrier by fusing two orthogonal domains-a pentameric cholera toxin B subunit and a trimer forming peptide-and an engineered streptavidin monomer for binding biotinylated antigens. After successfully preparing the nanoparticles, the receptor-binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and influenza virus haemagglutination antigen are used as model antigens for further evaluation. We found that the biotinylated antigen is able to bind to the nanoparticles with high affinity and achieve efficient lymph node drainage when loaded on the nanoparticles. Then, T cells are greatly activated and the formation of germinal centers is observed. Experiments of two mouse models demonstrate the strong antibody responses and prophylactic effects of these nanovaccines. Thus, we establish a proof-of-concept for the delivery system with the potential to load diverse antigen cargos to generate high-performance nanovaccines, thereby offering an attractive platform technology for nanovaccine preparation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China.
| | - Jingqin Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China.
| | - Sen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Academy of Millitary Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100071, PR China
| | - Xiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China.
| | - Yixin Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China.
| | - Yan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China.
| | - Kangfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China.
- College of Life Science, Hebei University, Baoding, 071002, PR China
| | - Peng Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China.
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, PR China
| | - Jun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China.
| | - Hengliang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China.
| | - Li Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, PR China.
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9
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Immunological correlates of protection following vaccination with glucan particles containing Cryptococcus neoformans chitin deacetylases. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:6. [PMID: 36732332 PMCID: PMC9892683 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00606-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination with glucan particles (GP) containing the Cryptococcus neoformans chitin deacetylases Cda1 and Cda2 protect mice against experimental cryptococcosis. Here, immunological correlates of vaccine-mediated protection were explored. Studies comparing knockout and wild-type mice demonstrated CD4+ T cells are crucial, while B cells and CD8+ T cells are dispensable. Protection was abolished following CD4+ T cell depletion during either vaccination or infection but was retained if CD4+ T cells were only partially depleted. Vaccination elicited systemic and durable antigen-specific immune responses in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), spleens, and lungs. Following vaccination and fungal challenge, robust T-helper (Th) 1 and Th17 responses were observed in the lungs. Protection was abrogated in mice congenitally deficient in interferon (IFN) γ, IFNγ receptor, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, or IL-23. Thus, CD4+ T cells and specific proinflammatory cytokines are required for GP-vaccine-mediated protection. Importantly, retention of protection in the setting of partial CD4+ T depletion suggests a pathway for vaccinating at-risk immunocompromised individuals.
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Mallakpour S, Azadi E, Hussain CM. Chitosan, alginate, hyaluronic acid, gums, and β-glucan as potent adjuvants and vaccine delivery systems for viral threats including SARS-CoV-2: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 182:1931-1940. [PMID: 34048834 PMCID: PMC8146404 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.05.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Pathogen transmission is a widespread threat to global human health. Vaccines are very important during the outbreak of a pandemic. Destructive fractures caused by a sudden outbreak of COVID-19 have spurred vaccine production at an unprecedented rate. The strategy of an effective vaccine delivery system is opening up novel probabilities to make more immunization. Indeed, vaccination is the most successful way to prevent deaths from infectious diseases. In order to optimal immune response production or improvement in the effectiveness of vaccines, delivery systems or adjuvants are required. Natural polymers such as chitosan, alginate, hyaluronic acid, gums, and β-glucan with antiviral activity have good potential as adjuvant or delivery systems for vaccine formulation development and design vaccine delivery devices. According to the antiviral performance and immunomodulation of these biopolymers, they will play significant characters in the anti-COVID-19 field. In this mini-review, the recent progress in vaccine development by using biopolymers is presented which, provides a reference for their research on anti-COVID-19 drugs and vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shadpour Mallakpour
- Organic Polymer Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Islamic Republic of Iran.
| | - Elham Azadi
- Organic Polymer Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 84156-83111, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Chaudhery Mustansar Hussain
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
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11
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Specht CA, Homan EJ, Lee CK, Mou Z, Gomez CL, Hester MM, Abraham A, Rus F, Ostroff GR, Levitz SM. Protection of Mice against Experimental Cryptococcosis by Synthesized Peptides Delivered in Glucan Particles. mBio 2021; 13:e0336721. [PMID: 35089095 PMCID: PMC8725579 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03367-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The high global burden of cryptococcosis has made development of a protective vaccine a public health priority. We previously demonstrated that a vaccine composed of recombinant Cryptococcus neoformans chitin deacetylase 2 (Cda2) delivered in glucan particles (GPs) protects BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice from an otherwise lethal challenge with a highly virulent C. neoformans strain. An immunoinformatic analysis of Cda2 revealed a peptide sequence predicted to have strong binding to the major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) H2-IAd allele found in BALB/c mice. BALB/c mice vaccinated with GPs containing a 32-amino-acid peptide (Cda2-Pep1) that included this strong binding region were protected from cryptococcosis. Protection was lost with GP-based vaccines containing versions of recombinant Cda2 protein and Cda2-Pep1 with mutations predicted to greatly diminish MHC II binding. Cda2 has homology to the three other C. neoformans chitin deacetylases, Cda1, Cda3, and Fpd1, in the high-MHC II-binding region. GPs loaded with homologous peptides of Cda1, Cda3, and Fpd1 protected BALB/c mice from experimental cryptococcosis, albeit not as robustly as the Cda2-Pep1 vaccine. Finally, seven other peptides were synthesized based on regions in Cda2 predicted to contain promising CD4+ T cell epitopes in BALB/c or C57BL/6 mice. While five peptide vaccines significantly protected BALB/c mice, only one protected C57BL/6 mice. Thus, GP-based vaccines containing a single peptide can protect mice against cryptococcosis. However, given the diversity of human MHC II alleles, a peptide-based Cryptococcus vaccine for use in humans would be challenging and likely need to contain multiple peptide sequences. IMPORTANCE Cryptococcosis, due to infection by fungi of the Cryptococcus neoformans species complex, is responsible for substantial morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised persons, particularly those with AIDS. Cryptococcal vaccines are a public health priority yet are not available for human use. We previously demonstrated mice could be protected from experimental cryptococcosis with vaccines composed of recombinant cryptococcal proteins encased in hollow highly purified yeast cell walls (glucan particles). In this study, we examined one such protective protein, Cda2, and using bioinformatics, we identified a region predicted to stimulate strong T cell responses. A peptide containing this region formulated in glucan particle-based vaccines protected mice as well as the recombinant protein. Other peptide vaccines also protected, including peptides containing sequences from proteins homologous to Cda2. These preclinical mouse studies provide a proof of principle that peptides can be effective as vaccines to protect against cryptococcosis and that bioinformatic approaches can guide peptide selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles A. Specht
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Chrono K. Lee
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Zhongming Mou
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christina L. Gomez
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maureen M. Hester
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ambily Abraham
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Florentina Rus
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gary R. Ostroff
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Stuart M. Levitz
- Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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12
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Sanchez V, Rosales-Mendoza S, Monreal-Escalante E, Murillo-Álvarez JI, Angulo C. Conjugation of β-glucans on heat-stable enterotoxin (ST) to enhance the immunogenic response in mouse leucocytes. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2020; 118:111464. [PMID: 33255046 DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2020.111464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) is an important diarrhea-causing pathogen for humans. Heat-stable enterotoxin (ST) plays a crucial role in triggering diarrhea and ETEC pathogenesis. However, ST is a small peptide that lacks immunogenic activity itself but becomes immunogenic when it is coupled to a carrier molecule. In this study, the β-glucans (BG) from yeasts have been used to test their immunomodulatory activity and adjuvant effect on the properties of ST. This study aimed to synthesize and characterize a conjugate of yeast-derived β-glucan with the ST enterotoxin (BG-ST) and evaluate the antigenic and antioxidant activities in mouse splenocytes. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy analysis showed new bands and changes in morphology, respectively, confirming ST was successfully coupled to beta glucan. Additionally, according to the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), conjugation efficiency was almost 90%. Cellular viability, phagocytic cell proportion, and respiratory burst enhanced splenocytes stimulated by BG-ST. In addition, nitric oxide production and antioxidant enzymes increased in cells stimulated with BG-ST, BG and ST. In conclusion, the results revealed the successful conjugation of β-glucan with ST peptide enhancing immune and antioxidant parameters to a greater extent than their individual components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Sanchez
- Immunology & Vaccinology Group, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste (CIBNOR), Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 195, Playa Palo de Santa Rita, La Paz, B.C.S. 23096, Mexico; Sección de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud y Biomedicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, Av. Sierra Leona 550, Lomas 2ª, Sección, 78210 San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | - Sergio Rosales-Mendoza
- Sección de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud y Biomedicina, Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí, San Luis Potosí, Av. Sierra Leona 550, Lomas 2ª, Sección, 78210 San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | - Elizabeth Monreal-Escalante
- Immunology & Vaccinology Group, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste (CIBNOR), Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 195, Playa Palo de Santa Rita, La Paz, B.C.S. 23096, Mexico; CONACYT-Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste (CIBNOR), Instituto Politécnico Nacional 195, Playa Palo de Santa Rita Sur, La Paz, B.C.S 23090, Mexico
| | - Jesús I Murillo-Álvarez
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas-IPN (CICIMAR), Avenida IPN s/n, 23096 La Paz, B.C.S., Mexico
| | - Carlos Angulo
- Immunology & Vaccinology Group, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste (CIBNOR), Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 195, Playa Palo de Santa Rita, La Paz, B.C.S. 23096, Mexico.
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Seiwald S, Simeon A, Hofer E, Weiss G, Bellmann-Weiler R. Tularemia Goes West: Epidemiology of an Emerging Infection in Austria. Microorganisms 2020; 8:E1597. [PMID: 33081341 PMCID: PMC7602993 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8101597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The zoonotic disease tularemia is caused by the Gram-negative bacterium Francisella tularensis, with the two major subspecies tularensis and holarctica being responsible for infections in humans and animals. The F. tularensis subspecies holarctica is less virulent and prevalent in Europe and Asia. Over the last few centuries, few epidemic outbreaks and low numbers of infections have been registered in the eastern part of Austria, specifically in the provinces of Lower Austria, Burgenland, and Styria. The reported infections were mostly associated with hunting hares and the skinning of carcasses. Within the last decade, ticks have been identified as important vectors in Tyrol and served as first evidence for the spread of F. tularensis to Western Austria. In 2018, the pathogen was detected in hares in the provinces of Tyrol, Vorarlberg, and Salzburg. We presume that F. tularensis is now established in most regions of Austria, and that the investigation of potential host and vector animals should be spotlighted by public institutions. Tularemia in humans presents with various clinical manifestations. As glandular, ulceroglandular, and typhoidal forms occur in Austria, this infectious disease should be considered as a differential diagnosis of unknown fever.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Seiwald
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Infectious Diseases, Immunology, Rheumatology, Pneumology, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (S.S.); (A.S.); (G.W.)
| | - Anja Simeon
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Infectious Diseases, Immunology, Rheumatology, Pneumology, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (S.S.); (A.S.); (G.W.)
| | - Erwin Hofer
- Institute for Veterinary Disease Control, Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES), 2340 Mödling, Austria;
| | - Günter Weiss
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Infectious Diseases, Immunology, Rheumatology, Pneumology, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (S.S.); (A.S.); (G.W.)
| | - Rosa Bellmann-Weiler
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Infectious Diseases, Immunology, Rheumatology, Pneumology, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; (S.S.); (A.S.); (G.W.)
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14
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Evaluation of Polish wild Mushrooms as Beta-Glucan Sources. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17197299. [PMID: 33036263 PMCID: PMC7579588 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17197299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Mushroom beta-glucans show immunomodulatory, anticancer and antioxidant features. Numerous papers have been published in the last years on fungal polysaccharides, especially beta-glucans, demonstrating their various biological activities. However substantial data about beta-glucan contents in many mushroom species, especially wild mushrooms, are still missing. Therefore, the main objective of the study was to evaluate β-glucans in 18 species of wild mushrooms and three species of commercial mushrooms for comparison purposes. The contents of β-glucans were determined by the Megazyme method and with the Congo red method, which differ in analytical procedure. Among wild mushrooms, the highest mean β-glucan content assessed with the Megazyme method was found in Tricholoma portentosum (34.97 g/100 g DM), whereas with the Congo red method in Lactarius deliciosus (17.11 g/100 g DM) and Suillus grevillei (16.97 g/100 g DM). The β-glucans in wild mushrooms assessed with the Megazyme method were comparable to commercial mushrooms, whereas β-glucans assessed with the Congo red method were generally higher in wild mushrooms, especially in Russula vinosa, L. deliciosus and S. grevillei. This study indicates wild mushrooms as interesting material for β-glucan extraction for food industry and medicinal purposes.
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15
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Williamson ED. Vaccines for emerging pathogens: from research to the clinic. Part two. Clin Exp Immunol 2020; 198:141-142. [PMID: 31625155 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
For this two-part Clinical & Experimental Immunology Review Series, Guest Editor E. Diane Williamson invited experts in their fields to contribute articles on the status of vaccine research and development for emerging pathogens. Part One addressed our progress in developing vaccines for emerging and re-emerging viruses and considered current work on effective vaccines for bacterial pathogens. In this edition of the journal, we are pleased to present Part Two, in which our authors emphasise the importance of vaccine formulation and of the use of effective delivery vehicles, as well as the prospects for licensure for current candidate vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- E D Williamson
- CBR Division, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Porton Down Salisbury, Wiltshire, UK
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16
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Abstract
Vaccines are powerful tools that can activate the immune system for protection against various diseases. As carbohydrates can play important roles in immune recognition, they have been widely applied in vaccine development. Carbohydrate antigens have been investigated in vaccines against various pathogenic microbes and cancer. Polysaccharides such as dextran and β-glucan can serve as smart vaccine carriers for efficient antigen delivery to immune cells. Some glycolipids, such as galactosylceramide and monophosphoryl lipid A, are strong immune stimulators, which have been studied as vaccine adjuvants. In this review, we focus on the current advances in applying carbohydrates as vaccine delivery carriers and adjuvants. We will discuss the examples that involve chemical modifications of the carbohydrates for effective antigen delivery, as well as covalent antigen-carbohydrate conjugates for enhanced immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyao Lang
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
| | - Xuefei Huang
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States
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