Protective efficacy of DNA vaccines encoding outer membrane protein A and OmpK36 of Klebsiella pneumoniae in mice

The extracellular region of Trypanosoma congolense Membrane Bound Acid Phosphatase induces partial protection in immunized BALB/c mice

African trypanosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by African trypanosomes and there is no vaccine because the trypanosomes possess an intricate machinery for antigenic variation. Owing to the nonsusceptibility of trypanosomes' Membrane-Bound Acid Phosphatase (MBAP; EC 3.1.3.2) to antigenic variation and its central role in molecular trafficking, we hypothesized that MBAP is a promising target for vaccine development. Herein, a DNA vaccine was constructed using recombinant DNA technology to insert the gene of the extracellular portion (EP) of Trypanosoma congolense MBAP without its signal peptide (SP), into a Strep-tag/transin modified mammalian expression vector pVAX1. The construct (EP-SP/pVAX1) was transfected into HepG2 cells. Expression of the antigen (EP-SP) and the subcellular localization were confirmed by Immunofluorescence Assay. Thereafter, two independent vaccination trials with 100 μg EP-SP/pVAX1 were carried out in BALB/c mice. ELISA was used to check immunoglobulin G (IgG) and cytokines (IL-10 and IFN-ɣ) levels. The infection group were experimental infected with 104 T. congolense cells, and the potency of the vaccine was assessed by monitoring parasitemia and survival. There was a significant increase in circulating IgG (P = 0.048), IL-10 (P = 0.031) but no effect on IFN- ɣ (P = 1.001) in the animals. Low parasitaemia characterized by multiple waves with the intermittent clearing of parasites to no detectable levels, and extension of the lifespan by up to 45.45 % was observed with a complete survival of 20 % of vaccinated and infected mice. Together, the results showed that the vaccine construct was partially protective and has tremendous immunogenic potential, suggesting the needs for further studies.

Current innovations in mRNA vaccines for targeting multidrug-resistant ESKAPE pathogens

The prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) ESKAPE pathogens, including Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, represents a critical global public health challenge. In response, mRNA vaccines offer an adaptable and scalable platform for immunotherapy against ESKAPE pathogens by encoding specific antigens that stimulate B-cell-driven antibody production and CD8+ T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity, effectively neutralizing these pathogens and combating resistance. This review examines recent advancements and ongoing challenges in the development of mRNA vaccines targeting MDR ESKAPE pathogens. We explore antigen selection, the nuances of mRNA vaccine technology, and the complex interactions between bacterial infections and antibiotic resistance. By assessing the potential efficacy of mRNA vaccines and addressing key barriers to their paraclinical implementation, this review highlights the promising function of mRNA-based immunization in combating MDR ESKAPE pathogens.

Co-immunization with DNA vaccines encoding yidR and IL-17 augments host immune response against Klebsiella pneumoniae infection in mouse model

Klebsiella pneumoniae is an important gram-negative bacterium that causes severe respiratory and healthcare-associated infections. Although antibiotic therapy is applied to treat severe infections caused by K. pneumoniae, drug-resistant isolates pose a huge challenge to clinical practices owing to adverse reactions and the mismanagement of antibiotics. Several studies have attempted to develop vaccines against K. pneumoniae, but there are no licensed vaccines available for the control of K. pneumoniae infection. In the current study, we constructed a novel DNA vaccine, pVAX1-YidR, which encodes a highly conserved virulence factor YidR and a recombinant expression plasmid pVAX1-IL-17 encoding Interleukin-17 (IL-17) as a molecular adjuvant. Adaptive immune responses were assessed in immunized mice to compare the immunogenicity of the different vaccine schemes. The results showed that the targeted antigen gene was expressed in HEK293T cells using an immunofluorescence assay. Mice immunized with pVAX1-YidR elicited a high level of antibodies, induced strong cellular immune responses, and protected mice from K. pneumoniae challenge. Notably, co-immunization with pVAX1-YidR and pVAX1-IL-17 significantly augmented host adaptive immune responses and provided better protection against K. pneumoniae infections in vaccinated mice. Our study demonstrates that combined DNA vaccines and molecular adjuvants is a promising strategy to develop efficacious antibacterial vaccines against K. pneumoniae infections.

Computational strategies in Klebsiella pneumoniae vaccine design: navigating the landscape of in silico insights

The emergence of multidrug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae poses a grave threat to global public health, necessitating urgent strategies for vaccine development. In this context, computational tools have emerged as indispensable assets, offering unprecedented insights into klebsiellal biology and facilitating the design of effective vaccines. Here, a review of the application of computational methods in the development of K. pneumoniae vaccines is presented, elucidating the transformative impact of in silico approaches. Through a systematic exploration of bioinformatics, structural biology, and immunoinformatics techniques, the complex landscape of K. pneumoniae pathogenesis and antigenicity was unravelled. Key insights into virulence factors, antigen discovery, and immune response mechanisms are discussed, highlighting the pivotal role of computational tools in accelerating vaccine development efforts. Advancements in epitope prediction, antigen selection, and vaccine design optimisation are examined, highlighting the potential of in silico approaches to update vaccine development pipelines. Furthermore, challenges and future directions in leveraging computational tools to combat K. pneumoniae are discussed, emphasizing the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and data integration. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of computational contributions to K. pneumoniae vaccine development, offering insights into innovative strategies for addressing this urgent global health challenge.

Vaccination with a trivalent Klebsiella pneumoniae vaccine confers protection in a murine model of pneumonia

Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) is an opportunistic pathogen and the major cause of healthcare-associated infections, which are increasingly complicated by the prevalence of highly invasive and hyper-virulent K. pneumoniae strains, necessitating the development of alternative strategies for combatting infections caused by this bacterium. In this study, we successfully constructed a fusion antigen called KP-Ag1, comprising three antigens (GlnH, FimA, and KPN_00466) that were previously identified through reverse vaccinology. Immunization with KP-Ag1 formulated with Al(OH)3 adjuvant elicited robust humoral and cellular immune response in mice, and conferred protective immunity in a murine model of K. pneumoniae lung infection. Further analysis of serum IgG subtypes from mice immunized with KP-Ag1 revealed a predominant IgG1 response, indicating that KP-Ag1 predominantly induces a Th2-biased immune response. Additionally, opsonophagocytic killing assay suggested that humoral immune responses play a pivotal role in mediating protection conferred by KP-Ag1. Moreover, KP-Ag1 was found to promote the activation and maturation of BMDCs in vitro, which is essential for subsequent efficient antigen presentation. More importantly, vaccination with KP-Ag1 demonstrated cross-protective efficacy against clinical isolates of K. pneumoniae varying in serotypes, antibiotic resistance, and virulence profiles. Therefore, KP-Ag1 holds promise as a candidate for K. pneumoniae vaccine development.

Exploring the journey: A comprehensive review of vaccine development against Klebsiella pneumoniae

Klebsiella pneumoniae, a prominent nosocomial pathogen, poses a critical global health threat due to its multidrug-resistant (MDR) and hypervirulent strains. This comprehensive review focuses into the complex approaches undertaken in the development of vaccines against K. pneumoniae. Traditional methods, such as whole-cell and ribosomal-based vaccines, are compared with modern strategies, including DNA and mRNA vaccines, and extracellular vesicles (EVs), among others. Each method presents unique advantages and challenges, emphasising the complexity of developing an effective vaccine against this pathogen. Significant advancements in computational tools and artificial intelligence (AI) have revolutionised antigen identification and vaccine design, enhancing the precision and efficiency of developing multiepitope-based vaccines. The review also highlights the potential of glycomics and immunoinformatics in identifying key antigenic components and elucidating immune evasion mechanisms employed by K. pneumoniae. Despite progress, challenges remain in ensuring the safety, efficacy, and manufacturability of these vaccines. Notably, EVs demonstrate promise due to their intrinsic adjuvant properties and ability to elicit robust immune responses, although concerns regarding inflammation and antigen variability persist. This review provides a critical overview of the current landscape of K. pneumoniae vaccine development, stressing the need for continued innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration to address this pressing public health issue. The integration of advanced computational methods and AI holds the potential to accelerate the development of effective immunotherapies, paving the way for novel vaccines against MDR K. pneumoniae.

In silico and in vivo Investigations of the Immunoreactivity of Klebsiella pneumoniae OmpA Protein as a Vaccine Candidate

Background

The growing threat of antibiotic resistance and Klebsiella pneumoniae infection in healthcare settings highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions, such as vaccines, to address these challenges. This study sought to assess the potential of using K. pneumoniae outer membrane protein A (OmpA) as a vaccine candidate through both in silico and in vivo analyses.

Methods

The study examined the OmpA protein sequence for subcellular localization, antigenicity, allergenicity, similarity to the human proteome, physicochemical properties, B-cell epitopes, MHC binding sites, tertiary structure predictions, molecular docking, and immune response simulations. The ompA gene was cloned into the pET-28a (+) vector, expressed, purified and confirmed using Western blotting analysis. IgG levels in the serum of the immunized mice were measured using ELISA with dilutions ranging from 1:100 to 1:6400, targeting recombinant outer membrane protein A (rOmpA) and K. pneumoniae ATCC 13883. The sensitivity and specificity of the ELISA method were also assessed.

Results

The bioinformatics analysis identified rOmpA as a promising vaccine candidate. The immunized group demonstrated significant production of specific total IgG antibodies against rOmpA and K. pneumoniae ATCC1 13883, as compared to the control group (p < 0.0001). The titers of antibodies produced in response to bacterial exposure did not show any significant difference when compared to the anti-rOmpA antibodies (p > 0.05). The ELISA test sensitivity was 1:3200, and the antibodies in the serum could accurately recognize K. pneumoniae cells.

Conclusion

This study is a significant advancement in the development of a potential vaccine against K. pneumoniae that relies on OmpA. Nevertheless, additional experimental analyses are required.

Design and fabrication of a vaccine candidate based on rOmpA from Klebsiella pneumoniae encapsulated in silk fibroin-sodium alginate nanoparticles against pneumonia infection

The present study describes the design and fabrication of a novel vaccine candidate based on the outer membrane protein A (rOmpA) from Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae) encapsulated in silk fibroin-sodium alginate nanoparticles (SF-SANPs) against K. pneumoniae-mediated pneumonia. The physicochemical properties, toxicity, release profile, and in vivo potency of SF-SANPs encapsulated with rOmpA were evaluated. The spherical nano vaccine was created with an average particle size of 160 nm and an encapsulation efficiency of 80 %. Antigen release from SF-SANPs was 40 % after 22 days release assay. The SF-SANPs showed a zeta potential of -24.8 mV and had no toxic effect on the L929 cells in vitro. It was found that SF-SANPs in the vaccine formulation promoted systemic and mucosal antibodies and also stimulated cytokine responses, inducing both humoral (Th2) and cellular (Th1) immune responses, with a Th1-polarized response. The vaccine candidate was effective in protecting the mice lung against experimental pneumonia and reducing inflammation. These findings suggest that the rOmpA-based vaccine encapsulated in SF-SANPs could be a promising strategy for preventing pneumonia caused by K. pneumoniae.

Klebsiella pneumoniae vaccine studies in animal models

The treatment of Klebsiella pneumoniae is faced with challenges demanding the development of a vaccination strategy. However, no approved and globally available vaccine exists yet. This study aimed to systematically review all published data on K. pneumoniae vaccines in animal models. Without time restrictions, electronic databases were searched using appropriate keywords. The retrieved studies were screened and the data of those that matched our inclusion criteria were collected and analyzed. In total, 2027 records were retrieved; of which 35 studies were included for systematic review. The most frequently used animal model was BALB/c mice. Proteins, polysaccharides, and their combinations (conjugates) were the most common vaccine candidates used. The amount of antigen, the route used for immunization, and the challenge strategy was varying in the studies and were chosen based on several factors such as the animal model, the type of antigen, and the schedule of immunization. Almost all studies claimed that their vaccine was effective/protective, indicated by increasing survival rate, reducing organ bacterial load, and eliciting protective antibody and/or cytokine responses. Altogether, the information presented here will assist researchers to have a better look at the K. pneumoniae vaccine candidates and to take more effective steps in the future.

Peptide Triazole Inhibitors of HIV-1: Hijackers of Env Metastability

With 1.5 million new infections and 690,000 AIDS-related deaths globally each year, HIV- 1 remains a pathogen of significant public health concern. Although a wide array of effective antiretroviral drugs have been discovered, these largely target intracellular stages of the viral infectious cycle, and inhibitors that act at or before the point of viral entry still require further advancement. A unique class of HIV-1 entry inhibitors, called peptide triazoles (PTs), has been developed, which irreversibly inactivates Env trimers by exploiting the protein structure's innate metastable nature. PTs, and a related group of inhibitors called peptide triazole thiols (PTTs), are peptide compounds that dually engage the CD4 receptor and coreceptor binding sites of Env's gp120 subunit. This triggers dramatic conformational rearrangements of Env, including the shedding of gp120 (PTs and PTTs) and lytic transformation of the gp41 subunit to a post-fusion-like arrangement (PTTs). Due to the nature of their dual receptor site engagement, PT/PTT-induced conformational changes may elucidate mechanisms behind the native fusion program of Env trimers following receptor and coreceptor engagement, including the role of thiols in fusion. In addition to inactivating Env, PTT-induced structural transformation enhances the exposure of important and conserved neutralizable regions of gp41, such as the membrane proximal external region (MPER). PTT-transformed Env could present an intriguing potential vaccine immunogen prototype. In this review, we discuss the origins of the PT class of peptide inhibitors, our current understanding of PT/PTT-induced structural perturbations and viral inhibition, and prospects for using these antagonists for investigating Env structural mechanisms and for vaccine development.

A New Live Auxotrophic Vaccine Induces Cross-Protection against Klebsiella pneumoniae Infections in Mice

The development of a whole-cell vaccine from bacteria auxotrophic for D-amino acids present in the bacterial cell wall is considered a promising strategy for providing protection against bacterial infections. Here, we constructed a prototype vaccine, consisting of a glutamate racemase-deficient mutant, for preventing Klebsiella pneumoniae infections. The deletion mutant lacks the murI gene and requires exogenous addition of D-glutamate for growth. The results showed that the K. pneumoniae ΔmurI strain is attenuated and includes a favourable combination of antigens for inducing a robust immune response and conferring an adequate level of cross-protection against systemic infections caused by K. pneumoniae strains, including some hypervirulent serotypes with elevated production of capsule polysaccharide as well as multiresistant K. pneumoniae strains. The auxotroph also induced specific production of IL-17A and IFN-γ. The rapid elimination of the strain from the blood of mice without causing disease suggests a high level of safety for administration as a vaccine.

Extensively Drug-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Counteracts Fitness and Virulence Costs That Accompanied Ceftazidime-Avibactam Resistance Acquisition

The ability of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae to rapidly acquire resistance to novel antibiotics is a global concern. Moreover, Klebsiella clonal lineages that successfully combine resistance and hypervirulence have increasingly occurred during the last years. However, the underlying mechanisms of counteracting fitness costs that accompany antibiotic resistance acquisition remain largely unexplored. Here, we investigated whether and how an XDR sequence type (ST)307 K. pneumoniae strain developed resistance against the novel drug combination ceftazidime-avibactam (CAZ-AVI) using experimental evolution. In addition, we performed in vitro and in vivo assays, molecular modeling, and bioinformatics to identify resistance-conferring processes and explore the resulting decrease in fitness and virulence. The subsequent amelioration of the initial costs was also addressed. We demonstrate that distinct mutations of the major nonselective porin OmpK36 caused CAZ-AVI resistance that persists even upon following a second experimental evolution without antibiotic selection pressure and that the Klebsiella strain compensates the resulting fitness and virulence costs. Furthermore, the genomic and transcriptomic analyses suggest the envelope stress response regulator rpoE and associated RpoE-regulated genes as drivers of this compensation. This study verifies the crucial role of OmpK36 in CAZ-AVI resistance and shows the rapid adaptation of a bacterial pathogen to compensate fitness- and virulence-associated resistance costs, which possibly contributes to the emergence of successful clonal lineages.

IMPORTANCE Extensively drug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae causing major outbreaks and severe infections has become a significant challenge for health care systems worldwide. Rapid resistance development against last-resort therapeutics like ceftazidime-avibactam is a significant driver for the accelerated emergence of such pathogens. Therefore, it is crucial to understand what exactly mediates rapid resistance acquisition and how bacterial pathogens counteract accompanying fitness and virulence costs. By combining bioinformatics with in vitro and in vivo phenotypic approaches, this study revealed the critical role of mutations in a particular porin channel in ceftazidime-avibactam resistance development and a major metabolic regulator for ameliorating fitness and virulence costs. These results highlight underlying mechanisms and contribute to the understanding of factors important for the emergence of successful bacterial pathogens.

Immunogenic characteristics of the outer membrane phosphoporin as a vaccine candidate against Klebsiella pneumoniae

In recent years, Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) has caused disease outbreaks in different animals, resulting in serious economic losses and biosafety concerns. Considering the broad antibiotic resistance of KP, vaccines are the most effective tools against infection. However, there is still no KP vaccine available in the veterinary field. Our results indicate that the highly conserved outer membrane phosphoporin (PhoE) of KP is immunogenic in mice and elicits high titers of antibodies that were shown to be specific for PhoE by immunoblotting. Immunization with PhoE also induced robust cell-mediated immunity and elicited the secretion of high levels of IFN-γ and IL-4, suggesting the induction of mixed Th1 and Th2 responses. Sera from PhoE-immunized mice induced significantly higher complement-mediated lysis of KP cells than did sera from the PBS control mice. Finally, mice immunized with PhoE were significantly protected against KP challenge, with better survival and a reduced visceral bacterial load. Our data underscore the great potential of PhoE as a novel candidate antigen for a vaccine against KP infection.

Current Stage in the Development of Klebsiella pneumoniae Vaccines

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a bacterium capable of colonizing mucous membranes, causing serious infections. Widespread antibiotic resistance in K. pneumoniae—either through intrinsic mechanisms or via acquisition from different species, especially in hospital environments—limits the therapeutic options against this pathogen, further aggravating the disease burden. To date, there are no vaccines available against K. pneumoniae infection. Although formulations based on capsular polysaccharides have been proposed, the high variability in capsular serotypes limits vaccine coverage. Recombinant vaccines based on surface exposed bacterial antigens are a promising alternative owing to their conservation among different serotypes and accessibility to the immune system. Many vaccine candidates have been proposed, some of which have reached clinical trials. The present review summarizes the current status of K. pneumoniae vaccine development. Different strategies including whole cell vaccines, outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), ribosome, polysaccharide, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and protein-based formulations are discussed. The contribution of antibody and cell-mediated responses is also presented. In summary, K. pneumoniae vaccines are feasible and a promising strategy to prevent infections and to reduce the antimicrobial resistance burden worldwide.

Intradermal Immunization with Heat-Killed Klebsiella pneumoniae Leading to the Production of Protective Immunoglobulin G in BALB/c Mice

Introduction:

Klebsiella pneumoniae superbug is emerging as a serious health concern as resistance to last-resort antibiotics spreads. To bypass the therapeutic molecules used today, the development of an immunoprophylactic safe approach is of great clinical relevance. This study was conducted to determine the protective efficacy of antibodies elicited by killed vaccine against multidrug-resistant (MDR) K. pneumoniae.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, heat-killed MDR K. pneumoniae isolated from different clinical samples were employed for the intradermal immunization of 10 BALB/c mice. Two weeks after the third dose of immunization, the mice were intraperitoneally challenged with live K. pneumoniae and observed for 14 days. Tail blood was collected 7 days after each booster followed by cardiac puncture 14 days postchallenge. Bactericidal activity and antigen-binding capacity of the serum antibody produced by the vaccine were evaluated by serum bactericidal antibody (SBA) assay and ELISA, respectively.

Results:

In this study, 80% survival rates were observed at 14 days postchallenge among the immunized mice. Regarding SBA assay, 100% bactericidal activity of the immunized mouse sera was observed using 50% guinea pig complement at 1:10 serum dilution after 3 h of incubation, and all the pre- and postchallenge immunized serum immunoglobulin G antibody had significantly higher optical density values comparing the control mice in ELISA.

Conclusion:

In our study, intradermal immunization with heat-killed MDR K. pneumoniae produced protective antibodies in BALB/c mice. These findings suggest that the use of a first-generation vaccine provides the supply of a larger number of candidate antigens for eliciting required immune response.

Vaccines for multidrug resistant Gram negative bacteria: lessons from the past for guiding future success

Antimicrobial resistance is a major threat to global public health. Vaccination is an effective approach for preventing bacterial infections, however it has not been successfully applied to infections caused by some of the most problematic multidrug resistant pathogens. In this review, the potential for vaccines to contribute to reducing the burden of disease of infections caused by multidrug resistant Gram negative bacteria is presented. Technical, logistical and societal hurdles that have limited successful vaccine development for these infections in the past are identified, and recent advances that can contribute to overcoming these challenges are assessed. A synthesis of vaccine technologies that have been employed in the development of vaccines for key multidrug resistant Gram negative bacteria is included, and emerging technologies that may contribute to future successes are discussed. Finally, a comprehensive review of vaccine development efforts over the last 40 years for three of the most worrisome multidrug resistant Gram negative pathogens, Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa is presented, with a focus on recent and ongoing studies. Finally, future directions for the vaccine development field are highlighted.

Development and evaluation of a new recombinant protein vaccine (YidR) against Klebsiella pneumoniae infection

Vaccination is a promising approach to prevent Klebsiella infection; however, the high heterogeneity of strains is a limiting factor. The best antigenic target for an anti-Klebsiella vaccine should be expressed by all or most of strains. We previously found YidR protein to be highly conserved among K. pneumoniae strains independently of antigen serotype. Therefore, in the present study, we developed a recombinant YidR protein vaccine and evaluated its protective efficacy against lethal challenge with K. pneumoniae in a mouse model. The yidR gene was cloned in Escherichia coli for recombinant expression. The lethal dose (LD₁₀₀) of K. pneumoniae was determined and lethal challenge was carried out after immunization with recombinant purified YidR. After immunization, the concentration of total serum IgG was significantly higher in YidR-immunized mice than in non-immunized mice, indicating strong induction of antibodies. Mice were challenged with LD₁₀₀ of K. pneumoniae, and significantly lower murine sepsis and higher body weight were observed in YidR-immunized mice compared to unvaccinated controls. Moreover, ∼90% of YidR-immunized mice survived beyond 10 days of observation, whereas none of the control mice survived past 48 h. The protective effect of YidR recombinant protein vaccine was demonstrated and YidR may be a promising vaccine candidate to prevent klebsiellosis.

Evaluation of the protective immunity of Riemerella anatipestifer OmpA

Riemerella anatipestifer is responsible for an economically important disease of commercially raised ducks. No or only few cross-protection was observed between different serotypes of R. anatipestifer strains, and so far no protective antigen in this bacterium has been identified. OmpA is a predominant immunogenic protein of R. anatipestifer, and within the 1467 bp ompA ORF (ompA1467), there is another 1164 bp ORF (ompA1164) with the same C-terminal. In this study, our results showed that the full sequence of ompA1467 from some R. anatipestifer strains with different serotypes shared the same amino acid sequence. Animal experiments showed that the soluble recombinant protein rOmpA1164, but not rOmpA1467, could provide partial protective immunity against challenge. Moreover, there was no significant difference in protective immunity between ducklings immunized with Th4△ompA bacterin and those immunized with Th4 bacterin. In addition, OmpA1467 was the main existing form of OmpA in R. anatipestifer cells by gel electrophoresis and western blot analyses. The results suggested that OmpA1467 was not a protective antigen of R. anatipestifer, and antibodies against proteins other than OmpA play a critical role in the process of anti-R. anatipestifer infection.

Immunoinformatics-Aided Design and Evaluation of a Potential Multi-Epitope Vaccine against Klebsiella Pneumoniae

Klebsiella pneumoniae is an opportunistic gram-negative bacterium that causes nosocomial infection in healthcare settings. Despite the high morbidity and mortality rate associated with these bacterial infections, no effective vaccine is available to counter the pathogen. In this study, the pangenome of a total of 222 available complete genomes of K. pneumoniae was explored to obtain the core proteome. A reverse vaccinology strategy was applied to the core proteins to identify four antigenic proteins. These proteins were then subjected to epitope mapping and prioritization steps to shortlist nine B-cell derived T-cell epitopes which were linked together using GPGPG linkers. An adjuvant (Cholera Toxin B) was also added at the N-terminal of the vaccine construct to improve its immunogenicity and a stabilized multi-epitope protein structure was obtained using molecular dynamics simulation. The designed vaccine exhibited sustainable and strong bonding interactions with Toll-like receptor 2 and Toll-like receptor 4. In silico reverse translation and codon optimization also confirmed its high expression in E. coli K12 strain. The computer-aided analyses performed in this study imply that the designed multi-epitope vaccine can elicit specific immune responses against K. pneumoniae. However, wet lab validation is necessary to further verify the effectiveness of this proposed vaccine candidate.

Progress towards the development of Klebsiella vaccines

Introduction: Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) are a leading cause of healthcare-associated infections. The dramatic increase in microbial resistance to third-generation cephalosporin and carbapenem 'front line' antimicrobial agents and the paucity of new antimicrobials have left clinicians with few therapeutic options and resulted in increased morbidity and mortality. Vaccines may reduce the incidence of infections thereby reducing the necessity for antimicrobials and are not subject to antimicrobial resistance mechanisms. Areas covered: We review whole cell, subunit, capsular polysaccharide (CPS), O polysaccharide (OPS) and conjugate vaccines against KP infection, as well as alternative KP vaccine platforms. Expert opinion: Vaccine-induced antibodies to KP CPS have been protective in preclinical studies, but the number of CPS types (>77) makes vaccines against this virulence factor less feasible. Since four OPS serotypes account of ~80% of invasive KP infections and anti-OPS antibodies are also protective in preclinical studies, both OPS-based conjugate and multiple antigen presenting system (MAPS) vaccines are in active development. Vaccines based on other KP virulence factors, such as outer membrane proteins, type 3 fimbriae (MrkA) and siderophores are at earlier stages of development. Novel strategies for the clinical testing of KP vaccines need to be developed.

Vaccines against major ICU pathogens: where do we stand?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Multidrug resistance of bacterial pathogens has confronted physicians around the world with the threat of inefficacy of the antibiotic regime, which is particularly important for patients with sepsis. Antibiotic resistance has revived search for alternative nonantibiotic strategies. Among them, prophylaxis by vaccination is an appealing concept.

RECENT FINDINGS

This review provides a compact overview on available vaccines against community-acquired pathogens such as pneumococci (in synergy with influenza) and meningococci and provides an overview on the ongoing developments of vaccines targeting typical nosocomial pathogens such as Clostridium difficile, Staphylococcus aureus, Acintetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

SUMMARY

The effects achieved by some conjugated vaccines (e.g. against Haemophilus influenzae B and Streptococcus pneumoniae) are encouraging. Their widespread use has resulted in a decrease or almost elimination of invasive diseases by the covered pneumococcal serotypes or Haemophilus influenzae B, respectively. These vaccines confer not only individual protection but also exploit herd protection effects. However, a multitude of failures reflects the obstacles on the way to effective and well tolerated bacterial vaccines. Regional differences in strain prevalence and variability of antigens that limit cross-protectivity remain major obstacles. However, promising candidates are in clinical development.

Immunization with the outer membrane proteins OmpK17 and OmpK36 elicits protection against Klebsiella pneumoniae in the murine infection model

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a Gram-negative bacterium that is increasingly reported as a serious nosocomial and community-acquired pathogen. In the current study, two K. pneumoniae antigens, OmpK17 and OmpK36, as well as their fusion protein cognate F36/17 were investigated as potential vaccine candidates in a murine infection model. Three immunoadjuvants, namely the Gram-positive Enhancer Matrix (GEM) adjuvant, synthetic hemozoin (Hz) adjuvant and incomplete Freund's adjuvant (IFA) were evaluated. Genes of OmpK17 and OmpK36 antigens as well as their fusion protein were cloned in Escherichia coli for recombinant expression. Mice were immunized thrice with the individual recombinant purified antigens adjuvanted with one of the three adjuvants. Two weeks after the last booster, animals were challenged with a lethal dose of K. pneumoniae and immune protection parameters were assessed. Animals immunized with GEM- or Hz-adjuvanted K. pneumoniae antigens did not show significant protection upon bacterial challenge. Animals immunized with subcutaneous IFA-adjuvanted antigens showed the best results with survival percentages of 50, 60 and 50% for groups immunized with OmpK17, OmpK36 and F36/17, respectively. Serum IgG1, rather than IgG2a, antibodies were the most prevalent following vaccination indicating bias towards T helper type 2 (Th2) immune response. Opsonophagocytic assays demonstrated significant percentage killing in case of animals immunized with IFA-adjuvanted antigens. Overall, OmpK17 and OmpK36 are promising vaccine antigens which are worthy of further optimization of the immunization conditions, particularly the used immunoadjuvants, in order to achieve full protection against K. pneumoniae.

Evaluation of Recombinant Multi-Epitope Outer Membrane Protein-Based Klebsiella pneumoniae Subunit Vaccine in Mouse Model

Safety and protective efficacy of recombinant multi-epitope subunit vaccine (r-AK36) was evaluated in a mouse model. Recombinant AK36 protein comprised of immunodominant antigens from outer membrane proteins (Omp’s) of Klebsiella pneumoniae namely OmpA and OmpK36. r-AK36 was highly immunogenic and the hyperimmune sera reacted strongly with native OmpA and OmpK36 proteins from different K. pneumoniae strains. Hyperimmune sera showed cross-reactivity with Omp’s of other Gram-negative organisms. Humoral responses showed a Th2-type polarized immune response with IgG1 being the predominant antibody isotype. Anti-r-AK36 antibodies showed antimicrobial effect during in vitro testing with MIC values in the range of 25–50 μg/ml on different K. pneumoniae strains. The recombinant antigen elicited three fold higher proliferation of splenocytes from immunized mice compared to those with sham-immunized mice. Anti-r-AK36 antibodies also exhibited in vitro biofilm inhibition property. Subunit vaccine r-AK36 immunization promoted induction of protective cytokines IL-2 and IFN-γ in immunized mice. When r-AK36-immunized mice were challenged with 3 × LD₁₀₀ dose, ∼80% of mice survived beyond the observation period. Passive antibody administration to naive mice protected them (67%) against the lethal challenge. Since the targeted OMPs are conserved among all K. pneumoniae serovars and due to the strong nature of immune responses, r-AK36 subunit vaccine could be a cost effective candidate against klebsiellosis.

IgG subclass co-expression brings harmony to the quartet model of murine IgG function

A model of murine IgG function is presented in which the co-expression of the IgG subclasses is a central feature, class switching occurs before the commencement of somatic hypermutation, and there is little switching between subclasses. It is named the quartet model to emphasize the harmony that comes from the simultaneous presence of the four subclasses. In this model, IgG3 and IgG2b antibodies are particularly important early in the response, when T-cell help may be limiting. IgG3 initiates inflammation through complement fixation, whereas IgG2b provides early FcγR-mediated effector functions. As T-cell help strengthens, IgG2a antibodies increase the power of the response, whereas IgG1 production helps limit the inflammatory drive and limits immunopathology. The model highlights the fact that murine IgG subclasses function quite differently to human IgG subclasses. This allows them to serve the special immunological needs of a species that is vulnerable because of its small size.

Transmembrane proteins--Mining the cattle tick transcriptome

Managing the spread and load of pathogen-transmitting ticks is an important task worldwide. The cattle tick, Rhipicephalus microplus, not only impacts the economy through losses in dairy and meat production, but also raises concerns for human health in regards to the potential of certain transmitted pathogens becoming zoonotic. However, novel strategies to control R. microplus are hindered by lack of understanding tick biology and the discovery of suitable vaccine or acaricide targets. The importance of transmembrane proteins as vaccine targets are well known, as is the case in tick vaccines with Bm86 as antigen. In this study, we describe the localization and functional annotation of 878 putative transmembrane proteins. Thirty proteins could be confirmed in the R. microplus gut using LC-MS/MS analysis and their roles in tick biology are discussed. To the best of our knowledge, 19 targets have not been reported before in any proteomics study in various tick species and the possibility of using the identified proteins as targets for tick control are discussed. Although tissue expression of identified putative proteins through expansive proteomics is necessary, this study demonstrates the possibility of using bioinformatics for the identification of targets for further evaluation in tick control strategies.

Bacterial protoplast-derived nanovesicles as vaccine delivery system against bacterial infection

The notion that widespread infectious diseases could be best managed by developing potent, adjuvant-free vaccines has resulted in the use of various biological immune-stimulating components as new vaccine candidates. Recently, extracellular vesicles, also known as exosomes and microvesicles in mammalian cells and outer membrane vesicles in Gram-negative bacteria, have gained attention for the next generation vaccine. However, the more invasive and effective the vaccine is in delivery, the more risk it holds for severe immune toxicity. Here, in optimizing the current vaccine delivery system, we designed bacterial protoplast-derived nanovesicles (PDNVs), depleted of toxic outer membrane components to generate a universal adjuvant-free vaccine delivery system. These PDNVs exhibited significantly higher productivity and safety than the currently used vaccine delivery vehicles and induced strong antigen-specific humoral and cellular immune responses. Moreover, immunization with PDNVs loaded with bacterial antigens conferred effective protection against bacterial sepsis in mice. These nonliving nanovesicles derived from bacterial protoplast open up a new avenue for the creation of next generation, adjuvant-free, less toxic vaccines to be used to prevent infectious diseases.

The role of pgaC in Klebsiella pneumoniae virulence and biofilm formation

BACKGROUND

Klebsiella pneumoniae has emerged as one of the major pathogens for community-acquired and nosocomial infections. A four-gene locus that had a high degree similarity with Escherichia coli pgaABCD and Yersinia pestis hmsHFRS was identified in K. pneumoniae genomes. The pgaABCD in E. coli encodes the envelope-spanning Pga machinery for the synthesis and secretion of poly-β-linked N-acetylglucosamine (PNAG). In a limited number of phylogenetically diverse bacteria, PNAG was demonstrated to mediate biofilm formation and had a role in the host-bacteria interactions. The presence of conserved pgaABCD locus among various K. pneumoniae strains suggested a putative requirement of PNAG for this bacterium.

RESULTS

In this study, an in-frame deletion of pgaC was generated in K. pneumoniae CG43 and named ΔpgaC. The loss of pgaC affected the production of PNAG and attenuated the enhancement of in vitro biofilm formation upon the addition of bile salts mixture. In mouse models, ΔpgaC exhibited a weakened ability to colonize the intestine, to disseminate extraintestinally, and to induce a systemic infection when compared to K. pneumoniae CG43.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated that pgaC participated in the bile salts induced biofilm formation and was required for K. pneumoniae virulence in vivo.

Identification of antigenic proteins of the nosocomial pathogen Klebsiella pneumoniae

The continuous expansion of nosocomial infections around the globe has become a precarious situation. Key challenges include mounting dissemination of multiple resistances to antibiotics, the easy transmission and the growing mortality rates of hospital-acquired bacterial diseases. Thus, new ways to rapidly detect these infections are vital. Consequently, researchers around the globe pursue innovative approaches for point-of-care devices. In many cases the specific interaction of an antigen and a corresponding antibody is pivotal. However, the knowledge about suitable antigens is lacking. The aim of this study was to identify novel antigens as specific diagnostic markers. Additionally, these proteins might be aptly used for the generation of vaccines to improve current treatment options. Hence, a cDNA-based expression library was constructed and screened via microarrays to detect novel antigens of Klebsiella pneumoniae, a prominent agent of nosocomial infections well-known for its extensive antibiotics resistance, especially by extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL). After screening 1536 clones, 14 previously unknown immunogenic proteins were identified. Subsequently, each protein was expressed in full-length and its immunodominant character examined by ELISA and microarray analyses. Consequently, six proteins were selected for epitope mapping and three thereof possessed linear epitopes. After specificity analysis, homology survey and 3d structural modelling, one epitope sequence GAVVALSTTFA of KPN_00363, an ion channel protein, was identified harboring specificity for K. pneumoniae. The remaining epitopes showed ambiguous results regarding the specificity for K. pneumoniae. The approach adopted herein has been successfully utilized to discover novel antigens of Campylobacter jejuni and Salmonella enterica antigens before. Now, we have transferred this knowledge to the key nosocomial agent, K. pneumoniae. By identifying several novel antigens and their linear epitope sites, we have paved the way for crucial future research and applications including the design of point-of-care devices, vaccine development and serological screenings for a highly relevant nosocomial pathogen.

Application of zwitterionic detergent to the solubilization of Klebsiella pneumoniae outer membrane proteins for two-dimensional gel electrophoresis

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a frequent cause of nosocomial respiratory, urinary and gastrointestinal tract infections and septicemia with the multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae being a major public health concern. Outer membrane proteins (OMPs) are important virulence factors responsible for the appropriate adaptation to the host environment. They constitute of the antigens being the first in contact with infected organism. However, K. pneumoniae strains are heavily capsulated and it is important to establish the OMPs isolation procedure prior to proteomics extensive studies. In this study we used Zwittergent Z 3-14® as a detergent to isolate the OMPs from K. pneumoniae cells and resolve them using two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE). As a result we identified 134 protein spots. The OMPs identified in this study are possible candidates for the development of a protein-based vaccine against K. pneumoniae infections.

Cross-protection provided by live Shigella mutants lacking major antigens

The immune response elicited by Shigella infections is dominated by serotype-specific antibodies recognizing the LPS O-antigens. Although a marked antibody response to invasion plasmid antigens (Ipa-s) shared by all virulent strains is also induced, the varying level of immunity elicited by natural infections is serotype-restricted. Previous vaccines have tried to mimic and achieve this serotype-specific, infection-induced immunity. As, however, the four Shigella species can express 50 different types of O-antigens, current approaches with the aim to induce a broad coverage use a mixture of the most common O-antigens combined in single vaccines. In the current study we present data on an alternative approach to generate immunity protective against multiple serotypes. Mutants lacking both major immune-determinant structures (i.e. the Ipa and O-antigens) were not only highly attenuated, but, unlike their avirulent counterparts still expressing these antigens, elicited a protective immune response to heterologous serotypes in a murine model. Evidence is provided that protection was mediated by the enhanced immunogenic potential of minor conserved antigens. Furthermore, the rough, non-invasive double mutants triggered an immune response different from that induced by the smooth, invasive strains regarding the isotype of antibodies generated. These non-invasive, rough mutants may represent promising candidates for further development into live vaccines for the prophylaxis of bacillary dysentery in areas with multiple endemic serotypes.

Identification and characterization of antigens as vaccine candidates against Klebsiella pneumoniae

Nosocomial infections, also called "hospital acquired infections," occur worldwide and affect both developed and resource-poor countries, thus having a major impact on their health care systems. Klebsiella pneumoniae, which is an opportunistic Gram-negative pathogen, is responsible for causing pneumonia, urinary tract infections and septicemia in immune compromised hosts such as neonates. Unfortunately, there is no vaccine or mAb available for prophylactic or therapeutic use against K. pneumoniae infections. For this reason, we sought for a protein-based subunit vaccine capable of combating K. pneumoniae infections, by applying our ANTIGENome technology for the identification of potential vaccine candidates, focusing on conserved protein antigens present in strains with different serotypes. We identified numerous novel immunogenic proteins using genomic surface display libraries and human serum antibodies from donors exposed to or infected by K. pneumoniae. Vaccine candidate antigens were finally selected based on animal protection in a murine lethal-sepsis model. The protective and highly conserved antigens identified in this study are promising candidates for the development of a protein-based vaccine to prevent infection by K. pneumoniae.

Outer membrane protein A and OprF: versatile roles in Gram-negative bacterial infections

Outer membrane protein A (OmpA) is an abundant protein of Escherichia coli and other enterobacteria and has a multitude of functions. Although the structural features and porin function of OmpA have been well studied, its role in the pathogenesis of various bacterial infections has emerged only during the last decade. The four extracellular loops of OmpA interact with a variety of host tissues for adhesion to and invasion of the cell and for evasion of host-defense mechanisms when inside the cell. This review describes how various regions present in the extracellular loops of OmpA contribute to the pathogenesis of neonatal meningitis induced by E. coli K1 and to many other functions. In addition, the function of OmpA-like proteins, such as OprF of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, is discussed.

Intradermal naked plasmid DNA immunization: mechanisms of action

Plasmid DNA is a promising vaccine modality that is regularly examined in prime-boost immunization regimens. Recent advances in skin immunity increased our understanding of the sophisticated cutaneous immune network, which revived scientific interest in delivering vaccines to the skin. Intradermal administration of plasmid DNA via needle injection is a simple and inexpensive procedure that exposes the plasmid and its encoded antigen to the dermal immune surveillance system. This triggers unique mechanisms for eliciting local and systemic immunity that can confer protection against pathogens and tumors. Understanding the mechanisms of intradermal plasmid DNA immunization is essential for enhancing and modulating its immunogenicity. With regard to vaccination, this is of greater importance as this routine injection technique is highly desirable for worldwide immunization. This article will focus on the current understanding of the mechanisms involved in antigen expression and presentation during primary and secondary syringe and needle intradermal plasmid DNA immunization.

Development of immunization trials against Klebsiella pneumoniae

Klebsiella pneumoniae is the most common cause of nosocomial respiratory tract and premature intensive care infections, and the second most frequent cause of Gram-negative bacteraemia and urinary tract infections. Drug resistant isolates remain an important hospital-acquired bacterial pathogen, add significantly to hospital stays, and are especially problematic in high impact medical areas such as intensive care units. Many investigations worldwide proved the increasing resistance of such pathogen, resulting in an average rate of 1.63 outbreak every year. A variety of preventive measures were applied to reduce such incidences. Immunotherapy and passive immunization researches as well found their way to the treatment of Klebsiella. During the last 40 years, many trials for constructing effective vaccines were followed. This up-to-date review classifies such trials and documents them in a progressive way. A following comment discusses each group benefits and defects.

Improving reverse vaccinology with a machine learning approach

Reverse vaccinology aims to accelerate subunit vaccine design by rapidly predicting which proteins in a pathogenic bacterial proteome are putative protective antigens. Support vector machine classification is a machine learning approach that has been applied to solve numerous classification problems in biological sciences but has not previously been incorporated into a reverse vaccinology approach. A training data set of 136 bacterial protective antigens paired with 136 non-antigens was constructed and bioinformatic tools were used to annotate this data for predicted protein features, many of which are associated with antigenicity (i.e. extracellular localization, signal peptides and B-cell epitopes). Annotation was used to train support vector machine classifiers that exhibited a maximum accuracy of 92% for discriminating protective antigens from non-antigens as assessed by a leave-tenth-out cross-validation approach. These accuracies were superior to those achieved when annotating training data with auto and cross covariance transformations of z-descriptors for hydrophobicity, molecular size and polarity, or when classification was performed using regression methods. To further validate support vector machine classifiers, they were used to rank all the proteins in six bacterial proteomes for their antigenicity. Protective antigens from the training data were significantly recalled (enriched) in the top 75 ranked proteins for all six proteomes as assessed by a Fisher's exact test (p<0.05). This paper describes a superior workflow for performing reverse vaccinology studies and provides a benchmark training data set that can be used to evaluate future methodological improvements.