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Hu X, Karthigeyan KP, Herbek S, Valencia SM, Jenks JA, Webster H, Miller IG, Connors M, Pollara J, Andy C, Gerber LM, Walter EB, Edwards KM, Bernstein DI, Hou J, Koch M, Panther L, Carfi A, Wu K, Permar SR. Human Cytomegalovirus mRNA-1647 Vaccine Candidate Elicits Potent and Broad Neutralization and Higher Antibody-Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity Responses Than the gB/MF59 Vaccine. J Infect Dis 2024; 230:455-466. [PMID: 38324766 PMCID: PMC11326847 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND MF59-adjuvanted gB subunit (gB/MF59) vaccine demonstrated approximately 50% efficacy against human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) acquisition in multiple clinical trials, suggesting that efforts to improve this vaccine design might yield a vaccine suitable for licensure. METHODS A messenger RNA (mRNA)-based vaccine candidate encoding HCMV gB and pentameric complex (PC), mRNA-1647, is currently in late-stage efficacy trials. However, its immunogenicity has not been compared to the partially effective gB/MF59 vaccine. We assessed neutralizing and Fc-mediated immunoglobulin G (IgG) effector antibody responses induced by mRNA-1647 in both HCMV-seropositive and -seronegative vaccinees from a first-in-human clinical trial through 1 year following third vaccination using a systems serology approach. Furthermore, we compared peak anti-gB antibody responses in seronegative mRNA-1647 vaccinees to that of seronegative gB/MF59 vaccine recipients. RESULTS mRNA-1647 vaccination elicited and boosted HCMV-specific IgG responses in seronegative and seropositive vaccinees, respectively, including neutralizing and Fc-mediated effector antibody responses. gB-specific IgG responses were lower than PC-specific IgG responses. gB-specific IgG and antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis responses were lower than those elicited by gB/MF59. However, mRNA-1647 elicited higher neutralization and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) responses. CONCLUSIONS Overall, mRNA-1647 vaccination induced polyfunctional and durable HCMV-specific antibody responses, with lower gB-specific IgG responses but higher neutralization and ADCC responses compared to the gB/MF59 vaccine. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION NCT03382405 (mRNA-1647) and NCT00133497 (gB/MF59).
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Affiliation(s)
- Xintao Hu
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | | | - Savannah Herbek
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Sarah M Valencia
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jennifer A Jenks
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Helen Webster
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Itzayana G Miller
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Megan Connors
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Justin Pollara
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Caroline Andy
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Linda M Gerber
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Emmanuel B Walter
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Kathryn M Edwards
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - David I Bernstein
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Jacob Hou
- Moderna, Inc, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | | | | | | | - Kai Wu
- Moderna, Inc, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Sallie R Permar
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
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Zhang X, Li Y, Zhou Z. Lipid Nanoparticle-Based Delivery System-A Competing Place for mRNA Vaccines. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:6219-6234. [PMID: 38371811 PMCID: PMC10870384 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c08353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
mRNA, as one of the foci of biomedical research in the past decade, has become a candidate vaccine solution for various infectious diseases and tumors and for regenerative medicine and immunotherapy due to its high efficiency, safety, and effectiveness. A stable and effective delivery system is needed to protect mRNAs from nuclease degradation while also enhancing immunogenicity. The success of mRNA lipid nanoparticles in treating COVID-19, to a certain extent, marks a milestone for mRNA vaccines and also promotes further research on mRNA delivery systems. Here, we explore mRNA vaccine delivery systems, especially lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), considering the current research status, prospects, and challenges of lipid nanoparticles, and explore other mRNA delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Zhang
- Research
Center for Infectious Diseases, Tianjin
University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 300193 Tianjin, China
- Institute
for Biological Product Control, National
Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC) and WHO Collaborating
Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, No.31 Huatuo Street, Daxing District, 102629 Beijing, China
- College
of Life Science, Jilin University, 130012 Changchun, China
| | - Yuanfang Li
- Department
of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen Branch), Fudan University, 361015 Xiamen, Fujian China
| | - Zehua Zhou
- Research
Center for Infectious Diseases, Tianjin
University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 300193 Tianjin, China
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3
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Wu L, Li X, Qian X, Wang S, Liu J, Yan J. Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) Delivery Carrier-Assisted Targeted Controlled Release mRNA Vaccines in Tumor Immunity. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:186. [PMID: 38400169 PMCID: PMC10891594 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12020186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have attracted extensive attention in tumor immunotherapy. Targeting immune cells in cancer therapy has become a strategy of great research interest. mRNA vaccines are a potential choice for tumor immunotherapy, due to their ability to directly encode antigen proteins and stimulate a strong immune response. However, the mode of delivery and lack of stability of mRNA are key issues limiting its application. LNPs are an excellent mRNA delivery carrier, and their structural stability and biocompatibility make them an effective means for delivering mRNA to specific targets. This study summarizes the research progress in LNP delivery carrier-assisted targeted controlled release mRNA vaccines in tumor immunity. The role of LNPs in improving mRNA stability, immunogenicity, and targeting is discussed. This review aims to systematically summarize the latest research progress in LNP delivery carrier-assisted targeted controlled release mRNA vaccines in tumor immunity to provide new ideas and strategies for tumor immunotherapy, as well as to provide more effective treatment plans for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liusheng Wu
- Center of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Disease, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (L.W.); (X.Q.); (S.W.)
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore
| | - Xiaoqiang Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China;
| | - Xinye Qian
- Center of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Disease, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (L.W.); (X.Q.); (S.W.)
| | - Shuang Wang
- Center of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Disease, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (L.W.); (X.Q.); (S.W.)
| | - Jixian Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China;
| | - Jun Yan
- Center of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Disease, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (L.W.); (X.Q.); (S.W.)
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4
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Lu C, Li Y, Chen R, Hu X, Leng Q, Song X, Lin X, Ye J, Wang J, Li J, Yao L, Tang X, Kuang X, Zhang G, Sun M, Zhou Y, Li H. Safety, Immunogenicity, and Mechanism of a Rotavirus mRNA-LNP Vaccine in Mice. Viruses 2024; 16:211. [PMID: 38399987 PMCID: PMC10892174 DOI: 10.3390/v16020211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Rotaviruses (RVs) are a major cause of diarrhea in young children worldwide. The currently available and licensed vaccines contain live attenuated RVs. Optimization of live attenuated RV vaccines or developing non-replicating RV (e.g., mRNA) vaccines is crucial for reducing the morbidity and mortality from RV infections. Herein, a nucleoside-modified mRNA vaccine encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNP) and encoding the VP7 protein from the G1 type of RV was developed. The 5' untranslated region of an isolated human RV was utilized for the mRNA vaccine. After undergoing quality inspection, the VP7-mRNA vaccine was injected by subcutaneous or intramuscular routes into mice. Mice received three injections in 21 d intervals. IgG antibodies, neutralizing antibodies, cellular immunity, and gene expression from peripheral blood mononuclear cells were evaluated. Significant differences in levels of IgG antibodies were not observed in groups with adjuvant but were observed in groups without adjuvant. The vaccine without adjuvant induced the highest antibody titers after intramuscular injection. The vaccine elicited a potent antiviral immune response characterized by antiviral clusters of differentiation CD8+ T cells. VP7-mRNA induced interferon-γ secretion to mediate cellular immune responses. Chemokine-mediated signaling pathways and immune response were activated by VP7-mRNA vaccine injection. The mRNA LNP vaccine will require testing for protective efficacy, and it is an option for preventing rotavirus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yan Zhou
- Correspondence: (Y.Z.); (H.L.); Tel.: +86-13888340684 (Y.Z.); +86-13888918945 (H.L.)
| | - Hongjun Li
- Correspondence: (Y.Z.); (H.L.); Tel.: +86-13888340684 (Y.Z.); +86-13888918945 (H.L.)
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Roier S, Mangala Prasad V, McNeal MM, Lee KK, Petsch B, Rauch S. mRNA-based VP8* nanoparticle vaccines against rotavirus are highly immunogenic in rodents. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:190. [PMID: 38129390 PMCID: PMC10739717 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00790-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the availability of live-attenuated oral vaccines, rotavirus remains a major cause of severe childhood diarrhea worldwide. Due to the growing demand for parenteral rotavirus vaccines, we developed mRNA-based vaccine candidates targeting the viral spike protein VP8*. Our monomeric P2 (universal T cell epitope)-VP8* mRNA design is equivalent to a protein vaccine currently in clinical development, while LS (lumazine synthase)-P2-VP8* was designed to form nanoparticles. Cyro-electron microscopy and western blotting-based data presented here suggest that proteins derived from LS-P2-VP8* mRNA are secreted in vitro and self-assemble into 60-mer nanoparticles displaying VP8*. mRNA encoded VP8* was immunogenic in rodents and introduced both humoral and cellular responses. LS-P2-VP8* induced superior humoral responses to P2-VP8* in guinea pigs, both as monovalent and trivalent vaccines, with encouraging responses detected against the most prevalent P genotypes. Overall, our data provide evidence that trivalent LS-P2-VP8* represents a promising mRNA-based next-generation rotavirus vaccine candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vidya Mangala Prasad
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Monica M McNeal
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kelly K Lee
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Zhang G, Tang T, Chen Y, Huang X, Liang T. mRNA vaccines in disease prevention and treatment. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:365. [PMID: 37726283 PMCID: PMC10509165 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01579-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have emerged as highly effective strategies in the prophylaxis and treatment of diseases, thanks largely although not totally to their extraordinary performance in recent years against the worldwide plague COVID-19. The huge superiority of mRNA vaccines regarding their efficacy, safety, and large-scale manufacture encourages pharmaceutical industries and biotechnology companies to expand their application to a diverse array of diseases, despite the nonnegligible problems in design, fabrication, and mode of administration. This review delves into the technical underpinnings of mRNA vaccines, covering mRNA design, synthesis, delivery, and adjuvant technologies. Moreover, this review presents a systematic retrospective analysis in a logical and well-organized manner, shedding light on representative mRNA vaccines employed in various diseases. The scope extends across infectious diseases, cancers, immunological diseases, tissue damages, and rare diseases, showcasing the versatility and potential of mRNA vaccines in diverse therapeutic areas. Furthermore, this review engages in a prospective discussion regarding the current challenge and potential direction for the advancement and utilization of mRNA vaccines. Overall, this comprehensive review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and industry professionals, providing a comprehensive understanding of the technical aspects, historical context, and future prospects of mRNA vaccines in the fight against various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tianyu Tang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yinfeng Chen
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xing Huang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, 310003, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- The Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, 310009, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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7
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Mbatha LS, Akinyelu J, Maiyo F, Kudanga T. Future prospects in mRNA vaccine development. Biomed Mater 2023; 18:052006. [PMID: 37589309 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/aceceb] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
The recent advancements in messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccine development have vastly enhanced their use as alternatives to conventional vaccines in the prevention of various infectious diseases and treatment of several types of cancers. This is mainly due to their remarkable ability to stimulate specific immune responses with minimal clinical side effects. This review gives a detailed overview of mRNA vaccines currently in use or at various stages of development, the recent advancements in mRNA vaccine development, and the challenges encountered in their development. Future perspectives on this technology are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Londiwe Simphiwe Mbatha
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Durban University of Technology, PO Box 1334, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Jude Akinyelu
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti state, Nigeria
| | - Fiona Maiyo
- Department of Medical Sciences, Kabarak University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Tukayi Kudanga
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, Durban University of Technology, PO Box 1334, Durban 4000, South Africa
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Kyaw T, Drummond G, Bobik A, Peter K. Myocarditis: causes, mechanisms, and evolving therapies. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:225-238. [PMID: 36946552 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2193330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Myocarditis is a severe lymphocyte-mediated inflammatory disorder of the heart, mostly caused by viruses and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Recently, myocarditis as a rare adverse event of mRNA vaccines for SARS-CoV-2 has caused global attention. The clinical consequences of myocarditis can be very severe, but specific treatment options are lacking or not yet clinically proven. AREAS COVERED This paper offers a brief overview of the biology of viruses that frequently cause myocarditis, focusing on mechanisms important for viral entry and replication following host infection. Current and new potential therapeutic targets/strategies especially for viral myocarditis are reviewed systematically. In particular, the immune system in myocarditis is dissected with respect to infective viral and non-infective, ICI-induced myocarditis. EXPERT OPINION Vaccination is an excellent emerging preventative strategy for viral myocarditis, but most vaccines still require further development. Anti-viral treatments that inhibit viral replication need to be considered following viral infection in host myocardium, as lower viral load reduces inflammation severity. Understanding how the immune system continues to damage the heart even after viral clearance will define novel therapeutic targets/strategies. We propose that viral myocarditis can be best treated using a combination of antiviral agents and immunotherapies that control cytotoxic T cell activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tin Kyaw
- Inflammation and Cardiovascular Disease Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute
- Centre for Inflammatory Diseases, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne Melbourne Australia
| | - Grant Drummond
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, La Trobe University Melbourne Australia
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alex Bobik
- Inflammation and Cardiovascular Disease Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute
- Centre for Inflammatory Diseases, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne Melbourne Australia
- Centre for Cardiovascular Biology and Disease Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
- Heart Centre, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Karlheinz Peter
- Inflammation and Cardiovascular Disease Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute
- Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne Melbourne Australia
- Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, La Trobe University Melbourne Australia
- Heart Centre, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Immunology, Monash University Melbourne Australia
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Jiang S, Nan F, Zhang S, Zhang X, Li Z, Yu Z, Liu F, Li J, Zhou X, Niu D, Wang H, Zhang X, Liu W, Yang X, Wang Y, Wang B. CRM197-conjugated multi antigen dominant epitope for effective human cytomegalovirus vaccine development. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 224:79-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.10.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Spencer Clinton JL, Hoornweg TE, Tan J, Peng R, Schaftenaar W, Rutten VPMG, de Haan CAM, Ling PD. EEHV1A glycoprotein B subunit vaccine elicits humoral and cell-mediated immune responses in mice. Vaccine 2022; 40:5131-5140. [PMID: 35879117 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Asian elephants are an endangered species facing many threats, including severe hemorrhagic disease (HD) caused by the elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV). EEHV-HD is the leading cause of death in captive juvenile Asian elephants in North America and Europe, and also affects elephants in their natural range countries. Significant challenges exist for successful treatment of EEHV-HD, which include timely recognition of disease onset and limited availability of highly effective treatment options. To address this problem, our goal is to prevent lethal disease in young elephants by developing a vaccine that elicits robust and durable humoral and cell-mediated immunity against EEHV. EEHV glycoprotein B (gB) is a major target for cellular and humoral immunity in elephants previously exposed to EEHV. Therefore, we generated a vaccine containing recombinant EEHV1A gB together with a liposome formulated TLR-4 and saponin combination adjuvant (SLA-LSQ). CD-1 mice that received one or two vaccinations with the vaccine elicited significant anti-gB antibody and polyfunctional CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses, while no adverse effects of vaccination were observed. Overall, our findings demonstrate that an adjuvanted gB protein subunit vaccine stimulates robust humoral and cell-mediated immune responses and supports its potential use in elephants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Spencer Clinton
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, MS: BCM-385, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Tabitha E Hoornweg
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Jie Tan
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, MS: BCM-385, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Rongsheng Peng
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, MS: BCM-385, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Willem Schaftenaar
- Veterinary Advisor EAZA Elephant TAG, Rotterdam Zoo, Blijdorplaan 8, 3041 JG Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Victor P M G Rutten
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Cornelis A M de Haan
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Paul D Ling
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, 1 Baylor Plaza, MS: BCM-385, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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11
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Bilgilier C, Schneider M, Kührer K, Kilb N, Hartl R, Topakian T, Kastner MT, Herz T, Nelson CS, Permar SR, Roth G, Steininger C. Heterosubtypic, cross-reactive immunity to human Cytomegalovirus glycoprotein B. Clin Exp Immunol 2022; 208:245-254. [PMID: 35395673 PMCID: PMC9188346 DOI: 10.1093/cei/uxac031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) genome is highly variable and heterosubtypic immunity should be considered in vaccine development since it can enhance protection in a cross-reactive manner. Here, we developed a protein array to evaluate heterosubtypic immunity to CMV glycoprotein B (gB) in natural infection and vaccination. DNA sequences of four antigenic domains (AD1, AD2, AD4/5, and AD5) of gB were amplified from six reference and 12 clinical CMV strains, and the most divergent genotypes were determined by phylogenetic analysis. Assigned genotypes were in vitro translated and immobilized on protein array. Then, we tested immune response of variable serum groups (primarily infected patients, reactivated CMV infections and healthy individuals with latent CMV infection, as well gB-vaccinated rabbits) with protein in situ array (PISA). Serum antibodies of all patient cohorts and gB-vaccinated rabbits recognized many genetic variants of ADs on protein array, including but not limited to the subtype of infecting strain. High-grade cross-reactivity was observed. In several patients, we observed none or neglectable immune response to AD1 and AD2, while the same patients showed high antibody response to AD4/5 and AD5. Among the primary infected patients, AD5 was the predominant AD, in antibody response. The most successful CMV vaccine to date contains gB and demonstrates only 50% efficacy. In this study, we showed that heterosubtypic and cross-reactive immunity to CMV gB is extensive. Therefore, the failure of CMV gB vaccines cannot be explained by a highly, strain-specific immunity. Our observations suggest that other CMV antigens should be addressed in vaccine design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ceren Bilgilier
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martina Schneider
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kristina Kührer
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Ramona Hartl
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Thais Topakian
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marie-Theres Kastner
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Cody S Nelson
- Department of Internal Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sallie R Permar
- Department of Pediatrics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Christoph Steininger
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Karl-Landsteiner Society Institute of Microbiome Research, Vienna, Austria
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12
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mRNA Vaccines: Past, Present, Future. Asian J Pharm Sci 2022; 17:491-522. [PMID: 36105317 PMCID: PMC9459002 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajps.2022.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have emerged as promising alternative platforms to conventional vaccines. Their ease of production, low cost, safety profile and high potency render them ideal candidates for prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, especially in the midst of pandemics. The challenges that face in vitro transcribed RNA were partially amended by addition of tethered adjuvants or co-delivery of naked mRNA with an adjuvant-tethered RNA. However, it wasn't until recently that the progress made in nanotechnology helped enhance mRNA stability and delivery by entrapment in novel delivery systems of which, lipid nanoparticles. The continuous advancement in the fields of nanotechnology and tissue engineering provided novel carriers for mRNA vaccines such as polymeric nanoparticles and scaffolds. Various studies have shown the advantages of adopting mRNA vaccines for viral diseases and cancer in animal and human studies. Self-amplifying mRNA is considered today the next generation of mRNA vaccines and current studies reveal promising outcomes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of mRNA vaccines used in past and present studies, and discusses future directions and challenges in advancing this vaccine platform to widespread clinical use.
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13
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Fang E, Liu X, Li M, Zhang Z, Song L, Zhu B, Wu X, Liu J, Zhao D, Li Y. Advances in COVID-19 mRNA vaccine development. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:94. [PMID: 35322018 PMCID: PMC8940982 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-00950-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 186] [Impact Index Per Article: 93.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has determined 399,600,607 cases and 5,757,562 deaths worldwide. COVID-19 is a serious threat to human health globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared COVID-19 pandemic a major public health emergency. Vaccination is the most effective and economical intervention for controlling the spread of epidemics, and consequently saving lives and protecting the health of the population. Various techniques have been employed in the development of COVID-19 vaccines. Among these, the COVID-19 messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine has been drawing increasing attention owing to its great application prospects and advantages, which include short development cycle, easy industrialization, simple production process, flexibility to respond to new variants, and the capacity to induce better immune response. This review summarizes current knowledge on the structural characteristics, antigen design strategies, delivery systems, industrialization potential, quality control, latest clinical trials and real-world data of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines as well as mRNA technology. Current challenges and future directions in the development of preventive mRNA vaccines for major infectious diseases are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enyue Fang
- National Institute for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, 102629, China
- Wuhan Institute of Biological Products, Co., Ltd., Wuhan, 430207, China
| | - Xiaohui Liu
- National Institute for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, 102629, China
| | - Miao Li
- National Institute for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, 102629, China
| | - Zelun Zhang
- National Institute for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, 102629, China
| | - Lifang Song
- National Institute for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, 102629, China
| | - Baiyu Zhu
- Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Xiaohong Wu
- National Institute for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, 102629, China
| | - Jingjing Liu
- National Institute for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, 102629, China
| | - Danhua Zhao
- National Institute for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, 102629, China
| | - Yuhua Li
- National Institute for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, 102629, China.
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14
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Alexander AL, Doyle E, Ingham AB, Colditz I, McRae G, Alkemade S, Cervantes MP, Hine BC. The innate immune stimulant Amplimune® is safe to administer to young feedlot cattle. Aust Vet J 2022; 100:261-270. [PMID: 35224736 PMCID: PMC9306767 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infectious disease has a significant impact on livestock production. Availability of alternatives to antibiotics to prevent and treat disease is required to reduce reliance on antibiotics while not impacting animal welfare. Innate immune stimulants, such as mycobacterium cell wall fractions (MCWF), are used as alternatives to antibiotics for the treatment and prevention of infectious disease in a number of species including cattle, horses and dogs. This study aimed to evaluate the safety of Amplimune®, an MCWF-based immune stimulant, for weaner Angus cattle. METHODS On day -1 and 0, sixty mixed-sex Angus weaner cattle were transported for 6 h before being inducted and housed in a large single pen, simulating feedlot induction conditions. The cattle were assigned to one of six treatment groups (n = 10 per group): 2 mL Amplimune intramuscularly (2IM); 2 mL Amplimune subcutaneously (2SC); 5 mL Amplimune intramuscularly (5IM); 5 mL Amplimune subcutaneously (5SC); 5 mL saline intramuscularly (SalIM) and 5 mL saline subcutaneously (SalSC) on day 0 following transportation. Body temperature, body weight, concentrations of circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-12) and haematology parameters were measured at various times up to 96 h post-treatment. RESULTS No adverse effects from Amplimune treatment were observed. Amplimune induced an increase in circulating cytokine TNFα concentrations, total white blood cell count and lymphocyte counts indicative of activation of the innate immune system without causing an excessive inflammatory response. CONCLUSIONS Results confirm that Amplimune can be safely administered to beef cattle at the dose rates and via the routes of administration investigated here.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Alexander
- The University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, 2350, Australia.,CSIRO Agriculture and Food, F.D. McMaster Laboratory, New England Hwy, Armidale, New South Wales, 2350, Australia
| | - E Doyle
- The University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, 2350, Australia
| | - A B Ingham
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, Queensland Biosciences Precinct, 306 Carmody Rd, St Lucia, Queensland, 4067, Australia
| | - I Colditz
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, F.D. McMaster Laboratory, New England Hwy, Armidale, New South Wales, 2350, Australia
| | - G McRae
- NovaVive Inc., 15 Dairy Avenue, Napanee, Ontario, K7R 1M4, Canada
| | - S Alkemade
- NovaVive Inc., 15 Dairy Avenue, Napanee, Ontario, K7R 1M4, Canada
| | - M P Cervantes
- NovaVive Inc., 15 Dairy Avenue, Napanee, Ontario, K7R 1M4, Canada
| | - B C Hine
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, F.D. McMaster Laboratory, New England Hwy, Armidale, New South Wales, 2350, Australia
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15
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Lipid Nanoparticle Delivery Systems to Enable mRNA-Based Therapeutics. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14020398. [PMID: 35214130 PMCID: PMC8876479 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The world raced to develop vaccines to protect against the rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection upon the recognition of COVID-19 as a global pandemic. A broad spectrum of candidates was evaluated, with mRNA-based vaccines emerging as leaders due to how quickly they were available for emergency use while providing a high level of efficacy. As a modular technology, the mRNA-based vaccines benefitted from decades of advancements in both mRNA and delivery technology prior to the current global pandemic. The fundamental lessons of the utility of mRNA as a therapeutic were pioneered by Dr. Katalin Kariko and her colleagues, perhaps most notably in collaboration with Drew Weissman at University of Pennsylvania, and this foundational work paved the way for the development of the first ever mRNA-based therapeutic authorized for human use, COMIRNATY®. In this Special Issue of Pharmaceutics, we will be honoring Dr. Kariko for her great contributions to the mRNA technology to treat diseases with unmet needs. In this review article, we will focus on the delivery platform, the lipid nanoparticle (LNP) carrier, which allowed the potential of mRNA therapeutics to be realized. Similar to the mRNA technology, the development of LNP systems has been ongoing for decades before culminating in the success of the first clinically approved siRNA-LNP product, ONPATTRO®, a treatment for an otherwise fatal genetic disease called transthyretin amyloidosis. Lessons learned from the siRNA-LNP experience enabled the translation into the mRNA platform with the eventual authorization and approval of the mRNA-LNP vaccines against COVID-19. This marks the beginning of mRNA-LNP as a pharmaceutical option to treat genetic diseases.
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16
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Machado BAS, Hodel KVS, Fonseca LMDS, Mascarenhas LAB, Andrade LPCDS, Rocha VPC, Soares MBP, Berglund P, Duthie MS, Reed SG, Badaró R. The Importance of RNA-Based Vaccines in the Fight against COVID-19: An Overview. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:1345. [PMID: 34835276 PMCID: PMC8623509 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9111345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, vaccine development using ribonucleic acid (RNA) has become the most promising and studied approach to produce safe and effective new vaccines, not only for prophylaxis but also as a treatment. The use of messenger RNA (mRNA) as an immunogenic has several advantages to vaccine development compared to other platforms, such as lower coast, the absence of cell cultures, and the possibility to combine different targets. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of mRNA as a vaccine became more relevant; two out of the four most widely applied vaccines against COVID-19 in the world are based on this platform. However, even though it presents advantages for vaccine application, mRNA technology faces several pivotal challenges to improve mRNA stability, delivery, and the potential to generate the related protein needed to induce a humoral- and T-cell-mediated immune response. The application of mRNA to vaccine development emerged as a powerful tool to fight against cancer and non-infectious and infectious diseases, for example, and represents a relevant research field for future decades. Based on these advantages, this review emphasizes mRNA and self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) for vaccine development, mainly to fight against COVID-19, together with the challenges related to this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Aparecida Souza Machado
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Katharine Valéria Saraiva Hodel
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Larissa Moraes dos Santos Fonseca
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Luís Alberto Brêda Mascarenhas
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Leone Peter Correia da Silva Andrade
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Vinícius Pinto Costa Rocha
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
| | - Milena Botelho Pereira Soares
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador 40296-710, Brazil
| | - Peter Berglund
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102, USA; (P.B.); (M.S.D.); (S.G.R.)
| | - Malcolm S. Duthie
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102, USA; (P.B.); (M.S.D.); (S.G.R.)
| | - Steven G. Reed
- HDT Bio, 1616 Eastlake Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102, USA; (P.B.); (M.S.D.); (S.G.R.)
| | - Roberto Badaró
- SENAI Institute of Innovation (ISI) in Health Advanced Systems (CIMATEC ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Brazil; (K.V.S.H.); (L.M.d.S.F.); (L.A.B.M.); (L.P.C.d.S.A.); (V.P.C.R.); (M.B.P.S.); (R.B.)
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Jeeva S, Kim KH, Shin CH, Wang BZ, Kang SM. An Update on mRNA-Based Viral Vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:965. [PMID: 34579202 PMCID: PMC8473183 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9090965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
With the success of COVID-19 vaccines, newly created mRNA vaccines against other infectious diseases are beginning to emerge. Here, we review the structural elements required for designing mRNA vaccine constructs for effective in vitro synthetic transcription reactions. The unprecedently speedy development of mRNA vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was enabled with previous innovations in nucleoside modifications during in vitro transcription and lipid nanoparticle delivery materials of mRNA. Recent updates are briefly described in the status of mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2, influenza virus, and other viral pathogens. Unique features of mRNA vaccine platforms and future perspectives are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Sang-Moo Kang
- Center for Inflammation, Immunity & Infection, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA; (S.J.); (K.-H.K.); (C.H.S.); (B.-Z.W.)
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18
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Liang Y, Huang L, Liu T. Development and Delivery Systems of mRNA Vaccines. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:718753. [PMID: 34386486 PMCID: PMC8354200 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.718753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2, mRNA vaccine development has undergone a tremendous drive within the pharmaceutical field. In recent years, great progress has been made into mRNA vaccine development, especially in individualized tumor vaccines. mRNA vaccines are a promising approach as the production process is simple, safety profiles are better than those of DNA vaccines, and mRNA-encoded antigens are readily expressed in cells. However, mRNA vaccines also possess some inherent limitations. While side effects such as allergy, renal failure, heart failure, and infarction remain a risk, the vaccine mRNA may also be degraded quickly after administration or cause cytokine storms. This is a substantial challenge for mRNA delivery. However, appropriate carriers can avoid degradation and enhance immune responses, effector presentation, biocompatibility and biosafety. To understand the development and research status of mRNA vaccines, this review focuses on analysis of molecular design, delivery systems and clinical trials of mRNA vaccines, thus highlighting the route for wider development and further clinical trials of mRNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjun Liang
- Key Laboratory of Antibody Engineering of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liping Huang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Center, Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tiancai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Antibody Engineering of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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19
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Evasion of the Host Immune Response by Betaherpesviruses. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147503. [PMID: 34299120 PMCID: PMC8306455 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The human immune system boasts a diverse array of strategies for recognizing and eradicating invading pathogens. Human betaherpesviruses, a highly prevalent subfamily of viruses, include human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), human herpesvirus (HHV) 6A, HHV-6B, and HHV-7. These viruses have evolved numerous mechanisms for evading the host response. In this review, we will highlight the complex interplay between betaherpesviruses and the human immune response, focusing on protein function. We will explore methods by which the immune system first responds to betaherpesvirus infection as well as mechanisms by which viruses subvert normal cellular functions to evade the immune system and facilitate viral latency, persistence, and reactivation. Lastly, we will briefly discuss recent advances in vaccine technology targeting betaherpesviruses. This review aims to further elucidate the dynamic interactions between betaherpesviruses and the human immune system.
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20
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Long X, Qiu Y, Zhang Z, Wu M. Insight for Immunotherapy of HCMV Infection. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:2899-2911. [PMID: 34345215 PMCID: PMC8326118 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.58127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a ubiquitous in humans, has a high prevalence rate. Young people are susceptible to HCMV infection in developing countries, while older individuals are more susceptible in developed countries. Most patients have no obvious symptoms from the primary infection. Studies have indicated that the virus has gradually adapted to the host immune system. Therefore, the control of HCMV infection requires strong immune modulation. With the recent advances in immunotherapy, its application to HCMV infections is receiving increasing attention. Here, we discuss the immune response to HCMV infection, the immune escape mechanism, and the different roles that HCMV plays in various types of immunotherapy, including vaccines, adoptive cell therapy, checkpoint blockade therapy, and targeted antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinmiao Long
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, 410008 , Hunan, China
- Department of Pathogeny Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Yi Qiu
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, 410008 , Hunan, China
- Department of Pathogeny Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Zuping Zhang
- Department of Pathogeny Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Minghua Wu
- Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, 410008 , Hunan, China
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21
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Prevention of Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection with Vaccines: State of the Art. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9050523. [PMID: 34069321 PMCID: PMC8158681 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9050523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common cause of congenital infection and non-genetic sensorineural hearing loss in childhood. Up to 2% of neonates, with the highest percentages found in developing countries, are congenitally infected with CMV. At birth, most of these infants are asymptomatic. However, approximately 10% have signs and symptoms of the disease, and 40–60% of symptomatic neonates will later develop permanent neurologic sequelae. To reduce congenital CMV (cCMV) infection, a vaccine able to prevent primary infection is essential. In this narrative review, actual ongoing research about the development of a CMV vaccine is discussed. The progressive increase in knowledge on the ways in which the host’s immune system and CMV relate has made it possible to clarify that the development of a vaccine that is certainly capable of reducing the risk of cCMV infection, and preventing both primary and nonprimary infections is extremely difficult. Many of the ways in which the virus evades the immune system and causes cCMV infection are not yet fully understood, especially in cases of nonprimary infection. Moreover, the schedule that should be recommended and that subjects must be vaccinated to obtain the greatest effect have not been precisely defined. Further studies are needed before the problem of cCMV infection and its related challenges can be totally solved.
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22
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Kalnin KV, Plitnik T, Kishko M, Zhang J, Zhang D, Beauvais A, Anosova NG, Tibbitts T, DiNapoli J, Ulinski G, Piepenhagen P, Cummings SM, Bangari DS, Ryan S, Huang PWD, Huleatt J, Vincent D, Fries K, Karve S, Goldman R, Gopani H, Dias A, Tran K, Zacharia M, Gu X, Boeglin L, Abysalh J, Vargas J, Beaulieu A, Shah M, Jeannotte T, Gillis K, Chivukula S, Swearingen R, Landolfi V, Fu TM, DeRosa F, Casimiro D. Immunogenicity and efficacy of mRNA COVID-19 vaccine MRT5500 in preclinical animal models. NPJ Vaccines 2021; 6:61. [PMID: 33875658 DOI: 10.1101/2020.10.14.337535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Emergency use authorization of COVID vaccines has brought hope to mitigate pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, there remains a need for additional effective vaccines to meet the global demand and address the potential new viral variants. mRNA technologies offer an expeditious path alternative to traditional vaccine approaches. Here we describe the efforts to utilize an mRNA platform for rational design and evaluations of mRNA vaccine candidates based on the spike (S) glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2. Several mRNA constructs of S-protein, including wild type, a pre-fusion stabilized mutant (2P), a furin cleavage-site mutant (GSAS) and a double mutant form (2P/GSAS), as well as others, were tested in animal models for their capacity to elicit neutralizing antibodies (nAbs). The lead 2P/GSAS candidate was further assessed in dose-ranging studies in mice and Cynomolgus macaques, and for efficacy in a Syrian golden hamster model. The selected 2P/GSAS vaccine formulation, designated MRT5500, elicited potent nAbs as measured in neutralization assays in all three preclinical models and more importantly, protected against SARS-CoV-2-induced weight loss and lung pathology in hamsters. In addition, MRT5500 elicited TH1-biased responses in both mouse and non-human primate (NHP), thus alleviating a hypothetical concern of potential vaccine-associated enhanced respiratory diseases known associated with TH2-biased responses. These data position MRT5500 as a viable vaccine candidate for entering clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Susan Ryan
- Global Discovery Pathology, Sanofi, Framingham, MA, USA
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23
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Lipid nanoparticle encapsulated nucleoside-modified mRNA vaccines elicit polyfunctional HIV-1 antibodies comparable to proteins in nonhuman primates. NPJ Vaccines 2021; 6:50. [PMID: 33837212 PMCID: PMC8035178 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-021-00307-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of an effective AIDS vaccine remains a challenge. Nucleoside-modified mRNAs formulated in lipid nanoparticles (mRNA-LNP) have proved to be a potent mode of immunization against infectious diseases in preclinical studies, and are being tested for SARS-CoV-2 in humans. A critical question is how mRNA-LNP vaccine immunogenicity compares to that of traditional adjuvanted protein vaccines in primates. Here, we show that mRNA-LNP immunization compared to protein immunization elicits either the same or superior magnitude and breadth of HIV-1 Env-specific polyfunctional antibodies. Immunization with mRNA-LNP encoding Zika premembrane and envelope or HIV-1 Env gp160 induces durable neutralizing antibodies for at least 41 weeks. Doses of mRNA-LNP as low as 5 μg are immunogenic in macaques. Thus, mRNA-LNP can be used to rapidly generate single or multi-component vaccines, such as sequential vaccines needed to protect against HIV-1 infection. Such vaccines would be as or more immunogenic than adjuvanted recombinant protein vaccines in primates.
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24
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Choi KY, El-Hamdi NS, McGregor A. A trimeric capable gB CMV vaccine provides limited protection against a highly cell associated and epithelial tropic strain of cytomegalovirus in guinea pigs. J Gen Virol 2021; 102. [PMID: 33729125 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple strains of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) can cause congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) by primary or secondary infection. The viral gB glycoprotein is a leading vaccine candidate, essential for infection of all cell-types, and immunodominant antibody target. Guinea pig cytomegalovirus (GPCMV) is the only small animal model for cCMV. Various gB vaccines have shown efficacy but studies have utilized truncated gB and protection against prototype strain 22122 with preferential tropism to fibroblasts despite encoding a gH-based pentamer complex for non-fibroblast infection. A highly cell-associated novel strain of GPCMV (TAMYC) with 99 % identity in gB sequence to 22122 exhibited preferred tropism to epithelial cells. An adenovirus vaccine encoding full-length gB (AdgB) was highly immunogenic and partially protected against 22122 strain challenge in vaccinated animals but not when challenged with TAMYC strain. GPCMV studies with AdgB vaccine sera on numerous cell-types demonstrated impaired neutralization (NA50) compared to fibroblasts. GPCMV-convalescent sera including pentamer complex antibodies increased virus neutralization on non-fibroblasts and anti-gB depletion from GPCMV-convalescent sera had minimal impact on epithelial cell neutralization. GPCMV(PC+) 22122-convalescent animals challenged with TAMYC exhibited higher protection compared to AdgB vaccine. Overall, results suggest that antibody response to both gB and PC are important components of a GPCMV vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Yeon Choi
- Dept. Microbial Pathogenesis & Immunology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Nadia S El-Hamdi
- Dept. Microbial Pathogenesis & Immunology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Alistair McGregor
- Dept. Microbial Pathogenesis & Immunology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, USA
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25
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Wollner CJ, Richner JM. mRNA Vaccines against Flaviviruses. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:148. [PMID: 33673131 PMCID: PMC7918459 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9020148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous vaccines have now been developed using the mRNA platform. In this approach, mRNA coding for a viral antigen is in vitro synthesized and injected into the host leading to exogenous protein expression and robust immune responses. Vaccines can be rapidly developed utilizing the mRNA platform in the face of emerging pandemics. Additionally, the mRNA coding region can be easily manipulated to test novel hypotheses in order to combat viral infections which have remained refractory to traditional vaccine approaches. Flaviviruses are a diverse family of viruses that cause widespread disease and have pandemic potential. In this review, we discuss the mRNA vaccines which have been developed against diverse flaviviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Justin M. Richner
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
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26
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PrabhuDas M, Piper JM, Jean-Philippe P, Lachowicz-Scroggins M. Immune Regulation, Maternal Infection, Vaccination, and Pregnancy Outcome. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2021; 30:199-206. [PMID: 33232632 PMCID: PMC8020511 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2020.8854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
About 12.5% of all maternal deaths in the United States are due to infectious causes. This proportion, although stable during the past three decades, represents an increase in infectious causes of mortality, as the overall mortality rate in U.S. pregnant women had increased steadily during that same period. During healthy pregnancies, a delicate immunological balance-in which a mother's immune system tolerates the semi-allogeneic fetus yet maintains immune competency against infectious agents-is achieved and maintained. This immunological paradigm, however, results in increased susceptibility to infectious diseases during pregnancy, particularly in later stages and during the early postpartum period. The inflammatory process induced by these infectious insults, as well as some noninfectious insults, occurring during pregnancy can disrupt this carefully achieved balance and, in turn, lead to a state of rampant inflammation, immune activation, and dysregulation with deleterious health outcomes for the mother and fetus. Elucidating mechanisms contributing to the disruption of this immunologic homeostasis, and its disruption by infectious pathogens, might offer opportunities for interventions to reduce maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercy PrabhuDas
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Jeanna M. Piper
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Patrick Jean-Philippe
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
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27
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Saunders KO, Pardi N, Parks R, Santra S, Mu Z, Sutherland L, Scearce R, Barr M, Eaton A, Hernandez G, Goodman D, Hogan MJ, Tombacz I, Gordon DN, Rountree RW, Wang Y, Lewis MG, Pierson TC, Barbosa C, Tam Y, Shen X, Ferrari G, Tomaras GD, Montefiori DC, Weissman D, Haynes BF. Lipid nanoparticle encapsulated nucleoside-modified mRNA vaccines elicit polyfunctional HIV-1 antibodies comparable to proteins in nonhuman primates. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2020:2020.12.30.424745. [PMID: 33398289 PMCID: PMC7781333 DOI: 10.1101/2020.12.30.424745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Development of an effective AIDS vaccine remains a challenge. Nucleoside-modified mRNAs formulated in lipid nanoparticles (mRNA-LNP) have proved to be a potent mode of immunization against infectious diseases in preclinical studies, and are being tested for SARS-CoV-2 in humans. A critical question is how mRNA-LNP vaccine immunogenicity compares to that of traditional adjuvanted protein vaccines in primates. Here, we found that mRNA-LNP immunization compared to protein immunization elicited either the same or superior magnitude and breadth of HIV-1 Env-specific polyfunctional antibodies. Immunization with mRNA-LNP encoding Zika premembrane and envelope (prM-E) or HIV-1 Env gp160 induced durable neutralizing antibodies for at least 41 weeks. Doses of mRNA-LNP as low as 5 μg were immunogenic in macaques. Thus, mRNA-LNP can be used to rapidly generate single or multi-component vaccines, such as sequential vaccines needed to protect against HIV-1 infection. Such vaccines would be as or more immunogenic than adjuvanted recombinant protein vaccines in primates.
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28
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Perotti M, Marcandalli J, Demurtas D, Sallusto F, Perez L. Rationally designed Human Cytomegalovirus gB nanoparticle vaccine with improved immunogenicity. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1009169. [PMID: 33370407 PMCID: PMC7794029 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1009169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is the primary viral cause of congenital birth defects and causes significant morbidity and mortality in immune-suppressed transplant recipients. Despite considerable efforts in vaccine development, HCMV infection still represents an unmet clinical need. In recent phase II trials, a MF59-adjuvanted gB vaccine showed only modest efficacy in preventing infection. These findings might be attributed to low level of antibodies (Abs) with a neutralizing activity induced by this vaccine. Here, we analyzed the immunogenicity of each gB antigenic domain (AD) and demonstrated that domain I of gB (AD5) is the main target of HCMV neutralizing antibodies. Furthermore, we designed, characterized and evaluated immunogenic responses to two different nanoparticles displaying a trimeric AD5 antigen. We showed that mice immunization with nanoparticles induces sera neutralization titers up to 100-fold higher compared to those obtained with the gB extracellular domain (gBECD). Collectively, these results illustrate with a medically relevant example the advantages of using a general approach combining antigen discovery, protein engineering and scaffold presentation for modern development of subunit vaccines against complex pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Perotti
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università della Svizzera italiana, faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Bellinzona, Switzerland.,Institute of Microbiology, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Jessica Marcandalli
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università della Svizzera italiana, faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Davide Demurtas
- BioEM Facility, School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Federica Sallusto
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università della Svizzera italiana, faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Bellinzona, Switzerland.,Institute of Microbiology, ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Laurent Perez
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università della Svizzera italiana, faculty of Biomedical Sciences, Bellinzona, Switzerland.,University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Department of Medicine, Division of Immunology and Allergy, Center for Human Immunology (CHIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
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29
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Maternal Microbiome and Infections in Pregnancy. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8121996. [PMID: 33333813 PMCID: PMC7765218 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8121996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy induces unique changes in maternal immune responses and metabolism. Drastic physiologic adaptations, in an intricately coordinated fashion, allow the maternal body to support the healthy growth of the fetus. The gut microbiome plays a central role in the regulation of the immune system, metabolism, and resistance to infections. Studies have reported changes in the maternal microbiome in the gut, vagina, and oral cavity during pregnancy; it remains unclear whether/how these changes might be related to maternal immune responses, metabolism, and susceptibility to infections during pregnancy. Our understanding of the concerted adaption of these different aspects of the human physiology to promote a successful pregnant remains limited. Here, we provide a comprehensive documentation and discussion of changes in the maternal microbiome in the gut, oral cavity, and vagina during pregnancy, metabolic changes and complications in the mother and newborn that may be, in part, driven by maternal gut dysbiosis, and, lastly, common infections in pregnancy. This review aims to shed light on how dysregulation of the maternal microbiome may underlie obstetrical metabolic complications and infections.
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Where do we Stand after Decades of Studying Human Cytomegalovirus? Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8050685. [PMID: 32397070 PMCID: PMC7284540 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8050685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a linear double-stranded DNA betaherpesvirus belonging to the family of Herpesviridae, is characterized by widespread seroprevalence, ranging between 56% and 94%, strictly dependent on the socioeconomic background of the country being considered. Typically, HCMV causes asymptomatic infection in the immunocompetent population, while in immunocompromised individuals or when transmitted vertically from the mother to the fetus it leads to systemic disease with severe complications and high mortality rate. Following primary infection, HCMV establishes a state of latency primarily in myeloid cells, from which it can be reactivated by various inflammatory stimuli. Several studies have shown that HCMV, despite being a DNA virus, is highly prone to genetic variability that strongly influences its replication and dissemination rates as well as cellular tropism. In this scenario, the few currently available drugs for the treatment of HCMV infections are characterized by high toxicity, poor oral bioavailability, and emerging resistance. Here, we review past and current literature that has greatly advanced our understanding of the biology and genetics of HCMV, stressing the urgent need for innovative and safe anti-HCMV therapies and effective vaccines to treat and prevent HCMV infections, particularly in vulnerable populations.
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