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Patra T, Meyer K, Haga Y, Reagan EK, Weissman D, Ray R. Hepatitis C virus E1 and modified E2 delivered from an mRNA vaccine induces protective immunity. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:42. [PMID: 36934116 PMCID: PMC10024013 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00635-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is characterized by a high number of chronic cases due to an impairment of protective innate and adaptive immune responses. Here, we examined the contribution of the individual ectodomains of E1, E2, or a modified E2 with reduced CD81 binding and an inserted N-linked glycosylation site in combination as vaccine antigen mRNA-lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). The induction of a protective immune response to surrogate recombinant vaccinia virus (VV) expressing homologous HCV glycoprotein(s) challenge infection in a BALB/c mouse model was observed. Vaccination with a mRNA-LNP expressing soluble E1 (sE1) significantly reduced vv/HCV titer in the mouse ovary. However, the addition of sE2 mRNA-LNP for immunization impaired the efficacy of the sE1 construct. Further analysis showed that Th1 related cytokine responses to the sE1 mRNA-LNP were significantly altered in the presence of sE2 following co-immunization. Evaluation of immunogenicity revealed that the use of modified sE2F442NYT nucleoside mRNA-LNP vaccine results in an improved cellular immune response, IgG2a isotype switching, enhanced total IgG, and an increase in the neutralizing antibody response against HCV pseudotype virus. HCV cross genotype specific reactivity to peptides representing conserved E2 specific linear epitopes were enhanced in modified E2 vaccinated animal sera. In the absence of a suitable immunocompetent small animal model for HCV infection, protection from surrogate HCV vaccinia challenge infection model was observed in the immunized mice as compared to sE1 alone or an unmodified sE2 mRNA-LNP vaccine. Inclusion of sE1 with modified sE2F442NYT as mRNA-LNP vaccine candidate appeared to be beneficial for protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tapas Patra
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, Missouri, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Keith Meyer
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, Missouri, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Yuki Haga
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, Missouri, MO, 63104, USA
| | - Erin K Reagan
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Drew Weissman
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Ranjit Ray
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, Missouri, MO, 63104, USA.
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Saint Louis University, Missouri, MO, 63104, USA.
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2
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Lin T, Chi X, Liu X, Pan S, Chen W, Duan H, Zhang X, Yang W. Recombinant Full-Length Hepatitis C Virus E1E2 Dimer Elicits Pangenotypic Neutralizing Antibodies. Front Immunol 2022; 13:831285. [PMID: 35837406 PMCID: PMC9273934 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.831285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
An effective prophylactic vaccine would be beneficial for controlling and eradicating hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. However, the high diversity across HCV genotypes is a major challenge for vaccine development. Selection of the appropriate immunogen is critical to elicit broad HCV neutralizing antibodies (NAbs). To increase the antigenic coverage of heterodimer glycoproteins, we designed and produced recombinant E1E2 antigens for genotypes 1a/1b/2a/3a/6a from an IgG Fc-tagged precursor protein in FreeStyle 293-F cells. The recombinant E1 and E2 antigens were localized and associated with the endoplasmic reticulum and co-purified from membrane extracts. By examining the interactions with HCV entry co-receptors and the blockade of HCV infection, we found that these purified Fc-E1E2 proteins displayed correct folding and function. Mouse immunization results showed that each recombinant E1E2 antigen could elicit a pangenotypic antibody response to itself and other genotypes. We also found that the pentavalent formula triggered a relatively higher and more uniform NAb titer and T cell response than monovalent antigens. Taken together, our findings may provide a useful strategy for the vaccine development of HCV and other viruses with highly heterogeneous surface glycoproteins.
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3
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Virus-Like Particles Containing the E2 Core Domain of Hepatitis C Virus Generate Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies in Guinea Pigs. J Virol 2022; 96:e0167521. [PMID: 34986001 PMCID: PMC8906423 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01675-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A vaccine to prevent hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is urgently needed for use alongside direct-acting antiviral drugs to achieve elimination targets. We have previously shown that a soluble recombinant form of the glycoprotein E2 ectodomain (residues 384 to 661) that lacks three variable regions (Δ123) is able to elicit a higher titer of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) than the parental form (receptor-binding domain [RBD]). In this study, we engineered a viral nanoparticle that displays HCV glycoprotein E2 on a duck hepatitis B virus (DHBV) small surface antigen (S) scaffold. Four variants of E2-S virus-like particles (VLPs) were constructed: Δ123-S, RBD-S, Δ123A7-S, and RBDA7-S; in the last two, 7 cysteines were replaced with alanines. While all four E2-S variant VLPs display E2 as a surface antigen, the Δ123A7-S and RBDA7-S VLPs were the most efficiently secreted from transfected mammalian cells and displayed epitopes recognized by cross-genotype broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (bNMAbs). Both Δ123A7-S and RBDA7-S VLPs were immunogenic in guinea pigs, generating high titers of antibodies reactive to native E2 and able to prevent the interaction between E2 and the cellular receptor CD81. Four out of eight animals immunized with Δ123A7-S elicited neutralizing antibodies (NAbs), with three of those animals generating bNAbs against 7 genotypes. Immune serum generated by animals with NAbs mapped to major neutralization epitopes located at residues 412 to 420 (epitope I) and antigenic region 3. VLPs that display E2 glycoproteins represent a promising vaccine platform for HCV and could be adapted to large-scale manufacturing in yeast systems. IMPORTANCE There is currently no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C virus infection, which affects more than 71 million people globally and is a leading cause of progressive liver disease, including cirrhosis and cancer. Broadly neutralizing antibodies that recognize the E2 envelope glycoprotein can protect against heterologous viral infection and correlate with viral clearance in humans. However, broadly neutralizing antibodies are difficult to generate due to conformational flexibility of the E2 protein and epitope occlusion. Here, we show that a VLP vaccine using the duck hepatitis B virus S antigen fused to HCV glycoprotein E2 assembles into virus-like particles that display epitopes recognized by broadly neutralizing antibodies and elicit such antibodies in guinea pigs. This platform represents a novel HCV vaccine candidate amenable to large-scale manufacture at low cost.
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Worldwide prevalence, genotype distribution and management of hepatitis C. Acta Gastroenterol Belg 2021; 84:637-656. [PMID: 34965046 DOI: 10.51821/84.4.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is one of the leading causes of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, resulting in major global public health concerns. The HCV infection is unevenly distributed worldwide, with variations in prevalence across and within countries. The studies on molecular epidemiology conducted in several countries provide an essential supplement for a comprehensive knowledge of HCV epidemiology, genotypes, and subtypes, along with providing information on the impact of current and earlier migratory flows. HCV is phylogenetically classified into 8 major genotypes and 57 subtypes. HCV genotype and subtype distribution differ according to geographic origin and transmission risk category. Unless people with HCV infection are detected and treated appropriately, the number of deaths due to the disease will continue to increase. In 2015, 1.75 million new viral infections were mostly due to unsafe healthcare procedures and drug use injections. In the same year, access to direct-acting antivirals was challenging and varied in developing and developed countries, affecting HCV cure rates based on their availability. The World Health Assembly, in 2016, approved a global strategy to achieve the elimination of the HCV public health threat by 2030 (by reducing new infections by 90% and deaths by 65%). Globally, countries are implementing policies and measures to eliminate HCV risk based on their distribution of genotypes and prevalence.
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5
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From Structural Studies to HCV Vaccine Design. Viruses 2021; 13:v13050833. [PMID: 34064532 PMCID: PMC8147963 DOI: 10.3390/v13050833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a serious and growing public health problem despite recent developments of antiviral therapeutics. To achieve global elimination of HCV, an effective cross-genotype vaccine is needed. The failure of previous vaccination trials to elicit an effective cross-reactive immune response demands better vaccine antigens to induce a potent cross-neutralizing response to improve vaccine efficacy. HCV E1 and E2 envelope (Env) glycoproteins are the main targets for neutralizing antibodies (nAbs), which aid in HCV clearance and protection. Therefore, a molecular-level understanding of the nAb responses against HCV is imperative for the rational design of cross-genotype vaccine antigens. Here we summarize the recent advances in structural studies of HCV Env and Env-nAb complexes and how they improve our understanding of immune recognition of HCV. We review the structural data defining HCV neutralization epitopes and conformational plasticity of the Env proteins, and the knowledge applicable to rational vaccine design.
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Hepatitis C virus vaccine design: focus on the humoral immune response. J Biomed Sci 2020; 27:78. [PMID: 32631318 PMCID: PMC7338099 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-020-00669-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the recent development of safe and highly effective direct-acting antivirals, hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains a significant health problem. In 2016, the World Health Organization set out to reduce the rate of new HCV infections by 90% by 2030. Still, global control of the virus does not seem to be achievable in the absence of an effective vaccine. Current approaches to the development of a vaccine against HCV include the production of recombinant proteins, synthetic peptides, DNA vaccines, virus-like particles, and viral vectors expressing various antigens. In this review, we focus on the development of vaccines targeting the humoral immune response against HCV based on the cumulative evidence supporting the important role of neutralizing antibodies in protection against HCV infection. The main targets of HCV-specific neutralizing antibodies are the glycoproteins E1 and E2. Recent advances in the knowledge of HCV glycoprotein structure and their epitopes, as well as the possibility of getting detailed information on the human antibody repertoire generated by the infection, will allow rational structure-based antigen design to target specific germline antibodies. Although obtaining a vaccine capable of inducing sterilizing immunity will be a difficult task, a vaccine that prevents chronic hepatitis C infections, a more realistic goal in the short term, would have a considerable health impact.
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Sepulveda-Crespo D, Resino S, Martinez I. Innate Immune Response against Hepatitis C Virus: Targets for Vaccine Adjuvants. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8020313. [PMID: 32560440 PMCID: PMC7350220 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8020313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite successful treatments, hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections continue to be a significant world health problem. High treatment costs, the high number of undiagnosed individuals, and the difficulty to access to treatment, particularly in marginalized susceptible populations, make it improbable to achieve the global control of the virus in the absence of an effective preventive vaccine. Current vaccine development is mostly focused on weakly immunogenic subunits, such as surface glycoproteins or non-structural proteins, in the case of HCV. Adjuvants are critical components of vaccine formulations that increase immunogenic performance. As we learn more information about how adjuvants work, it is becoming clear that proper stimulation of innate immunity is crucial to achieving a successful immunization. Several hepatic cell types participate in the early innate immune response and the subsequent inflammation and activation of the adaptive response, principally hepatocytes, and antigen-presenting cells (Kupffer cells, and dendritic cells). Innate pattern recognition receptors on these cells, mainly toll-like receptors, are targets for new promising adjuvants. Moreover, complex adjuvants that stimulate different components of the innate immunity are showing encouraging results and are being incorporated in current vaccines. Recent studies on HCV-vaccine adjuvants have shown that the induction of a strong T- and B-cell immune response might be enhanced by choosing the right adjuvant.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Salvador Resino
- Correspondence: (S.R.); (I.M.); Tel.: +34-91-8223266 (S.R.); +34-91-8223272 (I.M.); Fax: +34-91-5097919 (S.R. & I.M.)
| | - Isidoro Martinez
- Correspondence: (S.R.); (I.M.); Tel.: +34-91-8223266 (S.R.); +34-91-8223272 (I.M.); Fax: +34-91-5097919 (S.R. & I.M.)
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8
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Duncan JD, Urbanowicz RA, Tarr AW, Ball JK. Hepatitis C Virus Vaccine: Challenges and Prospects. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8010090. [PMID: 32079254 PMCID: PMC7157504 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8010090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) causes both acute and chronic infection and continues to be a global problem despite advances in antiviral therapeutics. Current treatments fail to prevent reinfection and remain expensive, limiting their use to developed countries, and the asymptomatic nature of acute infection can result in individuals not receiving treatment and unknowingly spreading HCV. A prophylactic vaccine is therefore needed to control this virus. Thirty years since the discovery of HCV, there have been major gains in understanding the molecular biology and elucidating the immunological mechanisms that underpin spontaneous viral clearance, aiding rational vaccine design. This review discusses the challenges facing HCV vaccine design and the most recent and promising candidates being investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua D. Duncan
- School of Life Sciences, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (R.A.U.); (A.W.T.); (J.K.B.)
- NIHR Nottingham BRC, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Richard A. Urbanowicz
- School of Life Sciences, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (R.A.U.); (A.W.T.); (J.K.B.)
- NIHR Nottingham BRC, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Alexander W. Tarr
- School of Life Sciences, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (R.A.U.); (A.W.T.); (J.K.B.)
- NIHR Nottingham BRC, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Jonathan K. Ball
- School of Life Sciences, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (R.A.U.); (A.W.T.); (J.K.B.)
- NIHR Nottingham BRC, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
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9
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Abstract
Evidence for the existence of another hepatitis-causing pathogen, other than the known hepatitis A and B viruses, emerged in the mid-1970s. A frustrating search of 15 years was ended by the identification of the hepatitis C virus in 1989 using a recombinant DNA immunoscreening method. This discovery quickly led to blood tests that eliminated posttransfusion hepatitis C and could show the partial efficacy of type 1 interferon-based therapies. Subsequent knowledge of the viral replication cycle then led to the development of effective direct-acting antivirals targeting its serine protease, polymerase, and nonstructural protein 5A that resulted in the approval of orally available drug combinations that can cure patients within a few months with few side effects. Meanwhile, vaccine strategies have been shown to be feasible, and they are still required to effectively control this global epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Houghton
- Li Ka Shing Applied Virology Institute, Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E1, Canada
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10
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A Recombinant Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 1a E1/E2 Envelope Glycoprotein Vaccine Elicits Antibodies That Differentially Neutralize Closely Related 2a Strains through Interactions of the N-Terminal Hypervariable Region 1 of E2 with Scavenger Receptor B1. J Virol 2019; 93:JVI.00810-19. [PMID: 31462563 PMCID: PMC6819942 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00810-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A vaccine is still urgently needed to overcome the hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic. It is estimated that 1.75 million new HCV infections occur each year, many of which will go undiagnosed and untreated. Untreated HCV can lead to continued spread of the disease, progressive liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and eventually, end-stage liver disease and/or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Previously, our 1a E1/E2 glycoprotein vaccine was shown to elicit broadly cross-neutralizing antibodies; however, there remains variation in the effectiveness of these antibodies against different HCV genotypes. In this study, we investigated determinants of differential neutralization sensitivity between two highly related genotype 2a isolates, J6 and JFH-1. Our data indicate that the HVR1 region determines neutralization sensitivity to vaccine antisera through modulation of sensitivity to antibodies and interactions with SR-B1. Our results provide additional insight into optimizing a broadly neutralizing HCV vaccine. The global health burden for hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains high, despite available effective treatments. To eliminate HCV, a prophylactic vaccine is needed. One major challenge in the development of a vaccine is the genetic diversity of the virus, with 7 major genotypes and many subtypes. A global vaccine must be effective against all HCV genotypes. Our previous data showed that the 1a E1/E2 glycoprotein vaccine component elicits broad cross-neutralizing antibodies in humans and animals. However, some variation is seen in the effectiveness of these antibodies to neutralize different HCV genotypes and isolates. Of interest was the differences in neutralizing activity against two closely related isolates of HCV genotype 2a, the J6 and JFH-1 strains. Using site-directed mutagenesis to generate chimeric viruses between the J6 and JFH-1 strains, we found that variant amino acids within the core E2 glycoprotein domain of these two HCV genotype 2a viruses do not influence isolate-specific neutralization. Further analysis revealed that the N-terminal hypervariable region 1 (HVR1) of the E2 protein determines the sensitivity of isolate-specific neutralization, and the HVR1 of the resistant J6 strain binds scavenger receptor class-B type-1 (SR-B1), while the sensitive JFH-1 strain does not. Our data provide new information on mechanisms of isolate-specific neutralization to facilitate the optimization of a much-needed HCV vaccine. IMPORTANCE A vaccine is still urgently needed to overcome the hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic. It is estimated that 1.75 million new HCV infections occur each year, many of which will go undiagnosed and untreated. Untreated HCV can lead to continued spread of the disease, progressive liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and eventually, end-stage liver disease and/or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Previously, our 1a E1/E2 glycoprotein vaccine was shown to elicit broadly cross-neutralizing antibodies; however, there remains variation in the effectiveness of these antibodies against different HCV genotypes. In this study, we investigated determinants of differential neutralization sensitivity between two highly related genotype 2a isolates, J6 and JFH-1. Our data indicate that the HVR1 region determines neutralization sensitivity to vaccine antisera through modulation of sensitivity to antibodies and interactions with SR-B1. Our results provide additional insight into optimizing a broadly neutralizing HCV vaccine.
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11
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Kinchen VJ, Massaccesi G, Flyak AI, Mankowski MC, Colbert MD, Osburn WO, Ray SC, Cox AL, Crowe JE, Bailey JR. Plasma deconvolution identifies broadly neutralizing antibodies associated with hepatitis C virus clearance. J Clin Invest 2019; 129:4786-4796. [PMID: 31408439 DOI: 10.1172/jci130720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A vaccine for hepatitis C virus (HCV) is urgently needed. Development of broadly-neutralizing plasma antibodies during acute infection is associated with HCV clearance, but the viral epitopes of these plasma antibodies are unknown. Identification of these epitopes could define the specificity and function of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) that should be induced by a vaccine. Here, we present development and application of a high-throughput method that deconvolutes polyclonal anti-HCV NAbs in plasma, delineating the epitope specificities of anti-HCV NAbs in acute infection plasma of forty-four humans with subsequent clearance or persistence of HCV. Remarkably, we identified multiple broadly neutralizing antibody (bNAb) combinations that were associated with greater plasma neutralizing breadth and with HCV clearance. These studies have potential to inform new strategies for vaccine development by identifying bNAb combinations in plasma associated with natural clearance of HCV, while also providing a high-throughput assay that could identify these responses after vaccination trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie J Kinchen
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Guido Massaccesi
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Andrew I Flyak
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Madeleine C Mankowski
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michelle D Colbert
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - William O Osburn
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Stuart C Ray
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Andrea L Cox
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - James E Crowe
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center.,Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, and.,Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Justin R Bailey
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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12
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Masavuli MG, Wijesundara DK, Underwood A, Christiansen D, Earnest-Silveira L, Bull R, Torresi J, Gowans EJ, Grubor-Bauk B. A Hepatitis C Virus DNA Vaccine Encoding a Secreted, Oligomerized Form of Envelope Proteins Is Highly Immunogenic and Elicits Neutralizing Antibodies in Vaccinated Mice. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1145. [PMID: 31178869 PMCID: PMC6543710 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) persistently infects approximately 71 million people globally. To prevent infection a vaccine which elicits neutralizing antibodies against the virus envelope proteins (E1/E2) which are required for entry into host cells is desirable. DNA vaccines are cost-effective to manufacture globally and despite recent landmark studies highlighting the therapeutic efficacy of DNA vaccines in humans against cervical cancer, DNA vaccines encoding E1/E2 developed thus far are poorly immunogenic. We now report a novel and highly immunogenic DNA vaccination strategy that incorporates secreted E1 and E2 (sE1 and sE2) into oligomers by fusion with the oligomerization domain of the C4b-binding protein, IMX313P. The FDA approved plasmid, pVax, was used to encode sE1, sE2, or sE1E2 with or without IMX313P, and intradermal prime-boost vaccination studies in BALB/c mice showed that vaccines encoding IMX313P were the most effective in eliciting humoral and cell-mediated immunity against the envelope proteins. Further boosting with recombinant E1E2 proteins but not DNA nor virus-like particles (VLPs) expressing E1E2 increased the immunogenicity of the DNA prime-boost regimen. Nevertheless, the antibodies generated by the homologous DNA prime-boost vaccinations more effectively inhibited the binding of VLPs to target cells and neutralized transduction with HCV pseudoparticles (HCVpp) derived from different genotypes including genotypes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This report provides the first evidence that IMX313P can be used as an adjuvant for E1/E2-based DNA vaccines and represents a translatable approach for the development of a HCV DNA vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makutiro Ghislain Masavuli
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Medicine, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Danushka K Wijesundara
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Medicine, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Alexander Underwood
- Faculty of Medicine, The Kirby Institute, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Dale Christiansen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Linda Earnest-Silveira
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Rowena Bull
- Faculty of Medicine, The Kirby Institute, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Joseph Torresi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Eric J Gowans
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Medicine, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Branka Grubor-Bauk
- Virology Laboratory, Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Medicine, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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13
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Kwon YC, Meyer K, Peng G, Chatterjee S, Hoft DF, Ray R. Hepatitis C Virus E2 Envelope Glycoprotein Induces an Immunoregulatory Phenotype in Macrophages. Hepatology 2019; 69:1873-1884. [PMID: 29443378 PMCID: PMC6092255 DOI: 10.1002/hep.29843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
A comprehensive strategy to control hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection needs a vaccine. Our phase I study with recombinant HCV E1/E2 envelope glycoprotein (EnvGPs) as a candidate vaccine did not induce a strong immune response in volunteers. We analyzed the interactions of HCV EnvGPs with human monocyte-derived macrophages as antigen-presenting cells. HCV E2 induced immune regulatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-10 and soluble CD163 (sCD163) protein expression in macrophages from 7 of 9 blood donors tested. Furthermore, HCV E2 enhanced Stat3 and suppressed Stat1 activation, reflecting macrophage polarization toward M2 phenotype. E2-associated macrophage polarization appeared to be dependent of its interaction with CD81 leading endothelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) activation. Additionally, E2 suppressed the expression of C3 complement, similar to HCV-exposed dendritic cells (DCs), implying potential impairment of immune cell priming. Conclusion: Our results suggest that E2 EnvGP may not be an ideal candidate for HCV vaccine development, and discrete domains within E2 may prove to be more capable of elliciting a protective immune response. (Hepatology 2018).
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Chan Kwon
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA
| | - Keith Meyer
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA
| | - Guangyong Peng
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA,Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA
| | - Soumya Chatterjee
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA,Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA
| | - Daniel F Hoft
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA,Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA
| | - Ranjit Ray
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA,Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, Saint Louis University, Missouri, USA
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14
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Abstract
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) enable rapid detection and quantitation of antibodies in samples. Such assays can be highly sensitive and can be performed in most laboratories with basic equipment. Although detecting binding antibodies to the surface proteins of most pathogens by ELISA is not always indicative of antibody function, i.e., neutralizing activity of antibodies, the results can be used as a first step toward more in-depth analysis of antibody responses. Here we describe a method that can be used to standardize ELISAs for the detection of HCV envelope antibodies across laboratories and provide adaptations of the method to further characterize antibody responses in serum samples.
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15
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Luxenburger H, Neumann-Haefelin C, Thimme R, Boettler T. HCV-Specific T Cell Responses During and After Chronic HCV Infection. Viruses 2018; 10:v10110645. [PMID: 30453612 PMCID: PMC6265781 DOI: 10.3390/v10110645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV)-specific T cell responses are closely linked to the clinical course of infection. While T cell responses in self-limiting infection are typically broad and multi-specific, they display several distinct features of functional impairment in the chronic phase. Moreover, HCV readily adapts to immune pressure by developing escape mutations within epitopes targeted by T cells. Much of our current knowledge on HCV-specific T cell responses has been gathered under the assumption that this might eventually pave the way for a therapeutic vaccine. However, with the development of highly efficient direct acting antivirals (DAAs), there is less interest in the development of a therapeutic vaccine for HCV and the scope of T cell research has shifted. Indeed, the possibility to rapidly eradicate an antigen that has persisted over years or decades, and has led to T cell exhaustion and dysfunction, provides the unique opportunity to study potential T cell recovery after antigen cessation in a human in vivo setting. Findings from such studies not only improve our basic understanding of T cell immunity but may also advance immunotherapeutic approaches in cancer or chronic hepatitis B and D infection. Moreover, in order to edge closer to the WHO goal of HCV elimination by 2030, a prophylactic vaccine is clearly required. Thus, in this review, we will summarize our current knowledge on HCV-specific T cell responses and also provide an outlook on the open questions that require answers in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hendrik Luxenburger
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Christoph Neumann-Haefelin
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Robert Thimme
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Tobias Boettler
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany.
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16
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Multifaceted characterization of recombinant protein-based vaccines: An immunochemical toolbox for epitope-specific analyses of the hepatitis E vaccine. Vaccine 2018; 36:7650-7658. [PMID: 30396752 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.10.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The integrity of functional epitopes is a critical quality attribute for recombinant protein based vaccines since the presence of these native-like epitopes is the structural basis for vaccines to elicit functional antibodies. To demonstrate the quality and quantity of functional epitopes on vaccine antigens, a toolbox of assessing antigen characteristics is essential. Among the physicochemical, biophysical, immunochemical and in vivo potency analyses, the epitope-specific assays are most critical assessment of the antigen functionality. In this study, we used hepatitis E virus vaccine as an example to illustrated how the monoclonal antibody (mAb) based immunochemical assays were established for in-depth and multifaceted antigen characterization. A large panel of mAbs were developed and characterized using epitope clustering analysis. A subset of these mAbs recognizing non-overlapping epitopes were chosen to be used for assay development. Orthogonal methods, including surface plasma resonance-based BIAcore, solution competitive ELISA and sandwich ELISA, were developed for the antigenicity assessment. The sandwich ELISA with a pair of mAbs, recognizing two different epitopes, was used to assess the accelerated antigen stability, showing enhanced stability with adjuvant adsorption. Such a sandwich ELISA with robust performance has the potentials to be used for in vitro potency analysis to replace animal-based potency assay as product release test. In summary, using hepatitis E vaccine as an example, we demonstrated the importance and establishment of a mAb-based immunochemical toolbox for multifaceted antigen characterization. This is particularly important to demonstrate the successful reconstruction of the native-like and functional epitopes on a recombinant antigen post expression and purification. These epitope-specific and multifaceted assays serve as critical tools for process monitoring or lot consistency tests in support of vaccine development and manufacturing.
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17
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Law JLM, Logan M, Landi A, Tyrrell DL, Houghton M. Progress toward approval of an HCV vaccine. CANADIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2018; 1:130-138. [DOI: 10.3138/canlivj.2018.0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
New effective drugs to treat hepatitis C (HCV) promise to cure nearly all patients, but relying solely on antivirals without an effective vaccine has been ineffective in eliminating all other infectious diseases. A prophylactic HCV vaccine needs to be developed. Along with increased screening and drug coverage, an effective vaccine could make it possible to meet the World Health Organization’s target to eliminate HCV by 2030. On the basis of recent knowledge of immune correlates of protection combined with the demonstrated immunogenicity and protective animal efficacies of various HCV vaccine candidates, there is a possibility that a prophylactic HCV vaccine is on the horizon. This article summarizes the current status of a prophylactic HCV vaccine. Elicitation of cross-neutralizing antibodies and broad cellular immune responses are likely needed to overcome this highly diverse virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- John LM Law
- 1Li Ka Shing Applied Virology Institute, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
| | - Mike Logan
- 1Li Ka Shing Applied Virology Institute, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
| | - Amir Landi
- 1Li Ka Shing Applied Virology Institute, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
| | - D Lorne Tyrrell
- 1Li Ka Shing Applied Virology Institute, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
| | - Michael Houghton
- 1Li Ka Shing Applied Virology Institute, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
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18
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Tarr AW, Backx M, Hamed MR, Urbanowicz RA, McClure CP, Brown RJP, Ball JK. Immunization with a synthetic consensus hepatitis C virus E2 glycoprotein ectodomain elicits virus-neutralizing antibodies. Antiviral Res 2018; 160:25-37. [PMID: 30217650 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2018.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Revised: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Global eradication of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection will require an efficacious vaccine capable of eliciting protective immunity against genetically diverse HCV strains. Natural spontaneous resolution of HCV infection is associated with production of broadly-neutralizing antibodies targeting the HCV glycoproteins E1 and E2. As such, production of cross-neutralizing antibodies is an important endpoint for experimental vaccine trials. Varying success generating cross-neutralizing antibodies has been achieved with immunogens derived from naturally-occurring HCV strains. In this study the challenge of minimising the genetic diversity between the vaccine strain and circulating HCV isolates was addressed. Two novel synthetic E2 glycoprotein immunogens (NotC1 and NotC2) were derived from consensus nucleotide sequences deduced from samples of circulating genotype 1 HCV strains. These two synthetic sequences differed in their relative positions in the overall genotype 1a/1b phylogeny. Expression of these constructs in Drosophila melanogaster S2 cells resulted in high yields of correctly-folded, monomeric E2 protein, which were recognised by broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibodies. Immunization of guinea pigs with either of these consensus immunogens, or a comparable protein representing a circulating genotype 1a strain resulted in high titres of cross-reactive anti-E2 antibodies. All immunogens generated antibodies capable of neutralizing the H77 strain, but NotC1 elicited antibodies that more potently neutralized virus entry. These vaccine-induced antibodies neutralized some viruses representing genotype 1, but not strains representing genotype 2 or genotype 3. Thus, while this approach to vaccine design resulted in correctly folded, immunogenic protein, cross-neutralizing epitopes were not preferentially targeted by the host immune response generated by this immunogen. Greater immunofocussing of vaccines to common epitopes is necessary to successfully elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander W Tarr
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK; School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Matthijs Backx
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK; School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Mohamed R Hamed
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK; School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt
| | - Richard A Urbanowicz
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK; School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - C Patrick McClure
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK; School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Richard J P Brown
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK; School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Jonathan K Ball
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK; School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
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19
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Induction of neutralizing antibody response against koala retrovirus (KoRV) and reduction in viral load in koalas following vaccination with recombinant KoRV envelope protein. NPJ Vaccines 2018; 3:30. [PMID: 30083396 PMCID: PMC6072795 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-018-0066-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Koala retrovirus (KoRV) infects the majority of Australia’s koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) and has been linked to several life-threatening diseases such as lymphoma and leukemia, as well as Chlamydia and thus poses a threat to the continued survival of this species. While quarantine and antiretroviral drug treatment are possible control measures, they are impractical, leaving vaccination as the only realistic option. In this study, we examined the effect of a recombinant envelope protein-based anti-KoRV vaccine in two groups of South Australian koalas: KoRV infected or KoRV free. We report a successful vaccination response in the koalas with no vaccine-associated side effects. The vaccine induced a significant humoral immune response as well as the production of neutralizing antibodies in both groups of koalas. We also identified B-cell epitopes that were differentially recognized in KoRV-infected versus KoRV-free koalas following vaccination. Importantly, we also showed that vaccination had a therapeutic effect on koalas infected exogenously with KoRV by reducing their circulating viral load. Together, this study highlights the possibility of successfully developing a vaccine against KoRV infection in koalas. A vaccine candidate for Koala retrovirus elicits a protective antibody response and reduces the viral load in already-infected koalas. Koala retrovirus (KoRV), first identified in the last 20 years, is a life-threatening, endemic pathogen affecting Australian koalas. In pursuit of an effective KoRV vaccine, the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Peter Timms led a group of Australian scientists to develop a candidate based on the transmembrane section of the virus’ envelope protein. The six koalas vaccinated in the study all generated a strong antibody response to the envelope protein, and a strong neutralizing antibody response was reported during in vitro tests. Vaccinated koalas with pre-existing KoRV infection benefited from an average 79% reduction in viral load when measured 12 weeks after vaccination. Further research should be prioritized to provide much-needed protection to Australia’s koalas.
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20
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Shoukry NH. Hepatitis C Vaccines, Antibodies, and T Cells. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1480. [PMID: 30002657 PMCID: PMC6031729 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of vaccines that protect against persistent hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remain a public health priority. The broad use of highly effective direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) is unlikely to achieve HCV elimination without vaccines that can limit viral transmission. Two vaccines targeting either the antibody or the T cell response are currently in preclinical or clinical trials. Next-generation vaccines will likely involve a combination of these two strategies. This review summarizes the state of knowledge about the immune protective role of HCV-specific antibodies and T cells and the current vaccine strategies. In addition, it discusses the potential efficacy of vaccination in DAA-cured individuals. Finally, it summarizes the challenges to vaccine development and the collaborative efforts required to overcome them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naglaa H Shoukry
- Centre de Recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC, Canada.,Département de médecine, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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21
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Guest JD, Pierce BG. Computational Modeling of Hepatitis C Virus Envelope Glycoprotein Structure and Recognition. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1117. [PMID: 29892287 PMCID: PMC5985375 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major global health concern, and though therapeutic options have improved, no vaccine is available despite decades of research. As HCV can rapidly mutate to evade the immune response, an effective HCV vaccine must rely on identification and characterization of sites critical for broad immune protection and viral neutralization. This knowledge depends on structural and mechanistic insights of the E1 and E2 envelope glycoproteins, which assemble as a heterodimer on the surface of the virion, engage coreceptors during host cell entry, and are the primary targets of antibodies. Due to the challenges in determining experimental structures, structural information on E1 and E2 and their interaction is relatively limited, providing opportunities to model the structures, interactions, and dynamics of these proteins. This review highlights efforts to model the E2 glycoprotein structure, the assembly of the functional E1E2 heterodimer, the structure and binding of human coreceptors, and recognition by key neutralizing antibodies. We also discuss a comparison of recently described models of full E1E2 heterodimer structures, a simulation of the dynamics of key epitope sites, and modeling glycosylation. These modeling efforts provide useful mechanistic hypotheses for further experimental studies of HCV envelope assembly, recognition, and viral fitness, and underscore the benefit of combining experimental and computational modeling approaches to reveal new insights. Additionally, computational design approaches have produced promising candidates for epitope-based vaccine immunogens that specifically target key epitopes, providing a possible avenue to optimize HCV vaccines versus using native glycoproteins. Advancing knowledge of HCV envelope structure and immune recognition is highly applicable toward the development of an effective vaccine for HCV and can provide lessons and insights relevant to modeling and characterizing other viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johnathan D Guest
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, Rockville, MD, United States.,Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Brian G Pierce
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, Rockville, MD, United States.,Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
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22
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Abstract
Current evidence supports a protective role for virus-neutralizing antibodies in immunity against hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Many cross-neutralizing monoclonal antibodies have been identified. These antibodies have been shown to provide protection or to clear infection in animal models. Previous clinical trials have shown that a gpE1/gpE2 vaccine can induce antibodies that neutralize the in vitro infectivity of all the major cell culture-derived HCV (HCVcc) genotypes around the world. However, cross-neutralization appeared to favor certain genotypes, with significant but lower neutralization against others. HCV may employ epitope masking to avoid antibody-mediated neutralization. Hypervariable region 1 (HVR1) at the amino terminus of glycoprotein E2 has been shown to restrict access to many neutralizing antibodies. Consistent with this, other groups have reported that recombinant viruses lacking HVR1 are hypersensitive to neutralization. It has been proposed that gpE1/gpE2 lacking this domain could be a better vaccine antigen to induce broadly neutralizing antibodies. In this study, we examined the immunogenicity of recombinant gpE1/gpE2 lacking HVR1 (ΔHVR1). Our results indicate that wild-type (WT) and ΔHVR1 gpE1/gpE2 antigens induced antibodies targeting many well-characterized cross-genotype-neutralizing epitopes. However, while the WT gpE1/gpE2 vaccine can induce cross-genotype protection against various genotypes of HCVcc and/or HCV-pseudotyped virus (HCVpp), antisera from ΔHVR1 gpE1/gpE2-immunized animals exhibited either reduced homologous neutralization activity compared to that of the WT or heterologous neutralization activity similar to that of the WT. These data suggest that ΔHVR1 gpE1/gpE2 is not a superior vaccine antigen. Based on previously reported chimpanzee protection data using WT gpE1/gpE2 and our current findings, we are preparing a combination vaccine including wild-type recombinant gpE1/gpE2 for clinical testing in the future. IMPORTANCE An HCV vaccine is an unmet medical need. Current evidence suggests that neutralizing antibodies play an important role in virus clearance, along with cellular immune responses. Previous clinical data showed that gpE1/gpE2 can effectively induce cross-neutralizing antibodies, although they favor certain genotypes. HCV employs HVR1 within gpE2 to evade host immune control. It has been hypothesized that the removal of this domain would improve the production of cross-neutralizing antibodies. In this study, we compared the immunogenicities of WT and ΔHVR1 gpE1/gpE2 antigens as vaccine candidates. Our results indicate that the ΔHVR1 gpE1/gpE2 antigen confers no advantages in the neutralization of HCV compared with the WT antigen. Previously, we showed that this WT antigen remains the only vaccine candidate to protect chimpanzees from chronic infection, contains multiple cross-neutralizing epitopes, and is well tolerated and immunogenic in humans. The current data support the further clinical development of this vaccine antigen component.
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23
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Krapchev VB, Rychłowska M, Chmielewska A, Zimmer K, Patel AH, Bieńkowska-Szewczyk K. Recombinant Flag-tagged E1E2 glycoproteins from three hepatitis C virus genotypes are biologically functional and elicit cross-reactive neutralizing antibodies in mice. Virology 2018; 519:33-41. [PMID: 29631174 PMCID: PMC5998380 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2018.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a globally disseminated human pathogen for which no vaccine is currently available. HCV is highly diverse genetically and can be classified into 7 genotypes and multiple sub-types. Due to this antigenic variation, the induction of cross-reactive and at the same time neutralizing antibodies is a challenge in vaccine production. Here we report the analysis of immunogenicity of recombinant HCV envelope glycoproteins from genotypes 1a, 1b and 2a, with a Flag tag inserted in the hypervariable region 1 of E2. This modification did not affect protein expression or conformation or its capacity to bind the crucial virus entry factor, CD81. Importantly, in immunogenicity studies on mice, the purified E2-Flag mutants elicited high-titer, cross-reactive antibodies that were able to neutralize HCV infectious particles from two genotypes tested (1a and 2a). These findings indicate that E1E2-Flag envelope glycoproteins could be important immunogen candidates for vaccine aiming to induce broad HCV-neutralizing responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasil B Krapchev
- Laboratory of Virus Molecular Biology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of UG and MUG, University of Gdansk, 58 Abrahama str., 80-307 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Malgorzata Rychłowska
- Laboratory of Virus Molecular Biology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of UG and MUG, University of Gdansk, 58 Abrahama str., 80-307 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Alicja Chmielewska
- Laboratory of Virus Molecular Biology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of UG and MUG, University of Gdansk, 58 Abrahama str., 80-307 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Karolina Zimmer
- Laboratory of Virus Molecular Biology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of UG and MUG, University of Gdansk, 58 Abrahama str., 80-307 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Arvind H Patel
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Sir Michael Stoker Building, Garscube Campus, 464 Bearsden Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, Scotland (UK)
| | - Krystyna Bieńkowska-Szewczyk
- Laboratory of Virus Molecular Biology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of UG and MUG, University of Gdansk, 58 Abrahama str., 80-307 Gdansk, Poland.
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24
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Guo Y, Yu H, Zhong Y, He Y, Qin X, Qin Y, Zhou Y, Zhang P, Zhang Y, Li Z, Jia Z. Lectin microarray and mass spectrometric analysis of hepatitis C proteins reveals N-linked glycosylation. Medicine (Baltimore) 2018; 97:e0208. [PMID: 29642144 PMCID: PMC5908620 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000010208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
We used lectin microarray and mass spectrometric analysis to identify the N-linked glycosylation patterns of hepatitis C virus (HCV) particles. HCV J6/JFH-1 chimeric cell culture (HCVcc) in the culture supernatant was concentrated and purified by ultrafiltration and sucrose gradient ultracentrifugation. Twelve fractions were collected from the top and analyzed for viral infectivity and HCV RNA content after sucrose gradient separation. HCV RNA and proteins were separated by ultracentrifugation in a continuous 10% to 60% sucrose gradient to purify viral particles based on their sedimentation velocities. HCVcc particles were found mainly in fractions 6 to 8, as determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis for HCV RNA and ELISA of the HCV core protein. The N-glycans on HCV proteins were analyzed by lectin microarray and mass spectrometry. We identified that 32 of 37 lectins displayed the positive binding signals and 16 types of N-glycoforms of which the major HCV glycoforms were high mannose-type N-linked oligosaccharides, hybrid N-glycans, and fucosylated N-glycans. Our study provided new detailed information regarding the majority of the glycan-protein profile, complementing to previous findings of glycan-HCV protein interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghong Guo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi’an Jiaotong University
| | - Hanjie Yu
- Laboratory for Functional Glycomics, College of Life Science, Northwest University
| | - Yaogang Zhong
- Laboratory for Functional Glycomics, College of Life Science, Northwest University
| | - Yu He
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Center of Liver Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Baqiao District, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xinmin Qin
- Laboratory for Functional Glycomics, College of Life Science, Northwest University
| | - Yuan Qin
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Center of Liver Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Baqiao District, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yun Zhou
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Center of Liver Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Baqiao District, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Peixin Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Center of Liver Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Baqiao District, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Center of Liver Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Baqiao District, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Laboratory for Functional Glycomics, College of Life Science, Northwest University
| | - Zhansheng Jia
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Center of Liver Diseases, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Baqiao District, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
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25
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Bartenschlager R, Baumert TF, Bukh J, Houghton M, Lemon SM, Lindenbach BD, Lohmann V, Moradpour D, Pietschmann T, Rice CM, Thimme R, Wakita T. Critical challenges and emerging opportunities in hepatitis C virus research in an era of potent antiviral therapy: Considerations for scientists and funding agencies. Virus Res 2018; 248:53-62. [PMID: 29477639 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2018.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Revised: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The development and clinical implementation of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) has revolutionized the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. Infection with any hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype can now be eliminated in more than 95% of patients with short courses of all-oral, well-tolerated drugs, even in those with advanced liver disease and liver transplant recipients. DAAs have proven so successful that some now consider HCV amenable to eradication, and continued research on the virus of little remaining medical relevance. However, given 400,000 HCV-related deaths annually important challenges remain, including identifying those who are infected, providing access to treatment and reducing its costs. Moreover, HCV infection rarely induces sterilizing immunity, and those who have been cured with DAAs remain at risk for reinfection. Thus, it is very unlikely that global eradication and elimination of the cancer risk associated with HCV infection can be achieved without a vaccine, yet research in that direction receives little attention. Further, over the past two decades HCV research has spearheaded numerous fundamental discoveries in the fields of molecular and cell biology, immunology and microbiology. It will continue to do so, given the unique opportunities afforded by the reagents and knowledge base that have been generated in the development and clinical application of DAAs. Considering these critical challenges and new opportunities, we conclude that funding for HCV research must be sustained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Bartenschlager
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany; Division Virus-Associated Carcinogenesis, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany; German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Sites Heidelberg and Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany.
| | - Thomas F Baumert
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France; Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire, Pôle Hépato-digestif, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, Strasbourg, France
| | - Jens Bukh
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Research Centre, Hvidovre Hospital and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Houghton
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Stanley M Lemon
- Departments of Medicine and Microbiology & Immunology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Brett D Lindenbach
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Volker Lohmann
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Darius Moradpour
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Pietschmann
- German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Sites Heidelberg and Hannover-Braunschweig, Germany; Institute of Experimental Virology, TWINCORE, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research (a joint venture between the Medical School Hannover (MHH) and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI)), Hannover, Germany
| | - Charles M Rice
- Laboratory of Virology and Infectious Disease, Center for the Study of Hepatitis C, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert Thimme
- Center for Medicine, Department of Medicine II, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Takaji Wakita
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
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26
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Yokokawa H, Higashino A, Suzuki S, Moriyama M, Nakamura N, Suzuki T, Suzuki R, Ishii K, Kobiyama K, Ishii KJ, Wakita T, Akari H, Kato T. Induction of humoural and cellular immunity by immunisation with HCV particle vaccine in a non-human primate model. Gut 2018; 67:372-379. [PMID: 27797937 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2016-312208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2016] [Revised: 09/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although HCV is a major cause of chronic liver disease worldwide, there is currently no prophylactic vaccine for this virus. Thus, the development of an HCV vaccine that can induce both humoural and cellular immunity is urgently needed. To create an effective HCV vaccine, we evaluated neutralising antibody induction and cellular immune responses following the immunisation of a non-human primate model with cell culture-generated HCV (HCVcc). DESIGN To accomplish this, 10 common marmosets were immunised with purified, inactivated HCVcc in combination with two different adjuvants: the classically used aluminum hydroxide (Alum) and the recently established adjuvant: CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) wrapped by schizophyllan (K3-SPG). RESULTS The coadministration of HCVcc with K3-SPG efficiently induced immune responses against HCV, as demonstrated by the production of antibodies with specific neutralising activity against chimaeric HCVcc with structural proteins from multiple HCV genotypes (1a, 1b, 2a and 3a). The induction of cellular immunity was also demonstrated by the production of interferon-γ mRNA in spleen cells following stimulation with the HCV core protein. These changes were not observed following immunisation with HCVcc/Alum preparation. No vaccination-related abnormalities were detected in any of the immunised animals. CONCLUSIONS The current preclinical study demonstrated that a vaccine included both HCVcc and K3-SPG induced humoural and cellular immunity in marmosets. Vaccination with this combination resulted in the production of antibodies exhibiting cross-neutralising activity against multiple HCV genotypes. Based on these findings, the vaccine created in this study represents a promising, potent and safe prophylactic option against HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Yokokawa
- Pharmaceutical Research Laboratories, Toray Industries, Inc, Kanagawa, Japan.,Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsunori Higashino
- Center for Human Evolution Modeling Research, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Japan.,Laboratory of Infectious Disease Model, Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Saori Suzuki
- Center for Human Evolution Modeling Research, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Japan.,Laboratory of Infectious Disease Model, Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masaki Moriyama
- Pharmaceutical Research Laboratories, Toray Industries, Inc, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Noriko Nakamura
- Pharmaceutical Research Laboratories, Toray Industries, Inc, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Suzuki
- Pharmaceutical Research Laboratories, Toray Industries, Inc, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Suzuki
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Ishii
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kouji Kobiyama
- Laboratory of Adjuvant Innovation, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Osaka, Japan.,Laboratory of Vaccine Science, World Premier International Research Center, Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ken J Ishii
- Laboratory of Adjuvant Innovation, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Osaka, Japan.,Laboratory of Vaccine Science, World Premier International Research Center, Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takaji Wakita
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Akari
- Center for Human Evolution Modeling Research, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Japan.,Laboratory of Infectious Disease Model, Institute for Frontier Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takanobu Kato
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
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27
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Fuerst TR, Pierce BG, Keck ZY, Foung SKH. Designing a B Cell-Based Vaccine against a Highly Variable Hepatitis C Virus. Front Microbiol 2018; 8:2692. [PMID: 29379486 PMCID: PMC5775222 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to use structure-based design and engineering to control the molecular shape and reactivity of an immunogen to induce protective responses shows great promise, along with corresponding advancements in vaccine testing and evaluation systems. We describe in this review new paradigms for the development of a B cell-based HCV vaccine. Advances in test systems to measure in vitro and in vivo antibody-mediated virus neutralization include retroviral pseudotype particles expressing HCV E1E2 glycoproteins (HCVpp), infectious cell culture-derived HCV virions (HCVcc), and surrogate animal models mimicking acute HCV infection. Their applications have established the role of broadly neutralizing antibodies to control HCV infection. However, the virus has immunogenic regions in the viral envelope glycoproteins that are associated with viral escape or non-neutralizing antibodies. These regions serve as immunologic decoys that divert the antibody response from less prominent conserved regions mediating virus neutralization. This review outlines the immunogenic regions on E2, which are roughly segregated into the hypervariable region 1 (HVR1), and five clusters of overlapping epitopes designated as antigenic domains A-E. Understanding the molecular architecture of conserved neutralizing epitopes within these antigenic domains, and how other antigenic regions or decoys deflect the immune response from these conserved regions will provide a roadmap for the rational design of an HCV vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas R Fuerst
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, Rockville, MD, United States.,Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Brian G Pierce
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, Rockville, MD, United States.,Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Zhen-Yong Keck
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Steven K H Foung
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
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28
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Clarke JL, Paruch L, Dobrica M, Caras I, Tucureanu C, Onu A, Ciulean S, Stavaru C, Eerde A, Wang Y, Steen H, Haugslien S, Petrareanu C, Lazar C, Popescu C, Bock R, Dubuisson J, Branza‐Nichita N. Lettuce-produced hepatitis C virus E1E2 heterodimer triggers immune responses in mice and antibody production after oral vaccination. PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL 2017; 15:1611-1621. [PMID: 28419665 PMCID: PMC5698045 DOI: 10.1111/pbi.12743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2016] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major etiologic agent for severe liver diseases (e.g. cirrhosis, fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma). Approximately 140 million people have chronic HCV infections and about 500 000 die yearly from HCV-related liver pathologies. To date, there is no licensed vaccine available to prevent HCV infection and production of a HCV vaccine remains a major challenge. Here, we report the successful production of the HCV E1E2 heterodimer, an important vaccine candidate, in an edible crop (lettuce, Lactuca sativa) using Agrobacterium-mediated transient expression technology. The wild-type dimer (E1E2) and a variant without an N-glycosylation site in the E2 polypeptide (E1E2∆N6) were expressed, and appropriate N-glycosylation pattern and functionality of the E1E2 dimers were demonstrated. The humoral immune response induced by the HCV proteins was investigated in mice following oral administration of lettuce antigens with or without previous intramuscular prime with the mammalian HEK293T cell-expressed HCV dimer. Immunization by oral feeding only resulted in development of weak serum levels of anti-HCV IgM for both antigens; however, the E1E2∆N6 proteins produced higher amounts of secretory IgA, suggesting improved immunogenic properties of the N-glycosylation mutant. The mice group receiving the intramuscular injection followed by two oral boosts with the lettuce E1E2 dimer developed a systemic but also a mucosal immune response, as demonstrated by the presence of anti-HCV secretory IgA in faeces extracts. In summary, our study demonstrates the feasibility of producing complex viral antigens in lettuce, using plant transient expression technology, with great potential for future low-cost oral vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa Paruch
- NIBIO‐Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy ResearchÅsNorway
| | | | - Iuliana Caras
- “Cantacuzino” National Research InstituteBucharestRomania
| | | | - Adrian Onu
- “Cantacuzino” National Research InstituteBucharestRomania
| | - Sonya Ciulean
- “Cantacuzino” National Research InstituteBucharestRomania
| | - Crina Stavaru
- “Cantacuzino” National Research InstituteBucharestRomania
| | - Andre Eerde
- NIBIO‐Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy ResearchÅsNorway
| | - Yanliang Wang
- NIBIO‐Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy ResearchÅsNorway
| | - Hege Steen
- NIBIO‐Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy ResearchÅsNorway
| | | | | | - Catalin Lazar
- Institute of Biochemistry of the Romanian AcademyBucharestRomania
| | | | - Ralph Bock
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant PhysiologyPotsdam‐GolmGermany
| | - Jean Dubuisson
- Center for Infection & Immunity of Lille (CIIL)Inserm U1019CNRS UMR8204Université de LilleInstitut Pasteur de LilleLilleFrance
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29
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Naik AS, Owsianka A, Palmer BA, O’Halloran CJ, Walsh N, Crosbie O, Kenny-Walsh E, Patel AH, Fanning LJ. Reverse epitope mapping of the E2 glycoprotein in antibody associated hepatitis C virus. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0175349. [PMID: 28558001 PMCID: PMC5448734 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0175349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The humoral immune system responds to chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection by producing neutralising antibodies (nAb). In this study we generated three HCV pseudoparticles in which E1E2 glycoprotein sequence was targeted by the host humoral immune system. We used patient derived virus free Fabs (VF-Fabs) obtained from HCV genotype 1a (n = 3), genotype 1b (n = 7) and genotype 3a (n = 1) for neutralisation of HCVpp produced in this study both individually and in combination. Based on the available anti-HCV monoclonal nAb mapping information we selected amino acid region 384-619 for conformational epitope mapping. Amongst our notable findings, we observed significant reduction in HCVpp infectivity (p<0.05) when challenged with a combination of inter genotype and subtype VF-Fabs. We also identified five binding motifs targeted by patient derived VF-Fab upon peptide mapping, of which two shared the residues with previously reported epitopes. One epitope lies within an immunodominant HVR1 and two were novel. In summary, we used a reverse epitope mapping strategy to identify preferred epitopes by the host humoral immune system. Additionally, we have combined different VF-Fabs to further reduce the HCVpp infectivity. Our data indicates that combining the antigen specificity of antibodies may be a useful strategy to reduce (in-vitro) infectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amruta S. Naik
- Department of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ania Owsianka
- MRC—University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Nicole Walsh
- Department of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Orla Crosbie
- Department of Hepatology, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Arvind H. Patel
- MRC—University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Liam J. Fanning
- Department of Medicine, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- APC-Microbiome Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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30
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Naik AS, Palmer BA, Crosbie O, Kenny-Walsh E, Fanning LJ. Humoral immune system targets clonotypic antibody-associated hepatitis C virus. J Gen Virol 2017; 98:179-189. [PMID: 28284234 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.000659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypervariable region 1 (HVR1) is one of the potential neutralization domains in the E2 glycoprotein of hepatitis C virus (HCV). Point mutations of the HVR1 can lead to humoral immune escape in HCV-infected patients. In this study, we segregated the chronically infected viraemic sera from HCV-infected patients into populations of antibody-free virus and antibody-associated virus (AAV) and mapped potential epitopes within the E1E2 gene junction of AAV sequences (residues 364-430). Furthermore, we generated HCV pseudoparticles (HCVpp) derived from AAV sequences to assess their infectivity. We studied the neutralization potential of virus-free Fab obtained from antibody-virus complexes, in the HCVpp system. We observed selective targeting of clonotypic HCV variants from the quasispecies pool. Moreover, we identified potential neutralizing epitopes within the HVR1 and an additional epitope that overlapped with a broadly neutralizing AP33 epitope (amino acid 412-423 in E2). We observed a marked difference in the infectivity of HCVpp generated using E1E2 sequences isolated from AAV. We document reduction in the infectivity of HCVpp-H77 and HCVpp derived from AAV sequences when challenged with virus-free Fab. Our results provide novel insights into the complexities of engagement between HCV and the humoral immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amruta S Naik
- 1Department of Medicine, Clinical Sciences Building, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Brendan A Palmer
- 1Department of Medicine, Clinical Sciences Building, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Orla Crosbie
- 2Department of Hepatology, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Liam J Fanning
- 1Department of Medicine, Clinical Sciences Building, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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31
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Vietheer PT, Boo I, Gu J, McCaffrey K, Edwards S, Owczarek C, Hardy MP, Fabri L, Center RJ, Poumbourios P, Drummer HE. The core domain of hepatitis C virus glycoprotein E2 generates potent cross-neutralizing antibodies in guinea pigs. Hepatology 2017; 65:1117-1131. [PMID: 27997681 PMCID: PMC5408392 DOI: 10.1002/hep.28989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Revised: 11/24/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED A vaccine that prevents hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is urgently needed to support an emerging global elimination program. However, vaccine development has been confounded because of HCV's high degree of antigenic variability and the preferential induction of type-specific immune responses with limited potency against heterologous viral strains and genotypes. We showed previously that deletion of the three variable regions from the E2 receptor-binding domain (Δ123) increases the ability of human broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) to inhibit E2-CD81 receptor interactions, suggesting improved bNAb epitope exposure. In this study, the immunogenicity of Δ123 was examined. We show that high-molecular-weight forms of Δ123 elicit distinct antibody specificities with potent and broad neutralizing activity against all seven HCV genotypes. Antibody competition studies revealed that immune sera raised to high-molecular-weight Δ123 was poly specific, given that it inhibited the binding of human bNAbs directed to three major neutralization epitopes on E2. By contrast, the immune sera raised to monomeric Δ123 predominantly blocked the binding of a non-neutralizing antibody to Δ123, while having reduced ability to block bNAb binding to E2, and neutralization was largely toward the homologous genotype. This increased ability of oligomeric Δ123 to generate bNAbs correlates with occlusion of the non-neutralizing face of E2 in this glycoprotein form. CONCLUSION The results from this study reveal new information on the antigenic and immunogenic potential of E2-based immunogens and provide a pathway for the development of a simple, recombinant protein-based prophylactic vaccine for HCV with potential for universal protection. (Hepatology 2017;65:1117-1131).
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia T. Vietheer
- Centre for Biomedical ResearchBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- Department of MicrobiologyMonash UniversityClaytonAustralia
| | - Irene Boo
- Centre for Biomedical ResearchBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia
| | - Jun Gu
- Centre for Biomedical ResearchBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- Department of MicrobiologyMonash UniversityClaytonAustralia
| | - Kathleen McCaffrey
- Centre for Biomedical ResearchBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and ImmunityUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleAustralia
| | | | | | | | | | - Rob J. Center
- Centre for Biomedical ResearchBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and ImmunityUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleAustralia
| | - Pantelis Poumbourios
- Centre for Biomedical ResearchBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- Department of MicrobiologyMonash UniversityClaytonAustralia
| | - Heidi E. Drummer
- Centre for Biomedical ResearchBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and ImmunityUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleAustralia
- Department of MicrobiologyMonash UniversityClaytonAustralia
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32
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Computational Prediction of the Heterodimeric and Higher-Order Structure of gpE1/gpE2 Envelope Glycoproteins Encoded by Hepatitis C Virus. J Virol 2017; 91:JVI.02309-16. [PMID: 28148799 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02309-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the recent success of newly developed direct-acting antivirals against hepatitis C, the disease continues to be a global health threat due to the lack of diagnosis of most carriers and the high cost of treatment. The heterodimer formed by glycoproteins E1 and E2 within the hepatitis C virus (HCV) lipid envelope is a potential vaccine candidate and antiviral target. While the structure of E1/E2 has not yet been resolved, partial crystal structures of the E1 and E2 ectodomains have been determined. The unresolved parts of the structure are within the realm of what can be modeled with current computational modeling tools. Furthermore, a variety of additional experimental data is available to support computational predictions of E1/E2 structure, such as data from antibody binding studies, cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), mutational analyses, peptide binding analysis, linker-scanning mutagenesis, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies. In accordance with these rich experimental data, we have built an in silico model of the full-length E1/E2 heterodimer. Our model supports that E1/E2 assembles into a trimer, which was previously suggested from a study by Falson and coworkers (P. Falson, B. Bartosch, K. Alsaleh, B. A. Tews, A. Loquet, Y. Ciczora, L. Riva, C. Montigny, C. Montpellier, G. Duverlie, E. I. Pecheur, M. le Maire, F. L. Cosset, J. Dubuisson, and F. Penin, J. Virol. 89:10333-10346, 2015, https://doi.org/10.1128/JVI.00991-15). Size exclusion chromatography and Western blotting data obtained by using purified recombinant E1/E2 support our hypothesis. Our model suggests that during virus assembly, the trimer of E1/E2 may be further assembled into a pentamer, with 12 pentamers comprising a single HCV virion. We anticipate that this new model will provide a useful framework for HCV envelope structure and the development of antiviral strategies.IMPORTANCE One hundred fifty million people have been estimated to be infected with hepatitis C virus, and many more are at risk for infection. A better understanding of the structure of the HCV envelope, which is responsible for attachment and fusion, could aid in the development of a vaccine and/or new treatments for this disease. We draw upon computational techniques to predict a full-length model of the E1/E2 heterodimer based on the partial crystal structures of the envelope glycoproteins E1 and E2. E1/E2 has been widely studied experimentally, and this provides valuable data, which has assisted us in our modeling. Our proposed structure is used to suggest the organization of the HCV envelope. We also present new experimental data from size exclusion chromatography that support our computational prediction of a trimeric oligomeric state of E1/E2.
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33
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McCormick C, Grandvaux N. 1st Workshop of the Canadian Society for Virology. Viruses 2017; 9:v9030054. [PMID: 28335511 PMCID: PMC5371809 DOI: 10.3390/v9030054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2017] [Revised: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The 1st Workshop of the Canadian Society for Virology (CSV2016) was a Special Workshop of the 35th Annual Meeting for the American Society for Virology, held on 18 June 2016 on the beautiful Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg, Virginia. The workshop provided a forum for discussion of recent advances in the field, in an informal setting conducive to interaction with colleagues. CSV2016 featured two internationally-renowned Canadian keynote speakers who discussed translational virology research; American Society for Virology President Grant McFadden (then from University of Florida, now relocated to Arizona State University) who presented his studies of oncolytic poxviruses, while Matthew Miller (McMaster University) reviewed the prospects for a universal influenza vaccine. The workshop also featured a variety of trainee oral and poster presentations, and a panel discussion on the topic of the future of the CSV and virus research in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig McCormick
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, 5850 College Street, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Dalhousie University, 5850 College Street, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada.
| | - Nathalie Grandvaux
- Département de Biochimie et Médecine Moléculaire, Université de Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada.
- Centre de Recherche du CHUM (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada.
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34
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El-Diwany R, Cohen VJ, Mankowski MC, Wasilewski LN, Brady JK, Snider AE, Osburn WO, Murrell B, Ray SC, Bailey JR. Extra-epitopic hepatitis C virus polymorphisms confer resistance to broadly neutralizing antibodies by modulating binding to scavenger receptor B1. PLoS Pathog 2017; 13:e1006235. [PMID: 28235087 PMCID: PMC5342271 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1006235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2016] [Revised: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Broadly-neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (bNAbs) may guide vaccine development for highly variable viruses including hepatitis C virus (HCV), since they target conserved viral epitopes that could serve as vaccine antigens. However, HCV resistance to bNAbs could reduce the efficacy of a vaccine. HC33.4 and AR4A are two of the most potent anti-HCV human bNAbs characterized to date, binding to highly conserved epitopes near the amino- and carboxy-terminus of HCV envelope (E2) protein, respectively. Given their distinct epitopes, it was surprising that these bNAbs showed similar neutralization profiles across a panel of natural HCV isolates, suggesting that some viral polymorphisms may confer resistance to both bNAbs. To investigate this resistance, we developed a large, diverse panel of natural HCV envelope variants and a novel computational method to identify bNAb resistance polymorphisms in envelope proteins (E1 and E2). By measuring neutralization of a panel of HCV pseudoparticles by 10 μg/mL of each bNAb, we identified E1E2 variants with resistance to one or both bNAbs, despite 100% conservation of the AR4A binding epitope across the panel. We discovered polymorphisms outside of either binding epitope that modulate resistance to both bNAbs by altering E2 binding to the HCV co-receptor, scavenger receptor B1 (SR-B1). This study is focused on a mode of neutralization escape not addressed by conventional analysis of epitope conservation, highlighting the contribution of extra-epitopic polymorphisms to bNAb resistance and presenting a novel mechanism by which HCV might persist even in the face of an antibody response targeting multiple conserved epitopes. Generation of an immune response that is protective against a wide variety of naturally occurring isolates is necessary for vaccines against highly variable viruses like hepatitis C virus (HCV). Two broadly neutralizing human monoclonal antibodies, HC33.4 and AR4A, neutralize multiple highly divergent HCV isolates, raising hope that a vaccine against HCV is possible. Previous reports have defined the distinct, highly conserved sites on the viral envelope proteins where these antibodies bind. However, little is known about naturally occurring variation in sensitivity of different HCV isolates to these antibodies. We developed a high throughput assay and computational algorithm to evaluate over 100 naturally occurring HCV variants for their sensitivity to these two antibodies, identifying several resistance polymorphisms to each antibody which do not fall within their mapped binding sites. Furthermore, two of these polymorphisms modulate resistance to both antibodies by enhancing or reducing envelope protein binding to HCV co-receptor scavenger receptor B1 (SR-B1). By developing this broadly applicable platform, we have shown the important neutralization resistance conferred by changes distant from antibody binding sites, presenting a potential mechanism by which HCV might persist even in the face of an antibody response targeting multiple conserved sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramy El-Diwany
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Valerie J. Cohen
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Madeleine C. Mankowski
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Lisa N. Wasilewski
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jillian K. Brady
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Anna E. Snider
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - William O. Osburn
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Ben Murrell
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Stuart C. Ray
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Justin R. Bailey
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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35
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Native Folding of a Recombinant gpE1/gpE2 Heterodimer Vaccine Antigen from a Precursor Protein Fused with Fc IgG. J Virol 2016; 91:JVI.01552-16. [PMID: 27795422 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01552-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A recombinant strain HCV1 (hepatitis C virus [HCV] genotype 1a) gpE1/gpE2 (E1E2) vaccine candidate was previously shown by our group to protect chimpanzees and generate broad cross-neutralizing antibodies in animals and humans. In addition, recent independent studies have highlighted the importance of conserved neutralizing epitopes in HCV vaccine development that map to antigenic clusters in E2 or the E1E2 heterodimer. E1E2 can be purified using Galanthis nivalis lectin agarose (GNA), but this technique is suboptimal for global production. Our goal was to investigate a high-affinity and scalable method for isolating E1E2. We generated an Fc tag-derived (Fc-d) E1E2 that was selectively captured by protein G Sepharose, with the tag being removed subsequently using PreScission protease. Surprisingly, despite the presence of the large Fc tag, Fc-d E1E2 formed heterodimers similar to those formed by GNA-purified wild-type (WT) E1E2 and exhibited nearly identical binding profiles to HCV monoclonal antibodies that target conserved neutralizing epitopes in E2 (HC33.4, HC84.26, and AR3B) and the E1E2 heterodimer (AR4A and AR5A). Antisera from immunized mice showed that Fc-d E1E2 elicited anti-E2 antibody titers and neutralization of HCV pseudotype viruses similar to those with WT E1E2. Competition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) showed that antisera from immunized mice inhibited monoclonal antibody binding to neutralizing epitopes. Antisera from Fc-d E1E2-immunized mice exhibited stronger competition for AR3B and AR5A than the WT, whereas the levels of competition for HC84.26 and AR4A were similar. We anticipate that Fc-d E1E2 will provide a scalable purification and manufacturing process using protein A/G-based chromatography. IMPORTANCE A prophylactic HCV vaccine is still needed to control this global disease despite the availability of direct-acting antivirals. Previously, we demonstrated that a recombinant envelope glycoprotein (E1E2) vaccine (genotype 1a) elicited cross-neutralizing antibodies from human volunteers. A challenge for isolating the E1E2 antigen is the reliance on GNA, which is unsuitable for large scale-up and global vaccine delivery. We have generated a novel Fc domain-tagged E1E2 antigen that forms functional heterodimers similar to those with native E1E2. Affinity purification and removal of the Fc tag from E1E2 resulted in an antigen with a nearly identical profile of cross-neutralizing epitopes. This antigen elicited anti-HCV antibodies that targeted conserved neutralizing epitopes of E1E2. Owing to the high selectivity and cost-effective binding capacity of affinity resins for capture of the Fc-tagged rE1E2, we anticipate that our method will provide a means for large-scale production of this HCV vaccine candidate.
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Prentoe J, Velázquez-Moctezuma R, Foung SKH, Law M, Bukh J. Hypervariable region 1 shielding of hepatitis C virus is a main contributor to genotypic differences in neutralization sensitivity. Hepatology 2016; 64:1881-1892. [PMID: 27351277 PMCID: PMC5115964 DOI: 10.1002/hep.28705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED There are 3-4 million new hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections yearly. The extensive intergenotypic sequence diversity of envelope proteins E1 and E2 of HCV and shielding of important epitopes by hypervariable region 1 (HVR1) of E2 are believed to be major hindrances to developing universally protective HCV vaccines. Using cultured viruses expressing the E1/E2 complex of isolates H77 (genotype 1a), J6 (2a), or S52 (3a), with and without HVR1, we tested HVR1-mediated neutralization occlusion in vitro against a panel of 12 well-characterized human monoclonal antibodies (HMAbs) targeting diverse E1, E2, and E1/E2 epitopes. Surprisingly, HVR1-mediated protection was greatest for S52, followed by J6 and then H77. HCV pulldown experiments showed that this phenomenon was caused by epitope shielding. Moreover, by regression analysis of HMAb binding and neutralization titer of HCV we found a strong correlation for HVR1-deleted viruses but not for parental viruses retaining HVR1. The intergenotype neutralization sensitivity of the parental viruses to HMAb antigenic region (AR) 2A, AR3A, AR4A, AR5A, HC84.26, and HC33.4 varied greatly (>24-fold to >130-fold differences in 50% inhibitory concentration values). However, except for AR5A, these differences decreased to less than 6.0-fold when comparing the corresponding HVR1-deleted viruses. Importantly, this simplified pattern of neutralization sensitivity in the absence of HVR1 was also demonstrated in a panel of HVR1-deleted viruses of genotypes 1a, 2a, 2b, 3a, 5a, and 6a, although for all HMAbs, except AR4A, an outlier was observed. Finally, unique amino acid residues in HCV E2 could explain these outliers in the tested cases of AR5A and HC84.26. CONCLUSION HVR1 adds complexity to HCV neutralization by shielding a diverse array of unexpectedly cross-genotype-conserved E1/E2 epitopes. Thus, an HVR1-deleted antigen could be a better HCV vaccine immunogen. (Hepatology 2016;64:1881-1892).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jannick Prentoe
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Research Centre, Hvidovre Hospital and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark,Corresponding authors Dr. Jannick Prentoe, Ph.D. and Prof. Jens Bukh, M.D., Department of Infectious Diseases #144, Copenhagen University Hospital, Kettegaard Allé 30, DK-2650 Hvidovre, Denmark. ;
| | - Rodrigo Velázquez-Moctezuma
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Research Centre, Hvidovre Hospital and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Steven K. H. Foung
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Mansun Law
- Department of Immunology and Microbial Science, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Jens Bukh
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Research Centre, Hvidovre Hospital and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark,Corresponding authors Dr. Jannick Prentoe, Ph.D. and Prof. Jens Bukh, M.D., Department of Infectious Diseases #144, Copenhagen University Hospital, Kettegaard Allé 30, DK-2650 Hvidovre, Denmark. ;
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Freedman H, Logan MR, Law JLM, Houghton M. Structure and Function of the Hepatitis C Virus Envelope Glycoproteins E1 and E2: Antiviral and Vaccine Targets. ACS Infect Dis 2016; 2:749-762. [PMID: 27933781 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.6b00110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) envelope glycoproteins E1 and E2 are critical in viral attachment and cell fusion, and studies of these proteins may provide valuable insights into their potential uses in vaccines and antiviral strategies. Progress has included elucidating the crystal structures of portions of their ectodomains, as well as many other studies of hypervariable regions, stem regions, glycosylation sites, and the participation of E1/E2 in viral fusion with the endosomal membrane. The available structural data have shed light on the binding sites of cross-neutralizing antibodies. A large amount of information has been discovered concerning heterodimerization, including the roles of transmembrane domains, disulfide bonding, and heptad repeat regions. The possible organization of higher order oligomers within the HCV virion has also been evaluated on the basis of experimental data. In this review, E1/E2 structure and function is discussed, and some important issues requiring further study are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Freedman
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology
and Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Michael R. Logan
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology
and Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - John Lok Man Law
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology
and Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Michael Houghton
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology
and Immunology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Bukh J. The history of hepatitis C virus (HCV): Basic research reveals unique features in phylogeny, evolution and the viral life cycle with new perspectives for epidemic control. J Hepatol 2016; 65:S2-S21. [PMID: 27641985 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.07.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in 1989 permitted basic research to unravel critical components of a complex life cycle for this important human pathogen. HCV is a highly divergent group of viruses classified in 7 major genotypes and a great number of subtypes, and circulating in infected individuals as a continuously evolving quasispecies destined to escape host immune responses and applied antivirals. Despite the inability to culture patient viruses directly in the laboratory, efforts to define the infectious genome of HCV resulted in development of experimental recombinant in vivo and in vitro systems, including replicons and infectious cultures in human hepatoma cell lines. And HCV has become a model virus defining new paradigms in virology, immunology and biology. For example, HCV research discovered that a virus could be completely dependent on microRNA for its replication since microRNA-122 is critical for the HCV life cycle. A number of other host molecules critical for HCV entry and replication have been identified. Thus, basic HCV research revealed important molecules for development of host targeting agents (HTA). The identification and characterization of HCV encoded proteins and their functional units contributed to the development of highly effective direct acting antivirals (DAA) against the NS3 protease, NS5A and the NS5B polymerase. In combination, these inhibitors have since 2014 permitted interferon-free therapy with cure rates above 90% among patients with chronic HCV infection; however, viral resistance represents a challenge. Worldwide control of HCV will most likely require the development of a prophylactic vaccine, and numerous candidates have been pursued. Research characterizing features critical for antibody-based virus neutralization and T cell based virus elimination from infected cells is essential for this effort. If the world community promotes an ambitious approach by applying current DAA broadly, continues to develop alternative viral- and host- targeted antivirals to combat resistant variants, and invests in the development of a vaccine, it would be possible to eradicate HCV. This would prevent about 500 thousand deaths annually. However, given the nature of HCV, the millions of new infections annually, a high chronicity rate, and with over 150 million individuals with chronic infection (which are frequently unidentified), this effort remains a major challenge for basic researchers, clinicians and communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Bukh
- Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Research Centre, Hvidovre Hospital and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Viral evasion and challenges of hepatitis C virus vaccine development. Curr Opin Virol 2016; 20:55-63. [PMID: 27657659 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2016.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major global disease burden, often leading to chronic liver diseases, cirrhosis, cancer, and death in those infected. Despite the recent approval of antiviral therapeutics, a preventative vaccine is recognized as the most effective means to control HCV globally, particularly in at-risk and developing country populations. Here we describe the efforts and challenges related to the development of an HCV vaccine, which after decades of research have not been successful. Viral sequence variability poses a major challenge, yet recent research has provided unprecedented views of the atomic structure of HCV epitopes and immune recognition by antibodies and T cell receptors. This, coupled with insights from deep sequencing, robust neutralization assays, and other technological advances, is spurring research toward rationally HCV designed vaccines that preferentially elicit responses toward conserved epitopes of interest that are associated with viral neutralization and clearance.
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40
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Immunogenicity and functional characterization of Leishmania-derived hepatitis C virus envelope glycoprotein complex. Sci Rep 2016; 6:30627. [PMID: 27481352 PMCID: PMC4969751 DOI: 10.1038/srep30627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) envelope glycoproteins E1 and E2 are the main inducers of a cross-neutralizing antibody response which plays an important role in the early phase of viral infection. Correctly folded and immunologically active E1E2 complex can be expressed in mammalian cells, though the production process might still prove restrictive, even if the immunological response of a vaccine candidate is positive. Here, we report a characterization and immunogenicity study of a full-length (fE1E2) and soluble version of the E1E2 complex (tE1E2) from genotype 1a, successfully expressed in the cells of Leishmania tarentolae. In a functional study, we confirmed the binding of both Leishmania-derived E1E2 complexes to the CD-81 receptor and the presence of the major epitopes participating in a neutralizing antibody response. Both complexes were proved to be highly immunogenic in mice and elicited neutralizing antibody response. Moreover, cross-reactivity of the mouse sera was detected for all tested HCV genotypes with the highest signal intensity observed for genotypes 1a, 1b, 5 and 6. Since the development of a prophylactic vaccine against HCV is still needed to control the global infection, our Leishmania-derived E1E2 glycoproteins could be considered a potential cost-effective vaccine candidate.
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Bivalent vaccine platform based on Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) elicits neutralizing antibodies against JEV and hepatitis C virus. Sci Rep 2016; 6:28688. [PMID: 27345289 PMCID: PMC4922013 DOI: 10.1038/srep28688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Directly acting antivirals recently have become available for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, but there is no prophylactic vaccine for HCV. In the present study, we took advantage of the properties of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) to develop antigens for use in a HCV vaccine. Notably, the surface-exposed JEV envelope protein is tolerant of inserted foreign epitopes, permitting display of novel antigens. We identified 3 positions that permitted insertion of the HCV E2 neutralization epitope recognized by HCV1 antibody. JEV subviral particles (SVP) containing HCV-neutralization epitope (SVP-E2) were purified from culture supernatant by gel chromatography. Sera from mice immunized with SVP-E2 inhibited infection by JEV and by trans-complemented HCV particles (HCVtcp) derived from multi-genotypic viruses, whereas sera from mice immunized with synthetic E2 peptides did not show any neutralizing activity. Furthermore, sera from mice immunized with SVP-E2 neutralized HCVtcp with N415K escape mutation in E2. As with the SVP-E2 epitope-displaying particles, JEV SVPs with HCV E1 epitope also elicited neutralizing antibodies against HCV. Thus, this novel platform harboring foreign epitopes on the surface of the particle may facilitate the development of a bivalent vaccine against JEV and other pathogens.
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Fauvelle C, Colpitts CC, Keck ZY, Pierce BG, Foung SKH, Baumert TF. Hepatitis C virus vaccine candidates inducing protective neutralizing antibodies. Expert Rev Vaccines 2016; 15:1535-1544. [PMID: 27267297 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2016.1194759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With more than 150 million chronically infected people, hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a substantial global health burden. Direct-acting antivirals have dramatically improved viral cure. However, limited access to therapy, late stage detection of infection and re-infection following cure illustrate the need for a vaccine for global control of infection. Vaccines with induction of neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) have been shown to protect successfully against infections by multiple viruses and are currently developed for HCV. Areas covered: Here we review the progress towards the development of vaccines aiming to confer protection against chronic HCV infection by inducing broadly nAbs. The understanding or viral immune evasion in infected patients, the development of novel model systems and the recent structural characterization of viral envelope glycoprotein E2 has markedly advanced our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of virus neutralization with the concomitant development of several vaccine candidates. Expert commentary: While HCV vaccine development remains challenged by the high viral diversity and immune evasion, marked progress in HCV research has advanced vaccine design. Several vaccine candidates have shown robust induction of nAbs in animal models and humans. Randomized clinical trials are the next step to assess their clinical efficacy for protection against chronic infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Fauvelle
- a Inserm, U1110 , Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques , Strasbourg , France.,b Université de Strasbourg , Strasbourg , France
| | - Che C Colpitts
- a Inserm, U1110 , Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques , Strasbourg , France.,b Université de Strasbourg , Strasbourg , France
| | - Zhen-Yong Keck
- c Department of Pathology , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford , CA , USA
| | - Brian G Pierce
- d Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research , University of Maryland , Rockville , MD , USA
| | - Steven K H Foung
- c Department of Pathology , Stanford University School of Medicine , Stanford , CA , USA
| | - Thomas F Baumert
- a Inserm, U1110 , Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques , Strasbourg , France.,b Université de Strasbourg , Strasbourg , France.,e Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire, Pôle Hépato-digestif , Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg , Strasbourg , France
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Earnest-Silveira L, Chua B, Chin R, Christiansen D, Johnson D, Herrmann S, Ralph SA, Vercauteren K, Mesalam A, Meuleman P, Das S, Boo I, Drummer H, Bock CT, Gowans EJ, Jackson DC, Torresi J. Characterization of a hepatitis C virus-like particle vaccine produced in a human hepatocyte-derived cell line. J Gen Virol 2016; 97:1865-1876. [PMID: 27147296 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.000493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
An effective immune response against hepatitis C virus (HCV) requires the early development of multi-specific class 1 CD8+ and class II CD4+ T-cells together with broad neutralizing antibody responses. We have produced mammalian-cell-derived HCV virus-like particles (VLPs) incorporating core, E1 and E2 of HCV genotype 1a to produce such immune responses. Here we describe the biochemical and morphological characterization of the HCV VLPs and study HCV core-specific T-cell responses to the particles. The E1 and E2 glycoproteins in HCV VLPs formed non-covalent heterodimers and together with core protein assembled into VLPs with a buoyant density of 1.22 to 1.28 g cm-3. The HCV VLPs could be immunoprecipited with anti-ApoE and anti-ApoC. On electron microscopy, the VLPs had a heterogeneous morphology and ranged in size from 40 to 80 nm. The HCV VLPs demonstrated dose-dependent binding to murine-derived dendritic cells and the entry of HCV VLPs into Huh7 cells was blocked by anti-CD81 antibody. Vaccination of BALB/c mice with HCV VLPs purified from iodixanol gradients resulted in the production of neutralizing antibody responses while vaccination of humanized MHC class I transgenic mice resulted in the prodution of HCV core-specific CD8+ T-cell responses. Furthermore, IgG purified from the sera of patients chronically infected with HCV genotypes 1a and 3a blocked the binding and entry of the HCV VLPs into Huh7 cells. These results show that our mammalian-cell-derived HCV VLPs induce humoral and HCV-specific CD8+ T-cell responses and will have important implications for the development of a preventative vaccine for HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Earnest-Silveira
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - B Chua
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - R Chin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - D Christiansen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.,Department of Surgery, Austin Hospital, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - D Johnson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
| | - S Herrmann
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Institute of Molecular Science and Biotechnology, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - S A Ralph
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bio21 Institute of Molecular Science and Biotechnology, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - K Vercauteren
- Center for Vaccinology, Ghent University and Hospital, De Pintelaan 185 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - A Mesalam
- Center for Vaccinology, Ghent University and Hospital, De Pintelaan 185 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - P Meuleman
- Center for Vaccinology, Ghent University and Hospital, De Pintelaan 185 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - S Das
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - I Boo
- Centre for Biomedical Research, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - H Drummer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.,Centre for Biomedical Research, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Microbiology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - C-T Bock
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - E J Gowans
- The Basil Hetzel Institute and Queen Elizabeth Hospital, University of Adelaide, Australia
| | - D C Jackson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Joseph Torresi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
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Czarnota A, Tyborowska J, Peszyńska-Sularz G, Gromadzka B, Bieńkowska-Szewczyk K, Grzyb K. Immunogenicity of Leishmania-derived hepatitis B small surface antigen particles exposing highly conserved E2 epitope of hepatitis C virus. Microb Cell Fact 2016; 15:62. [PMID: 27075377 PMCID: PMC4831159 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-016-0460-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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: 10/10/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major health problem worldwide, affecting an estimated 2-3 % of human population. An HCV vaccine, however, remains unavailable. High viral diversity poses a challenge in developing a vaccine capable of eliciting a broad neutralizing antibody response against all HCV genotypes. The small surface antigen (sHBsAg) of hepatitis B virus (HBV) has the ability to form highly immunogenic subviral particles which are currently used as an efficient anti-HBV vaccine. It also represents an attractive antigen carrier for the delivery of foreign sequences. In the present study, we propose a bivalent vaccine candidate based on novel chimeric particles in which highly conserved epitope of HCV E2 glycoprotein (residues 412-425) was inserted into the hydrophilic loop of sHBsAg. RESULTS The expression of chimeric protein was performed in an unconventional, Leishmania tarentolae expression system resulting in an assembly of particles which retained immunogenicity of both HCV epitope and sHBsAg protein. Direct transmission electron microscopy observation and immunogold staining confirmed the formation of spherical particles approximately 22 nm in diameter, and proper foreign epitope exposition. Furthermore, the sera of mice immunized with chimeric particles proved reactive not only to purified yeast-derived sHBsAg proteins but also HCV E2 412-425 synthetic peptide. Most importantly, they were also able to cross-react with E1E2 complexes from different HCV genotypes. CONCLUSIONS For the first time, we confirmed successful assembly of chimeric sHBsAg virus-like particles (VLPs) in the L. tarentolae expression system which has the potential to produce high-yields of properly N-glycosylated mammalian proteins. We also proved that chimeric Leishmania-derived VLPs are highly immunogenic and able to elicit cross-reactive antibody response against HCV. This approach may prove useful in the development of a bivalent prophylactic vaccine against HBV and HCV and opens up a new and low-cost opportunity for the production of chimeric sHBsAg VLPs requiring N-glycosylation process for their proper functionality and immunogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Czarnota
- Laboratory of Virus Molecular Biology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology UG-MUG, University of Gdańsk, A. Abrahama 58, 80-307, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Jolanta Tyborowska
- Laboratory of Recombinant Vaccines, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology UG-MUG, University of Gdańsk, A. Abrahama 58, Gdańsk, 80-307, Poland
| | - Grażyna Peszyńska-Sularz
- Tri-City Academic Laboratory Animal Centre, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 1, Gdańsk, 80-211, Poland
| | - Beata Gromadzka
- Laboratory of Recombinant Vaccines, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology UG-MUG, University of Gdańsk, A. Abrahama 58, Gdańsk, 80-307, Poland
| | - Krystyna Bieńkowska-Szewczyk
- Laboratory of Virus Molecular Biology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology UG-MUG, University of Gdańsk, A. Abrahama 58, 80-307, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Grzyb
- Laboratory of Virus Molecular Biology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology UG-MUG, University of Gdańsk, A. Abrahama 58, 80-307, Gdańsk, Poland.
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O’Shea D, Law J, Egli A, Douglas D, Lund G, Forester S, Lambert J, Law M, Burton D, Tyrrell D, Houghton M, Humar A, Kneteman N. Prevention of hepatitis C virus infection using a broad cross-neutralizing monoclonal antibody (AR4A) and epigallocatechin gallate. Liver Transpl 2016; 22:324-32. [PMID: 26389583 PMCID: PMC4769112 DOI: 10.1002/lt.24344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) activity of a novel monoclonal antibody (mAb; AR4A) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) were studied in vitro using a HCV cell culture system and in vivo using a humanized liver mouse model capable of supporting HCV replication. Alone, both exhibit reliable cross-genotype HCV inhibition in vitro, and combination therapy completely prevented HCV infection. In vitro AR4A mAb (alone and combined with EGCG) robustly protects against the establishment of HCV genotype 1a infection. EGCG alone fails to reliably protect against an HCV challenge. In conclusion, AR4A mAb represents a safe and efficacious broadly neutralizing antibody against HCV applicable to strategies to safely prevent HCV reinfection following liver transplantation, and it lends further support to the concept of HCV vaccine development. The poor bioavailability of EGCG limits HCV antiviral activity in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- D. O’Shea
- Transplant Infectious Diseases, Alberta Transplant Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta,Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada,To whom correspondence should be addressed: Daire O’Shea, Consultant in Infectious Diseases, Regional Infectious Diseases Unit, Crewe Road, Edinburgh EH4 2XU, Scotland, UK, Tel: +441315372862, Fax: +441315372878,
| | - J Law
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - A Egli
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - D Douglas
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - G Lund
- KMT Hepatech, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - S Forester
- Dept. of Food Science, Pennsylvania State University, PA
| | - J Lambert
- Dept. of Food Science, Pennsylvania State University, PA
| | - M Law
- Department of Immunology and Microbial Science, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla CA 92037, USA
| | - D.R. Burton
- Department of Immunology and Microbial Science, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla CA 92037, USA,Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - D.L.J. Tyrrell
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - M. Houghton
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - A. Humar
- Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Multi-Organ Transplant Program Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - N Kneteman
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada,Department of Surgery, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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46
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Abdelwahab KS, Ahmed Said ZN. Status of hepatitis C virus vaccination: Recent update. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:862-873. [PMID: 26811632 PMCID: PMC4716084 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i2.862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2015] [Revised: 05/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is still a major public health problem worldwide since its first identification in 1989. At the start, HCV infection was post-transfusion viral infection, particularly in developing countries. Recently, due to iv drug abuse, HCV infection became number one health problem in well-developed countries as well. Following acute HCV infection, the innate immune response is triggered in the form of activated coordinated interaction of NK cells, dendritic cells and interferon α. The acquired immune response is then developed in the form of the antibody-mediated immune response (ABIR) and the cell-mediated immune response (CMIR). Both are responsible for clearance of HCV infection in about 15% of infected patients. However, HCV has several mechanisms to evade these antivirus immune reactions. The current review gives an overview of HCV structure, immune response and viral evasion mechanisms. It also evaluates the available preventive and therapeutic vaccines that induce innate, ABIR, CMIR. Moreover, this review highlights the progress in recent HCV vaccination studies either in preclinical or clinical phases. The unsatisfactory identification of HCV infection by the current screening system and the limitations of currently available treatments, including the ineligibility of some chronic HCV patients to such antiviral agents, mandate the development of an effective HCV vaccine.
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47
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von Delft A, Humphreys IS, Brown A, Pfafferott K, Lucas M, Klenerman P, Lauer GM, Cox AL, Gaudieri S, Barnes E. The broad assessment of HCV genotypes 1 and 3 antigenic targets reveals limited cross-reactivity with implications for vaccine design. Gut 2016; 65:112-23. [PMID: 26092843 PMCID: PMC4717358 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2014-308724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2014] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Developing a vaccine that is cross-reactive between HCV genotypes requires data on T cell antigenic targets that extends beyond genotype-1. We characterised T cell immune responses against HCV genotype-3, the most common infecting genotype in the UK and Asia, and assessed within genotype and between genotype cross-reactivity. DESIGN T cell targets were identified in 140 subjects with either acute, chronic or spontaneously resolved HCV genotype-3 infection using (1) overlapping peptides and (2) putative human leucocyte antigens (HLA)-class-I wild type and variant epitopes through the prior assessment of polymorphic HCV genomic sites associated with host HLA, in IFNγ-ELISpot assays. CD4+/CD8+ T cell subsets were defined and viral variability at T cell targets was determined through population analysis and viral sequencing. T cell cross-reactivity between genotype-1 and genotype-3 variants was assessed. RESULTS In resolved genotype-3 infection, T cells preferentially targeted non-structural proteins at a high magnitude, whereas in chronic disease T cells were absent or skewed to target structural proteins. Additional responses to wild type but not variant HLA predicted peptides were defined. Major sequence viral variability was observed within genotype-3 and between genotypes 1 and 3 HCV at T cell targets in resolved infection and at dominant epitopes, with limited T cell cross-reactivity between viral variants. Overall 41 CD4/CD8+ genotype-3 T cell targets were identified with minimal overlap with those described for HCV genotype-1. CONCLUSIONS HCV T cell specificity is distinct between genotypes with limited T cell cross-reactivity in resolved and chronic disease. Therefore, viral regions targeted in natural HCV infection may not serve as attractive targets for a vaccine that aims to protect against multiple HCV genotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Michaela Lucas
- Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia,School of Medicine and Pharmacology, Harry Perkins Institute, University of Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia,School of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Western Australia, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | | | - Andrea L Cox
- John Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Silvana Gaudieri
- Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia,School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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48
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King B, Temperton NJ, Grehan K, Scott SD, Wright E, Tarr AW, Daly JM. Technical considerations for the generation of novel pseudotyped viruses. Future Virol 2016. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl.15.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
A pseudotyped virus (PV) is a virus particle with an envelope protein originating from a different virus. The ability to dictate which envelope proteins are expressed on the surface has made pseudotyping an important tool for basic virological studies such as determining the cellular targets of the envelope protein of the virus as well as identification of potential antiviral compounds and measuring specific antibody responses. In this review, we describe the common methodologies employed to generate PVs, with a focus on approaches to improve the efficacy of PV generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barnabas King
- School of Life Sciences & NIHR Biomedical Research Unit in Gastrointestinal & Liver Diseases, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
- NIHR Biomedical Research Unit in Gastrointestinal & Liver Diseases, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Nigel J Temperton
- Viral Pseudotype Unit (Medway), School of Pharmacy, Anson Building, Central Avenue, Chatham Maritime, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Keith Grehan
- Viral Pseudotype Unit (Medway), School of Pharmacy, Anson Building, Central Avenue, Chatham Maritime, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Simon D Scott
- Viral Pseudotype Unit (Medway), School of Pharmacy, Anson Building, Central Avenue, Chatham Maritime, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Edward Wright
- Viral Pseudotype Unit (Fitzrovia), Faculty of Science & Technology, University of Westminster, 115 New Cavendish Street, London, W1W 6UW, UK
| | - Alexander W Tarr
- School of Life Sciences & NIHR Biomedical Research Unit in Gastrointestinal & Liver Diseases, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
- NIHR Biomedical Research Unit in Gastrointestinal & Liver Diseases, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Janet M Daly
- School of Veterinary Medicine & Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Leicestershire, LE12 5RD, UK
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49
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A Diverse Panel of Hepatitis C Virus Glycoproteins for Use in Vaccine Research Reveals Extremes of Monoclonal Antibody Neutralization Resistance. J Virol 2015; 90:3288-301. [PMID: 26699643 PMCID: PMC4794667 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02700-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite significant advances in the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, the need to develop preventative vaccines remains. Identification of the best vaccine candidates and evaluation of their performance in preclinical and clinical development will require appropriate neutralization assays utilizing diverse HCV isolates. We aimed to generate and characterize a panel of HCV E1E2 glycoproteins suitable for subsequent use in vaccine and therapeutic antibody testing. Full-length E1E2 clones were PCR amplified from patient-derived serum samples, cloned into an expression vector, and used to generate viral pseudoparticles (HCVpp). In addition, some of these clones were used to generate cell culture infectious (HCVcc) clones. The infectivity and neutralization sensitivity of these viruses were then determined. Bioinformatic and HCVpp infectivity screening of approximately 900 E1E2 clones resulted in the assembly of a panel of 78 functional E1E2 proteins representing distinct HCV genotypes and different stages of infection. These HCV glycoproteins differed markedly in their sensitivity to neutralizing antibodies. We used this panel to predict antibody efficacy against circulating HCV strains, highlighting the likely reason why some monoclonal antibodies failed in previous clinical trials. This study provides the first objective categorization of cross-genotype patient-derived HCV E1E2 clones according to their sensitivity to antibody neutralization. It has shown that HCV isolates have clearly distinguishable neutralization-sensitive, -resistant, or -intermediate phenotypes, which are independent of genotype. The panel provides a systematic means for characterization of the neutralizing response elicited by candidate vaccines and for defining the therapeutic potential of monoclonal antibodies. IMPORTANCE Hepatitis C virus (HCV) has a global burden of more than 170 million people, many of whom cannot attain the new, expensive, direct-acting antiviral therapies. A safe and effective vaccine that generates both T cell responses and neutralizing antibodies is required to eradicate the disease. Regions within the HCV surface glycoproteins E1 and E2 are essential for virus entry and are targets for neutralizing antibodies. Screening of vaccine candidates requires suitable panels of glycoproteins that represent the breadth of neutralization resistance. Use of a standard reference panel for vaccine studies will ensure comparability of data sets, as has become routine for HIV-1. Here, we describe a large panel of patient-derived HCV glycoproteins with an assessment of their neutralization sensitivity to defined monoclonal antibodies, which has enabled us to predict their likely efficacy in the wider HCV-infected population. The panel could also be important for future selection of additional therapeutic antibodies and for vaccine design.
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50
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Kumar A, Das S, Mullick R, Lahiri P, Tatineni R, Goswami D, Bhat P, Torresi J, Gowans EJ, Karande AA, Das S. Immune responses against hepatitis C virus genotype 3a virus-like particles in mice: A novel VLP prime-adenovirus boost strategy. Vaccine 2015; 34:1115-25. [PMID: 26700891 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2015.11.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Revised: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 11/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection represents a major health threat to global population. In India, approximately 15-20% of cases of chronic liver diseases are caused by HCV infection. Although, new drug treatments hold great promise for HCV eradication in infected individuals, the treatments are highly expensive. A vaccine for preventing or treating HCV infection would be of great value, particularly in developing countries. Several preclinical trials of virus-like particle (VLP) based vaccine strategies are in progress throughout the world. Previously, using baculovirus based system, we have reported the production of hepatitis C virus-like particles (HCV-LPs) encoding structural proteins for genotype 3a, which is prevalent in India. In the present study, we have generated HCV-LPs using adenovirus based system and tried different immunization strategies by using combinations of both kinds of HCV-LPs with other genotype 3a-based immunogens. HCV-LPs and peptides based ELISAs were used to evaluate antibody responses generated by these combinations. Cell-mediated immune responses were measured by using T-cell proliferation assay and intracellular cytokine staining. We observed that administration of recombinant adenoviruses expressing HCV structural proteins as final booster enhances both antibody as well as T-cell responses. Additionally, reduction of binding of VLP and JFH1 virus to human hepatocellular carcinoma cells demonstrated the presence of neutralizing antibodies in immunized sera. Taken together, our results suggest that the combined regimen of VLP followed by recombinant adenovirus could more effectively inhibit HCV infection, endorsing the novel vaccine strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuj Kumar
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Soma Das
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Ranajoy Mullick
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Priyanka Lahiri
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Ranjitha Tatineni
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Debashree Goswami
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Prasanna Bhat
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Joseph Torresi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Eric James Gowans
- Virology Laboratory, Discipline of Surgery, University of Adelaide, Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Medicine, Adelaide, SA 5011, Australia
| | - Anjali Anoop Karande
- Department of Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Saumitra Das
- Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India.
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