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Poston TB, Girardi J, Polson AG, Bhardwaj A, Yount KS, Jaras Salas I, Trim LK, Li Y, O'Connell CM, Leahy D, Harris JM, Beagley KW, Goonetilleke N, Darville T. Viral-vectored boosting of OmcB- or CPAF-specific T-cell responses fail to enhance protection from Chlamydia muridarum in infection-immune mice and elicits a non-protective CD8-dominant response in naïve mice. Mucosal Immunol 2024:S1933-0219(24)00066-7. [PMID: 38969067 DOI: 10.1016/j.mucimm.2024.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
A vaccine is needed to combat the Chlamydia epidemic. Replication-deficient viral vectors are safe and induce antigen-specific T-cell memory. We tested the ability of intramuscular immunization with modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) virus or chimpanzee adenovirus (ChAd) expressing chlamydial outer membrane protein (OmcB) or the secreted protein, chlamydial protease-like activating factor (CPAF), to enhance T-cell immunity and protection in mice previously infected with plasmid-deficient Chlamydia muridarum CM972 and elicit protection in naïve mice. MVA.OmcB or MVA.CPAF increased antigen-specific T cells in CM972-immune mice ∼150 and 50-fold, respectively, but failed to improve bacterial clearance. ChAd.OmcB/MVA.OmcB prime-boost immunization of naïve mice elicited a cluster of differentiation (CD) 8-dominant T-cell response dominated by cluster of differentiation (CD)8 T cells that failed to protect. ChAd.CPAF/ChAd.CPAF prime-boost also induced a CD8-dominant response with a marginal reduction in burden. Challenge of ChAd.CPAF-immunized mice genetically deficient in CD4 or CD8 T cells showed that protection was entirely CD4-dependent. CD4-deficient mice had prolonged infection, whereas CD8-deficient mice had higher frequencies of CPAF-specific CD4 T cells, earlier clearance, and reduced burden than wild-type controls. These data reinforce the essential nature of the CD4 T-cell response in protection from chlamydial genital infection in mice and the need for vaccine platforms that drive CD4-dominant responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor B Poston
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Jenna Girardi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - A Grace Polson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Aakash Bhardwaj
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kacy S Yount
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Ian Jaras Salas
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Logan K Trim
- Center for Immunology and Infection Control and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yanli Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Catherine M O'Connell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Darren Leahy
- Center for Immunology and Infection Control and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jonathan M Harris
- Center for Immunology and Infection Control and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kenneth W Beagley
- Center for Immunology and Infection Control and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nilu Goonetilleke
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Rosenkrands I, Olsen AW, Knudsen S, Dehari N, Juel HB, Cheeseman HM, Andersen P, Shattock RJ, Follmann F. Human antibody signatures towards the Chlamydia trachomatis major outer membrane protein after natural infection and vaccination. EBioMedicine 2024; 104:105140. [PMID: 38744110 PMCID: PMC11108849 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) Major Outer Membrane Protein (MOMP) holds a neutralising epitope in the Variable Domain 4 (VD4), and this region's immune dominance during infection is well known. This study aimed to assess the antibody response induced after infection and compare it for specificity and functionality to the response following vaccination with the vaccine CTH522, which contains VD4's from serovars D, E, F, and G. METHODS We assessed the antibody epitopes in MOMP by a high density peptide array. Furthermore, the role of the VD4 epitope in neutralisation was explored by competitive inhibition experiments with a fusion protein holding the neutralising VD4 linear epitope. This was done in two independent groups: 1) MOMP seropositive individuals infected with CT (n = 10, from case-control study) and 2) CTH522/CAF®01-vaccinated females (n = 14) from the CHLM-01 clinical trial. FINDINGS We identified the major antigenic regions in MOMP as VD4 and the conserved region just before VD3 in individuals infected with CT. The same regions, with the addition of VD1, were identified in vaccine recipients. Overall, the VD4 peptide responses were uniform in vaccinated individuals and led to inhibition of infection in vitro in all tested samples, whereas the VD4 responses were more heterogenous in individuals infected with CT, and only 2 out of 10 samples had VD4-mediated neutralising antibody responses. INTERPRETATION These data provide insights into the role of antibodies against MOMP VD4 induced after infection and vaccination, and show that their functionality differs. The induction of functional VD4-specific antibodies in vaccine recipients mimics previous results from animal models. FUNDING This work was supported by the European Commission through contract FP7-HEALTH-2011.1.4-4-280873 (ADITEC) and Fonden til Lægevidenskabens Fremme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ida Rosenkrands
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Anja W Olsen
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sara Knudsen
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nida Dehari
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Helene Bæk Juel
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hannah M Cheeseman
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Andersen
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Fonden, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Robin J Shattock
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Frank Follmann
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
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3
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Tanner T, Medhavi FNU, Richardson S, Omosun YO, Eko FO. In silico design and analysis of a multiepitope vaccine against Chlamydia. Pathog Dis 2024; 82:ftae015. [PMID: 38889932 PMCID: PMC11234648 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftae015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) is the most common sexually transmitted bacterial infection worldwide, potentially leading to severe pathologies including pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, and tubal infertility if left untreated. Current strategies, including screening and antibiotics, have limited effectiveness due to high rates of asymptomatic cases and logistical challenges. A multiepitope prophylactic vaccine could afford long-term protection against infection. Immunoinformatic analyses were employed to design a multiepitope Chlamydia vaccine antigen. B- and T-cell epitopes from five highly conserved and immunogenic Ct antigens were predicted and selected for the vaccine design. The final construct, adjuvanted with cholera toxin A1 subunit (CTA1), was further screened for immunogenicity. CTA1-MECA (multiepitope Chlamydia trachomatis antigen) was identified as antigenic and nonallergenic. A tertiary structure was predicted, refined, and validated as a good quality model. Molecular docking exhibited strong interactions between the vaccine and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). Additionally, immune responses consistent with protection including IFN-γ, IgG + IgM antibodies, and T- and B-cell responses were predicted following vaccination in an immune simulation. Expression of the construct in an Escherichia coli expression vector proved efficient. To further validate the vaccine efficacy, we assessed its immunogenicity in mice. Immunization with CTA1-MECA elicited high levels of Chlamydia-specific antibodies in mucosal and systemic compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayhlor Tanner
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine. 720 Westview Drive, Atlanta, GA 30310, United States
| | - F N U Medhavi
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine. 720 Westview Drive, Atlanta, GA 30310, United States
| | - Shakyra Richardson
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine. 720 Westview Drive, Atlanta, GA 30310, United States
| | - Yusuf O Omosun
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine. 720 Westview Drive, Atlanta, GA 30310, United States
| | - Francis O Eko
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine. 720 Westview Drive, Atlanta, GA 30310, United States
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Lu C, Wang J, Zhong G. Preclinical screen for protection efficacy of chlamydial antigens that are immunogenic in humans. Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0034923. [PMID: 37889004 PMCID: PMC10652899 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00349-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
To search for subunit vaccine candidates, immunogenic chlamydial antigens identified in humans were evaluated for protection against both infection and pathology in a mouse genital tract infection model under three different immunization regimens. The intramuscular immunization regimen was first used to evaluate 106 chlamydial antigens, which revealed that two antigens significantly reduced while 11 increased genital chlamydial burden. The two infection-reducing antigens failed to prevent pathology and 23 additional antigens even exacerbated pathology. Thus, intranasal mucosal immunization was tested next since intranasal inoculation with live Chlamydia muridarum prevented both genital infection and pathology. Two of the 29 chlamydial antigens evaluated were found to prevent genital infection but not pathology and three exacerbate pathology. To further improve protection efficacy, a combinational regimen (intranasal priming + intramuscular boosting + a third intraperitoneal/subcutaneous boost) was tested. This regimen identified four infection-reducing antigens, but only one of them prevented pathology. Unfortunately, this protective antigen was not advanced further due to its amino acid sequence homology with several human molecules. Two pathology-exacerbating antigens were also found. Nevertheless, intranasal mucosal priming with viable C. muridarum in control groups consistently prevented both genital infection and pathology regardless of the subsequent boosters. Thus, screening 140 different chlamydial antigens with 21 repeated multiple times in 17 experiments failed to identify a subunit vaccine candidate but demonstrated the superiority of viable chlamydial organisms in inducing immunity against both genital infection and pathology, laying the foundation for developing a live-attenuated Chlamydia vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxue Lu
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas, USA
- Department of Immunology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Guangming Zhong
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas, USA
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Barton A, Rosenkrands I, Pickering H, Faal N, Harte A, Joof H, Makalo P, Ragonnet M, Olsen AW, Bailey RL, Mabey DCW, Follmann F, Dietrich J, Holland MJ. A systems serology approach to the investigation of infection-induced antibody responses and protection in trachoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1178741. [PMID: 37287960 PMCID: PMC10242090 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1178741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Ocular infections with Chlamydia trachomatis serovars A-C cause the neglected tropical disease trachoma. As infection does not confer complete immunity, repeated infections are common, leading to long-term sequelae such as scarring and blindness. Here, we apply a systems serology approach to investigate whether systemic antibody features are associated with susceptibility to infection. Methods Sera from children in five trachoma endemic villages in the Gambia were assayed for 23 antibody features: IgG responses towards two C. trachomatis antigens and three serovars [elementary bodies and major outer membrane protein (MOMP), serovars A-C], IgG responses towards five MOMP peptides (serovars A-C), neutralization, and antibody-dependent phagocytosis. Participants were considered resistant if they subsequently developed infection only when over 70% of other children in the same compound were infected. Results The antibody features assayed were not associated with resistance to infection (false discovery rate < 0.05). Anti-MOMP SvA IgG and neutralization titer were higher in susceptible individuals (p < 0.05 before multiple testing adjustment). Classification using partial least squares performed only slightly better than chance in distinguishing between susceptible and resistant participants based on systemic antibody profile (specificity 71%, sensitivity 36%). Conclusions Systemic infection-induced IgG and functional antibody responses do not appear to be protective against subsequent infection. Ocular responses, IgA, avidity, or cell-mediated responses may play a greater role in protective immunity than systemic IgG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Barton
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ida Rosenkrands
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Harry Pickering
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nkoyo Faal
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Banjul, Gambia
| | - Anna Harte
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hassan Joof
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Banjul, Gambia
| | - Pateh Makalo
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Banjul, Gambia
| | - Manon Ragonnet
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Banjul, Gambia
| | - Anja Weinreich Olsen
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robin L. Bailey
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - David C. W. Mabey
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Frank Follmann
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jes Dietrich
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin J. Holland
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Peng B, Zhong S, Hua Y, Luo Q, Dong W, Wang C, Li Z, Yang C, Lei A, Lu C. Efficacy of Pgp3 vaccination for Chlamydia urogenital tract infection depends on its native conformation. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1018774. [PMID: 36466885 PMCID: PMC9709265 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1018774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Urogenital tract infections with Chlamydia trachomatis have frequently been detected among patients diagnosed with sexually transmitted infections, and such infections lead to inflammatory complications. Currently, no licensed chlamydial vaccine is available in clinical practice. We previously reported that immunization with recombinant C. trachomatis plasmid-encoded virulence factor Pgp3 provided cross-serovar protection against C. muridarum genital tract infection. Because Pgp3 is a homotrimer and human antisera only recognize the trimeric form of Pgp3, we compared the effects of the native conformation of Pgp3 (trimer) and heat-denatured Pgp3 (monomer) to determine whether the native conformation is dispensable for the induction of protective immunity against chlamydial vaginal challenge. Both Pgp3 trimer and monomer immunization induced corresponding specific antibody production, but only trimer-induced antibody recognized endogenous Pgp3, and trimer-immunized mouse splenocytes showed the highest IFN-γ production upon restimulation with the chlamydial elementary body or native Pgp3 in vitro. Importantly, only Pgp3 trimer-immunized mice showed shortened lower genital tract chlamydial shedding and decreased upper genital tract pathology. Thus, Pgp3-induced protective immunity against Chlamydia urogenital tract infection is highly dependent on the native conformation, which will guide the design of Pgp3-based polypeptides and multi-subunit chlamydial vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Peng
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China
- Department of Pathology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Shufang Zhong
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China
| | - Yaoqin Hua
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China
| | - Qizheng Luo
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China
| | - Weilei Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Chuan Wang
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China
| | - Zhongyu Li
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China
| | - Chunfen Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Aihua Lei
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China
| | - Chunxue Lu
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China
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Stranahan LW, Garcia-Gonzalez DG, Hensel ME, Arenas-Gamboa AM. Primary and memory immune responses against rough Brucella canis are less robust compared to smooth B. abortus and B. melitensis following intratracheal infection in mice. Front Immunol 2022; 13:959328. [PMID: 36032120 PMCID: PMC9402402 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.959328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Brucella canis is the cause of canine brucellosis, a globally distributed, zoonotic pathogen which primarily causes disease in dogs. B. canis is unique amongst the zoonotic Brucella spp. with its rough lipopolysaccharide, a trait typically associated with attenuation in gram-negative bacteria. Unfortunately, no vaccine is available against B. canis, and vaccine development is hampered by a limited understanding of the immune response required to combat it and the course of infection following a physiologically relevant, mucosal route of inoculation. To address these concerns and analyze the impact of the rough phenotype on the immune response, we infected mice intratracheally with rough B. canis or smooth B. melitensis or B. abortus. Bacterial colonization and histologic lesions were assessed in systemic target organs as well as locally in the lungs and draining mediastinal lymph node. Mice were also reinfected with Brucella following antibiotic treatment and cytokine production by T lymphocytes in the lung and spleen was assessed by flow cytometry to investigate the memory immune response. Despite its rough phenotype, B. canis established a persistent infection at the same level of colonization as the smooth strains. However, B. canis induced significantly less granulomatous inflammation in the spleen as well as a lack of bronchial-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT) hyperplasia in the lungs. These differences coincided with increased IL-10 and decreased IFN-γ in the spleen of B. canis-infected mice. Previous exposure to all Brucella strains provided protection against colonization following secondary challenge, although induction of IFN-γ by T lymphocytes was seen only in the lungs during B. canis infection while the smooth strains induced this cytokine in the spleen as well. Neither Brucella strain induced significant polyfunctional T lymphocytes, a potential immunomodulatory mechanism that appears to be independent of lipopolysaccharide phenotype.
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8
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Brito LT, Rinaldi FM, Gaspar EB, Correa VA, Gonçalves CA, Portilho AI, Trzewikoswki de Lima G, De Gaspari E. Study of different routes of immunization using outer membrane vesicles of Neisseria meningitidis B and comparison of two adjuvants. Vaccine 2020; 38:7674-7682. [PMID: 33082014 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2020.09.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) of Neisseria meningitidis contain important antigens to trigger an immune response against meningococci and have been studied as vaccines compounds. The immune response to a vaccine may be affected by its constitution and route of administration. Therefore, Swiss mice were immunized by different routes with OMVs of N. meningitidis B with dimethyl dioctadecyl ammonium bromide in bilayer fragments (DDA-BF) or aluminum hydroxide (AH) as adjuvants. The adjuvants and different routes were compared regarding the immune responses by ELISA, western blot, delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) and histopathologic analysis. The antigenic preparation generated humoral and cellular immune responses. In quantitative analyzes, in general, AH was superior to DDA-BF. However, analysis such as IgG avidity index, bactericidal activity and immunoblot, revealed no important differences regarding the adjuvant or route of immunization. Regarding the parameters tested, it was not possible to define a superiority between the adjuvants and routes of immunization proposed by this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana T Brito
- Department of Immunology, Adolfo Lutz Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Post-Graduate Program Interunities in Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Fabiana M Rinaldi
- Department of Immunology, Adolfo Lutz Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Post-Graduate Program Interunities in Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Victor Araujo Correa
- Department of Immunology, Adolfo Lutz Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Post-Graduate Program Interunities in Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Amanda Izeli Portilho
- Department of Immunology, Adolfo Lutz Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Post-Graduate Program Interunities in Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Trzewikoswki de Lima
- Department of Immunology, Adolfo Lutz Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Post-Graduate Program Interunities in Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Elizabeth De Gaspari
- Department of Immunology, Adolfo Lutz Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Post-Graduate Program Interunities in Biotechnology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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9
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Comparison of Chlamydia outer membrane complex to recombinant outer membrane proteins as vaccine. Vaccine 2020; 38:3280-3291. [PMID: 32151463 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2020.02.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The Chlamydial outer membrane complex (COMC) from the elementary body (EB) is a protein rich insoluble outer membrane shell from which cytosolic proteins have been extracted with detergent. In this study we conducted mass spectrometry experiments to detect proteins in the COMC prepared from C. muridarum EB. Proteomic analysis showed that the COMC contained 75 proteins that included 10 outer membrane proteins (OMPs) such as the major outer membrane protein (MOMP) and polymorphic membrane proteins (Pmps) that were previously identified as CD4 T cell vaccine candidates. We tested the vaccine efficacy of COMC in comparison to individual or combination of recombinant OMPs formulated with Th1 polarizing adjuvant DDA/MPL in two murine genital tract models (C. muridarum and C. trachomatis) by measuring organismal shedding, tubal pathology and immune responses including neutralizing antibodies. In the C. muridarum model, the COMC vaccine generated broadly reactive immune responses against multiple outer membrane proteins, high levels of EB binding and neutralizing antibody and exhibited superior protection against genital infection and pathology when compared to the recombinant PmpG vaccine. Denaturing the COMC by boiling significantly reduced protection. In the C. trachomatis model, the COMC vaccine also conferred greater protection compared to individual or multiple recombinant outer membrane proteins. Immunization with multiple COMCs from C. trachomatis serovars D, F and J generated neutralizing antibodies against multiple C. trachomatis serovars. We conclude that broader immunogenicity and generation of neutralizing antibody may explain the superior efficacy of COMC vaccine. The study suggests that conformationally intact proteins will be necessary for a successful recombinant OMP vaccine.
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10
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Pal S, Ausar SF, Tifrea DF, Cheng C, Gallichan S, Sanchez V, de la Maza LM, Visan L. Protection of outbred mice against a vaginal challenge by a Chlamydia trachomatis serovar E recombinant major outer membrane protein vaccine is dependent on phosphate substitution in the adjuvant. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2020; 16:2537-2547. [PMID: 32118511 PMCID: PMC7644203 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2020.1717183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common bacterial sexually-transmitted pathogen for which there is no vaccine. We previously demonstrated that the degree of phosphate substitution in an aluminum hydroxide adjuvant in a TLR-4-based C. trachomatis serovar E (Ser E) recombinant major outer membrane protein (rMOMP) formulation had an impact on the induced antibody titers and IFN-γ levels. Here, we have extended these observations using outbreed CD-1 mice immunized with C. trachomatis Ser E rMOMP formulations to evaluate the impact on bacterial challenge. The results confirmed that the rMOMP vaccine containing the adjuvant with the highest phosphate substitution induced the highest neutralizing antibody titers while the formulation with the lowest phosphate substitution induced the highest IFN-γ production. The most robust protection was observed in mice vaccinated with the formulation containing the adjuvant with the lowest phosphate substitution, as shown by the number of mice with positive vaginal cultures, number of positive cultures and number of C. trachomatis inclusion forming units recovered. This is the first report showing that vaccination of an outbred strain of mice with rMOMP induces protection against a vaginal challenge with C. trachomatis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukumar Pal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California , Irvine, CA, USA
| | | | - Delia F Tifrea
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California , Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Chunmei Cheng
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California , Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Scott Gallichan
- Analytical Research and Development Department, Sanofi Pasteur , Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Violette Sanchez
- Research & Non Clinical Safety Department, Sanofi Pasteur , Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Luis M de la Maza
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California , Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Lucian Visan
- Research & Non Clinical Safety Department, Sanofi Pasteur , Marcy l'Etoile, France
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11
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Nguyen NDNT, Olsen AW, Lorenzen E, Andersen P, Hvid M, Follmann F, Dietrich J. Parenteral vaccination protects against transcervical infection with Chlamydia trachomatis and generate tissue-resident T cells post-challenge. NPJ Vaccines 2020; 5:7. [PMID: 31993218 PMCID: PMC6978417 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-020-0157-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The optimal protective immunity against Chlamydia trachomatis (C.t.) is still not fully resolved. One of the unresolved issues concerns the importance of resident immunity, since a recent study showed that optimal protection against a transcervical (TC) infection required genital tissue-resident memory T cells. An important question in the Chlamydia field is therefore if a parenteral vaccine strategy, inducing only circulating immunity primed at a nonmucosal site, should be pursued by Chlamydia vaccine developers. To address this question we studied the protective efficacy of a parenteral Chlamydia vaccine, formulated in the Th1/Th17 T cell-inducing adjuvant CAF01. We found that a parenteral vaccination induced significant protection against a TC infection and against development of chronic pathology. Protection correlated with rapid recruitment of Th1/Th17 T cells to the genital tract (GT), which efficiently prevented infection-driven generation of low quality Th1 or Th17 T cells, and instead maintained a pool of high quality multifunctional Th1/Th17 T cells in the GT throughout the infection. After clearance of the infection, a pool of these cells settled in the GT as tissue-resident Th1 and Th17 cells expressing CD69 but not CD103, CD49d, or CCR7, where they responded rapidly to a reinfection. These results show that a nonmucosal parenteral strategy inducing Th1 and Th17 T cells mediates protection against both infection with C.t. as well as development of chronic pathology, and lead to post-challenge protective tissue-resident memory immunity in the genital tract.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anja W Olsen
- 1Statens Serum Institut, Department for Infectious Disease Immunology, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emma Lorenzen
- 1Statens Serum Institut, Department for Infectious Disease Immunology, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Andersen
- 1Statens Serum Institut, Department for Infectious Disease Immunology, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Malene Hvid
- 2Department of Biomedicine and Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Frank Follmann
- 1Statens Serum Institut, Department for Infectious Disease Immunology, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jes Dietrich
- 1Statens Serum Institut, Department for Infectious Disease Immunology, Copenhagen, Denmark
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12
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Miyake Y, Yamasaki S. Immune Recognition of Pathogen-Derived Glycolipids Through Mincle. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1204:31-56. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-1580-4_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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13
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Majumder S, Das S, Somani VK, Makam SS, Kingston JJ, Bhatnagar R. A Bivalent Protein r-PAbxpB Comprising PA Domain IV and Exosporium Protein BxpB Confers Protection Against B. anthracis Spores and Toxin. Front Immunol 2019; 10:498. [PMID: 30941133 PMCID: PMC6433990 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Anthrax vaccines primarily relying only on protective antigen (PA), the cell binding component in anthrax toxins provide incomplete protection when challenged with spores of virulent encapsulated Bacillus anthracis strains. Alternatively, formaldehyde inactivated spores (FIS) or recombinant spore components generate anti-spore immune responses that inhibit the early stages of infection and augment the PA protective efficacy. In the present study domain IV of PA was spliced with exosporium antigen BxpB via a flexible G4S linker to generate a single functional antigen r-PAbxpB that was further assessed for its protective efficacy against anthrax toxins and spore infection. Immunization of mice with r-PAbxpB elicited significantly high titer antibodies comprising IgG1:IgG2a isotypes in 1:1 ratio, balanced up-regulation of both Th1 (IL2, IL12, IFN-γ) and Th2 (IL4, IL5, IL10) cytokines and high frequencies of CD4+ and CD8+ T cell subsets. The anti-r-PAbxpB antibodies significantly enhanced spore phagocytosis, and killing within macrophages; inhibited their germination to vegetative cells and completely neutralized the anthrax toxins as evidenced by the 100% protection in passive transfer studies. Active immunization with r-PAbxpB provided 100 and 83.3% protection in mice I.P. challenged with 5 × LD100 LD of toxins and 5 × 104 cfu/ml Ames spores, respectively while the sham immunized group succumbed to infection in 48 h. Therefore, the ability of r-PAbxpB to generate protective immune responses against both spores and toxin and provide significant protection suggests it as an efficient vaccine candidate against B. anthracis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saugata Majumder
- Defence Food Research Laboratory, Microbiology Division, Defence Research Development Organisation, Mysore, India
| | - Shreya Das
- Defence Food Research Laboratory, Microbiology Division, Defence Research Development Organisation, Mysore, India
| | | | - Shivakiran S Makam
- Defence Food Research Laboratory, Microbiology Division, Defence Research Development Organisation, Mysore, India
| | - Joseph J Kingston
- Defence Food Research Laboratory, Microbiology Division, Defence Research Development Organisation, Mysore, India
| | - Rakesh Bhatnagar
- School of Biotechnology, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
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14
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Díaz AG, Quinteros DA, Paolicchi FA, Rivero MA, Palma SD, Pardo RP, Clausse M, Zylberman V, Goldbaum FA, Estein SM. Mucosal immunization with polymeric antigen BLSOmp31 using alternative delivery systems against Brucella ovis in rams. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2019; 209:70-77. [PMID: 30885309 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Subcellular vaccines against ovine contagious epididymitis due Brucella ovis can solve some shortcomings associated with the use of Brucella melitensis Rev 1. We have demonstrated that the parenteral immunization with polymeric antigen BLSOmp31 emulsified in oil adjuvant conferred significant protection against B. ovis in rams. In our previous studies, we have characterized chitosan microspheres (ChMs) and a thermoresponsive and mucoadhesive in situ gel (Poloxamer 407-Ch) as two novel formulation strategies for the delivery of BLSOmp31 in nasal as well as conjunctival mucosa. In the present work, we evaluated the immunogenicity and protection conferred by the intranasal and conjunctival immunization with these two mucosal delivery systems against B. ovis in rams. BLSOmp31-ChM administered by intranasal route and BLSOmp31-P407-Ch applied by intranasal or conjunctival routes induced systemic, local and preputial IgG and IgA antibody response. Neither formulation showed interference in the serological diagnosis. Thus, mucosal immunization using either formulation induced significant specific cellular immune responses (in vitro and in vivo) and it prevented the excretion of B. ovis in semen. Although these vaccines did not prevent infection in immunized rams, colonization reduction of infected organs and bacterial distribution differed significantly between vaccinated and unvaccinated rams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Graciela Díaz
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Departamento de Sanidad Animal y Medicina Preventiva (SAMP), Centro de Investigación Veterinaria Tandil (CIVETAN-CONICET-CICPBA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias (FCV), Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires (UNCPBA), Tandil, 7000, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniela Alejandra Quinteros
- Departamento de Farmacia. Facultad Ciencias Químicas. Unidad de Investigación y Desarrollo en Tecnología Farmacéutica (UNITEFA-CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernando Alberto Paolicchi
- Laboratorio de Bacteriología, Departamento de Producción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria, Balcarce, 7620, Argentina
| | - Mariana Alejandra Rivero
- Área de Epidemiología. SAMP. CIVETAN-CONICET-CICPBA, FCV, UNCPBA, Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Santiago Daniel Palma
- Departamento de Farmacia. Facultad Ciencias Químicas. Unidad de Investigación y Desarrollo en Tecnología Farmacéutica (UNITEFA-CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - María Clausse
- Área de Cirugía. Depto. Clínica. CIVETAN-CONICET-CICPBA, FCV, UNCPBA, Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Vanesa Zylberman
- Inmunova S.A., Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernando Alberto Goldbaum
- Inmunova S.A., Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvia Marcela Estein
- Laboratorio de Inmunología, Departamento de Sanidad Animal y Medicina Preventiva (SAMP), Centro de Investigación Veterinaria Tandil (CIVETAN-CONICET-CICPBA), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias (FCV), Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires (UNCPBA), Tandil, 7000, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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15
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Christensen D, Bøllehuus Hansen L, Leboux R, Jiskoot W, Christensen JP, Andersen P, Dietrich J. A Liposome-Based Adjuvant Containing Two Delivery Systems with the Ability to Induce Mucosal Immunoglobulin A Following a Parenteral Immunization. ACS NANO 2019; 13:1116-1126. [PMID: 30609354 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.8b05209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide, enteric infections rank third among all causes of disease burdens, and vaccines able to induce a strong and long-lasting intestinal immune responses are needed. Parenteral immunization generally do not generate intestinal IgA. Recently, however, injections of retinoic acid (RA) dissolved in oil, administered multiple times before vaccination to precondition the vaccine-draining lymph nodes, enabled a parenteral vaccine strategy to induce intestinal IgA. As multiple injections of RA before vaccination is not an attractive strategy for clinical practice, we aimed to develop a "one injection" vaccine formulation that upon parenteral administration induced intestinal IgA. Our vaccine formulation contained two liposomal delivery systems. One delivery system, based on 1,2-distearoyl- sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine stabilized with PEG, was designed to exhibit fast drainage of RA to local lymph nodes to precondition these for a mucosal immune response before being subjected to the vaccine antigen. The other delivery system, based on the cationic liposomal adjuvant CAF01 stabilized with cholesterol, was optimized for prolonged delivery of the antigen by migratory antigen-presenting cells to the preconditioned lymph node. Combined we call the adjuvant CAF23. We show that CAF23, administered by the subcutaneous route induces an antigen specific intestinal IgA response, making it a promising candidate adjuvant for vaccines against enteric diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Christensen
- Department for Infectious Disease Immunology , Statens Serum Institut , Artillerivej 5 , DK-2300 Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Lasse Bøllehuus Hansen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction , Rigshospitalet , Juliane Maries Vej 6 , DK-2100 Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Romain Leboux
- Department for Infectious Disease Immunology , Statens Serum Institut , Artillerivej 5 , DK-2300 Copenhagen , Denmark
- Division of Bio-therapeutics , Leiden University , Einsteinweg 55 , NL 2333 Leiden , Holland
| | - Wim Jiskoot
- Division of Bio-therapeutics , Leiden University , Einsteinweg 55 , NL 2333 Leiden , Holland
| | - Jan Pravsgaard Christensen
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology , University of Copenhagen , Blegdamsvej 3C , DK-2200 Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Peter Andersen
- Department for Infectious Disease Immunology , Statens Serum Institut , Artillerivej 5 , DK-2300 Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Jes Dietrich
- Department for Infectious Disease Immunology , Statens Serum Institut , Artillerivej 5 , DK-2300 Copenhagen , Denmark
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Chlamydia trachomatis ct143 stimulates secretion of proinflammatory cytokines via activating the p38/MAPK signal pathway in THP-1 cells. Mol Immunol 2018; 105:233-239. [PMID: 30554084 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2018.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 11/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) infections can cause bacterial sexually-transmitted and preventable blindness. The Ct infections induced excessive cytokines generation which attributed to pathologic changes in host cells. However, the precise mechanisms of Ct-induced cytokines production are still unclear.CT143 protein was identified as a novel Ct specific protein with high immunogenicity. In the present study. The CT143 fusion protein was recombined and purified. The mice immune serum was prepared by immunizing BALB/c mice with the purified fusion protein. The specificity of the antibody was confirmed using Immunoblotting. Indirect immunoflurescence assay (IFA) and Immunoblotting assays were performed to detect the temporal and spatial characteristics of CT143 in Ct infected cells. ELISA was performed to analyze the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-8 and TNF-α by human macrophages under the stimulation of CT143 protein. Finally, the involvement of p38 signaling in CT143-induced cytokine secretion was validated. CT143 protein was located in the inclusion body and represented an Elementary body (EB)-related protein, which may be encoded by the mid- and late-stage expressing genes. CT143 protein could stimulate the secretion of inflammatory cytokines in macrophages which differentiated from THP-1 This induction may be mediated by the activation of p38 signaling. In summary, CT143 protein is involved in inflammatory processes during Ct infection.
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17
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Luan X, Peng B, Li Z, Tang L, Chen C, Chen L, Wu H, Sun Z, Lu C. Vaccination with MIP or Pgp3 induces cross-serovar protection against chlamydial genital tract infection in mice. Immunobiology 2018; 224:223-230. [PMID: 30558842 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2018.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Previously we reported that recombinant Chlamydia muridarum macrophage infectivity potentiator (MIP) provided partial protection against C. muridarum genital tract infection in mice. On the other hand, Chlamydia trachomatis plasmid encoded Pgp3could induce the protection against C. muridarum air way infection. This study aimed to evaluate the immunogenicity of MIP and Pgp3 from C. trachomatis serovar D and further investigate whether MIP and Pgp3 provide cross-serovar protection against C. muridarum genital tract infection in mice. Our results showed that vaccination by any regimen, including MIP alone, Pgp3 alone or MIP plus Pgp3, induced specific serum antibody production and Th1-dominant cellular responses in mice. Live chlamydial shedding from the vaginal and inflammatory pathologies in the oviduct markedly reduced. However, MIP + Pgp3 vaccination did not provide better protection than the single immunization. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that both MIP and Pgp3 can induce cross-serovar protective against chlamydial genital tract infection, and provided the guide for the development of optimal multisubunit vaccines against C. trachomatis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuli Luan
- Pathogenic Biology Institute, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Bo Peng
- Pathogenic Biology Institute, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang, 421001, China; Department of Pathology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Zhongyu Li
- Pathogenic Biology Institute, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Lingli Tang
- Department of Clinic Diagnosis, Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, China
| | - Chaoqun Chen
- Pathogenic Biology Institute, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Lili Chen
- Pathogenic Biology Institute, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Haiying Wu
- Pathogenic Biology Institute, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Zhenjie Sun
- Pathogenic Biology Institute, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Chunxue Lu
- Pathogenic Biology Institute, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang, 421001, China.
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18
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Tifrea DF, Pal S, Le Bon C, Giusti F, Popot JL, Cocco MJ, Zoonens M, de la Maza LM. Co-delivery of amphipol-conjugated adjuvant with antigen, and adjuvant combinations, enhance immune protection elicited by a membrane protein-based vaccine against a mucosal challenge with Chlamydia. Vaccine 2018; 36:6640-6649. [PMID: 30293763 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.09.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chlamydial infections are spread worldwide and a vaccine is needed to control this pathogen. The goals of this study were to determine if the delivery of an adjuvant associated to the antigen, via a derivatized amphipol, and adjuvant combinations improve vaccine protection. METHODS A novel approach, trapping the Chlamydia muridarum (Cm) native MOMP (nMOMP) with amphipols (A8-35), bearing a covalently conjugated peptide (EP67), was used. Adjuvants incorporated were: EP67 either conjugated to A8-35, which was used to trap nMOMP (nMOMP/EP67-A8-35), or free as a control, added to nMOMP/A8-35 complexes (nMOMP/A8-35+EP67); Montanide ISA 720 to enhance humoral responses, and CpG-1826 to elicit robust cell-mediated immunity (CMI). BALB/c mice were immunized by mucosal and systemic routes. Intranasal immunization with live Cm was used as positive control and three negative controls were included. Mice were challenged intranasally with Cm and changes in body weight, lungs weight and number of Cm-inclusion forming units (IFU) recovered from the lungs were evaluated to establish protection. To assess local responses levels of IFN- γ and Cm-specific IgA were determined in lungs' supernatants. RESULTS Structural assays demonstrated that nMOMP secondary structure and thermal stability were maintained when A8-35 was covalently modified. Mice vaccinated with nMOMP/EP67-A8-35 were better protected than animals immunized with nMOMP/A8-35+EP67. Addition of Montanide enhanced Th2 responses and improved protection. Including CpG-1826 further broadened, intensified and switched to Th1-biased immune responses. With delivery of nMOMP and the three adjuvants, as determined by changes in body weight, lungs weight and number of IFU recovered from lungs, protection at 10 days post-challenge was equivalent to that induced by immunization with live Cm. CONCLUSIONS Covalent association of EP67 to A8-35, used to keep nMOMP water-soluble, improves protection over that conferred by free EP67. Adjuvant combinations including EP67+Montanide+CpG-1826, by broadening and intensifying cellular and humoral immune responses, further enhanced protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delia F Tifrea
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical Sciences I, Room D440, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697-4800, USA
| | - Sukumar Pal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical Sciences I, Room D440, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697-4800, USA
| | - Christel Le Bon
- C.N.R.S./Université Paris-7 UMR 7099, Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, 13, rue Pierre-et-Marie-Curie, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Fabrice Giusti
- C.N.R.S./Université Paris-7 UMR 7099, Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, 13, rue Pierre-et-Marie-Curie, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Luc Popot
- C.N.R.S./Université Paris-7 UMR 7099, Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, 13, rue Pierre-et-Marie-Curie, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Melanie J Cocco
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 1218 Natural Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697-3900, USA
| | - Manuela Zoonens
- C.N.R.S./Université Paris-7 UMR 7099, Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, 13, rue Pierre-et-Marie-Curie, F-75005 Paris, France.
| | - Luis M de la Maza
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical Sciences I, Room D440, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697-4800, USA.
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19
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Verma R, Sahu R, Dixit S, Duncan SA, Giambartolomei GH, Singh SR, Dennis VA. The Chlamydia M278 Major Outer Membrane Peptide Encapsulated in the Poly(lactic acid)-Poly(ethylene glycol) Nanoparticulate Self-Adjuvanting Delivery System Protects Mice Against a Chlamydia muridarum Genital Tract Challenge by Stimulating Robust Systemic and Local Mucosal Immune Responses. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2369. [PMID: 30374357 PMCID: PMC6196261 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, we reported that our PPM chlamydial nanovaccine [a biodegradable co-polymeric PLA-PEG (poly(lactic acid)-poly(ethylene glycol))-encapsulated M278 peptide (derived from the major outer membrane protein (MOMP) of Chlamydia)] exploits the caveolin-mediated endocytosis pathway for endosomal processing and MHC class II presentation to immune-potentiate Chlamydia-specific CD4+ T-cell immune effector responses. In the present study, we employed the Chlamydia muridarum mouse infection model to evaluate the protective efficacy of PPM against a genital tract challenge. Our results show that mice immunized with PPM were significantly protected against a homologous genital tract challenge evidently by reduced vaginal bacterial loads. Protection of mice correlated with enhanced Chlamydia-specific adaptive immune responses predominated by IFN-γ along with CD4+ T-cells proliferation and their differentiation to CD4+ memory (CD44high CD62Lhigh) and effector (CD44high CD62Llow) T-cell phenotypes. We observed the elevation of M278- and MOMP-specific serum antibodies with high avidity in the ascending order IgG1 > IgG2b > IgG2a. A key finding was the elevated mucosal IgG1 and IgA antibody titers followed by an increase in MOMP-specific IgA after the challenge. The Th1/Th2 antibody titer ratios (IgG2a/IgG1 and IgG2b/IgG1) revealed that PPM evoked a Th2-directed response, which skewed to a Th1-dominated antibody response after the bacterial challenge of mice. In addition, PPM immune sera neutralized the infectivity of C. muridarum in McCoy cells, suggesting the triggering of functional neutralizing antibodies. Herein, we reveal for the first time that subcutaneous immunization with the self-adjuvanting biodegradable co-polymeric PPM nanovaccine immune-potentiated robust CD4+ T cell-mediated immune effector responses; a mixed Th1 and Th2 antibody response and local mucosal IgA to protect mice against a chlamydial genital tract challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richa Verma
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| | - Rajnish Sahu
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| | - Saurabh Dixit
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| | - Skyla A Duncan
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| | - Guillermo H Giambartolomei
- Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo (INIGEM), CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Shree R Singh
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| | - Vida A Dennis
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
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20
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Poston TB, Qu Y, Girardi J, O'Connell CM, Frazer LC, Russell AN, Wall M, Nagarajan UM, Darville T. A Chlamydia-Specific TCR-Transgenic Mouse Demonstrates Th1 Polyfunctionality with Enhanced Effector Function. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2017; 199:2845-2854. [PMID: 28855311 PMCID: PMC5770186 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1700914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydia is responsible for millions of new infections annually, and current efforts focus on understanding cellular immunity for targeted vaccine development. The Chlamydia-specific CD4 T cell response is characterized by the production of IFN-γ, and polyfunctional Th1 responses are associated with enhanced protection. A major limitation in studying these responses is the paucity of tools available for detection, quantification, and characterization of polyfunctional Ag-specific T cells. We addressed this problem by developing a TCR-transgenic (Tg) mouse with CD4 T cells that respond to a common Ag in Chlamydia muridarum and Chlamydia trachomatis Using an adoptive-transfer approach, we show that naive Tg CD4 T cells become activated, proliferate, migrate to the infected tissue, and acquire a polyfunctional Th1 phenotype in infected mice. Polyfunctional Tg Th1 effectors demonstrated enhanced IFN-γ production compared with polyclonal cells, protected immune-deficient mice against lethality, mediated bacterial clearance, and orchestrated an anamnestic response. Adoptive transfer of Chlamydia-specific CD4 TCR-Tg T cells with polyfunctional capacity offers a powerful approach for analysis of protective effector and memory responses against chlamydial infection and demonstrates that an effective monoclonal CD4 T cell response may successfully guide subunit vaccination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor B Poston
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
| | - Yanyan Qu
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224
| | - Jenna Girardi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
| | - Catherine M O'Connell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
| | - Lauren C Frazer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
| | - Ali N Russell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
| | - McKensie Wall
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
| | - Uma M Nagarajan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
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Beck BR, Lee SH, Kim D, Park JH, Lee HK, Kwon SS, Lee KH, Lee JI, Song SK. A Lactococcus lactis BFE920 feed vaccine expressing a fusion protein composed of the OmpA and FlgD antigens from Edwardsiella tarda was significantly better at protecting olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) from edwardsiellosis than single antigen vaccines. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 68:19-28. [PMID: 28687358 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2017.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 06/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/01/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Edwardsiellosis is a major fish disease that causes a significant economic damage in the aquaculture industry. Here, we assessed vaccine efficacy after feeding oral vaccines to olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus), either L. lactis BFE920 expressing Edwardsiella tarda outer membrane protein A (OmpA), flagellar hook protein D (FlgD), or a fusion antigen of the two. Feed vaccination was done twice with a one-week interval. Fish were fed regular feed adsorbed with the vaccines. Feed vaccination was given over the course of one week to maximize the interaction between the feed vaccines and the fish intestine. Flounder fed the vaccine containing the fusion antigen had significantly elevated levels T cell genes (CD4-1, CD4-2, and CD8α), type 1 helper T cell (Th1) subset indicator genes (T-bet and IFN-γ), and antigen-specific antibodies compared to the groups fed the single antigen-expressing vaccines. Furthermore, the superiority of the fusion vaccine was also observed in survival rates when fish were challenged with E. tarda: OmpA-FlgD-expressing vaccine (82.5% survival); FlgD-vaccine (55.0%); OmpA-vaccine (50%); WT L. lactis BFE920 (37.5%); Ctrl (10%). In addition, vaccine-fed fish exhibited increased weight gain (∼20%) and a decreased feed conversion ratio (∼20%) during the four week vaccination period. Flounder fed the FlgD-expressing vaccine, either the single or the fusion form, had significantly increased expression of TLR5M, IL-1β, and IL-12p40, suggesting that the FlgD may be a ligand of olive flounder TLR5M receptor or closely related to the TLR5M pathway. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that olive flounder fed L. lactis BFE920 expressing a fusion antigen composed of E. tarda OmpA and FlgD showed a strong protective effect against edwardsiellosis indicating this may be developed as an E. tarda feed vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Ram Beck
- Research Center, Immunus Co., Ltd., Business Incubation Center 205, Handong University, Pohang 37554, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon Ho Lee
- School of Life Science, Handong University, Pohang 37554, Republic of Korea
| | - Daniel Kim
- School of Life Science, Handong University, Pohang 37554, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Hye Park
- Research Center, Immunus Co., Ltd., Business Incubation Center 205, Handong University, Pohang 37554, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Kyung Lee
- School of Life Science, Handong University, Pohang 37554, Republic of Korea
| | - San-Sung Kwon
- School of Life Science, Handong University, Pohang 37554, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwan Hee Lee
- Research Center, Immunus Co., Ltd., Business Incubation Center 205, Handong University, Pohang 37554, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Il Lee
- GyeongSangbuk-Do Fisheries Technology Center, Yeongdeok 36426, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Kyu Song
- Research Center, Immunus Co., Ltd., Business Incubation Center 205, Handong University, Pohang 37554, Republic of Korea; School of Life Science, Handong University, Pohang 37554, Republic of Korea.
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22
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Wern JE, Sorensen MR, Olsen AW, Andersen P, Follmann F. Simultaneous Subcutaneous and Intranasal Administration of a CAF01-Adjuvanted Chlamydia Vaccine Elicits Elevated IgA and Protective Th1/Th17 Responses in the Genital Tract. Front Immunol 2017; 8:569. [PMID: 28567043 PMCID: PMC5434101 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The selection of any specific immunization route is critical when defining future vaccine strategies against a genital infection like Chlamydia trachomatis (C.t.). An optimal Chlamydia vaccine needs to elicit mucosal immunity comprising both neutralizing IgA/IgG antibodies and strong Th1/Th17 responses. A strategic tool to modulate this immune profile and mucosal localization of vaccine responses is to combine parenteral and mucosal immunizations routes. In this study, we investigate whether this strategy can be adapted into a two-visit strategy by simultaneous subcutaneous (SC) and nasal immunization. Using a subunit vaccine composed of C.t. antigens (Ags) adjuvanted with CAF01, a Th1/Th17 promoting adjuvant, we comparatively evaluated Ag-specific B and T cell responses and efficacy in mice following SC and simultaneous SC and nasal immunization (SIM). We found similar peripheral responses with regard to interferon gamma and IL-17 producing Ag-specific splenocytes and IgG serum levels in both vaccine strategies but in addition, the SIM protocol also led to Ag-specific IgA responses and increased B and CD4+ T cells in the lung parenchyma, and in lower numbers also in the genital tract (GT). Following vaginal infection with C.t., we observed that SIM immunization gave rise to an early IgA response and IgA-secreting plasma cells in the GT in contrast to SC immunization, but we were not able to detect more rapid recruitment of mucosal T cells. Interestingly, although SIM vaccination in general improved mucosal immunity we observed no improved efficacy against genital infection compared to SC, a finding that warrants for further investigation. In conclusion, we demonstrate a novel vaccination strategy that combines systemic and mucosal immunity in a two-visit strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanette Erbo Wern
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Chlamydia Vaccine Research, Statens Serum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maria Rathmann Sorensen
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Chlamydia Vaccine Research, Statens Serum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anja Weinreich Olsen
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Chlamydia Vaccine Research, Statens Serum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Andersen
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Chlamydia Vaccine Research, Statens Serum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frank Follmann
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Chlamydia Vaccine Research, Statens Serum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Lactobacillus plantarum producing a Chlamydia trachomatis antigen induces a specific IgA response after mucosal booster immunization. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0176401. [PMID: 28467432 PMCID: PMC5415134 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0176401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 04/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucosal immunity is important for the protection against a wide variety of pathogens. Traditional vaccines administered via parenteral routes induce strong systemic immunity, but they often fail to generate mucosal IgA. In contrast, bacteria-based vaccines comprise an appealing strategy for antigen delivery to mucosal sites. Vaginal infection with Chlamydia trachomatis can develop into upper genital tract infections that can lead to infertility. Therefore, the development of an effective vaccine against Chlamydia is a high priority. In the present study, we have explored the use of a common lactic acid bacterium, Lactobacillus plantarum, as a vector for delivery of a C. trachomatis antigen to mucosal sites. The antigen, referred as Hirep2 (H2), was anchored to the surface of L. plantarum cells using an N-terminal lipoprotein anchor. After characterization, the constructed strain was used as an immunogenic agent in mice. We explored a heterologous prime-boost strategy, consisting of subcutaneous priming with soluble H2 antigen co-administered with CAF01 adjuvant, followed by an intranasal boost with H2-displaying L. plantarum. The results show that, when used as a booster, the recombinant L. plantarum strain was able to evoke cellular responses. Most importantly, booster immunization with the Lactobacillus-based vaccine induced generation of antigen-specific IgA in the vaginal cavity.
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24
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Chlamydial Type III Secretion System Needle Protein Induces Protective Immunity against Chlamydia muridarum Intravaginal Infection. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 2017:3865802. [PMID: 28459057 PMCID: PMC5385227 DOI: 10.1155/2017/3865802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis imposes serious health problems and causes infertility. Because of asymptomatic onset, it often escapes antibiotic treatment. Therefore, vaccines offer a better option for the prevention of unwanted inflammatory sequelae. The existence of serologically distinct serovars of C. trachomatis suggests that a vaccine will need to provide protection against multiple serovars. Chlamydia spp. use a highly conserved type III secretion system (T3SS) composed of structural and effector proteins which is an essential virulence factor. In this study, we expressed the T3SS needle protein of Chlamydia muridarum, TC_0037, an ortholog of C. trachomatis CdsF, in a replication-defective adenoviral vector (AdTC_0037) and evaluated its protective efficacy in an intravaginal Chlamydia muridarum model. For better immune responses, we employed a heterologous prime-boost immunization protocol in which mice were intranasally primed with AdTC_0037 and subcutaneously boosted with recombinant TC_0037 and Toll-like receptor 4 agonist monophosphoryl lipid A mixed in a squalene nanoscale emulsion. We found that immunization with TC_0037 antigen induced specific humoral and T cell responses, decreased Chlamydia loads in the genital tract, and abrogated pathology of upper genital organs. Together, our results suggest that TC_0037, a highly conserved chlamydial T3SS protein, is a good candidate for inclusion in a Chlamydia vaccine.
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Russell AN, Zheng X, O'Connell CM, Wiesenfeld HC, Hillier SL, Taylor BD, Picard MD, Flechtner JB, Zhong W, Frazer LC, Darville T. Identification of Chlamydia trachomatis Antigens Recognized by T Cells From Highly Exposed Women Who Limit or Resist Genital Tract Infection. J Infect Dis 2016; 214:1884-1892. [PMID: 27738051 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiw485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 10/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natural infection induces partial immunity to Chlamydia trachomatis Identification of chlamydial antigens that induce interferon γ (IFN-) secretion by T cells from immune women could advance vaccine development. METHODS IFN-γ production by CD4+ and CD8+ peripheral blood T cells from 58 high-risk women was measured after coculture with antigen-presenting cells preincubated with recombinant Escherichia coli expressing a panel of 275 chlamydial antigens. Quantile median regression analysis was used to compare frequencies of IFN-γ responses in women with only cervical infection to those in women with endometrial infection and frequencies in women who remained uninfected for over 1 year to those in women who developed incident infection. Statistical methods were then used to identify proteins associated with protection. RESULTS A higher median frequency of CD8+ T-cell responses was detected in women with lower genital tract chlamydial infection, compared with those with upper genital tract chlamydial infection (13.8% vs 9.5%; P =04), but the CD4+ T-cell response frequencies were not different. Women who remained uninfected displayed a greater frequency of positive CD4+ T-cell responses (29% vs 18%; P < .0001), compared with women who had incident infection, while the frequencies of CD8+ T-cell responses did not differ. A subset of proteins involved in central metabolism, type III secretion, and protein synthesis were associated with protection. CONCLUSIONS Investigations in naturally exposed women reveal protective responses and identify chlamydial vaccine candidate antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Harold C Wiesenfeld
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pennsylvania
| | - Sharon L Hillier
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pennsylvania
| | - Brandie D Taylor
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Texas A&M Health Science Center, College Station
| | | | | | - Wujuan Zhong
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
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Erneholm K, Lorenzen E, Bøje S, Olsen AW, Andersen P, Cassidy JP, Follmann F, Jensen HE, Agerholm JS. Genital tract lesions in sexually mature Göttingen minipigs during the initial stages of experimental vaginal infection with Chlamydia trachomatis serovar D. BMC Vet Res 2016; 12:200. [PMID: 27614611 PMCID: PMC5018167 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-016-0793-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in humans worldwide, causing chronic lesions in the reproductive tract. Due to its often asymptomatic course, there is limited knowledge about the initial changes in the genital tract following infection. This study employs a novel sexually mature minipig model to investigate the initial histopathological changes following vaginal infection with Chlamydia trachomatis serovar D. Results A vaginal inoculation resulted in an infection primarily affecting the lower genital tract. The histopathological changes were characterized by a subepithelial inflammation consisting of neutrophils and mononuclear cells, followed by an increase in the number of plasma cells within the sub-epithelial stroma of the vagina. Detection of Chlamydia was associated with expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and interleukin-8 by superficial epithelial cells. The infection was self-limiting, with a duration of 7 days. Conclusion Neutrophils, plasma cells and IL-8 have been linked with Chlamydia genital infection of unknown duration in human patients. In this study, we observe a similar pattern of local immune response/inflammation following experimental inoculation suggesting this porcine model shows promise as a model for translational chlamydia research. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12917-016-0793-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Erneholm
- Section of Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Large Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark. .,Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark. .,Present address: Timeline Bioresearch, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Emma Lorenzen
- Section of Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Large Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Sarah Bøje
- Section of Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Large Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark.,Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark.,Present address: Novo Nordisk A/S, Kalundborg, Denmark
| | - Anja Weinreich Olsen
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Peter Andersen
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Joseph P Cassidy
- Pathobiology Section, School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Frank Follmann
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Henrik E Jensen
- Section of Experimental Animal Models, Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Jørgen S Agerholm
- Section of Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Large Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
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27
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Genital Chlamydia trachomatis: understanding the roles of innate and adaptive immunity in vaccine research. Clin Microbiol Rev 2016; 27:346-70. [PMID: 24696438 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00105-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the leading cause of bacterial sexually transmitted disease worldwide, and despite significant advances in chlamydial research, a prophylactic vaccine has yet to be developed. This Gram-negative obligate intracellular bacterium, which often causes asymptomatic infection, may cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ectopic pregnancies, scarring of the fallopian tubes, miscarriage, and infertility when left untreated. In the genital tract, Chlamydia trachomatis infects primarily epithelial cells and requires Th1 immunity for optimal clearance. This review first focuses on the immune cells important in a chlamydial infection. Second, we summarize the research and challenges associated with developing a chlamydial vaccine that elicits a protective Th1-mediated immune response without inducing adverse immunopathologies.
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28
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Badamchi-Zadeh A, McKay PF, Korber BT, Barinaga G, Walters AA, Nunes A, Gomes JP, Follmann F, Tregoning JS, Shattock RJ. A Multi-Component Prime-Boost Vaccination Regimen with a Consensus MOMP Antigen Enhances Chlamydia trachomatis Clearance. Front Immunol 2016; 7:162. [PMID: 27199987 PMCID: PMC4848310 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 04/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A vaccine for Chlamydia trachomatis is of urgent medical need. We explored bioinformatic approaches to generate an immunogen against C. trachomatis that would induce cross-serovar T-cell responses as (i) CD4(+) T cells have been shown in animal models and human studies to be important in chlamydial protection and (ii) antibody responses may be restrictive and serovar specific. METHODS A consensus antigen based on over 1,500 major outer membrane protein (MOMP) sequences provided high epitope coverage against the most prevalent C. trachomatis strains in silico. Having designed the T-cell immunogen, we assessed it for immunogenicity in prime-boost regimens. This consensus MOMP transgene was delivered using plasmid DNA, Human Adenovirus 5 (HuAd5) or modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vectors with or without MF59(®) adjuvanted recombinant MOMP protein. RESULTS Different regimens induced distinct immune profiles. The DNA-HuAd5-MVA-Protein vaccine regimen induced a cellular response with a Th1-biased serum antibody response, alongside high serum and vaginal MOMP-specific antibodies. This regimen significantly enhanced clearance against intravaginal C. trachomatis serovar D infection in both BALB/c and B6C3F1 mouse strains. This enhanced clearance was shown to be CD4(+) T-cell dependent. Future studies will need to confirm the specificity and precise mechanisms of protection. CONCLUSION A C. trachomatis vaccine needs to induce a robust cellular response with broad cross-serovar coverage and a heterologous prime-boost regimen may be an approach to achieve this.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul F McKay
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | - Bette T Korber
- Los Alamos National Laboratory, Theoretical Division , Los Alamos, NM , USA
| | - Guillermo Barinaga
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | - Adam A Walters
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | - Alexandra Nunes
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - João Paulo Gomes
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - Frank Follmann
- Chlamydia Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institute , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - John S Tregoning
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | - Robin J Shattock
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
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Lorenzen E, Follmann F, Bøje S, Erneholm K, Olsen AW, Agerholm JS, Jungersen G, Andersen P. Intramuscular Priming and Intranasal Boosting Induce Strong Genital Immunity Through Secretory IgA in Minipigs Infected with Chlamydia trachomatis. Front Immunol 2015; 6:628. [PMID: 26734002 PMCID: PMC4679855 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2015.00628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
International efforts in developing a vaccine against Chlamydia trachomatis have highlighted the need for novel immunization strategies for the induction of genital immunity. In this study, we evaluated an intramuscular (IM) prime/intranasal boost vaccination strategy in a Göttingen Minipig model with a reproductive system very similar to humans. The vaccine was composed of C. trachomatis subunit antigens formulated in the Th1/Th17 promoting CAF01 adjuvant. IM priming immunizations with CAF01 induced a significant cell-mediated interferon gamma and interleukin 17A response and a significant systemic high-titered neutralizing IgG response. Following genital challenge, intranasally boosted groups mounted an accelerated, highly significant genital IgA response that correlated with enhanced bacterial clearance on day 3 post infection. By detecting antigen-specific secretory component (SC), we showed that the genital IgA was locally produced in the genital mucosa. The highly significant inverse correlation between the vaginal IgA SC response and the chlamydial load suggests that IgA in the minipig model is involved in protection against C. trachomatis. This is important both for our understanding of protective immunity and future vaccination strategies against C. trachomatis and genital pathogens in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Lorenzen
- Section for Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Large Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Chlamydia Vaccine Research, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Frank Follmann
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Chlamydia Vaccine Research, Statens Serum Institut , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Sarah Bøje
- Section for Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Large Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Chlamydia Vaccine Research, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karin Erneholm
- Section for Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Large Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Chlamydia Vaccine Research, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anja Weinreich Olsen
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Chlamydia Vaccine Research, Statens Serum Institut , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Jørgen Steen Agerholm
- Section for Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Large Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Gregers Jungersen
- Section for Immunology and Vaccinology, National Veterinary Institute, Technical University of Denmark , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Peter Andersen
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Chlamydia Vaccine Research, Statens Serum Institut , Copenhagen , Denmark
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Intranasal vaccination with killed Leishmania amazonensis promastigotes antigen (LaAg) associated with CAF01 adjuvant induces partial protection in BALB/c mice challenged with Leishmania (infantum) chagasi. Parasitology 2015; 142:1640-6. [DOI: 10.1017/s0031182015001250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARYThe CAF01 adjuvant has previously been shown to be safe for human use and to be a potent adjuvant for several vaccine antigens. In the present work, we sought to optimize the Leishmania amazonensis antigens (LaAg) intranasal vaccine in an attempt to enhance the protective immune responses against Leishmania (infantum) chagasi by using the CAF01 association. LaAg/CAF01 vaccinated mice that were challenged 15 days after booster dose with L. (infantum) chagasi showed a significant reduction in their parasite burden in both the spleen and liver, which is associated with an increase in specific production of IFN-γ and nitrite, and a decrease in IL-4 production. In addition, LaAg/CAF01 intranasal delivery was able to increase lymphoproliferative immune responses after parasite antigen recall. These results suggest the feasibility of using the intranasal route for the delivery of crude antigens and of a human-compatible adjuvant against visceral leishmaniasis.
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31
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Dietrich J, Andreasen LV, Andersen P, Agger EM. Inducing dose sparing with inactivated polio virus formulated in adjuvant CAF01. PLoS One 2014; 9:e100879. [PMID: 24956110 PMCID: PMC4067388 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of new low cost inactivated polio virus based vaccines (IPV) is a high priority, and will be required to eradicate polio. In addition, such a vaccine constitutes the only realistic polio vaccine in the post-eradication era. One way to reduce the cost of a vaccine is to increase immunogenicity by use of adjuvants. The CAF01 adjuvant has previously been shown to be a safe and potent adjuvant with several antigens, and here we show that in mice IPV formulated with CAF01 induced increased systemic protective immunity measured by binding and neutralization antibody titers in serum. CAF01 also influenced the kinetics of both the cellular and humoral response against IPV to produce a faster, as well as a stronger, response, dominated by IgG2a, IgG2b, and IgG2c isotypes as well as IPV specific T cells secreting IFN-γ/IL-2. Finally, as intestinal immunity is also a priority of polio vaccines, we present a vaccine strategy based on simultaneous priming at an intradermal and an intramuscular site that generate intestinal immune responses against polio virus. Taken together, the IPV-CAF01 formulation constitutes a new promising vaccine against polio with the ability to generate strong humoral and cellular immunity against the polio virus.
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MESH Headings
- Adjuvants, Immunologic/administration & dosage
- Adjuvants, Immunologic/pharmacology
- Animals
- Antibodies, Viral/immunology
- Chemistry, Pharmaceutical
- Dose-Response Relationship, Immunologic
- Female
- Immunity, Cellular/drug effects
- Immunity, Cellular/immunology
- Immunoglobulin A/immunology
- Immunoglobulin G/metabolism
- Injections, Intradermal
- Injections, Intramuscular
- Intestinal Mucosa/metabolism
- Intestines/drug effects
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Neutralization Tests
- Poliovirus/drug effects
- Poliovirus/immunology
- Poliovirus Vaccine, Inactivated/administration & dosage
- Poliovirus Vaccine, Inactivated/immunology
- Vaccination
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Affiliation(s)
- Jes Dietrich
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- * E-mail:
| | - Lars Vibe Andreasen
- Department of Vaccine Development, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Andersen
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Else Marie Agger
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
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32
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Patton DL, Teng A, Randall A, Liang X, Felgner PL, de la Maza LM. Whole genome identification of C. trachomatis immunodominant antigens after genital tract infections and effect of antibiotic treatment of pigtailed macaques. J Proteomics 2014; 108:99-109. [PMID: 24862987 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2014.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2013] [Revised: 05/03/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The cervix and/or fallopian tubes of pigtailed macaques were experimentally infected with Chlamydia trachomatis. Their sera were collected at varying time points and screened for identification of immunodominant antigens using a whole-genome protein microarray. The effect of doxycycline treatment on the antibody response generated in these macaques was also investigated. Twenty-five female macaques were infected with C. trachomatis serovars D or E in the cervix and/or fallopian tubes. Bloods were collected at baseline and at various intervals after challenge. Serum samples were tested for antibodies using a C. trachomatis serovar D protein microarray. Twenty chlamydial antigens reacted with sera from at least 68% (17/25) of the macaques. In addition to some well-known chlamydial antigens, nine different proteins, not previously recognized as immunodominant, including four hypothetical proteins (CT005, CT066, CT360 and CT578), were identified. Monkeys infected in the fallopian tubes developed a more robust antibody response than animals inoculated in the cervix. Treatment with doxycycline significantly decreased Chlamydia-specific antibody levels. In summary, using protein microarray serum samples from experimentally infected pigtailed macaques were screened for immunodominant chlamydial antigens. These antigens can now be tested in animal models for their ability to protect and as markers of disease progression. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE This is the first time that Chlamydia trachomatis immunodominant antigens have been identified in pigtailed macaques following a uterine cervix or a fallopian tubes infection. These immunodominant antigens can now be used to vaccinate non-human primates and determine their ability to protect against a C. trachomatis genital infection. Proteins that are protective can subsequently be tested in humans. Amongst the immunodominant antigens some were predominantly recognized by sera from macaques inoculated in the fallopian tubes rather than in the cervix and therefore, may be markers for upper genital tract pathology. In addition, treatment with doxycycline following infection significantly decreased Chlamydia-specific antibody levels. This information can be used to evaluate the efficacy of antibiotic treatment and potentially susceptibility to reinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy L Patton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Box 356460, Seattle, WA 98195-6460, United States
| | - Andy Teng
- ImmPORT Therapeutics, Inc./Antigen Discovery Inc., 1 Technology Dr., Suite E309, Irvine, CA 92618, United States
| | - Arlo Randall
- ImmPORT Therapeutics, Inc./Antigen Discovery Inc., 1 Technology Dr., Suite E309, Irvine, CA 92618, United States
| | - Xiaowu Liang
- ImmPORT Therapeutics, Inc./Antigen Discovery Inc., 1 Technology Dr., Suite E309, Irvine, CA 92618, United States
| | - Philip L Felgner
- ImmPORT Therapeutics, Inc./Antigen Discovery Inc., 1 Technology Dr., Suite E309, Irvine, CA 92618, United States
| | - Luis M de la Maza
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical Sciences I, Room D440, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697-4800, United States.
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Olsen AW, Andersen P, Follmann F. Characterization of protective immune responses promoted by human antigen targets in a urogenital Chlamydia trachomatis mouse model. Vaccine 2014; 32:685-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2013.11.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2013] [Revised: 10/15/2013] [Accepted: 11/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Immunity against a Chlamydia infection and disease may be determined by a balance of IL-17 signaling. Immunol Cell Biol 2013; 92:287-97. [PMID: 24366518 DOI: 10.1038/icb.2013.92] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2013] [Revised: 11/03/2013] [Accepted: 11/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Most vaccines developed against Chlamydia using animal models provide partial protection against a genital tract infection. However, protection against the oviduct pathology associated with infertility is highly variable and often has no defining immunological correlate. When comparing two adjuvants (CTA1-DD and a combination of Cholera toxin plus CpG-oligodeoxynucleotide-CT/CpG) combined with the chlamydial major outer membrane protein (MOMP) antigen and delivered via the intranasal (IN), sublingual (SL) or transcutaneous (TC) routes, we identified two vaccine groups with contrasting outcomes following infection. SL immunization with MOMP/CTA1-DD induced a 70% reduction in the incidence of oviduct pathology, without significantly altering the course of infection. Conversely, IN immunization with MOMP/CT/CpG prevented an ascending infection, but not the oviduct pathology. This anomaly presented a unique opportunity to study the mechanisms by which vaccines can prevent oviduct pathology, other than by controlling the infection. The IL-17 signaling in the oviducts was found to associate with both the enhancement of immunity to infection and the development of oviduct pathology. This conflicting role of IL-17 may provide some explanation for the discordance in protection between infection and disease and suggests that controlling immunopathology, as opposed to the rapid eradication of the infection, may be essential for an effective human chlamydial vaccine that prevents infertility.
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Lu C, Peng B, Li Z, Lei L, Li Z, Chen L, He Q, Zhong G, Wu Y. Induction of protective immunity against Chlamydia muridarum intravaginal infection with the chlamydial immunodominant antigen macrophage infectivity potentiator. Microbes Infect 2013; 15:329-38. [PMID: 23416214 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2013.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2012] [Revised: 01/28/2013] [Accepted: 02/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
We previously reported that 5 Chlamydia muridarum antigens reacted with antisera from >90% mice urogenitally infected with C. muridarum and they are TC0660 (ABC transporter or ArtJ), TC0727 (outer membrane complex protein B or OmcB), TC0828 (macrophage infectivity potentiator or MIP), TC0726 (inclusion membrane protein or Inc) & TC0268 (hypothetical protein or HP). The orthologs of these antigens in Chlamydia trachomatis were also highly reactive with antisera from women urogenitally infected with C. trachomatis. In the current study, we evaluated these C. muridarum antigens for their ability to induce protection against a C. muridarum intravaginal challenge infection in mice. We found that only MIP induced the most pronounced protection against C. muridarum infection. The protection correlated well with robust C. muridarum MIP-specific antibody and Th1-dominant T cell responses. The MIP-immunized mice displayed significantly reduced live organism shedding from the lower genital tract and highly attenuated inflammatory pathologies in the upper genital tissues. These results demonstrate that MIP, an immunodominant antigen identified by both human and mouse antisera, may be considered a component of a multi-subunit chlamydial vaccine for inducing protective immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxue Lu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of South China, 28 West Changsheng Rd., Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
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Chlamydia trachomatis outer membrane complex protein B (OmcB) is processed by the protease CPAF. J Bacteriol 2012; 195:951-7. [PMID: 23222729 DOI: 10.1128/jb.02087-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously reported that the Chlamydia trachomatis outer membrane complex protein B (OmcB) was partially processed in Chlamydia-infected cells. We have now confirmed that the OmcB processing occurred inside live cells during chlamydial infection and was not due to proteolysis during sample harvesting. OmcB processing was preceded by the generation of active CPAF, a serine protease known to be able to cross the inner membrane via a Sec-dependent pathway, suggesting that active CPAF is available for processing OmcB in the periplasm. In a cell-free system, CPAF activity is both necessary and sufficient for processing OmcB. Both depletion of CPAF from Chlamydia-infected cell lysates with a CPAF-specific antibody and blocking CPAF activity with a CPAF-specific inhibitory peptide removed the OmcB processing ability of the lysates. A highly purified wild-type CPAF but not a catalytic residue-substituted mutant CPAF was sufficient for processing OmcB. Most importantly, in chlamydial culture, inhibition of CPAF with a specific inhibitory peptide blocked OmcB processing and reduced the recovery of infectious organisms. Thus, we have identified OmcB as a novel authentic target for the putative chlamydial virulence factor CPAF, which should facilitate our understanding of the roles of CPAF in chlamydial biology and pathogenesis.
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Korsholm KS, Andersen PL, Christensen D. Cationic liposomal vaccine adjuvants in animal challenge models: overview and current clinical status. Expert Rev Vaccines 2012; 11:561-77. [PMID: 22827242 DOI: 10.1586/erv.12.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Cationic liposome formulations can function as efficient vaccine adjuvants. However, due to the highly diverse nature of lipids, cationic liposomes have different physical-chemical characteristics that influence their adjuvant mechanisms and their relevance for use in different vaccines. These characteristics can be further manipulated by incorporation of additional lipids or stabilizers, and inclusion of carefully selected immunostimulators is a feasible strategy when tailoring cationic liposomal adjuvants for specific disease targets. Thus, cationic liposomes present a plasticity, which makes them promising adjuvants for future vaccines. This versatility has also led to a vast amount of literature on different experimental liposomal formulations in combination with a wide range of immunostimulators. Here, we have compiled information about the animal challenge models and administration routes that have been used to study vaccine adjuvants based on cationic liposomes and provide an overview of the applicability, progress and clinical status of cationic liposomal vaccine adjuvants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Smith Korsholm
- Statens Serum Institut, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Artillerivej 5, DK-2300 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Childs TS, Webley WC. In vitro assessment of halobacterial gas vesicles as a Chlamydia vaccine display and delivery system. Vaccine 2012; 30:5942-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2012.07.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2012] [Revised: 06/06/2012] [Accepted: 07/18/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Vaccine-induced th17 cells are maintained long-term postvaccination as a distinct and phenotypically stable memory subset. Infect Immun 2012; 80:3533-44. [PMID: 22851756 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00550-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Th17 cells are increasingly being recognized as an important T helper subset for immune-mediated protection, especially against pathogens at mucosal ports of entry. In several cases, it would thus be highly relevant to induce Th17 memory by vaccination. Th17 cells are reported to exhibit high plasticity and may not stably maintain their differentiation program once induced, questioning the possibility of inducing durable Th17 memory. Accordingly, there is no consensus as to whether Th17 memory can be established unless influenced by continuous Th17 polarizing conditions. We have previously reported (T. Lindenstrøm, et al., J. Immunol. 182:8047-8055, 2009) that the cationic liposome adjuvant CAF01 can prime both Th1 and Th17 responses and promote robust, long-lived Th1 memory. Here, we demonstrate that subunit vaccination in mice with CAF01 leads to establishment of bona fide Th17 memory cells. Accordingly, Th17 memory cells exhibited lineage stability by retaining both phenotypic and functional properties for nearly 2 years. Antigen-specific, long-term Th17 memory cells were found to be mobilized from lung-draining lymph nodes to the lung following an aerosol challenge by Mycobacterium tuberculosis nearly 2 years after their induction and proliferated at levels comparable to those of Th1 memory cells. During the infection, the vaccine-induced Th17 memory cells expanded in the lungs and adapted Th1 characteristics, implying that they represent a metastable population which exhibits plasticity when exposed to prolonged Th1 polarizing, inflammatory conditions such as those found in the M. tuberculosis-infected lung. In the absence of overt inflammation, however, stable bona fide Th17 memory can indeed be induced by parenteral immunization.
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Siam EM, Hefzy EM. The relationship between antisperm antibodies prevalence and genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection in women with unexplained infertility. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mefs.2011.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022] Open
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41
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Immune markers and correlates of protection for vaccine induced immune responses. Vaccine 2012; 30:4907-20. [PMID: 22658928 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2012.05.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2012] [Revised: 05/15/2012] [Accepted: 05/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Vaccines have been a major innovation in the history of mankind and still have the potential to address the challenges posed by chronic intracellular infections including tuberculosis, HIV and malaria which are leading causes of high morbidity and mortality across the world. Markers of an appropriate humoral response currently remain the best validated correlates of protective immunity after vaccination. Despite advancements in the field of immunology over the past few decades currently there are, however, no sufficiently validated immune correlates of vaccine induced protection against chronic infections in neither human nor veterinary medicine. Technological and conceptual advancements within cell-mediated immunology have led to a number of new immunological read-outs with the potential to emerge as correlates of vaccine induced protection. For T(H)1 type responses, antigen-specific production of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) has been promoted as a quantitative marker of protective cell-mediated immune responses over the past couple of decades. More recently, however, evidence from several infections has pointed towards the quality of the immune response, measured through increased levels of antigen-specific polyfunctional T cells capable of producing a triad of relevant cytokines, as a better correlate of sustained protective immunity against this type of infections. Also the possibilities to measure antigen-specific cytotoxic T cells (CTL) during infection or in response to vaccination, through recombinant major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I tetramers loaded with relevant peptides, has opened a new vista to include CTL responses in the evaluation of protective immune responses. Here, we review different immune markers and new candidates for correlates of a protective vaccine induced immune response against chronic infections and how successful they have been in defining the protective immunity in human and veterinary medicine.
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Li W, Murthy AK, Chaganty BKR, Guentzel MN, Seshu J, Chambers JP, Zhong G, Arulanandam BP. Immunization with dendritic cells pulsed ex vivo with recombinant chlamydial protease-like activity factor induces protective immunity against genital chlamydiamuridarum challenge. Front Immunol 2011; 2:73. [PMID: 22566862 PMCID: PMC3342055 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2011.00073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2011] [Accepted: 11/23/2011] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
We have shown that immunization with soluble recombinant chlamydial protease-like activity factor (rCPAF) and a T helper 1 type adjuvant can induce significantly enhanced bacterial clearance and protection against Chlamydia-induced pathological sequelae in the genital tract. In this study, we investigated the use of bone marrow derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) pulsed ex vivo with rCPAF + CpG in an adoptive subcutaneous immunization for the ability to induce protective immunity against genital chlamydial infection. We found that BMDCs pulsed with rCPAF + CpG efficiently up-regulated the expression of activation markers CD86, CD80, CD40, and major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II), and secreted interleukin-12, but not IL-10 and IL-4. Mice adoptively immunized with rCPAF + CpG-pulsed BMDCs or UV-EB + CpG-pulsed BMDCs produced elevated levels of antigen-specific IFN-γ and enhanced IgG1 and IgG2a antibodies. Moreover, mice immunized with rCPAF + CpG-pulsed BMDCs or UV-EB + CpG-pulsed BMDCs exhibited significantly reduced genital Chlamydia shedding, accelerated resolution of infection, and reduced oviduct pathology when compared to infected mock-immunized animals. These results suggest that adoptive subcutaneous immunization with ex vivo rCPAF-pulsed BMDCs is an effective approach, comparable to that induced by UV-EB–BMDCs, for inducing robust anti-Chlamydia immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weidang Li
- Department of Biology, South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Texas at San Antonio San Antonio, TX, USA
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Lu C, Zeng H, Li Z, Lei L, Yeh IT, Wu Y, Zhong G. Protective immunity against mouse upper genital tract pathology correlates with high IFNγ but low IL-17 T cell and anti-secretion protein antibody responses induced by replicating chlamydial organisms in the airway. Vaccine 2011; 30:475-85. [PMID: 22079265 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2011.10.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2011] [Revised: 09/20/2011] [Accepted: 10/22/2011] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
To search for optimal immunization conditions for inducing protective immunity against upper genital tract pathologies caused by chlamydial intravaginal infection, we compared protection efficacy in mice immunized intranasally or intramuscularly with live or inactivated Chlamydia muridarum organisms. Mice immunized intranasally with live organisms developed strong protection against both vaginal shedding of infectious organisms and upper genital tract pathologies. The protection correlated with a robust antigen-specific T cell response with high IFNγ but low IL-17. Although a significant level of IL-5 was also detected, these mice maintained an overall Th1-dorminant immunity following immunization and challenge infection. On the contrary, mice immunized intranasally with inactivated organisms or intramuscularly with live or inactivated organisms produced high levels of IL-17 and still developed significant upper genital tract pathologies. High titers of antibodies against chlamydial secretion antigens were detected only in mice immunized intranasally with live organisms but not mice in other groups, suggesting that the intranasally inoculated live organisms were able to undergo replication and immune responses to the chlamydial secretion proteins may contribute to protective immunity. These observations have provided important information on how to develop subunit vaccines for inducing protective immunity against urogenital infection with Chlamydia trachomatis organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxue Lu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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44
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Christensen D, Korsholm KS, Andersen P, Agger EM. Cationic liposomes as vaccine adjuvants. Expert Rev Vaccines 2011; 10:513-21. [PMID: 21506648 DOI: 10.1586/erv.11.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The application of cationic liposomes as vaccine delivery systems and adjuvants has been investigated extensively over the last few decades. However, cationic liposomes are, in general, not sufficiently immunostimulatory, which is why the combination of liposomes with immunostimulating ligands has arisen as a strategy in the development of novel adjuvant systems. Within the last 5 years, two novel adjuvant systems based on cationic liposomes incorporating Toll-like receptor or non-Toll-like receptor immunostimulating ligands have progressed from preclinical testing in smaller animal species to clinical testing in humans. The immune responses that these clinical candidates induce are primarily of the Th1 type for which there is a profound unmet need. Furthermore, a number of new cationic liposome-forming surfactants with notable immunostimulatory properties have been discovered. In this article we review the recent progress on the application of cationic liposomes as vaccine delivery systems/adjuvants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Christensen
- Statens Serum Institut, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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45
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A Chlamydia trachomatis OmcB C-terminal fragment is released into the host cell cytoplasm and is immunogenic in humans. Infect Immun 2011; 79:2193-203. [PMID: 21422182 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00003-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Chlamydia trachomatis outer membrane complex protein B (OmcB) is an antigen with diagnostic and vaccine relevance. To further characterize OmcB, we generated antibodies against OmcB C-terminal (OmcBc) and N-terminal (OmcBn) fragments. Surprisingly, the anti-OmcBc antibody detected dominant signals in the host cell cytosol, while the anti-OmcBn antibody exclusively labeled intrainclusion signals in C. trachomatis-infected cells permeabilized with saponin. Western blot analyses revealed that OmcB was partially processed into OmcBc and OmcBn fragments. The processed OmcBc was released into host cell cytosol, while the OmcBn and remaining full-length OmcB were retained within the chlamydial inclusions. The organism-associated OmcB epitopes became detectable only after the C. trachomatis-infected cells were permeabilized with strong detergents such as SDS. However, the harsh permeabilization conditions also led to the leakage of the already secreted OmcBc and chlamydia-secreted protease (CPAF) out of the host cells. The OmcBc processing and release occurred in all biovars of C. trachomatis. Moreover, the released OmcBc but not the retained OmcBn was highly immunogenic in C. trachomatis-infected women, which is consistent with the concept that exposure of chlamydial proteins to host cell cytosol is accompanied by increased immunogenicity. These observations have provided important information for further exploring/optimizing OmcB as a target for the development of diagnosis methods and vaccines.
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46
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Gall A, Horowitz A, Joof H, Natividad A, Tetteh K, Riley E, Bailey RL, Mabey DCW, Holland MJ. Systemic effector and regulatory immune responses to chlamydial antigens in trachomatous trichiasis. Front Microbiol 2011; 2:10. [PMID: 21747780 PMCID: PMC3128932 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2011.00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2010] [Accepted: 01/18/2011] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Trachomatous trichiasis (TT) caused by repeated or chronic ocular infection with Chlamydia trachomatis is the result of a pro-fibrotic ocular immune response. At the conjunctiva, the increased expression of both inflammatory (IL1B, TNF) and regulatory cytokines (IL10) have been associated with adverse clinical outcomes. We measured in vitro immune responses of peripheral blood to a number of chlamydial antigens. Peripheral blood effector cells (CD4, CD69, IFNγ, IL-10) and regulatory cells (CD4, CD25, FOXP3, CTLA4/GITR) were readily stimulated by C. trachomatis antigens but neither the magnitude (frequency or stimulation index) or the breadth and amount of cytokines produced in vitro [IL-5, IL-10, IL-12 (p70), IL-13, IFNγ, and TNFα] were significantly different between TT cases and their non-diseased controls. Interestingly we observed that CD4+ T cells account for <50% of the IFNγ positive cells induced following stimulation. Further investigation in individuals selected from communities where exposure to ocular infection with C. trachomatis is endemic indicated that CD3-CD56+ (classical natural killer cells) were a major early source of IFNγ production in response to C. trachomatis elementary body stimulation and that the magnitude of this response increased with age. Future efforts to unravel the contribution of the adaptive immune response to conjunctival fibrosis should focus on the early events following infection and the interaction with innate immune mediated mechanisms of inflammation in the conjunctiva.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alevtina Gall
- Viral Diseases Programme, Medical Research Council Laboratories Banjul, The Gambia
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47
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Yu H, Karunakaran KP, Kelly I, Shen C, Jiang X, Foster LJ, Brunham RC. Immunization with live and dead Chlamydia muridarum induces different levels of protective immunity in a murine genital tract model: correlation with MHC class II peptide presentation and multifunctional Th1 cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2011; 186:3615-21. [PMID: 21296978 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1002952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Mice that were intranasally vaccinated with live or dead Chlamydia muridarum with or without CpG-containing oligodeoxynucleotide 1862 elicited widely disparate levels of protective immunity to genital tract challenge. We found that the frequency of multifunctional T cells coexpressing IFN-γ and TNF-α with or without IL-2 induced by live C. muridarum most accurately correlated with the pattern of protection against C. muridarum genital tract infection, suggesting that IFN-γ(+)-producing CD4(+) T cells that highly coexpress TNF-α may be the optimal effector cells for protective immunity. We also used an immunoproteomic approach to analyze MHC class II-bound peptides eluted from dendritic cells (DCs) that were pulsed with live or dead C. muridarum elementary bodies (EBs). We found that DCs pulsed with live EBs presented 45 MHC class II C. muridarum peptides mapping to 13 proteins. In contrast, DCs pulsed with dead EBs presented only six MHC class II C. muridarum peptides mapping to three proteins. Only two epitopes were shared in common between the live and dead EB-pulsed groups. This study provides insights into the role of Ag presentation and cytokine secretion patterns of CD4(+) T effector cells that correlate with protective immunity elicited by live and dead C. muridarum. These insights should prove useful for improving vaccine design for Chlamydia trachomatis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Yu
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 4R4, Canada
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48
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Cochrane M, Armitage CW, O’Meara CP, Beagley KW. Towards a Chlamydia trachomatis vaccine: how close are we? Future Microbiol 2010; 5:1833-56. [DOI: 10.2217/fmb.10.148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the leading cause of bacterial sexually transmitted infections and preventable blindness worldwide. The incidence of chlamydial sexually transmitted infections has increased rapidly and current antibiotic therapy has failed as an intervention strategy. The most accepted strategy for protection and/or control of chlamydial infections is a vaccine that induces both local neutralizing antibodies to prevent infections by the extracellular elementary bodies and a cell-mediated immune response to target the intracellular infection. This article will discuss the challenges in vaccine design for the prevention of chlamydial urogenital infection and/or disease, including selection of target antigens, discussion of effective delivery systems, immunization routes and adjuvants for induction of protective immunity at the targeted mucosal surface whilst minimizing severe inflammatory disease sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Cochrane
- Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
| | - Charles W Armitage
- Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
| | - Connor P O’Meara
- Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
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49
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Vaccination against Chlamydia genital infection utilizing the murine C. muridarum model. Infect Immun 2010; 79:986-96. [PMID: 21078844 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00881-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis genital infection is a worldwide public health problem, and considerable effort has been expended on developing an efficacious vaccine. The murine model of C. muridarum genital infection has been extremely useful for identification of protective immune responses and in vaccine development. Although a number of immunogenic antigens have been assessed for their ability to induce protection, the majority of studies have utilized the whole organism, the major outer membrane protein (MOMP), or the chlamydial protease-like activity factor (CPAF). These antigens, alone and in combination with a variety of immunostimulatory adjuvants, have induced various levels of protection against infectious challenge, ranging from minimal to nearly sterilizing immunity. Understanding of the mechanisms of natural infection-based immunity and advances in adjuvant biology have resulted in studies that are increasingly successful, but a vaccine licensed for use in humans has not yet been brought to fruition. Here we review immunity to chlamydial genital infection and vaccine development using the C. muridarum model.
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