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Subramanian G, Kalidasan K, Quah S, Han QCG, Chan J, Wacker MG, Sampath P. Breaking barriers: Innovative approaches for skin delivery of RNA therapeutics. Int J Pharm 2024; 661:124435. [PMID: 38986965 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124435] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
RNA therapeutics represent a rapidly expanding platform with game-changing prospects in personalized medicine. The disruptive potential of this technology will overhaul the standard of care with reference to both primary and specialty care. To date, RNA therapeutics have mostly been delivered parenterally via injection, but topical administration followed by intradermal or transdermal delivery represents an attractive method that is convenient to patients and minimally invasive. The skin barrier, particularly the lipid-rich stratum corneum, presents a significant hurdle to the uptake of large, charged oligonucleotide drugs. Therapeutic oligonucleotides need to be engineered for stability and specificity and formulated with state-of-the-art delivery strategies for efficient uptake. This review will cover various passive and active strategies deployed to enhance permeation through the stratum corneum and achieve effective delivery of RNA therapeutics to treat both local skin disorders and systemic diseases. Some strategies to achieve selectivity between local and systemic administration will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gowtham Subramanian
- A*STAR Skin Research Labs (A*SRL), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove #06-06 Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore
| | - Kamaladasan Kalidasan
- A*STAR Skin Research Labs (A*SRL), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove #06-06 Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore
| | - Shan Quah
- A*STAR Skin Research Labs (A*SRL), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove #06-06 Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore
| | - Qi Chou Gavin Han
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore (NUS), 4 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117544, Singapore
| | - Justin Chan
- A*STAR Skin Research Labs (A*SRL), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove #06-06 Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore
| | - Matthias G Wacker
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore (NUS), 4 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117544, Singapore.
| | - Prabha Sampath
- A*STAR Skin Research Labs (A*SRL), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 8A Biomedical Grove #06-06 Immunos, Singapore 138648, Singapore; Skin Research Institute of Singapore (SRIS), 11 Mandalay Road #17-01 Clinical Sciences Building, Singapore 308232, Singapore; Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 60 Biopolis Street, #02-01 Genome, Singapore 138672, Singapore; Program in Cancer & Stem Cell Biology, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore.
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2
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Guasp P, Reiche C, Sethna Z, Balachandran VP. RNA vaccines for cancer: Principles to practice. Cancer Cell 2024; 42:1163-1184. [PMID: 38848720 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2024.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Vaccines are the most impactful medicines to improve health. Though potent against pathogens, vaccines for cancer remain an unfulfilled promise. However, recent advances in RNA technology coupled with scientific and clinical breakthroughs have spurred rapid discovery and potent delivery of tumor antigens at speed and scale, transforming cancer vaccines into a tantalizing prospect. Yet, despite being at a pivotal juncture, with several randomized clinical trials maturing in upcoming years, several critical questions remain: which antigens, tumors, platforms, and hosts can trigger potent immunity with clinical impact? Here, we address these questions with a principled framework of cancer vaccination from antigen detection to delivery. With this framework, we outline features of emergent RNA technology that enable rapid, robust, real-time vaccination with somatic mutation-derived neoantigens-an emerging "ideal" antigen class-and highlight latent features that have sparked the belief that RNA could realize the enduring vision for vaccines against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Guasp
- Immuno-Oncology Service, Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Hepatopancreatobiliary Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Charlotte Reiche
- Immuno-Oncology Service, Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Hepatopancreatobiliary Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zachary Sethna
- Immuno-Oncology Service, Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Hepatopancreatobiliary Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vinod P Balachandran
- Immuno-Oncology Service, Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Hepatopancreatobiliary Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
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3
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Lu C, Rohilla P, Felner EI, Byagathvalli G, Azizoglu E, Bhamla MS, Prausnitz MR. Tolerability of a piezoelectric microneedle electroporator in human subjects. Bioeng Transl Med 2024; 9:e10662. [PMID: 39036075 PMCID: PMC11256137 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Electroporation, or the use of electric pulses to facilitate the intracellular delivery of DNA, RNA, and other molecules, is a well-established technique, that has been demonstrated to significantly augment the immunogenicity of DNA/mRNA vaccines and therapeutics. However, the clinical translation of traditional electroporators has been limited due to high costs, large size, complex user operation, and poor tolerability in humans due to nerve stimulation. In prior work, we introduced ePatch: an ultra-low-cost, handheld, battery-free electroporator employing a piezoelectric pulser coupled with a microneedle electrode array that showed enhanced immunogenic responses to an intradermal SARS-CoV-2 DNA vaccine in mice. The current study shifts focus from efficacy to tolerability, hypothesizing that ePatch's microneedle array, which localizes the electric field to the superficial skin strata, will minimize nerve stimulation and improve patient comfort. We tested this hypothesis in 14 healthy adults, monitoring pain and other potential adverse effects associated with electroporation. Compared to the insertion of a traditional hypodermic needle, the ePatch was less painful. Adverse effects such as pain, tenderness, erythema and swelling at the application sites were minimal, transient, and statistically indistinguishable between the experimental and placebo ePatch application, suggesting excellent tolerability towards electroporation. In summary, ePatch has a favorable tolerability profile in humans and offers the potential for the safe use of electroporation in a variety of clinical settings, including DNA and mRNA vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao‐Yi Lu
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory University, Georgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Pankaj Rohilla
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Eric I. Felner
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of EndocrinologyEmory University School of MedicineAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Gaurav Byagathvalli
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Erkan Azizoglu
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - M. Saad Bhamla
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Mark R. Prausnitz
- Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory University, Georgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
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4
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Mobasher M, Ansari R, Castejon AM, Barar J, Omidi Y. Advanced nanoscale delivery systems for mRNA-based vaccines. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2024; 1868:130558. [PMID: 38185238 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2024.130558] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
The effectiveness of messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines, especially those designed for COVID-19, relies heavily on sophisticated delivery systems that ensure efficient delivery of mRNA to target cells. A variety of nanoscale vaccine delivery systems (VDSs) have been explored for this purpose, including lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), liposomes, and polymeric nanoparticles made from biocompatible polymers such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), as well as viral vectors and lipid-polymer hybrid complexes. Among these, LNPs are particularly notable for their efficiency in encapsulating and protecting mRNA. These nanoscale VDSs can be engineered to enhance stability and facilitate uptake by cells. The choice of delivery system depends on factors like the specific mRNA vaccine, target cell types, stability requirements, and desired immune response. In this review, we shed light on recent advances in delivery mechanisms for self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) vaccines, emphasizing groundbreaking studies on nanoscale delivery systems aimed at improving the efficacy and safety of mRNA/saRNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha Mobasher
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Rais Ansari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Ana M Castejon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Jaleh Barar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA
| | - Yadollah Omidi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Barry and Judy Silverman College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33328, USA.
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5
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Démoulins T, Techakriengkrai N, Ebensen T, Schulze K, Liniger M, Gerber M, Nedumpun T, McCullough KC, Guzmán CA, Suradhat S, Ruggli N. New Generation Self-Replicating RNA Vaccines Derived from Pestivirus Genome. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2786:89-133. [PMID: 38814391 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3770-8_4] [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] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
While mRNA vaccines have shown their worth, they have the same failing as inactivated vaccines, namely they have limited half-life, are non-replicating, and therefore limited to the size of the vaccine payload for the amount of material translated. New advances averting these problems are combining replicon RNA (RepRNA) technology with nanotechnology. RepRNA are large self-replicating RNA molecules (typically 12-15 kb) derived from viral genomes defective in at least one essential structural protein gene. They provide sustained antigen production, effectively increasing vaccine antigen payloads over time, without the risk of producing infectious progeny. The major limitations with RepRNA are RNase-sensitivity and inefficient uptake by dendritic cells (DCs), which need to be overcome for efficacious RNA-based vaccine design. We employed biodegradable delivery vehicles to protect the RepRNA and promote DC delivery. Condensing RepRNA with polyethylenimine (PEI) and encapsulating RepRNA into novel Coatsome-replicon vehicles are two approaches that have proven effective for delivery to DCs and induction of immune responses in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Démoulins
- The Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Bern & Mittelhäusern, Switzerland.
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology (DIP), Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
- Center of Excellence in Emerging Infectious Diseases in Animals, Chulalongkorn University (CU-EIDAs), Bangkok, Thailand.
- Institute of Veterinary Bacteriology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Navapon Techakriengkrai
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Emerging Infectious Diseases in Animals, Chulalongkorn University (CU-EIDAs), Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thomas Ebensen
- Department of Vaccinology and Applied Microbiology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Kai Schulze
- Department of Vaccinology and Applied Microbiology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Matthias Liniger
- The Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Bern & Mittelhäusern, Switzerland
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology (DIP), Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Markus Gerber
- The Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Bern & Mittelhäusern, Switzerland
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology (DIP), Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Teerawut Nedumpun
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Emerging Infectious Diseases in Animals, Chulalongkorn University (CU-EIDAs), Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kenneth C McCullough
- The Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Bern & Mittelhäusern, Switzerland
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology (DIP), Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Carlos A Guzmán
- Department of Vaccinology and Applied Microbiology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Sanipa Suradhat
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Emerging Infectious Diseases in Animals, Chulalongkorn University (CU-EIDAs), Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nicolas Ruggli
- The Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Bern & Mittelhäusern, Switzerland
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology (DIP), Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Comes JDG, Pijlman GP, Hick TAH. Rise of the RNA machines - self-amplification in mRNA vaccine design. Trends Biotechnol 2023; 41:1417-1429. [PMID: 37328401 PMCID: PMC10266560 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have won the race for early COVID-19 vaccine approval, yet improvements are necessary to retain this leading role in combating infectious diseases. A next generation of self-amplifying mRNAs, also known as replicons, form an ideal vaccine platform. Replicons induce potent humoral and cellular responses with few adverse effects upon a minimal, single-dose immunization. Delivery of replicons is achieved with virus-like replicon particles (VRPs), or in nonviral vehicles such as liposomes or lipid nanoparticles. Here, we discuss innovative advances, including multivalent, mucosal, and therapeutic replicon vaccines, and highlight novelties in replicon design. As soon as essential safety evaluations have been resolved, this promising vaccine concept can transform into a widely applied clinical platform technology taking center stage in pandemic preparedness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome D G Comes
- Wageningen University and Research, Laboratory of Virology, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Gorben P Pijlman
- Wageningen University and Research, Laboratory of Virology, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Tessy A H Hick
- Wageningen University and Research, Laboratory of Virology, Droevendaalsesteeg 1, 6708PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Silva-Pilipich N, Covo-Vergara Á, Vanrell L, Smerdou C. Checkpoint blockade meets gene therapy: Opportunities to improve response and reduce toxicity. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 379:43-86. [PMID: 37541727 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2023.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) based on monoclonal antibodies represent a breakthrough for the treatment of cancer. However, their efficacy varies among tumor types and patients, and they can lead to adverse effects due to on-target/off-tumor activity, since they are administered systemically at high doses. An alternative and attractive approach for the delivery of ICIs is the use of gene therapy vectors able to express them in vivo. This review focuses on the most recent studies using viral vectors able to express ICIs locally or systemically in preclinical models of cancer. These vectors include non-replicating viruses, oncolytic viruses able to propagate specifically in tumor cells and destroy them, and self-amplifying RNA vectors, armed with different formats of antibodies against immune checkpoints. Non-replicating vectors usually lead to long-term ICI expression, potentially eliminating the need for repeated administration. Vectors with replication capacity, although they have a shorter window of expression, can induce inflammation which enhances the antitumor effect. Finally, these engineered vectors can be used in combination with other immunostimulatory molecules or with CAR-T cells, further boosting the antitumor immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelia Silva-Pilipich
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), and CCUN, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Ángela Covo-Vergara
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), and CCUN, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Lucía Vanrell
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad ORT Uruguay, Montevideo, Uruguay; Nanogrow Biotech, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Cristian Smerdou
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), and CCUN, Pamplona, Spain.
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Campelo SN, Huang PH, Buie CR, Davalos RV. Recent Advancements in Electroporation Technologies: From Bench to Clinic. Annu Rev Biomed Eng 2023; 25:77-100. [PMID: 36854260 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-bioeng-110220-023800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decade, the increased adoption of electroporation-based technologies has led to an expansion of clinical research initiatives. Electroporation has been utilized in molecular biology for mammalian and bacterial transfection; for food sanitation; and in therapeutic settings to increase drug uptake, for gene therapy, and to eliminate cancerous tissues. We begin this article by discussing the biophysics required for understanding the concepts behind the cell permeation phenomenon that is electroporation. We then review nano- and microscale single-cell electroporation technologies before scaling up to emerging in vivo applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina N Campelo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech-Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA;
| | - Po-Hsun Huang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Cullen R Buie
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rafael V Davalos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech-Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA;
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9
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Baghban R, Ghasemian A, Mahmoodi S. Nucleic acid-based vaccine platforms against the coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). Arch Microbiol 2023; 205:150. [PMID: 36995507 PMCID: PMC10062302 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-023-03480-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has infected 673,010,496 patients and caused the death of 6,854,959 cases globally until today. Enormous efforts have been made to develop fundamentally different COVID-19 vaccine platforms. Nucleic acid-based vaccines consisting of mRNA and DNA vaccines (third-generation vaccines) have been promising in terms of rapid and convenient production and efficient provocation of immune responses against the COVID-19. Several DNA-based (ZyCoV-D, INO-4800, AG0302-COVID19, and GX-19N) and mRNA-based (BNT162b2, mRNA-1273, and ARCoV) approved vaccine platforms have been utilized for the COVID-19 prevention. mRNA vaccines are at the forefront of all platforms for COVID-19 prevention. However, these vaccines have lower stability, while DNA vaccines are needed with higher doses to stimulate the immune responses. Intracellular delivery of nucleic acid-based vaccines and their adverse events needs further research. Considering re-emergence of the COVID-19 variants of concern, vaccine reassessment and the development of polyvalent vaccines, or pan-coronavirus strategies, is essential for effective infection prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roghayyeh Baghban
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Abdolmajid Ghasemian
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Shirin Mahmoodi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran.
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10
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Sun H, Zhang Y, Wang G, Yang W, Xu Y. mRNA-Based Therapeutics in Cancer Treatment. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020622. [PMID: 36839944 PMCID: PMC9964383 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, significant technological innovations have led to messenger RNA (mRNA) becoming a promising option for developing prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines, protein replacement therapies, and genome engineering. The success of the two COVID-19 mRNA vaccines has sparked new enthusiasm for other medical applications, particularly in cancer treatment. In vitro-transcribed (IVT) mRNAs are structurally designed to resemble naturally occurring mature mRNA. Delivery of IVT mRNA via delivery platforms such as lipid nanoparticles allows host cells to produce many copies of encoded proteins, which can serve as antigens to stimulate immune responses or as additional beneficial proteins for supplements. mRNA-based cancer therapeutics include mRNA cancer vaccines, mRNA encoding cytokines, chimeric antigen receptors, tumor suppressors, and other combination therapies. To better understand the current development and research status of mRNA therapies for cancer treatment, this review focused on the molecular design, delivery systems, and clinical indications of mRNA therapies in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ge Wang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial & Head and Neck Oncology, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Wen Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yingjie Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory for Tumor Microenvironment and Inflammation, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Key Laboratory of Cell Differentiation and Apoptosis of Chinese Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Correspondence:
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11
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Démoulins T, Schulze K, Ebensen T, Techakriengkrai N, Nedumpun T, Englezou PC, Gerber M, Hlushchuk R, Toledo D, Djonov V, von Gunten S, McCullough KC, Liniger M, Guzmán CA, Suradhat S, Ruggli N. Coatsome-replicon vehicles: Self-replicating RNA vaccines against infectious diseases. NANOMEDICINE : NANOTECHNOLOGY, BIOLOGY, AND MEDICINE 2023; 49:102655. [PMID: 36681171 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2023.102655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Herein, we provide the first description of a synthetic delivery method for self-replicating replicon RNAs (RepRNA) derived from classical swine fever virus (CSFV) using a Coatsome-replicon vehicle based on Coatsome® SS technologies. This results in an unprecedented efficacy when compared to well-established polyplexes, with up to ∼65 fold-increase of the synthesis of RepRNA-encoded gene of interest (GOI). We demonstrated the efficacy of such Coatsome-replicon vehicles for RepRNA-mediated induction of CD8 T-cell responses in mice. Moreover, we provide new insights on physical properties of the RepRNA, showing that the removal of all CSFV structural protein genes has a positive effect on the translation of the GOI. Finally, we successfully engineered RepRNA constructs encoding a porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) antigen, providing an example of antigen expression with potential application to combat viral diseases. The versatility and simplicity of modifying and manufacturing these Coatsome-replicon vehicle formulations represents a major asset to tackle foreseeable emerging pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Démoulins
- Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Bern & Mittelhäusern, Switzerland; Institute of Veterinary Bacteriology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Emerging Infectious Diseases in Animals, Chulalongkorn University (CU-EIDAs), Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Kai Schulze
- Department of Vaccinology and Applied Microbiology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Thomas Ebensen
- Department of Vaccinology and Applied Microbiology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Navapon Techakriengkrai
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Emerging Infectious Diseases in Animals, Chulalongkorn University (CU-EIDAs), Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Teerawut Nedumpun
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Emerging Infectious Diseases in Animals, Chulalongkorn University (CU-EIDAs), Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pavlos C Englezou
- Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Bern & Mittelhäusern, Switzerland; Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Markus Gerber
- Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Bern & Mittelhäusern, Switzerland; Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Darien Toledo
- Institute of Pharmacology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Kenneth C McCullough
- Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Bern & Mittelhäusern, Switzerland; Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Liniger
- Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Bern & Mittelhäusern, Switzerland; Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Carlos A Guzmán
- Department of Vaccinology and Applied Microbiology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Sanipa Suradhat
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Emerging Infectious Diseases in Animals, Chulalongkorn University (CU-EIDAs), Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nicolas Ruggli
- Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Bern & Mittelhäusern, Switzerland; Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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12
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Vishweshwaraiah YL, Dokholyan NV. mRNA vaccines for cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1029069. [PMID: 36591226 PMCID: PMC9794995 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1029069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has emerged as a breakthrough strategy in cancer treatment. mRNA vaccines are an attractive and powerful immunotherapeutic platform against cancer because of their high potency, specificity, versatility, rapid and large-scale development capability, low-cost manufacturing potential, and safety. Recent technological advances in mRNA vaccine design and delivery have accelerated mRNA cancer vaccines' development and clinical application. In this review, we present various cancer vaccine platforms with a focus on nucleic acid vaccines. We discuss rational design and optimization strategies for mRNA cancer vaccine development. We highlight the platforms available for delivery of the mRNA vaccines with a focus on lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) based delivery systems. Finally, we discuss the limitations of mRNA cancer vaccines and future challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nikolay V. Dokholyan
- Department of Pharmacology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
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13
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Babaeimarzangou SS, Zaker H, Soleimannezhadbari E, Gamchi NS, Kazeminia M, Tarighi S, Seyedian H, Tsatsakis A, Spandidos DA, Margina D. Vaccine development for zoonotic viral diseases caused by positive‑sense single‑stranded RNA viruses belonging to the Coronaviridae and Togaviridae families (Review). Exp Ther Med 2022; 25:42. [PMID: 36569444 PMCID: PMC9768462 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2022.11741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Outbreaks of zoonotic viral diseases pose a severe threat to public health and economies worldwide, with this currently being more prominent than it previously was human history. These emergency zoonotic diseases that originated and transmitted from vertebrates to humans have been estimated to account for approximately one billion cases of illness and have caused millions of deaths worldwide annually. The recent emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (coronavirus disease 2019) is an excellent example of the unpredictable public health threat causing a pandemic. The present review summarizes the literature data regarding the main vaccine developments in human clinical phase I, II and III trials against the zoonotic positive-sense single-stranded RNA viruses belonging to the Coronavirus and Alphavirus genera, including severe acute respiratory syndrome, Middle east respiratory syndrome, Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus, Semliki Forest virus, Ross River virus, Chikungunya virus and O'nyong-nyong virus. That there are neither vaccines nor effective antiviral drugs available against most of these viruses is undeniable. Therefore, new explosive outbreaks of these zoonotic viruses may surely be expected. The present comprehensive review provides an update on the status of vaccine development in different clinical trials against these viruses, as well as an overview of the present results of these trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Sajjad Babaeimarzangou
- Division of Poultry Health and Diseases, Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia 5756151818, Iran
| | - Himasadat Zaker
- Histology and Microscopic Analysis Division, RASTA Specialized Research Institute (RSRI), West Azerbaijan Science and Technology Park (WASTP), Urmia 5756115322, Iran
| | | | - Naeimeh Shamsi Gamchi
- Histology and Microscopic Analysis Division, RASTA Specialized Research Institute (RSRI), West Azerbaijan Science and Technology Park (WASTP), Urmia 5756115322, Iran
| | - Masoud Kazeminia
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran 1417935840, Iran
| | - Shima Tarighi
- Veterinary Office of West Azerbaijan Province, Urmia 5717617695, Iran
| | - Homayon Seyedian
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia 5756151818, Iran
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Medicine, University of Crete, 71307 Heraklion, Greece,Correspondence to: Professor Denisa Margina, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Traian Vuia Street, 020956 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Demetrios A. Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Denisa Margina
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020956 Bucharest, Romania,Correspondence to: Professor Denisa Margina, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, ‘Carol Davila’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6 Traian Vuia Street, 020956 Bucharest, Romania
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14
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Karim ME, Haque ST, Al-Busaidi H, Bakhtiar A, Tha KK, Holl MMB, Chowdhury EH. Scope and challenges of nanoparticle-based mRNA delivery in cancer treatment. Arch Pharm Res 2022; 45:865-893. [DOI: 10.1007/s12272-022-01418-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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15
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Nakamura A, Kotaki T, Nagai Y, Takazawa S, Tokunaga K, Kameoka M. Construction and evaluation of a self-replicative RNA vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 using yellow fever virus replicon. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274829. [PMID: 36264936 PMCID: PMC9584447 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is a global threat. To forestall the pandemic, developing safe and effective vaccines is necessary. Because of the rapid production and little effect on the host genome, mRNA vaccines are attractive, but they have a relatively low immune response after a single dose. Replicon RNA (repRNA) is a promising vaccine platform for safety and efficacy. RepRNA vaccine encodes not only antigen genes but also the genes necessary for RNA replication. Thus, repRNA is self-replicative and can play the role of an adjuvant by itself, which elicits robust immunity. This study constructed and evaluated a repRNA vaccine in which the gene encoding the spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2 was inserted into a replicon of yellow fever virus 17D strain. Upon electroporation of this repRNA into baby hamster kidney cells, the S protein and yellow fever virus protein were co-expressed. Additionally, the self-replication ability of repRNA vaccine was confirmed using qRT-PCR, demonstrating its potency as a vaccine. Immunization of C57BL/6 mice with 1 μg of the repRNA vaccine induced specific T-cell responses but not antibody responses. Notably, the T-cell response induced by the repRNA vaccine was significantly higher than that induced by the nonreplicative RNA vaccine in our experimental model. In the future, it is of the essence to optimize vaccine administration methods and improve S protein expression, like protection of repRNA by nanoparticles and evasion of innate immunity of the host to enhance the immune-inducing ability of the repRNA vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akina Nakamura
- Department of Public Health, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Kobe, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Kotaki
- Department of Public Health, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Kobe, Japan
- Department of Virology, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- * E-mail: (TK); (MK)
| | - Yurie Nagai
- Department of Public Health, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Kobe, Japan
| | - Shunta Takazawa
- Department of Public Health, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Kobe, Japan
| | - Kenzo Tokunaga
- Department of Pathology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masanori Kameoka
- Department of Public Health, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Kobe, Japan
- * E-mail: (TK); (MK)
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16
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Intratumoral electroporation of a self-amplifying RNA expressing IL-12 induces antitumor effects in mouse models of cancer. MOLECULAR THERAPY - NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 29:387-399. [PMID: 36035753 PMCID: PMC9386029 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Alphavirus vectors based on self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) generate high and transient levels of transgene expression and induce innate immune responses, making them an interesting tool for antitumor therapy. These vectors are usually delivered as viral particles, but it is also possible to administer them as RNA. We evaluated this possibility by in vivo electroporation of Semliki Forest virus (SFV) saRNA for local treatment of murine colorectal MC38 subcutaneous tumors. Optimization of saRNA electroporation conditions in tumors was performed using an SFV vector coding for luciferase. Then we evaluated the therapeutic potential of this approach using an SFV saRNA coding for interleukin-12 (SFV-IL-12), a proinflammatory cytokine with potent antitumor effects. Delivery of SFV-IL-12 saRNA by electroporation led to improvement in tumor control and higher survival compared with mice treated with electroporation or with SFV-IL-12 saRNA alone. The antitumor efficacy of SFV-IL-12 saRNA electroporation increased by combination with systemic PD-1 blockade. This therapy, which was also validated in a hepatocellular carcinoma tumor model, suggests that local delivery of saRNA by electroporation could be an attractive strategy for cancer immunotherapy. This approach could have easy translation to the clinical practice, especially for percutaneously accessible tumors.
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17
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Higuchi A, Sung TC, Wang T, Ling QD, Kumar SS, Hsu ST, Umezawa A. Material Design for Next-Generation mRNA Vaccines Using Lipid Nanoparticles. POLYM REV 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15583724.2022.2106490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Akon Higuchi
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National Central University, Jhongli, Taiwan
- R&D Center for Membrane Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Chungli, Taiwan
- Department of Reproduction, National Center for Child Health and Development, Okura, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tzu-Cheng Sung
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ting Wang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, The Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qing-Dong Ling
- Cathay Medical Research Institute, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - S. Suresh Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - Shih-Tien Hsu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Taiwan Landseed Hospital, Pingjen City, Taiwan Taoyuan
| | - Akihiro Umezawa
- Department of Reproduction, National Center for Child Health and Development, Okura, Tokyo, Japan
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18
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Yang L, Tang L, Zhang M, Liu C. Recent Advances in the Molecular Design and Delivery Technology of mRNA for Vaccination Against Infectious Diseases. Front Immunol 2022; 13:896958. [PMID: 35928814 PMCID: PMC9345514 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.896958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccines can prevent many millions of illnesses against infectious diseases and save numerous lives every year. However, traditional vaccines such as inactivated viral and live attenuated vaccines cannot adapt to emerging pandemics due to their time-consuming development. With the global outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic, the virus continues to evolve and mutate, producing mutants with enhanced transmissibility and virulence; the rapid development of vaccines against such emerging global pandemics becomes more and more critical. In recent years, mRNA vaccines have been of significant interest in combating emerging infectious diseases due to their rapid development and large-scale production advantages. However, their development still suffers from many hurdles such as their safety, cellular delivery, uptake, and response to their manufacturing, logistics, and storage. More efforts are still required to optimize the molecular designs of mRNA molecules with increased protein expression and enhanced structural stability. In addition, a variety of delivery systems are also needed to achieve effective delivery of vaccines. In this review, we highlight the advances in mRNA vaccines against various infectious diseases and discuss the molecular design principles and delivery systems of associated mRNA vaccines. The current state of the clinical application of mRNA vaccine pipelines against various infectious diseases and the challenge, safety, and protective effect of associated vaccines are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Yang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Tang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Peking University International Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Chaoyong Liu, ; Ming Zhang,
| | - Chaoyong Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Chaoyong Liu, ; Ming Zhang,
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19
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Alameh MG, Weissman D, Pardi N. Messenger RNA-Based Vaccines Against Infectious Diseases. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2022; 440:111-145. [PMID: 32300916 DOI: 10.1007/82_2020_202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
In vitro-transcribed, messenger RNA-based infectious disease vaccines have the potential to successfully address many of the weaknesses of traditional vaccine platforms, such as the lack of potency and/or durability of vaccine protection, time-consuming, and expensive manufacturing, and, in some cases, safety issues. This optimism is fueled by a great deal of impressive recent data demonstrating that mRNA vaccines have many of the attributes that are necessary for a viable new vaccine class for human use. This review briefly describes mRNA vaccine types, discusses the most relevant and recent publications on infectious disease mRNA vaccines, and highlights the hurdles that need to be overcome to bring this promising novel vaccine modality to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Drew Weissman
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Norbert Pardi
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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20
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Chakraborty C, Sharma AR, Bhattacharya M, Lee SS. From COVID-19 to Cancer mRNA Vaccines: Moving From Bench to Clinic in the Vaccine Landscape. Front Immunol 2021; 12:679344. [PMID: 34305909 PMCID: PMC8293291 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.679344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, mRNA vaccines have become a significant type of therapeutic and have created new fields in the biopharmaceutical industry. mRNA vaccines are promising next-generation vaccines that have introduced a new age in vaccinology. The recent approval of two COVID-19 mRNA vaccines (mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2) has accelerated mRNA vaccine technology and boosted the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry. These mRNA vaccines will help to tackle COVID-19 pandemic through immunization, offering considerable hope for future mRNA vaccines. Human trials with data both from mRNA cancer vaccines and mRNA infectious disease vaccines have provided encouraging results, inspiring the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries to focus on this area of research. In this article, we discuss current mRNA vaccines broadly in two parts. In the first part, mRNA vaccines in general and COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are discussed. We presented the mRNA vaccine structure in general, the different delivery systems, the immune response, and the recent clinical trials for mRNA vaccines (both for cancer mRNA vaccines and different infectious diseases mRNA vaccines). In the second part, different COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are explained. Finally, we illustrated a snapshot of the different leading mRNA vaccine developers, challenges, and future prospects of mRNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiranjib Chakraborty
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Adamas University, Kolkata, India
- Institute for Skeletal Aging & Orthopedic Surgery, Hallym University-Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
| | - Ashish Ranjan Sharma
- Institute for Skeletal Aging & Orthopedic Surgery, Hallym University-Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
| | | | - Sang-Soo Lee
- Institute for Skeletal Aging & Orthopedic Surgery, Hallym University-Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, South Korea
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21
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Qin F, Xia F, Chen H, Cui B, Feng Y, Zhang P, Chen J, Luo M. A Guide to Nucleic Acid Vaccines in the Prevention and Treatment of Infectious Diseases and Cancers: From Basic Principles to Current Applications. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:633776. [PMID: 34113610 PMCID: PMC8185206 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.633776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Faced with the challenges posed by infectious diseases and cancer, nucleic acid vaccines present excellent prospects in clinical applications. Compared with traditional vaccines, nucleic acid vaccines have the characteristics of high efficiency and low cost. Therefore, nucleic acid vaccines have potential advantages in disease prevention and treatment. However, the low immunogenicity and instability of nucleic acid vaccines have limited their development. Therefore, a large number of studies have been conducted to improve their immunogenicity and stability by improving delivery methods, thereby supporting progress and development for clinical applications. This article mainly reviews the advantages, disadvantages, mechanisms, delivery methods, and clinical applications of nucleic acid vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Furong Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fan Xia
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongli Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bomiao Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yun Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Min Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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22
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Chung JY, Thone MN, Kwon YJ. COVID-19 vaccines: The status and perspectives in delivery points of view. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 170:1-25. [PMID: 33359141 PMCID: PMC7759095 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2020.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 217] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Due to the high prevalence and long incubation periods often without symptoms, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has infected millions of individuals globally, causing the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Even with the recent approval of the anti-viral drug, remdesivir, and Emergency Use Authorization of monoclonal antibodies against S protein, bamlanivimab and casirimab/imdevimab, efficient and safe COVID-19 vaccines are still desperately demanded not only to prevent its spread but also to restore social and economic activities via generating mass immunization. Recent Emergency Use Authorization of Pfizer and BioNTech’s mRNA vaccine may provide a pathway forward, but monitoring of long-term immunity is still required, and diverse candidates are still under development. As the knowledge of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and interactions with the immune system continues to evolve, a variety of drug candidates are under investigation and in clinical trials. Potential vaccines and therapeutics against COVID-19 include repurposed drugs, monoclonal antibodies, antiviral and antigenic proteins, peptides, and genetically engineered viruses. This paper reviews the virology and immunology of SARS-CoV-2, alternative therapies for COVID-19 to vaccination, principles and design considerations in COVID-19 vaccine development, and the promises and roles of vaccine carriers in addressing the unique immunopathological challenges presented by the disease.
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23
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Pushparajah D, Jimenez S, Wong S, Alattas H, Nafissi N, Slavcev RA. Advances in gene-based vaccine platforms to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 170:113-141. [PMID: 33422546 PMCID: PMC7789827 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The novel betacoronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), has spread across the globe at an unprecedented rate since its first emergence in Wuhan City, China in December 2019. Scientific communities around the world have been rigorously working to develop a potent vaccine to combat COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019), employing conventional and novel vaccine strategies. Gene-based vaccine platforms based on viral vectors, DNA, and RNA, have shown promising results encompassing both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses in previous studies, supporting their implementation for COVID-19 vaccine development. In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently authorized the emergency use of two RNA-based COVID-19 vaccines. We review current gene-based vaccine candidates proceeding through clinical trials, including their antigenic targets, delivery vehicles, and route of administration. Important features of previous gene-based vaccine developments against other infectious diseases are discussed in guiding the design and development of effective vaccines against COVID-19 and future derivatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Pushparajah
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, 10A Victoria St S, Kitchener N2G 1C5, Canada
| | - Salma Jimenez
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, 10A Victoria St S, Kitchener N2G 1C5, Canada; Theraphage, 151 Charles St W Suite # 199, Kitchener, ON, N2G 1H6, Canada
| | - Shirley Wong
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, 10A Victoria St S, Kitchener N2G 1C5, Canada
| | - Hibah Alattas
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, 10A Victoria St S, Kitchener N2G 1C5, Canada
| | - Nafiseh Nafissi
- Mediphage Bioceuticals, 661 University Avenue, Suite 1300, Toronto, ON, M5G 0B7, Canada
| | - Roderick A Slavcev
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, 10A Victoria St S, Kitchener N2G 1C5, Canada; Mediphage Bioceuticals, 661 University Avenue, Suite 1300, Toronto, ON, M5G 0B7, Canada; Theraphage, 151 Charles St W Suite # 199, Kitchener, ON, N2G 1H6, Canada.
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24
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Démoulins T, Ruggli N, Gerber M, Thomann-Harwood LJ, Ebensen T, Schulze K, Guzmán CA, McCullough KC. Self-Amplifying Pestivirus Replicon RNA Encoding Influenza Virus Nucleoprotein and Hemagglutinin Promote Humoral and Cellular Immune Responses in Pigs. Front Immunol 2021; 11:622385. [PMID: 33584723 PMCID: PMC7877248 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.622385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Self-amplifying replicon RNA (RepRNA) promotes expansion of mRNA templates encoding genes of interest through their replicative nature, thus providing increased antigen payloads. RepRNA derived from the non-cytopathogenic classical swine fever virus (CSFV) targets monocytes and dendritic cells (DCs), potentially promoting prolonged antigen expression in the DCs, contrasting with cytopathogenic RepRNA. We engineered pestivirus RepRNA constructs encoding influenza virus H5N1 (A/chicken/Yamaguchi/7/2004) nucleoprotein (Rep-NP) or hemagglutinin (Rep-HA). The inherent RNase-sensitivity of RepRNA had to be circumvented to ensure efficient delivery to DCs for intracellular release and RepRNA translation; we have reported how only particular synthetic delivery vehicle formulations are appropriate. The question remained concerning RepRNA packaged in virus replicon particles (VRPs); we have now compared an efficient polyethylenimine (PEI)-based formulation (polyplex) with VRP-delivery as well as naked RepRNA co-administered with the potent bis-(3’,5’)-cyclic dimeric adenosine monophosphate (c-di-AMP) adjuvant. All formulations contained a Rep-HA/Rep-NP mix, to assess the breadth of both humoral and cell-mediated defences against the influenza virus antigens. Assessment employed pigs for their close immunological relationship to humans, and as natural hosts for influenza virus. Animals receiving the VRPs, as well as PEI-delivered RepRNA, displayed strong humoral and cellular responses against both HA and NP, but with VRPs proving to be more efficacious. In contrast, naked RepRNA plus c-di-AMP could induce only low-level immune responses, in one out of five pigs. In conclusion, RepRNA encoding different influenza virus antigens are efficacious for inducing both humoral and cellular immune defences in pigs. Comparisons showed that packaging within VRP remains the most efficacious for delivery leading to induction of immune defences; however, this technology necessitates employment of expensive complementing cell cultures, and VRPs do not target human cells. Therefore, choosing the appropriate synthetic delivery vehicle still offers potential for rapid vaccine design, particularly in the context of the current coronavirus pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Démoulins
- The Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Mittelhäusern, Switzerland.,Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Ruggli
- The Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Mittelhäusern, Switzerland.,Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Markus Gerber
- The Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Mittelhäusern, Switzerland.,Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Lisa J Thomann-Harwood
- The Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Mittelhäusern, Switzerland.,Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Ebensen
- Department of Vaccinology and Applied Microbiology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Kai Schulze
- Department of Vaccinology and Applied Microbiology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Carlos A Guzmán
- Department of Vaccinology and Applied Microbiology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Kenneth C McCullough
- The Institute of Virology and Immunology IVI, Mittelhäusern, Switzerland.,Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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25
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Abstract
The first proof-of-concept studies about the feasibility of genetic vaccines were published over three decades ago, opening the way for future development. The idea of nonviral antigen delivery had multiple advantages over the traditional live or inactivated pathogen-based vaccines, but a great deal of effort had to be invested to turn the idea of genetic vaccination into reality. Although early proof-of-concept studies were groundbreaking, they also showed that numerous aspects of genetic vaccines needed to be improved. Until the early 2000s, the vast majority of effort was invested into the development of DNA vaccines due to the potential issues of instability and low in vivo translatability of messenger RNA (mRNA). In recent years, numerous studies have demonstrated the outstanding abilities of mRNA to elicit potent immune responses against infectious pathogens and different types of cancer, making it a viable platform for vaccine development. Multiple mRNA vaccine platforms have been developed and evaluated in small and large animals and humans and the results seem to be promising. RNA-based vaccines have important advantages over other vaccine approaches including outstanding efficacy, safety, and the potential for rapid, inexpensive, and scalable production. There is a substantial investment by new mRNA companies into the development of mRNA therapeutics, particularly vaccines, increasing the number of basic and translational research publications and human clinical trials underway. This review gives a broad overview about genetic vaccines and mainly focuses on the past and present of mRNA vaccines along with the future directions to bring this potent vaccine platform closer to therapeutic use.
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Islam MA, Rice J, Reesor E, Zope H, Tao W, Lim M, Ding J, Chen Y, Aduluso D, Zetter BR, Farokhzad OC, Shi J. Adjuvant-pulsed mRNA vaccine nanoparticle for immunoprophylactic and therapeutic tumor suppression in mice. Biomaterials 2021; 266:120431. [PMID: 33099060 PMCID: PMC7528902 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic mRNA represents an exciting cancer vaccine technology for the implementation of effective cancer immunotherapy. However, inefficient in vivo mRNA delivery along with a requirement for immune co-stimulation present major hurdles to achieving anti-tumor therapeutic efficacy. Here, we demonstrate a proof-of-concept adjuvant-pulsed mRNA vaccine nanoparticle (NP) that is composed of an ovalbumin-coded mRNA and a palmitic acid-modified TLR7/8 agonist R848 (C16-R848), coated with a lipid-polyethylene glycol (lipid-PEG) shell. This mRNA vaccine NP formulation retained the adjuvant activity of encapsulated C16-R848 and markedly improved the transfection efficacy of the mRNA (>95%) and subsequent MHC class I presentation of OVA mRNA derived antigen in antigen-presenting cells. The C16-R848 adjuvant-pulsed mRNA vaccine NP approach induced an effective adaptive immune response by significantly improving the expansion of OVA-specific CD8+ T cells and infiltration of these cells into the tumor bed in vivo, relative to the mRNA vaccine NP without adjuvant. The approach led to an effective anti-tumor immunity against OVA expressing syngeneic allograft mouse models of lymphoma and prostate cancer, resulting in a significant prevention of tumor growth when the vaccine was given before tumor engraftment (84% reduction vs. control) and suppression of tumor growth when given post engraftment (60% reduction vs. control). Our findings indicate that C16-R848 adjuvant pulsation to mRNA vaccine NP is a rational design strategy to increase the effectiveness of synthetic mRNA vaccines for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ariful Islam
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jamie Rice
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Emma Reesor
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Harshal Zope
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Wei Tao
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael Lim
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jianxun Ding
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yunhan Chen
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dike Aduluso
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Bruce R Zetter
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Omid C Farokhzad
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Jinjun Shi
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Szurgot I, Ljungberg K, Kümmerer BM, Liljeström P. Infectious RNA vaccine protects mice against chikungunya virus infection. Sci Rep 2020; 10:21076. [PMID: 33273501 PMCID: PMC7712826 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-78009-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We describe a novel vaccine platform that can generate protective immunity to chikungunya virus (CHIKV) in C57BL/6J mice after a single immunization by employing an infectious RNA (iRNA), which upon introduction into a host cell launches an infectious attenuated virus. We and others have previously reported that an engineered deletion of 183 nucleotides in the nsP3 gene attenuates chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and reduces in vivo viral replication and viremia after challenge in mice, macaques and man. Here, we demonstrated that in vitro transfection of iRNA carrying the nsP3 deletion generated infectious viruses, and after intramuscular injection, the iRNA induced robust antibody responses in mice. The iRNA was superior at eliciting binding and neutralizing antibody responses as compared to a DNA vaccine encoding the same RNA (iDNA) or a non-propagating RNA replicon (RREP) lacking the capsid encoding gene. Subsequent challenge with a high dose of CHIKV demonstrated that the antibody responses induced by this vaccine candidate protected animals from viremia. The iRNA approach constitutes a novel vaccine platform with the potential to impact the spread of CHIKV. Moreover, we believe that this approach is likely applicable also to other positive-strand viruses.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
- Antibodies, Viral/immunology
- Chikungunya Fever/immunology
- Chikungunya Fever/prevention & control
- Chikungunya Fever/virology
- Chikungunya virus/genetics
- Chikungunya virus/immunology
- Chikungunya virus/pathogenicity
- Female
- Immunogenicity, Vaccine
- Injections, Intramuscular
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mutation
- Vaccines, Attenuated/administration & dosage
- Vaccines, Attenuated/genetics
- Vaccines, Attenuated/immunology
- Vaccines, Synthetic/administration & dosage
- Vaccines, Synthetic/genetics
- Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology
- Viral Nonstructural Proteins/genetics
- Viral Nonstructural Proteins/immunology
- mRNA Vaccines
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Affiliation(s)
- Inga Szurgot
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Karl Ljungberg
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
- Eurocine Vaccines AB, Karolinska Institutet Science Park, 171 65, Solna, Sweden
| | - Beate M Kümmerer
- Institute of Virology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Peter Liljeström
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
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28
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Dong Y, Dai T, Wei Y, Zhang L, Zheng M, Zhou F. A systematic review of SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidates. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:237. [PMID: 33051445 PMCID: PMC7551521 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00352-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 360] [Impact Index Per Article: 90.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is an emerging virus that is highly pathogenic and has caused the recent worldwide pandemic officially named coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Currently, considerable efforts have been put into developing effective and safe drugs and vaccines against SARS-CoV-2. Vaccines, such as inactivated vaccines, nucleic acid-based vaccines, and vector vaccines, have already entered clinical trials. In this review, we provide an overview of the experimental and clinical data obtained from recent SARS-CoV-2 vaccines trials, and highlight certain potential safety issues that require consideration when developing vaccines. Furthermore, we summarize several strategies utilized in the development of vaccines against other infectious viruses, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), with the aim of aiding in the design of effective therapeutic approaches against SARS-CoV-2.
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MESH Headings
- Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2
- Antibodies, Viral/biosynthesis
- Betacoronavirus/drug effects
- Betacoronavirus/immunology
- Betacoronavirus/pathogenicity
- COVID-19
- COVID-19 Vaccines
- Clinical Trials as Topic
- Coronavirus Infections/immunology
- Coronavirus Infections/prevention & control
- Coronavirus Infections/virology
- Gene Expression Regulation/drug effects
- Humans
- Immunity, Innate/drug effects
- Immunization Schedule
- Immunogenicity, Vaccine
- Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/drug effects
- Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/immunology
- Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/pathogenicity
- Pandemics/prevention & control
- Patient Safety
- Peptidyl-Dipeptidase A/genetics
- Peptidyl-Dipeptidase A/metabolism
- Pneumonia, Viral/immunology
- Pneumonia, Viral/prevention & control
- Pneumonia, Viral/virology
- Protein Binding
- Receptors, Virus/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, Virus/genetics
- Receptors, Virus/metabolism
- Severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus/drug effects
- Severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus/immunology
- Severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus/pathogenicity
- SARS-CoV-2
- Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome/immunology
- Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome/prevention & control
- Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome/virology
- Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/genetics
- Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism
- Vaccines, Attenuated
- Vaccines, DNA
- Vaccines, Subunit
- Vaccines, Virus-Like Particle
- Viral Vaccines/administration & dosage
- Viral Vaccines/biosynthesis
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Affiliation(s)
- Yetian Dong
- The State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Life Sciences Institute and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Tong Dai
- Institutes of Biology and Medical Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Yujun Wei
- Anhui Anlong Gene Technology Co., Ltd, Hefei, 230041, China
| | - Long Zhang
- Life Sciences Institute and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Min Zheng
- The State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Fangfang Zhou
- Institutes of Biology and Medical Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
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29
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Xu S, Yang K, Li R, Zhang L. mRNA Vaccine Era-Mechanisms, Drug Platform and Clinical Prospection. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E6582. [PMID: 32916818 PMCID: PMC7554980 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21186582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA)-based drugs, notably mRNA vaccines, have been widely proven as a promising treatment strategy in immune therapeutics. The extraordinary advantages associated with mRNA vaccines, including their high efficacy, a relatively low severity of side effects, and low attainment costs, have enabled them to become prevalent in pre-clinical and clinical trials against various infectious diseases and cancers. Recent technological advancements have alleviated some issues that hinder mRNA vaccine development, such as low efficiency that exist in both gene translation and in vivo deliveries. mRNA immunogenicity can also be greatly adjusted as a result of upgraded technologies. In this review, we have summarized details regarding the optimization of mRNA vaccines, and the underlying biological mechanisms of this form of vaccines. Applications of mRNA vaccines in some infectious diseases and cancers are introduced. It also includes our prospections for mRNA vaccine applications in diseases caused by bacterial pathogens, such as tuberculosis. At the same time, some suggestions for future mRNA vaccine development about storage methods, safety concerns, and personalized vaccine synthesis can be found in the context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuqin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; (S.X.); (K.Y.)
| | - Kunpeng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; (S.X.); (K.Y.)
| | - Rose Li
- M.B.B.S., School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, China;
| | - Lu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; (S.X.); (K.Y.)
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, Shanghai 200438, China
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30
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Ballesteros-Briones MC, Silva-Pilipich N, Herrador-Cañete G, Vanrell L, Smerdou C. A new generation of vaccines based on alphavirus self-amplifying RNA. Curr Opin Virol 2020; 44:145-153. [PMID: 32898764 PMCID: PMC7474593 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2020.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Alphavirus self-amplifiying RNA (saRNA) induces more potent immune responses than conventional mRNA. saRNA delivery can be enhanced by electroporation or conjugation with cationic lipid or polymers. saRNA vaccines induce protective responses against human pathogens in preclinical models. saRNA replication mediates innate immune signals that contribute to the strength of immune responses. saRNA vaccines could be generated in a quick way to face emergent pathogens like SARS-CoV-2.
DNA or mRNA vaccines have potential advantages over conventional vaccines since they are easier to manufacture and have higher safety profiles. In particular, self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) derived from alphavirus expression vectors has shown to be very efficient to induce humoral and cellular responses against many antigens in preclinical models, being superior to non-replicating mRNA and DNA. This is mainly due to the fact that saRNA can provide very high expression levels and simultaneously induces strong innate responses, potentiating immunity. saRNA can be administered as viral particles or DNA, but direct delivery as RNA represents a safer and more simple approach. Although saRNA can be delivered as naked RNA, in vivo transfection can be enhanced by electroporation or by complexing it with cationic lipids or polymers. Alphavirus saRNA could have broad application to vaccinate against human pathogens, including emerging ones like SARS-CoV-2, for which clinical trials have been recently initiated.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Cristina Ballesteros-Briones
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Noelia Silva-Pilipich
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Guillermo Herrador-Cañete
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), Pamplona, Spain
| | - Lucia Vanrell
- Facultad de ingeniería, Universidad ORT Uruguay, Montevideo, Uruguay.
| | - Cristian Smerdou
- Division of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Cima Universidad de Navarra and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdISNA), Pamplona, Spain.
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31
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Faghfuri E, Pourfarzi F, Faghfouri AH, Abdoli Shadbad M, Hajiasgharzadeh K, Baradaran B. Recent developments of RNA-based vaccines in cancer immunotherapy. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2020; 21:201-218. [PMID: 32842798 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2020.1815704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cancer immunotherapy is more dependent on monoclonal antibodies, proteins, and cells, as therapeutic agents, to attain prominent outcomes. However, cancer immunotherapy's clinical benefits need to be enhanced, as many patients still do not respond well to existing treatments, or their diseases may relapse after temporary control. RNA-based approaches have provided new options for advancing cancer immunotherapy. Moreover, considerable efforts have been made to utilize RNA for vaccine production. RNA vaccines, which encode tumor-associated or specific epitopes, stimulate adaptive immunity. This adaptive immune response is capable of elimination or reduction of tumor burden. It is crucial to develop effective RNA transfer technologies that penetrate the lipid bilayer to reach the cytoplasm for translation into functional proteins. Two important delivery methods include the loading of mRNA into dendritic cells ex vivo; and direct injection of naked RNA with or without a carrier. AREAS COVERED The latest results of pre-clinical and clinical studies with RNA vaccines in cancer immunotherapy are summarized in this review. EXPERT OPINION RNA vaccines are now in early clinical development with promising safety and efficacy outcomes. Also, the translation capacity and durability of these vaccines can be increased with chemical modifications and sequence engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elnaz Faghfuri
- Digestive Disease Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences , Ardabil, Iran
| | - Farhad Pourfarzi
- Digestive Disease Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences , Ardabil, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Faghfouri
- Student's Research Committee, Department of Nutrition, Tabriz University of Medical Science , Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Abdoli Shadbad
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz, Iran
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32
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Yang DC, Eldredge AC, Hickey JC, Muradyan H, Guan Z. Multivalent Peptide-Functionalized Bioreducible Polymers for Cellular Delivery of Various RNAs. Biomacromolecules 2020; 21:1613-1624. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.0c00211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Chu Yang
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, 1102 Natural
Sciences 2, Irvine, California 92697-2025, United States
| | - Alexander C. Eldredge
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, 1102 Natural
Sciences 2, Irvine, California 92697-2025, United States
| | - James C. Hickey
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, 1102 Natural
Sciences 2, Irvine, California 92697-2025, United States
| | - Hurik Muradyan
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, 1102 Natural
Sciences 2, Irvine, California 92697-2025, United States
| | - Zhibin Guan
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, 1102 Natural
Sciences 2, Irvine, California 92697-2025, United States
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33
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Integrating context of tumor biology and vaccine design to shape multidimensional immunotherapies. FUTURE DRUG DISCOVERY 2020. [DOI: 10.4155/fdd-2019-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in cancer therapy have offered great promise but only modest clinical benefits as monotherapies to date. Patients usually respond well to therapies targeted at specific mutations, but only for a short time. Conversely, immunotherapies help fewer patients, but increase survival. Combination therapies, which could offer the best of both worlds, are currently limited by substantial toxicity. While recent advances in genomics and proteomics have yielded an unprecedented depth of enabling datasets, it has also shifted the focus toward in silico predictions. Designing the next wave of multidimensional immunotherapies will require leveraging this knowledge while providing a renewed emphasis on tumor biology and vaccine design. This includes careful selection of tumor clinical stage in the context of pre-existing tumor microenvironments, target antigen and technology platform selections to maximize their effect, and treatment staging. Here, we review strategies on how to approach an increasingly complex landscape of immunotherapeutic agents for use in combination therapies.
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34
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Huysmans H, De Temmerman J, Zhong Z, Mc Cafferty S, Combes F, Haesebrouck F, Sanders NN. Improving the Repeatability and Efficacy of Intradermal Electroporated Self-Replicating mRNA. MOLECULAR THERAPY-NUCLEIC ACIDS 2019; 17:388-395. [PMID: 31307005 PMCID: PMC6626868 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2019.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Local administration of naked self-replicating mRNA (sr-mRNA) in the skin or muscle using electroporation is effective but hampered by low repeatability. In this manuscript, we demonstrated that intradermal electroporation of sr-mRNA in combination with a protein-based RNase inhibitor increased the expression efficiency, success rate, and repeatability of the data. The RNase inhibitor should be added just before administration because storage of the inhibitor together with the sr-mRNA at −80°C resulted in a partial loss of the beneficial effect. Furthermore, the location of intradermal electroporation also had a major effect on the expression of the sr-mRNA, with the highest and longest expression observed at the tail base of the mice. In contrast with previous work, we did not observe a beneficial effect of calcium ions on the efficacy of naked sr-mRNA after intradermal injection. Finally, another important finding was that the traditional representation of in vivo bioluminescence data as means in logarithmic graphs can mask highly variable data. A more truthful representation can be obtained by showing the individual data points or by displaying median values in combination with interquartile ranges. In conclusion, intradermal sr-mRNA electroporation can be improved by adding an RNase inhibitor and injecting at the tail base.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne Huysmans
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Joyca De Temmerman
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium; Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Zifu Zhong
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Séan Mc Cafferty
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute (CRIG), Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Francis Combes
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute (CRIG), Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Freddy Haesebrouck
- Department of Pathology, Bacteriology and Avian Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Niek N Sanders
- Laboratory of Gene Therapy, Department of Nutrition, Genetics and Ethology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium; Cancer Research Institute (CRIG), Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium.
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35
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Arsenović-Ranin N. New vaccines on the horizon. ARHIV ZA FARMACIJU 2019. [DOI: 10.5937/arhfarm1906385a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
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36
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Rauch S, Jasny E, Schmidt KE, Petsch B. New Vaccine Technologies to Combat Outbreak Situations. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1963. [PMID: 30283434 PMCID: PMC6156540 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 354] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ever since the development of the first vaccine more than 200 years ago, vaccinations have greatly decreased the burden of infectious diseases worldwide, famously leading to the eradication of small pox and allowing the restriction of diseases such as polio, tetanus, diphtheria, and measles. A multitude of research efforts focuses on the improvement of established and the discovery of new vaccines such as the HPV (human papilloma virus) vaccine in 2006. However, radical changes in the density, age distribution and traveling habits of the population worldwide as well as the changing climate favor the emergence of old and new pathogens that bear the risk of becoming pandemic threats. In recent years, the rapid spread of severe infections such as HIV, SARS, Ebola, and Zika have highlighted the dire need for global preparedness for pandemics, which necessitates the extremely rapid development and comprehensive distribution of vaccines against potentially previously unknown pathogens. What is more, the emergence of antibiotic resistant bacteria calls for new approaches to prevent infections. Given these changes, established methods for the identification of new vaccine candidates are no longer sufficient to ensure global protection. Hence, new vaccine technologies able to achieve rapid development as well as large scale production are of pivotal importance. This review will discuss viral vector and nucleic acid-based vaccines (DNA and mRNA vaccines) as new approaches that might be able to tackle these challenges to global health.
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37
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Blakney AK, Yilmaz G, McKay PF, Becer CR, Shattock RJ. One Size Does Not Fit All: The Effect of Chain Length and Charge Density of Poly(ethylene imine) Based Copolymers on Delivery of pDNA, mRNA, and RepRNA Polyplexes. Biomacromolecules 2018; 19:2870-2879. [PMID: 29698602 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.8b00429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Nucleic acid delivery systems are commonly translated between different modalities, such as DNA and RNA of varying length and structure, despite physical differences in these molecules that yield disparate delivery efficiency with the same system. Here, we synthesized a library of poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline)/poly(ethylene imine) copolymers with varying molar mass and charge densities in order to probe how pDNA, mRNA, and RepRNA polyplex characteristics affect transfection efficiency. The library was utilized in a full factorial design of experiment (DoE) screening, with outputs of luciferase expression, particle size, surface charge, and particle concentration. The optimal copolymer molar mass and charge density was found as 83 kDa/100%, 72 kDa/100%, and 45 kDa/80% for pDNA, RepRNA, and mRNA, respectively. While 10 of the synthesized copolymers enhanced the transfection efficiency of pDNA and mRNA, only 2 copolymers enhanced RepRNA transfection efficiency, indicating a narrow and more stringent design space for RepRNA. These findings suggest that there is not a "one size fits all" polymer for different nucleic acid species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K Blakney
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Section of Virology , Imperial College London , Norfolk Place, London W21PG , U.K
| | - Gokhan Yilmaz
- Polymer Chemistry Laboratory, School of Engineering and Materials Science , Queen Mary University of London , London E1 4NS , U.K
| | - Paul F McKay
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Section of Virology , Imperial College London , Norfolk Place, London W21PG , U.K
| | - C Remzi Becer
- Polymer Chemistry Laboratory, School of Engineering and Materials Science , Queen Mary University of London , London E1 4NS , U.K
| | - Robin J Shattock
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Section of Virology , Imperial College London , Norfolk Place, London W21PG , U.K
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Chen X. Current and future technological advances in transdermal gene delivery. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2018; 127:85-105. [PMID: 29273516 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2017.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2017] [Revised: 11/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Transdermal gene delivery holds significant advantages as it is able to minimize the problems of systemic administration such as enzymatic degradation, systemic toxicity, and poor delivery to target tissues. This technology has the potential to transform the treatment and prevention of a range of diseases. However, the skin poses a great barrier for gene delivery because of the "bricks-and-mortar" structure of the stratum corneum and the tight junctions between keratinocytes in the epidermis. This review systematically summarizes the typical physical and chemical approaches to overcome these barriers and facilitate gene delivery via skin for applications in vaccination, wound healing, skin cancers and skin diseases. Next, the advantages and disadvantages of different approaches are discussed and the insights for future development are provided.
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Pardi N, Hogan MJ, Porter FW, Weissman D. mRNA vaccines - a new era in vaccinology. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2018; 17:261-279. [PMID: 29326426 DOI: 10.1038/nrd.2017.243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2333] [Impact Index Per Article: 388.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
mRNA vaccines represent a promising alternative to conventional vaccine approaches because of their high potency, capacity for rapid development and potential for low-cost manufacture and safe administration. However, their application has until recently been restricted by the instability and inefficient in vivo delivery of mRNA. Recent technological advances have now largely overcome these issues, and multiple mRNA vaccine platforms against infectious diseases and several types of cancer have demonstrated encouraging results in both animal models and humans. This Review provides a detailed overview of mRNA vaccines and considers future directions and challenges in advancing this promising vaccine platform to widespread therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norbert Pardi
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
| | - Michael J Hogan
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
| | - Frederick W Porter
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Drew Weissman
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
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40
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Ren S, Wei Q, Cai L, Yang X, Xing C, Tan F, Leavenworth JW, Liang S, Liu W. Alphavirus Replicon DNA Vectors Expressing Ebola GP and VP40 Antigens Induce Humoral and Cellular Immune Responses in Mice. Front Microbiol 2018; 8:2662. [PMID: 29375526 PMCID: PMC5767729 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ebola virus (EBOV) causes severe hemorrhagic fevers in humans, and no approved therapeutics or vaccine is currently available. Glycoprotein (GP) is the major protective antigen of EBOV, and can generate virus-like particles (VLPs) by co-expression with matrix protein (VP40). In this study, we constructed a recombinant Alphavirus Semliki Forest virus (SFV) replicon vector DREP to express EBOV GP and matrix viral protein (VP40). EBOV VLPs were successfully generated and achieved budding from 293 cells after co-transfection with DREP-based GP and VP40 vectors (DREP-GP+DREP-VP40). Vaccination of BALB/c mice with DREP-GP, DREP-VP40, or DREP-GP+DREP-VP40 vectors, followed by immediate electroporation resulted in a mixed IgG subclass production, which recognized EBOV GP and/or VP40 proteins. This vaccination regimen also led to the generation of both Th1 and Th2 cellular immune responses in mice. Notably, vaccination with DREP-GP and DREP-VP40, which produces both GP and VP40 antigens, induced a significantly higher level of anti-GP IgG2a antibody and increased IFN-γ secreting CD8+ T-cell responses relative to vaccination with DREP-GP or DREP-VP40 vector alone. Our study indicates that co-expression of GP and VP40 antigens based on the SFV replicon vector generates EBOV VLPs in vitro, and vaccination with recombinant DREP vectors containing GP and VP40 antigens induces Ebola antigen-specific humoral and cellular immune responses in mice. This novel approach provides a simple and efficient vaccine platform for Ebola disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoufeng Ren
- Department of Human Parasitology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qimei Wei
- Department of Human Parasitology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Institute of Pathogen and Immunology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Liya Cai
- Department of Human Parasitology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Institute of Pathogen and Immunology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xuejing Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Cuicui Xing
- Department of Human Parasitology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Feng Tan
- Department of Human Parasitology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Institute of Pathogen and Immunology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jianmei W Leavenworth
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States.,Department of Microbiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Shaohui Liang
- Department of Human Parasitology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Institute of Pathogen and Immunology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Wenquan Liu
- Department of Human Parasitology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Institute of Pathogen and Immunology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Luo F, Zheng L, Hu Y, Liu S, Wang Y, Xiong Z, Hu X, Tan F. Induction of Protective Immunity against Toxoplasma gondii in Mice by Nucleoside Triphosphate Hydrolase-II (NTPase-II) Self-amplifying RNA Vaccine Encapsulated in Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP). Front Microbiol 2017; 8:605. [PMID: 28424680 PMCID: PMC5380742 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.00605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA-based vaccine represents an irresistible and safe immunization strategy with decreasing theoretical risks of genomic integration and malignant cell transformation. To our knowledge, however, there is no report about development of RNA vaccine against Toxoplasma gondii infection. We have previously demonstrated that the recombinant T. gondii nucleoside triphosphate hydrolase-II (NTPase-II) protein is able to provide protective Th1 cell-mediated immunity against T. gondii. Herein, we evaluated the immunogenic potential of a self-amplifying RNA vaccine-encoding T. gondii NTPase-II gene, RREP-NTPase-II, delivered by a synthetic lipid nanoparticle (LNP). Immunization of mice with naked RREP-NTPase-II induced a strong cellular and humoral immune response with high-IgG antibody titers and IFN-γ production. The immunized mice displayed significantly prolonged survival time and reduction in brain parasite load (46.4%) compared with control group. Furthermore, mice vaccinated with RREP-NTPase-II-encapsulated LNP displayed significantly enhanced protection against acute infection as well as chronic infection with PRU cyst, which shows 62.1% reduction in brain cyst burden in comparison to control group. These results suggest that the combination of self-amplifying RNA and LNP ion would be beneficial to the development of a safe and long-acting vaccine against toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangjun Luo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zhuji People's HospitalZhuji, China
| | - Lina Zheng
- Institute of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
| | - Yue Hu
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
| | - Shuxian Liu
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
| | - Zhongkui Xiong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shaoxing Second HospitalShaoxing, China
| | - Xin Hu
- Department of Basic Laboratory Medicine, School of Medical Laboratory Science and School of Life Science, Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
| | - Feng Tan
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical UniversityWenzhou, China
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De Beuckelaer A, Grooten J, De Koker S. Type I Interferons Modulate CD8 + T Cell Immunity to mRNA Vaccines. Trends Mol Med 2017; 23:216-226. [PMID: 28185789 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2017.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Revised: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have emerged as potent tools to elicit antitumor T cell immunity. They are characterized by a strong induction of type I interferons (IFNs), potent inflammatory cytokines affecting T cell differentiation and survival. Recent reports have attributed opposing roles for type I IFNs in modulating CD8+ T cell immunity to mRNA vaccines, from profoundly stimulatory to strongly inhibitory. The mechanisms behind this duality are unclear. Disentangling the factors governing the beneficial or detrimental impact of type I IFNs on CD8+ T cell responses is vital to the design of mRNA vaccines of increased potency. In light of recent advancements regarding the complex role of type I IFNs in regulating CD8+ T cell immunity to infectious diseases, we posit that the dual outcome of type I IFNs on CD8+ T cell responses to mRNA vaccination is determined by the timing and intensity of type I IFN induction relative to T cell receptor (TCR) activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ans De Beuckelaer
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Johan Grooten
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Stefaan De Koker
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium; Cytokine Receptor Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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43
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Protective immune response in mice induced by a suicidal DNA vaccine encoding NTPase-II gene of Toxoplasma gondii. Acta Trop 2017; 166:336-342. [PMID: 27940233 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2016.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
DNA-based alphaviral RNA replicon vectors, also called suicidal DNA vectors, have been employed to alleviate biosafety concerns attribution to its ability to induce apoptotic cell death of the transfected cells. Toxoplasma gondii nucleoside triphosphate hydrolase-II (TgNTPase-II), which facilitates the parasite to salvage purines from the host cell for survival and replication, have been demonstrated to be a potential vaccine candidate for toxoplasmosis. Herein, we evaluated the immunogenic potential of a suicidal DNA vaccine encoding TgNTPase-II gene, pDREP-TgNTPase-II, delivered intramuscularly in combination with electroporation. Immunization of mice with pDREP-TgNTPase-II elicited specific humoral responses, with high IgG antibody titers and a mixed IgG1/IgG2a response. The cellular immune response was associated with high level production of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-10 cytokines and low level IL-4 production as well as the increase of the percentage of CD8+ T cells, indicating that a Th1 predominant response was elicited. Furthermore, mice vaccinated with this suicidal DNA vaccine displayed partial protection against acute infection with the virulent RH strain as well as chronic infection with PRU cyst, which shows 77.7% and 71.4% reduction in brain cyst burden in comparison to PBS and pDREP-eGFP control group, respectively. Based on the cellular and antibody responses, the suicidal DNA vaccine elicited a Th1-predominant immune response against T. gondii challenge.
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Abstract
RNA vaccines are attractive, because they exhibit characteristics of subunit vaccines and live-attenuated vectors, including flexible production and induction of both humoral and cellular immunity. While human proof-of-concept for RNA vaccines is still pending, the nascent field of RNA therapeutics has already attracted substantial industry and government funding as well as record investments of private venture capital. Most recently, the WHO acknowledged messenger RNA (mRNA) as a new therapeutic class. In this chapter, we briefly review key developments in RNA vaccines and outline the contents of this volume of Methods in Molecular Biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Kramps
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Binger Strasse 173, 55216, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany.
| | - Knut Elbers
- Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH, Binger Strasse 173, 55216, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany.
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45
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Maruggi G, Chiarot E, Giovani C, Buccato S, Bonacci S, Frigimelica E, Margarit I, Geall A, Bensi G, Maione D. Immunogenicity and protective efficacy induced by self-amplifying mRNA vaccines encoding bacterial antigens. Vaccine 2016; 35:361-368. [PMID: 27939014 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.11.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Revised: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Nucleic acid vaccines represent an attractive approach to vaccination, combining the positive attributes of both viral vectors and live-attenuated vaccines, without the inherent limitations of each technology. We have developed a novel technology, the Self-Amplifying mRNA (SAM) platform, which is based on the synthesis of self-amplifying mRNA formulated and delivered as a vaccine. SAM vaccines have been shown to stimulate robust innate and adaptive immune responses in small animals and non-human primates against a variety of viral antigens, thus representing a safe and versatile tool against viral infections. To assess whether the SAM technology could be used for a broader range of targets, we investigated the immunogenicity and efficacy of SAM vaccines expressing antigens from Group A (GAS) and Group B (GBS) Streptococci, as models of bacterial pathogens. Two prototype bacterial antigens (the double-mutated GAS Streptolysin-O (SLOdm) and the GBS pilus 2a backbone protein (BP-2a)) were successfully expressed by SAM vectors. Mice immunized with both vaccines produced significant amounts of fully functional serum antibodies. The antibody responses generated by SAM vaccines were capable of conferring consistent protection in murine models of GAS and GBS infections. Inclusion of a eukaryotic secretion signal or boosting with the recombinant protein resulted in higher specific-antibody levels and protection. Our results support the concept of using SAM vaccines as potential solution for a wide range of both viral and bacterial pathogens, due to the versatility of the manufacturing processes and the broad spectrum of elicited protective immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cinzia Giovani
- GSK Vaccines S.r.l., Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Scilla Buccato
- GSK Vaccines S.r.l., Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Andrew Geall
- GSK Vaccines, 350 Massachusetts Avenue, Mail Stop 45SS, Cambridge, MA 02139, United States
| | - Giuliano Bensi
- GSK Vaccines S.r.l., Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy
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46
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Self-Amplifying mRNA Vaccines Expressing Multiple Conserved Influenza Antigens Confer Protection against Homologous and Heterosubtypic Viral Challenge. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0161193. [PMID: 27525409 PMCID: PMC4985159 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0161193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Current hemagglutinin (HA)-based seasonal influenza vaccines induce vaccine strain-specific neutralizing antibodies that usually fail to provide protection against mismatched circulating viruses. Inclusion in the vaccine of highly conserved internal proteins such as the nucleoprotein (NP) and the matrix protein 1 (M1) was shown previously to increase vaccine efficacy by eliciting cross-reactive T-cells. However, appropriate delivery systems are required for efficient priming of T-cell responses. In this study, we demonstrated that administration of novel self-amplifying mRNA (SAM®) vectors expressing influenza NP (SAM(NP)), M1 (SAM(M1)), and NP and M1 (SAM(M1-NP)) delivered with lipid nanoparticles (LNP) induced robust polyfunctional CD4 T helper 1 cells, while NP-containing SAM also induced cytotoxic CD8 T cells. Robust expansions of central memory (TCM) and effector memory (TEM) CD4 and CD8 T cells were also measured. An enhanced recruitment of NP-specific cytotoxic CD8 T cells was observed in the lungs of SAM(NP)-immunized mice after influenza infection that paralleled with reduced lung viral titers and pathology, and increased survival after homologous and heterosubtypic influenza challenge. Finally, we demonstrated for the first time that the co-administration of RNA (SAM(M1-NP)) and protein (monovalent inactivated influenza vaccine (MIIV)) was feasible, induced simultaneously NP-, M1- and HA-specific T cells and HA-specific neutralizing antibodies, and enhanced MIIV efficacy against a heterologous challenge. In conclusion, systemic administration of SAM vectors expressing conserved internal influenza antigens induced protective immune responses in mice, supporting the SAM® platform as another promising strategy for the development of broad-spectrum universal influenza vaccines.
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47
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Park HJ, Ko HL, Jung SY, Jo HB, Nam JH. The Characteristics of RNA Vaccine; its Strengths and Weaknesses. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.4167/jbv.2016.46.3.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hyo-Jung Park
- Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Hae Li Ko
- Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Seo-Yeon Jung
- Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Han-Byeol Jo
- Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Jae-Hwan Nam
- Department of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
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48
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Ajbani SP, Velhal SM, Kadam RB, Patel VV, Bandivdekar AH. Immunogenicity of Semliki Forest virus based self-amplifying RNA expressing Indian HIV-1C genes in mice. Int J Biol Macromol 2015; 81:794-802. [PMID: 26361864 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2015.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Revised: 09/03/2015] [Accepted: 09/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Development of recombinant vaccines is considered as a promising approach to prevent transmission and eradication of HIV/AIDS. Candidate vaccines tested so far have shown poor to modest efficacy. Self-amplifying RNAs of positive strand alphaviruses are reported to be promising vectors for development of recombinant vaccines. This study describes the construction, in vitro expression and in vivo immunogenicity of recombinant RNA vaccines developed by individually cloning gag, env and polRT genes of primary HIV-1C Indian isolates using Semliki Forest virus (SFV) vector. HIV-1C specific T cell responses were detected in mice immunized with rSFV2gen/gag RNA by IFN-γ ELISPOT assay. Furthermore, using flow cytometry based intracellular cytokine staining (ICCS) assay HIV-1C specific IL-2 responses were detected in immunized mice that were mediated by both CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells. Mice immunized with rSFV2gen/env RNA elicited HIV-1C Env-specific antibodies as detected by gp120 ELISA. The Env, Gag and Pol (RT) RNA constructs in combination elicited better HIV-1C Env-specific humoral responses compared to mice immunized with Env RNA alone. In conclusion, rSFV2gen RNA constructs encoding HIV-1C antigens elicited clear cell mediated and humoral immune responses in mice, thus demonstrating the potential of self-amplifying rSFV2gen RNA as a promising candidate for anti-HIV vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema P Ajbani
- Department of Biochemistry and Virology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, J. M. Street, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India.
| | - Shilpa M Velhal
- Department of Biochemistry and Virology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, J. M. Street, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India.
| | - Ravindra B Kadam
- Department of Biochemistry and Virology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, J. M. Street, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India.
| | - Vainav V Patel
- Department of Biochemistry and Virology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, J. M. Street, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India.
| | - Atmaram H Bandivdekar
- Department of Biochemistry and Virology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, J. M. Street, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India.
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Yang J, Li Y, Jin S, Xu J, Wang PC, Liang XJ, Zhang X. Engineered biomaterials for development of nucleic acid vaccines. Biomater Res 2015; 19:5. [PMID: 26331076 PMCID: PMC4552455 DOI: 10.1186/s40824-014-0025-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2014] [Accepted: 12/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid vaccines have attracted many attentions since they have presented some superiority over traditional vaccines. However, they could only induce moderate immunogenicity. The route and formulation of nucleic acid vaccines have strong effects on the immune response and efficiency. Numerous biomaterials are used as a tool to enhance the immunogenicity of antigens. They deliver the antigens into the cells through particle- and non-particle-mediated pathway. However, challenges remain due to lack of comprehensive understanding of the actions of these biomaterials as a carrier/adjuvant. Herein, this review focuses on the evolution of biomaterials used for nucleic acid vaccines, discusses the advantages and disadvantages for gene delivery and immunostimulation of variety of structures of the biomaterials, in order to provide new thought on rational design of carrier/adjuvant and better understanding of mechanism of action in both immunostimulatory and delivery methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Yang
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190 PR China
| | - Yan Li
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190 PR China ; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 PR China
| | - Shubin Jin
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190 PR China
| | - Jing Xu
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190 PR China
| | - Paul C Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Department of Radiology, Howard University, Washington, DC 20060 USA
| | - Xing-Jie Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology, Beijing, 100190 PR China
| | - Xin Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190 PR China
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50
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Knudsen ML, Ljungberg K, Tatoud R, Weber J, Esteban M, Liljeström P. Alphavirus replicon DNA expressing HIV antigens is an excellent prime for boosting with recombinant modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) or with HIV gp140 protein antigen. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0117042. [PMID: 25643354 PMCID: PMC4314072 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0117042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 12/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccination with DNA is an attractive strategy for induction of pathogen-specific T cells and antibodies. Studies in humans have shown that DNA vaccines are safe, but their immunogenicity needs further improvement. As a step towards this goal, we have previously demonstrated that immunogenicity is increased with the use of an alphavirus DNA-launched replicon (DREP) vector compared to conventional DNA vaccines. In this study, we investigated the effect of varying the dose and number of administrations of DREP when given as a prime prior to a heterologous boost with poxvirus vector (MVA) and/or HIV gp140 protein formulated in glucopyranosyl lipid A (GLA-AF) adjuvant. The DREP and MVA vaccine constructs encoded Env and a Gag-Pol-Nef fusion protein from HIV clade C. One to three administrations of 0.2 μg DREP induced lower HIV-specific T cell and IgG responses than the equivalent number of immunizations with 10 μg DREP. However, the two doses were equally efficient as a priming component in a heterologous prime-boost regimen. The magnitude of immune responses depended on the number of priming immunizations rather than the dose. A single low dose of DREP prior to a heterologous boost resulted in greatly increased immune responses compared to MVA or protein antigen alone, demonstrating that a mere 0.2 μg DREP was sufficient for priming immune responses. Following a DREP prime, T cell responses were expanded greatly by an MVA boost, and IgG responses were also expanded when boosted with protein antigen. When MVA and protein were administered simultaneously following multiple DREP primes, responses were slightly compromised compared to administering them sequentially. In conclusion, we have demonstrated efficient priming of HIV-specific T cell and IgG responses with a low dose of DREP, and shown that the priming effect depends on number of primes administered rather than dose.
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MESH Headings
- Alphavirus/genetics
- Animals
- Antibodies, Viral/immunology
- Chemistry, Pharmaceutical
- DNA, Recombinant/genetics
- DNA, Viral/genetics
- Female
- Gene Expression
- Genetic Vectors/genetics
- HIV Antigens/genetics
- HIV Antigens/immunology
- HIV-1/immunology
- Immunization, Secondary
- Immunoglobulin G/immunology
- Lipid A/chemistry
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Replicon/genetics
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- Vaccines, DNA/genetics
- Vaccines, DNA/immunology
- Vaccinia virus/genetics
- env Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/chemistry
- env Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria L. Knudsen
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail: (MLK); (PL)
| | - Karl Ljungberg
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Roger Tatoud
- Imperial College London, Department of Infectious Diseases, Division of Medicine, Norfolk Place, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Weber
- Imperial College London, Department of Infectious Diseases, Division of Medicine, Norfolk Place, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mariano Esteban
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Peter Liljeström
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail: (MLK); (PL)
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