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He L, Zhu Z, Qi C. β-Glucan-A promising immunocyte-targeting drug delivery vehicle: Superiority, applications and future prospects. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 339:122252. [PMID: 38823919 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.122252] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Drug delivery technologies that could convert promising therapeutics into successful therapies have been under broad research for many years. Recently, β-glucans, natural-occurring polysaccharides extracted from many organism species such as yeast, fungi and bacteria, have attracted increasing attention to serve as drug delivery carriers. With their unique structure and innate immunocompetence, β-glucans are considered as promising carriers for targeting delivery especially when applied in the vaccine construction and oral administration of therapeutic agents. In this review, we focus on three types of β-glucans applied in the drug delivery system including yeast β-glucan, Schizophyllan and curdlan, highlighting the benefits of β-glucan based delivery system. We summarize how β-glucans as delivery vehicles have aided various therapeutics ranging from macromolecules including proteins, peptides and nucleic acids to small molecular drugs to reach desired cells or organs in terms of loading strategies. We also outline the challenges and future directions for developing the next generation of β-glucan based delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liuyang He
- The Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Changzhou 213003, China
| | - Zhichao Zhu
- The Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Changzhou 213003, China
| | - Chunjian Qi
- The Affiliated Changzhou Second People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou Medical Center, Changzhou 213003, China.
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2
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Whelan AO, Flick-Smith HC, Walker NJ, Abraham A, Levitz SM, Ostroff GR, Oyston PCF. A glucan-particle based tularemia subunit vaccine induces T-cell immunity and affords partial protection in an inhalation rat infection model. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0294998. [PMID: 38713688 PMCID: PMC11075878 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Tularemia is a zoonotic disease caused by the facultative intracellular gram-negative bacterium Francisella tularensis. F. tularensis has a very low infection dose by the aerosol route which can result in an acute, and potentially lethal, infection in humans. Consequently, it is classified as a Category A bioterrorism agent by the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and is a pathogen of concern for the International Biodefence community. There are currently no licenced tularemia vaccines. In this study we report on the continued assessment of a tularemia subunit vaccine utilising β-glucan particles (GPs) as a vaccine delivery platform for immunogenic F. tularensis antigens. Using a Fischer 344 rat infection model, we demonstrate that a GP based vaccine comprising the F. tularensis lipopolysaccharide antigen together with the protein antigen FTT0814 provided partial protection of F344 rats against an aerosol challenge with a high virulence strain of F. tularensis, SCHU S4. Inclusion of imiquimod as an adjuvant failed to enhance protective efficacy. Moreover, the level of protection afforded was dependant on the challenge dose. Immunological characterisation of this vaccine demonstrated that it induced strong antibody immunoglobulin responses to both polysaccharide and protein antigens. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the FTT0814 component of the GP vaccine primed CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells from immunised F344 rats to express interferon-γ, and CD4+ cells to express interleukin-17, in an antigen specific manner. These data demonstrate the development potential of this tularemia subunit vaccine and builds on a body of work highlighting GPs as a promising vaccine platform for difficult to treat pathogens including those of concern to the bio-defence community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam O. Whelan
- CBR Division, Dstl Porton Down, Salisbury, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Ambily Abraham
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Stuart M. Levitz
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Gary R. Ostroff
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
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3
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Harrell JE, Roy CJ, Gunn JS, McLachlan JB. Current vaccine strategies and novel approaches to combatting Francisella infection. Vaccine 2024; 42:2171-2180. [PMID: 38461051 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.02.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Tularemia is caused by subspecies of Francisella tularensis and can manifest in a variety of disease states, with the pneumonic presentation resulting in the greatest mortality. Despite decades of research, there are no approved vaccines against F. tularensis in the United States. Traditional vaccination strategies, such as live-attenuated or subunit vaccines, are not favorable due to inadequate protection or safety concerns. Because of this, novel vaccination strategies are needed to combat tularemia. Here we discuss the current state of and challenges to the tularemia vaccine field and suggest novel vaccine approaches going forward that might be better suited for protecting against F. tularensis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaikin E Harrell
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Chad J Roy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - John S Gunn
- Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH 43205, USA, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA, Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - James B McLachlan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
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4
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Moradkasani S, Maurin M, Farrokhi AS, Esmaeili S. Development, Strategies, and Challenges for Tularemia Vaccine. Curr Microbiol 2024; 81:126. [PMID: 38564047 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-024-03658-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Francisella tularensis is a facultative intracellular bacterial pathogen that affects both humans and animals. It was developed into a biological warfare weapon as a result. In this article, the current status of tularemia vaccine development is presented. A live-attenuated vaccine that was designed over 50 years ago using the less virulent F. tularensis subspecies holarctica is the only prophylactic currently available, but it has not been approved for use in humans or animals. Other promising live, killed, and subunit vaccine candidates have recently been developed and tested in animal models. This study will investigate some possible vaccines and the challenges they face during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safoura Moradkasani
- National Reference Laboratory for Plague, Tularemia and Q Fever, Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Akanlu, KabudarAhang, Hamadan, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatics, Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Max Maurin
- CNRS, Grenoble INP, CHU Grenoble Alpes, TIMC-IMAG, Universite Grenoble Alpes, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Saber Esmaeili
- National Reference Laboratory for Plague, Tularemia and Q Fever, Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Akanlu, KabudarAhang, Hamadan, Iran.
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatics, Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
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5
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Mlynek KD, Cline CR, Biryukov SS, Toothman RG, Bachert BA, Klimko CP, Shoe JL, Hunter M, Hedrick ZM, Dankmeyer JL, Mou S, Fetterer DP, Qiu J, Lee ED, Cote CK, Jia Q, Horwitz MA, Bozue JA. The rLVS Δ capB/ iglABC vaccine provides potent protection in Fischer rats against inhalational tularemia caused by various virulent Francisella tularensis strains. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2277083. [PMID: 37975637 PMCID: PMC10760400 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2277083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Francisella tularensis is one of the several biothreat agents for which a licensed vaccine is needed. To ensure vaccine protection is achieved across a range of virulent F. tularensis strains, we assembled and characterized a panel of F. tularensis isolates to be utilized as challenge strains. A promising tularemia vaccine candidate is rLVS ΔcapB/iglABC (rLVS), in which the vector is the LVS strain with a deletion in the capB gene and which additionally expresses a fusion protein comprising immunodominant epitopes of proteins IglA, IglB, and IglC. Fischer rats were immunized subcutaneously 1-3 times at 3-week intervals with rLVS at various doses. The rats were exposed to a high dose of aerosolized Type A strain Schu S4 (FRAN244), a Type B strain (FRAN255), or a tick derived Type A strain (FRAN254) and monitored for survival. All rLVS vaccination regimens including a single dose of 107 CFU rLVS provided 100% protection against both Type A strains. Against the Type B strain, two doses of 107 CFU rLVS provided 100% protection, and a single dose of 107 CFU provided 87.5% protection. In contrast, all unvaccinated rats succumbed to aerosol challenge with all of the F. tularensis strains. A robust Th1-biased antibody response was induced in all vaccinated rats against all F. tularensis strains. These results demonstrate that rLVS ΔcapB/iglABC provides potent protection against inhalational challenge with either Type A or Type B F. tularensis strains and should be considered for further analysis as a future tularemia vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin D. Mlynek
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Curtis R. Cline
- Pathology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Sergei S. Biryukov
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Ronald G. Toothman
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Beth A. Bachert
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Christopher P. Klimko
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Shoe
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Melissa Hunter
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Zander M. Hedrick
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Dankmeyer
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Sherry Mou
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - David P. Fetterer
- Regulated Research Administration Division, U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Ju Qiu
- Regulated Research Administration Division, U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Eric D. Lee
- Pathology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Christopher K. Cote
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Qingmei Jia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marcus A. Horwitz
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Joel A. Bozue
- Bacteriology Division, US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
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Patnaik A, Rai SK, Dhaked RK. Recent Advancements and Novel Approaches Contributing to the Present Arsenal of Prophylaxis and Treatment Strategies Against Category A Bacterial Biothreat Agents. Indian J Microbiol 2023; 63:161-172. [PMID: 37325016 PMCID: PMC10220334 DOI: 10.1007/s12088-023-01075-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial pathogens have always been a part of the ecosystem in which we thrive. Some pathogens have caused deadly outbreaks in the past and have been exploited as an agent of threat. Natural hotspots for these biological pathogens are widely distributed throughout the world and hence they remain clinically important. Technological advancement and change in general lifestyle has driven the evolution of these pathogens into more virulent and resistant variants. There has been a growing concern over the development of multidrug-resistant bacterial strains that could be used as bioweapons. This rapid change in pathogens also propels the field of science to develop and innovate new strategies and methodologies which are superior and safer to the existing ones. Some bacterial agents like-Bacillus anthracis, Yersinia pestis, Francisella tularensis and toxins produced by strains of Clostridium botulinum, have been segregated as Category A substances as they pose imminent threat to public health with a history of life threatening and catastrophic disease. This review highlights some encouraging developments and value additions in the current plan of action for protection against these select biothreat bacterial pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhinandan Patnaik
- Biotechnology Division, Defence Research and Development Establishment, Jhansi Road, Gwalior, MP 474002 India
| | - Sharad Kumar Rai
- Biotechnology Division, Defence Research and Development Establishment, Jhansi Road, Gwalior, MP 474002 India
| | - Ram Kumar Dhaked
- Biotechnology Division, Defence Research and Development Establishment, Jhansi Road, Gwalior, MP 474002 India
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Liu Y, Yang H, Zhu J, Yang Z, Zhao L, Zhang X, Zhang H. Novel albendazole-glucan particles for enhancing intestinal absorption and improving hepatic targeting. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2022; 10:1312. [PMID: 36660624 PMCID: PMC9843346 DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-5299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Glucan particles (GPs) are derived from the Saccharomyces cerevisiae cell wall. The hollow particles composed of β-1,3-D-glucan have been extensively studied in terms of immune regulation and macrophage-targeted drug delivery. Albendazole (ABZ) is a benzimidazole drug with good anti-parasitic activity and is the drug recommended by the World Health Organization for the first-line treatment of hydatid disease. Methods A dynamic light scatterometer, scanning electron microscope, and transmission electron microscope were used to characterize the ABZ-GPs. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), laser scanning confocal microscope (LSCM) and an in vivo small animal imaging system were used to evaluate theability of ABZ-GPs to be recognized by macrophages, whether ABZ-GPs are more readily absorbed and eliminated in the blood than the original ABZ drug in rats, and the ability of ABZ-GPs to target the mouse liver. Results The ABZ-GPs were successfully constructed to achieve fluorescence, magnetic resonance imagining, and laser confocal microscopy imaging. The glucan shell effectively protects ABZ from enzymatic degradation and from being pumped out in the gastrointestinal tract. The analysis of ABZ and its major metabolite albendazole sulfoxide in the rat plasma and mouse liver showed that compared to the ABZ suspension group, the degradation of ABZ-GPSs in the blood was low, and the targeting of ABZ-GPSs in the liver was significantly enhanced. Conclusions In the oral treatment of hepatic hydatid disease, GPs can be used as carriers to achieve the targeted transport of ABZ, which in turn can be used for the targeted therapy of liver echinococcosis. Thus, ABZ-GPs may be a promising form of targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Liu
- Basic Medical Research Center, School of Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Haishan Yang
- Basic Medical Research Center, School of Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Jihai Zhu
- Cardiothoracic Surgery Department, Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Zufan Yang
- Basic Medical Research Center, School of Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Lingli Zhao
- Laboratory Department, Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Laboratory Department, Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Haixia Zhang
- Digestive Department, Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, China
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8
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Tan Y, Chen L, Li K, Lou B, Liu Y, Liu Z. Yeast as carrier for drug delivery and vaccine construction. J Control Release 2022; 346:358-379. [PMID: 35483637 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Yeast has been employed as an effective derived drug carrier as a unicellular microorganism. Many research works have been devoted to the encapsulation of nucleic acid compounds, insoluble small molecule drugs, small molecules, liposomes, polymers, and various nanoparticles in yeast for the treatment of disease. Recombinant yeast-based vaccine carriers (WYV) have played a major role in the development of vaccines. Herein, the latest reports on the application of yeast carriers and the development of related research are summarized, a conceptual description of gastrointestinal absorption of yeast carriers, as well as the various package forms of different drug molecules and nanoparticles in yeast carriers are introduced. In addition, the advantages and development of recombinant yeast vaccine carriers for the disease, veterinary and aquaculture applications are discussed. Moreover, the current challenges and future directions of yeast carriers are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifu Tan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, Hunan Province, PR China
| | - Liwei Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, Hunan Province, PR China
| | - Ke Li
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, PR China
| | - Beibei Lou
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, PR China
| | - Yanfei Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410083, Hunan Province, PR China.
| | - Zhenbao Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, PR China; Molecular Imaging Research Center of Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, PR China.
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Šalamúnová P, Saloň I, Ruphuy G, Kroupová J, Balouch M, Hanuš J, Štěpánek F. Evaluation of β-glucan particles as dual-function carriers for poorly soluble drugs. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2021; 168:15-25. [PMID: 34411641 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2021.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Yeast glucan particles are porous polysaccharide cell walls extracted from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Being mildly immunogenic, they are efficiently phagocytosed and have therefore been proposed as possible vehicles for drug delivery. Using curcumin as a model poorly water-soluble drug, a systematic comparison of three different physical loading methods - incipient wetness impregnation, slurry evaporation, and spray drying - was carried out and their influence on the particle morphology, encapsulation efficiency, amorphous drug content and release kinetics was evaluated. It was found that yeast glucan particles can contain up to 30% wt. of curcumin in the amorphous form when prepared by slurry evaporation. The dissolution of curcumin from glucan particles lead to a supersaturated solution in asimilar way as amorphous solid dispersions do, despite the fact that glucan particles themselves do not dissolve. Bi-phasic dissolution tests revealed up to 4-fold acceleration of curcumin dissolution rate from amorphous glucan particles compared to its crystalline form. Crucially, glucan particles were shown to retain the ability to be recognised and phagocytosed even after drug encapsulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Šalamúnová
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 3, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Ivan Saloň
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 3, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Gabriela Ruphuy
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 3, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Jiřina Kroupová
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 3, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Balouch
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 3, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Hanuš
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 3, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - František Štěpánek
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 3, 166 28 Prague 6, Czech Republic.
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Bachert BA, Richardson JB, Mlynek KD, Klimko CP, Toothman RG, Fetterer DP, Luquette AE, Chase K, Storrs JL, Rogers AK, Cote CK, Rozak DA, Bozue JA. Development, Phenotypic Characterization and Genomic Analysis of a Francisella tularensis Panel for Tularemia Vaccine Testing. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:725776. [PMID: 34456897 PMCID: PMC8386241 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.725776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Francisella tularensis is one of several biothreat agents for which a licensed vaccine is needed to protect against this pathogen. To aid in the development of a vaccine protective against pneumonic tularemia, we generated and characterized a panel of F. tularensis isolates that can be used as challenge strains to assess vaccine efficacy. Our panel consists of both historical and contemporary isolates derived from clinical and environmental sources, including human, tick, and rabbit isolates. Whole genome sequencing was performed to assess the genetic diversity in comparison to the reference genome F. tularensis Schu S4. Average nucleotide identity analysis showed >99% genomic similarity across the strains in our panel, and pan-genome analysis revealed a core genome of 1,707 genes, and an accessory genome of 233 genes. Three of the strains in our panel, FRAN254 (tick-derived), FRAN255 (a type B strain), and FRAN256 (a human isolate) exhibited variation from the other strains. Moreover, we identified several unique mutations within the Francisella Pathogenicity Island across multiple strains in our panel, revealing unexpected diversity in this region. Notably, FRAN031 (Scherm) completely lacked the second pathogenicity island but retained virulence in mice. In contrast, FRAN037 (Coll) was attenuated in a murine pneumonic tularemia model and had mutations in pdpB and iglA which likely led to attenuation. All of the strains, except FRAN037, retained full virulence, indicating their effectiveness as challenge strains for future vaccine testing. Overall, we provide a well-characterized panel of virulent F. tularensis strains that can be utilized in ongoing efforts to develop an effective vaccine against pneumonic tularemia to ensure protection is achieved across a range F. tularensis strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth A. Bachert
- Division of Bacteriology, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Joshua B. Richardson
- Center for Genome Sciences, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Kevin D. Mlynek
- Division of Bacteriology, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Christopher P. Klimko
- Division of Bacteriology, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Ronald G. Toothman
- Division of Bacteriology, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - David P. Fetterer
- Division of Biostatistics, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Andrea E. Luquette
- Biodefense Reference Material Repository, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Kitty Chase
- Biodefense Reference Material Repository, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Jessica L. Storrs
- Biodefense Reference Material Repository, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Ashley K. Rogers
- Biodefense Reference Material Repository, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Christopher K. Cote
- Division of Bacteriology, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - David A. Rozak
- Biodefense Reference Material Repository, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Joel A. Bozue
- Division of Bacteriology, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, United States
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11
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Chase Huizar C, Ji N, Reddick R, Ostroff GR, Forsthuber TG. Glucan particles as a novel adjuvant for the induction of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Cell Immunol 2021; 366:104383. [PMID: 34111646 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2021.104383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
For over 70 years experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) has been induced with myelin autoantigens emulsified in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) which has significant side effects such as pain, inflammation, and tissue necrosis at the injection site. β-1,3-d-glucan particles (GPs) are hollow microcapsules prepared from Saccharomyces cerevisiae cell walls that induce potent Th17 cell responses without causing strong injection site tissue reactions. We evaluated the potential of GPs complexed with neuroantigens to induce EAE while avoiding undesirable side effects. GPs loaded with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein 35-55 (MOG35-55) or proteolipid protein 139-151 (PLP139-151) peptides effectively induced EAE in C57BL/6 mice and SJL mice. Disease severity, CNS pathology and immune responses were comparable between GP- and CFA-immunized mice. Importantly, injection with GPs resulted in significantly decreased inflammation compared with CFA. We posit that use of GPs provides an alternative means for inducing EAE that results in comparable disease, but less discomfort to animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Chase Huizar
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Niannian Ji
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Health San Antonio Long School of Medicine, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Robert Reddick
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Gary R Ostroff
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Thomas G Forsthuber
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
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12
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Carboxymethyl-β-glucan/chitosan nanoparticles: new thermostable and efficient carriers for antigen delivery. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2021; 11:1689-1702. [PMID: 33797035 PMCID: PMC8015750 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-021-00968-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In the last few decades, nanotechnology has emerged as an important tool aimed at enhancing the immune response against modern antigens. Nanocarriers designed specifically for this purpose have been shown to provide protection, stability, and controlled release properties to proteins, peptides, and polynucleotide-based antigens. Polysaccharides are particularly interesting biomaterials for the construction of these nanocarriers given their wide distribution among pathogens, which facilitates their recognition by antigen-presenting cells (APCs). In this work, we focused on an immunostimulant beta-glucan derivative, carboxymethyl-β-glucan, to prepare a novel nanocarrier in combination with chitosan. The resulting carboxymethyl-β-glucan/chitosan nanoparticles exhibited adequate physicochemical properties and an important protein association efficiency, with ovalbumin as a model compound. Moreover, thermostability was achieved through the optimization of a lyophilized form of the antigen-loaded nanoparticles, which remained stable for up to 1 month at 40 ºC. Biodistribution studies in mice showed an efficient drainage of the nanoparticles to the nearest lymph node following subcutaneous injection, and a significant co-localization with dendritic cells. Additionally, subcutaneous immunization of mice with a single dose of the ovalbumin-loaded nanoparticles led to induced T cell proliferation and antibody responses, comparable to those achieved with alum-adsorbed ovalbumin. These results illustrate the potential of these novel nanocarriers in vaccination.
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Shiragannavar S, Madagi S, Hosakeri J, Barot V. In silico vaccine design against Chlamydia trachomatis infection. NETWORK MODELING AND ANALYSIS IN HEALTH INFORMATICS AND BIOINFORMATICS 2020; 9:39. [PMID: 32537381 PMCID: PMC7283423 DOI: 10.1007/s13721-020-00243-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis, a gram-negative bacterium known to infect the genital sites mainly columnar epithelial cells of the cervix, urethra and rectum in women and causes acute epididymitis, urinary tract inflammation and DNA damage to the sperms in men, hence considered to be one of the major sexually transmitted infections. The infection is asymptomatic in many people and remains untreated leading to serious health complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy and infertility. The current treatment options include antibiotics, but the pathogen has gained resistance against many antibiotics. The present work involves an in silico reverse vaccinology approach for identifying the immunogens as vaccine candidates that can be effective against reinfections and should be capable of inducing long-term protective immunity against Chlamydial infections. This study identifies the putative vaccine candidates that are membrane bound with high antigenicity properties; antigenicity induces the immunogenicity which involves identification of T-cell and B-cell epitopes that induce both humoral and cell-mediated immunity. The epitopes 'LSWEMELAY', 'LSNTEGYRY', 'TSDLGQMEY', 'FIDLLQAIY' and 'FSNNFSDIY' were predicted as core sequences for class I MHC molecules. The identified epitopes showed promising ability to interact with the human leukocyte antigens (HLA). These epitopes showed maximum population coverage with epitope conservancy above 80%. Molecular docking was performed to test the binding affinities of the identified epitopes with the HLA molecule to study the binding cleft interactions. The vaccine candidate thus identified from this study showed to possess the potential to activate the B- and T-cell immune responses which are more specific and make the body stronger against infections and effective for reinfections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Shiragannavar
- Department of Studies and Research in Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Karnataka State Akkamahadevi Women’s University, Vijayapura, India
| | - Shivakumar Madagi
- Department of Studies and Research in Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Karnataka State Akkamahadevi Women’s University, Vijayapura, India
| | - Joy Hosakeri
- Department of Studies and Research in Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Karnataka State Akkamahadevi Women’s University, Vijayapura, India
| | - Vandana Barot
- Biodiscovery Group for Life Sciences, Bangalore, India
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Gestal MC, Johnson HM, Harvill ET. Immunomodulation as a Novel Strategy for Prevention and Treatment of Bordetella spp. Infections. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2869. [PMID: 31921136 PMCID: PMC6923730 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Well-adapted pathogens have evolved to survive the many challenges of a robust immune response. Defending against all host antimicrobials simultaneously would be exceedingly difficult, if not impossible, so many co-evolved organisms utilize immunomodulatory tools to subvert, distract, and/or evade the host immune response. Bordetella spp. present many examples of the diversity of immunomodulators and an exceptional experimental system in which to study them. Recent advances in this experimental system suggest strategies for interventions that tweak immunity to disrupt bacterial immunomodulation, engaging more effective host immunity to better prevent and treat infections. Here we review advances in the understanding of respiratory pathogens, with special focus on Bordetella spp., and prospects for the use of immune-stimulatory interventions in the prevention and treatment of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica C Gestal
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Hannah M Johnson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Eric T Harvill
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
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Abraham A, Ostroff G, Levitz SM, Oyston PCF. A novel vaccine platform using glucan particles for induction of protective responses against Francisella tularensis and other pathogens. Clin Exp Immunol 2019; 198:143-152. [PMID: 31400225 PMCID: PMC6797901 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccines are considered the bedrock of preventive medicine. However, for many pathogens, it has been challenging to develop vaccines that stimulate protective, long-lasting immunity. We have developed a novel approach using β-1,3-D-glucans (BGs), natural polysaccharides abundantly present in fungal cell walls, as a biomaterial platform for vaccine delivery. BGs simultaneously provide for receptor-targeted antigen delivery to specialized antigen-presenting cells together with adjuvant properties to stimulate antigen-specific and trained non-specific immune responses. This review focuses on various approaches of using BG particles (GPs) to develop bacterial and fungal vaccine candidates. A special case history for the development of an effective GP tularaemia vaccine candidate is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Abraham
- University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterMassachusettsUSA
| | - G. Ostroff
- University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterMassachusettsUSA
| | - S. M. Levitz
- University of Massachusetts Medical SchoolWorcesterMassachusettsUSA
| | - P. C. F. Oyston
- CBR Division, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Porton DownSalisburyUK
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Plavcová Z, Šalamúnová P, Saloň I, Štěpánek F, Hanuš J, Hošek J. Curcumin encapsulation in yeast glucan particles promotes its anti-inflammatory potential in vitro. Int J Pharm 2019; 568:118532. [PMID: 31323374 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2019.118532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 07/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Glucan particles (GPs) from Saccharomyces cerevisiae are hollow shells that are composed mainly of β-1,3-d-glucan, which has demonstrated immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory potential both in vitro and in vivo. Curcumin is a natural hydrophobic phenolic compound, which possesses a significant anti-inflammatory effect and is used as supportive therapy in the treatment of many inflammatory diseases. The aim of this study is to evaluate the possible synergic effect and other benefits of the co-application of GPs and curcumin in the form of pharmaceutical composites. GP/curcumin composites were prepared using controlled evaporation of the organic solvent and their anti-oxidative effect and anti-inflammatory potential were tested on THP1‑XBlue™‑MD2‑CD14 human monocytes cell line. The anti-oxidative effect was measured on pyocyanin-stimulated cells in vitro and the NF-κB/AP-1 signaling pathway on lipopolysaccharide pre-treated monocytes was chosen for anti-inflammatory assays. The secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-1β was evaluated as well. Results mostly showed a pro-oxidative activity of empty GPs, however, pharmaceutical composites demonstrated an anti-oxidative effect. The activity of NF-κB/AP-1 was substantially decreased by the tested GP/curcumin composites, which also caused the attenuation of cytokines secretion. The obtained results indicate a beneficial effect of the incorporation of curcumin into GPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Plavcová
- Department of Molecular Biology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Palackého tř. 1946/1, 612 42 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Šalamúnová
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ivan Saloň
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - František Štěpánek
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Hanuš
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague, Technická 5, 166 28 Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Jan Hošek
- Biologically Active Complexes and Molecular Magnets, Regional Centre of Advanced Technologies and Materials, Faculty of Science, Palacký University in Olomouc, Šlechtitelů 27, 783 71 Olomouc, Czech Republic.
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Bachert BA, Biryukov SS, Chua J, Rodriguez SA, Toothman RG, Cote CK, Klimko CP, Hunter M, Shoe JL, Williams JA, Kuehl KA, Biot FV, Bozue JA. A Francisella novicida Mutant, Lacking the Soluble Lytic Transglycosylase Slt, Exhibits Defects in Both Growth and Virulence. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:1343. [PMID: 31258523 PMCID: PMC6587636 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.01343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Francisella tularensis is the causative agent of tularemia and has gained recent interest as it poses a significant biothreat risk. F. novicida is commonly used as a laboratory surrogate for tularemia research due to genetic similarity and susceptibility of mice to infection. Currently, there is no FDA-approved tularemia vaccine, and identifying therapeutic targets remains a critical gap in strategies for combating this pathogen. Here, we investigate the soluble lytic transglycosylase or Slt in F. novicida, which belongs to a class of peptidoglycan-modifying enzymes known to be involved in cell division. We assess the role of Slt in biology and virulence of the organism as well as the vaccine potential of the slt mutant. We show that the F. novicida slt mutant has a significant growth defect in acidic pH conditions. Further microscopic analysis revealed significantly altered cell morphology compared to wild-type, including larger cell size, extensive membrane protrusions, and cell clumping and fusion, which was partially restored by growth in neutral pH or genetic complementation. Viability of the mutant was also significantly decreased during growth in acidic medium, but not at neutral pH. Furthermore, the slt mutant exhibited significant attenuation in a murine model of intranasal infection and virulence could be restored by genetic complementation. Moreover, we could protect mice using the slt mutant as a live vaccine strain against challenge with the parent strain; however, we were not able to protect against challenge with the fully virulent F. tularensis Schu S4 strain. These studies demonstrate a critical role for the Slt enzyme in maintaining proper cell division and morphology in acidic conditions, as well as replication and virulence in vivo. Our results suggest that although the current vaccination strategy with F. novicida slt mutant would not protect against Schu S4 challenges, the Slt enzyme could be an ideal target for future therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth A Bachert
- Bacteriology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Sergei S Biryukov
- Bacteriology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Jennifer Chua
- Bacteriology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Sabrina A Rodriguez
- Bacteriology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Ronald G Toothman
- Bacteriology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Christopher K Cote
- Bacteriology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Christopher P Klimko
- Bacteriology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Melissa Hunter
- Bacteriology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Jennifer L Shoe
- Bacteriology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Janice A Williams
- Pathology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Kathleen A Kuehl
- Pathology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Fabrice V Biot
- Unité de Bactériologie/UMR_MD1, Département de Biologie des Agents Transmissibles, Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, Brétigny-sur-Orge, France
| | - Joel A Bozue
- Bacteriology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Frederick, MD, United States
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Williamson ED, Westlake GE. Vaccines for emerging pathogens: prospects for licensure. Clin Exp Immunol 2019; 198:170-183. [PMID: 30972733 PMCID: PMC6797873 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, there are a number of emerging pathogens. For most, there are no licensed vaccines available for human use, although there is ongoing research and development. However, given the extensive and increasing list of emerging pathogens and the investment required to bring vaccines into clinical use, the task is huge. Overlaid on this task is the risk of anti‐microbial resistance (AMR) acquisition by micro‐organisms which can endow a relatively harmless organism with pathogenic potential. Furthermore, climate change also introduces a challenge by causing some of the insect vectors and environmental conditions prevalent in tropical regions to begin to spread out from these traditional areas, thus increasing the risk of migration of zoonotic disease. Vaccination provides a defence against these emerging pathogens. However, vaccines for pathogens which cause severe, but occasional, disease outbreaks in endemic pockets have suffered from a lack of commercial incentive for development to a clinical standard, encompassing Phase III clinical trials for efficacy. An alternative is to develop such vaccines to request US Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), or equivalent status in the United States, Canada and the European Union, making use of a considerable number of regulatory mechanisms that are available prior to licensing. This review covers the status of vaccine development for some of the emerging pathogens, the hurdles that need to be overcome to achieve EUA or an equivalent regional or national status and how these considerations may impact vaccine development for the future, such that a more comprehensive stockpile of promising vaccines can be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- E D Williamson
- CBR Division, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire, UK
| | - G E Westlake
- CBR Division, Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Salisbury, Wiltshire, UK
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Bajgar A, Saloň I, Krejčová G, Doležal T, Jindra M, Štěpánek F. Yeast glucan particles enable intracellular protein delivery in Drosophila without compromising the immune system. Biomater Sci 2019; 7:4708-4719. [DOI: 10.1039/c9bm00539k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Glucan particles spread through the whole organism quickly, accumulate in sites of macrophage occurrence and can deliver cargo into the macrophages with a negligible effect on immune response activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Bajgar
- University of South Bohemia
- Faculty of Sciences
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics
- 37005 České Budějovice
- Czech Republic
| | - Ivan Saloň
- University of Chemistry and Technology Prague
- Department of Chemical Engineering
- 166 28 Prague
- Czech Republic
| | - Gabriela Krejčová
- University of South Bohemia
- Faculty of Sciences
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics
- 37005 České Budějovice
- Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Doležal
- University of South Bohemia
- Faculty of Sciences
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics
- 37005 České Budějovice
- Czech Republic
| | - Marek Jindra
- Biology Centre CAS
- Institute of Entomology
- 37005 České Budějovice
- Czech Republic
| | - František Štěpánek
- University of Chemistry and Technology Prague
- Department of Chemical Engineering
- 166 28 Prague
- Czech Republic
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