1
|
Meewes C, Gupta K, Geisler WM. Role of microRNAs in immune regulation and pathogenesis of Chlamydia trachomatis and Chlamydia muridarum infections: a rapid review. Microbes Infect 2024:105397. [PMID: 39025257 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2024.105397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
MicroRNAs in Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Chlamydia muridarum (CM) infections are an emerging topic of research that provide knowledge that could advance vaccine development and strategies for managing infection. This rapid review summarizes human and murine studies on miRNA expression in CT and CM infections in vivo and ex vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Meewes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Kanupriya Gupta
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - William M Geisler
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Poston TB, Girardi J, Polson AG, Bhardwaj A, Yount KS, Jaras Salas I, Trim LK, Li Y, O'Connell CM, Leahy D, Harris JM, Beagley KW, Goonetilleke N, Darville T. Viral-vectored boosting of OmcB- or CPAF-specific T-cell responses fail to enhance protection from Chlamydia muridarum in infection-immune mice and elicits a non-protective CD8-dominant response in naïve mice. Mucosal Immunol 2024:S1933-0219(24)00066-7. [PMID: 38969067 DOI: 10.1016/j.mucimm.2024.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
A vaccine is needed to combat the Chlamydia epidemic. Replication-deficient viral vectors are safe and induce antigen-specific T-cell memory. We tested the ability of intramuscular immunization with modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) virus or chimpanzee adenovirus (ChAd) expressing chlamydial outer membrane protein (OmcB) or the secreted protein, chlamydial protease-like activating factor (CPAF), to enhance T-cell immunity and protection in mice previously infected with plasmid-deficient Chlamydia muridarum CM972 and elicit protection in naïve mice. MVA.OmcB or MVA.CPAF increased antigen-specific T cells in CM972-immune mice ∼150 and 50-fold, respectively, but failed to improve bacterial clearance. ChAd.OmcB/MVA.OmcB prime-boost immunization of naïve mice elicited a cluster of differentiation (CD) 8-dominant T-cell response dominated by cluster of differentiation (CD)8 T cells that failed to protect. ChAd.CPAF/ChAd.CPAF prime-boost also induced a CD8-dominant response with a marginal reduction in burden. Challenge of ChAd.CPAF-immunized mice genetically deficient in CD4 or CD8 T cells showed that protection was entirely CD4-dependent. CD4-deficient mice had prolonged infection, whereas CD8-deficient mice had higher frequencies of CPAF-specific CD4 T cells, earlier clearance, and reduced burden than wild-type controls. These data reinforce the essential nature of the CD4 T-cell response in protection from chlamydial genital infection in mice and the need for vaccine platforms that drive CD4-dominant responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taylor B Poston
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Jenna Girardi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - A Grace Polson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Aakash Bhardwaj
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kacy S Yount
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Ian Jaras Salas
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Logan K Trim
- Center for Immunology and Infection Control and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yanli Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Catherine M O'Connell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Darren Leahy
- Center for Immunology and Infection Control and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jonathan M Harris
- Center for Immunology and Infection Control and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kenneth W Beagley
- Center for Immunology and Infection Control and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nilu Goonetilleke
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Fernandez MC, Sweeney YC, Suchland RJ, Carrell SJ, Soge OO, Phan IQ, Rockey DD, Patton DL, Hybiske K. CT135 mediates the resistance of Chlamydia trachomatis to primate interferon gamma stimulated immune defenses. iScience 2024; 27:110143. [PMID: 38947519 PMCID: PMC11214326 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110143] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Evading host innate immune defenses is a critical feature of Chlamydia trachomatis infections, and the mechanisms used by C. trachomatis to subvert these pathways are incompletely understood. We screened a library of chimeric C. trachomatis mutants for genetic factors important for interference with cell-autonomous immune defenses. Mutant strains with predicted truncations of the inclusion membrane protein CT135 were susceptible to interferon gamma-activated immunity in human cells. CT135 functions to prevent host-driven recruitment of ubiquitin and p62/SQSTM to the inclusion membrane. In a nonhuman primate model of C. trachomatis infection, a CT135-deficient strain was rapidly cleared, highlighting the importance of this virulence factor for C. trachomatis pathogenesis. Analysis of CT135 phenotypes in primary macaque cells revealed that cell-autonomous immune defenses against C. trachomatis are conserved between humans and nonhuman primates and connects mechanistic findings with in vivo infection outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark C. Fernandez
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | | | - Robert J. Suchland
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Steven J. Carrell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Olusegun O. Soge
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Isabelle Q. Phan
- Seattle Structural Genomics Center for Infectious Disease, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Daniel D. Rockey
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Dorothy L. Patton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Kevin Hybiske
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kiekens C, Morré SA, Vanrompay D. Advances in Chlamydia trachomatis Vaccination: Unveiling the Potential of Major Outer Membrane Protein Derivative Constructs. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1196. [PMID: 38930578 PMCID: PMC11205628 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12061196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia (C.) trachomatis, a leading cause of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide, continues to be a significant public health concern. The majority of infections are asymptomatic and, when left untreated, severe sequelae such as infertility and chronic pelvic pain can occur. Despite decades of research, an effective vaccine remains elusive. This review focuses on the potential of Major Outer Membrane Protein (MOMP)-derived constructs as promising candidates for C. trachomatis vaccination. MOMP, the most abundant protein in the outer membrane of C. trachomatis, has been a focal point of vaccine research over the years due to its antigenic properties. To overcome issues associated with the use of full MOMP as a vaccine antigen, derivative constructs have been studied. As these constructs are often not sufficiently immunogenic, antigen delivery systems or accompanying adjuvants are required. Additionally, several immunization routes have been explored with these MOMP-derived vaccine antigens, and determining the optimal route remains an ongoing area of research. Future directions and challenges in the field of C. trachomatis vaccination are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celien Kiekens
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Servaas A. Morré
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Microbe&Lab BV, 1105 AG Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Dutch Chlamydia trachomatis Reference Laboratory, Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, Maastricht University, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Engineering, Jacob Institute of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Allahabad 211007, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Daisy Vanrompay
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rosenkrands I, Olsen AW, Knudsen S, Dehari N, Juel HB, Cheeseman HM, Andersen P, Shattock RJ, Follmann F. Human antibody signatures towards the Chlamydia trachomatis major outer membrane protein after natural infection and vaccination. EBioMedicine 2024; 104:105140. [PMID: 38744110 PMCID: PMC11108849 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) Major Outer Membrane Protein (MOMP) holds a neutralising epitope in the Variable Domain 4 (VD4), and this region's immune dominance during infection is well known. This study aimed to assess the antibody response induced after infection and compare it for specificity and functionality to the response following vaccination with the vaccine CTH522, which contains VD4's from serovars D, E, F, and G. METHODS We assessed the antibody epitopes in MOMP by a high density peptide array. Furthermore, the role of the VD4 epitope in neutralisation was explored by competitive inhibition experiments with a fusion protein holding the neutralising VD4 linear epitope. This was done in two independent groups: 1) MOMP seropositive individuals infected with CT (n = 10, from case-control study) and 2) CTH522/CAF®01-vaccinated females (n = 14) from the CHLM-01 clinical trial. FINDINGS We identified the major antigenic regions in MOMP as VD4 and the conserved region just before VD3 in individuals infected with CT. The same regions, with the addition of VD1, were identified in vaccine recipients. Overall, the VD4 peptide responses were uniform in vaccinated individuals and led to inhibition of infection in vitro in all tested samples, whereas the VD4 responses were more heterogenous in individuals infected with CT, and only 2 out of 10 samples had VD4-mediated neutralising antibody responses. INTERPRETATION These data provide insights into the role of antibodies against MOMP VD4 induced after infection and vaccination, and show that their functionality differs. The induction of functional VD4-specific antibodies in vaccine recipients mimics previous results from animal models. FUNDING This work was supported by the European Commission through contract FP7-HEALTH-2011.1.4-4-280873 (ADITEC) and Fonden til Lægevidenskabens Fremme.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ida Rosenkrands
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Anja W Olsen
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sara Knudsen
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nida Dehari
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Helene Bæk Juel
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hannah M Cheeseman
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Andersen
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Fonden, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Robin J Shattock
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Frank Follmann
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lawrence LA, Vidal P, Varughese RS, Tiger Li ZR, Chen TD, Tuske SC, Jimenez AR, Lowen AC, Shafer WM, Swaims-Kohlmeier A. Murine modeling of menstruation identifies immune correlates of protection during Chlamydia muridarum challenge. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.21.595090. [PMID: 38826233 PMCID: PMC11142139 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.21.595090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
The menstrual cycle influences the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis), although the underlying immune contributions are poorly defined. A mouse model simulating the immune-mediated process of menstruation could provide valuable insights into tissue-specific determinants of protection against chlamydial infection within the cervicovaginal and uterine mucosae comprising the female reproductive tract (FRT). Here, we used the pseudopregnancy approach in naïve C57Bl/6 mice and performed vaginal challenge with Chlamydia muridarum (C. muridarum) at decidualization, endometrial tissue remodeling, or uterine repair. This strategy identified that the time frame comprising uterine repair correlated with robust infection and greater bacterial burden as compared with mice on hormonal contraception, while challenges during endometrial remodeling were least likely to result in a productive infection. By comparing the infection site at early time points following chlamydial challenge, we found that a greater abundance of innate effector populations and proinflammatory signaling, including IFNγ correlated with protection. FRT immune profiling in uninfected mice over pseudopregnancy or in pig-tailed macaques over the menstrual cycle identified NK cell infiltration into the cervicovaginal tissues and lumen over the course of endometrial remodeling. Notably, NK cell depletion over this time frame reversed protection, with mice now productively infected with C. muridarum following challenge. This study shows that the pseudopregnancy murine menstruation model recapitulates immune changes in the FRT as a result of endometrial remodeling and identifies NK cell localization at the FRT as essential for immune protection against primary C. muridarum infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurel A Lawrence
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Paola Vidal
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Richa S Varughese
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Zheng-Rong Tiger Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Thien Duy Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Steven C Tuske
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Ariana R Jimenez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Anice C Lowen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - William M Shafer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Laboratories of Bacterial Pathogenesis, Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia
| | - Alison Swaims-Kohlmeier
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of GYNOB, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Division of HIV Prevention Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia (previous affiliation)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Proctor J, Stadler M, Cortes LM, Brodsky D, Poisson L, Gerdts V, Smirnov AI, Smirnova TI, Barua S, Leahy D, Beagley KW, Harris JM, Darville T, Käser T. A TriAdj-Adjuvanted Chlamydia trachomatis CPAF Protein Vaccine Is Highly Immunogenic in Pigs. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:423. [PMID: 38675805 PMCID: PMC11054031 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12040423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) infections are the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). Despite effective antibiotics for Ct, undetected infections or delayed treatment can lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancies, and chronic pelvic pain. Besides humans, chlamydia poses similar health challenges in animals such as C. suis (Cs) in pigs. Based on the similarities between humans and pigs, as well as their chlamydia species, we use pigs as a large biomedical animal model for chlamydia research. In this study, we used the pig model to develop a vaccine candidate against Ct. The vaccine candidate consists of TriAdj-adjuvanted chlamydial-protease-like activity factor (CPAF) protein. We tested two weekly administration options-twice intranasal (IN) followed by twice intramuscular (IM) and twice IM followed by twice IN. We assessed the humoral immune response in both serum using CPAF-specific IgG (including antibody avidity determination) and also in cervical and rectal swabs using CPAF-specific IgG and IgA ELISAs. The systemic T-cell response was analyzed following in vitro CPAF restimulation via IFN-γ and IL-17 ELISpots, as well as intracellular cytokine staining flow cytometry. Our data demonstrate that while the IN/IM vaccination mainly led to non-significant systemic immune responses, the vaccine candidate is highly immunogenic if administered IM/IN. This vaccination strategy induced high serum anti-CPAF IgG levels with strong avidity, as well as high IgA and IgG levels in vaginal and rectal swabs and in uterine horn flushes. In addition, this vaccination strategy prompted a pronounced cellular immune response. Besides inducing IL-17 production, the vaccine candidate induced a strong IFN-γ response with CD4 T cells. In IM/IN-vaccinated pigs, these cells also significantly downregulated their CCR7 expression, a sign of differentiation into peripheral-tissue-homing effector/memory cells. Conclusively, this study demonstrates the strong immunogenicity of the IM/IN-administered TriAdj-adjuvanted Ct CPAF vaccine candidate. Future studies will test the vaccine efficacy of this promising Ct vaccine candidate. In addition, this project demonstrates the suitability of the Cs pre-exposed outbred pig model for Ct vaccine development. Thereby, we aim to open the bottleneck of large animal models to facilitate the progression of Ct vaccine candidates into clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Proctor
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Maria Stadler
- Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, Center of Pathobiology, Immunology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Lizette M. Cortes
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - David Brodsky
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Lydia Poisson
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Volker Gerdts
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A3, Canada
| | - Alex I. Smirnov
- Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Tatyana I. Smirnova
- Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Subarna Barua
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA;
| | - Darren Leahy
- Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4000, Australia
| | - Kenneth W. Beagley
- Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4000, Australia
| | - Jonathan M. Harris
- Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4000, Australia
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA
| | - Tobias Käser
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences and Pathobiology, Center of Pathobiology, Immunology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hybiske K, Paktinat S, Newman K, Patton D, Khosropour C, Roxby AC, Mugo NR, Oluoch L, Ngure K, Suchland R, Hladik F, Vojtech L. Antibodies from chlamydia-infected individuals facilitate phagocytosis via Fc receptors. Infect Immun 2024; 92:e0050323. [PMID: 38451079 PMCID: PMC11003224 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00503-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-neutralizing functions of antibodies, including phagocytosis, may play a role in Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection, but these functions have not been studied and assays are lacking. We utilized a flow-cytometry-based assay to determine whether serum samples from a well-characterized cohort of CT-infected and naïve control individuals enhanced phagocytosis via Fc-receptor-expressing THP-1 cells, and whether this activity correlated with antibody titers. Fc-receptor-mediated phagocytosis was detected only in CT+ donors. Phagocytosis generally did not correlate well with antibody titer. In addition, we found that complement from both CT+ and negative individuals enhanced phagocytosis of CT into primary neutrophils. These results suggest that anti-CT antibodies can have functions that are not reflected by titer. This method could be used to quantitively measure Fc-receptor-mediated function of anti-CT antibodies or complement activity and could reveal new immune correlates of protection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Hybiske
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Shahrokh Paktinat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Katherine Newman
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Dorothy Patton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Alison C. Roxby
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Nelly R. Mugo
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Lynda Oluoch
- Centre for Clinical Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Kenneth Ngure
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- School of Public Health, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Robert Suchland
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Florian Hladik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Lucia Vojtech
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Dziadula J, Sabbaj S, Gupta K, Cutter G, Yu H, Brunham RC, Geisler WM. Interferon-Gamma Responses to Chlamydia trachomatis Vaccine Candidate Proteins in Chlamydia-Infected Women with Different Chlamydia Outcomes. J Infect Dis 2024:jiae092. [PMID: 38394609 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiae092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) testing and treatment strategies have not decreased infection rates, justifying need for a CT vaccine. A murine study showed that a vaccine consisting of MOMP and 4 polymorphic membrane proteins (Pmps E, F, G, H) elicited protective immunity; studies on human cellular immune responses to Pmps are sparse. METHODS Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) responses to these 5 CT proteins were measured by ELISPOT in PBMCs from women returning for treatment of a positive CT screening test. Responses were compared in those with spontaneous CT clearance vs. persisting infection at baseline and no reinfection vs. reinfection at a 3-month follow-up visit. RESULTS IFN-γ response to one or more proteins was detected in 39% at baseline and 51.5% at follow-up; PmpE and MOMP most often elicited positive responses. IFN-γ responses to MOMP were detected less often at follow-up vs. baseline in women with reinfection, but were maintained in those without reinfection. Women with spontaneous clearance had a higher magnitude of IFN-γ response to PmpE and MOMP. CONCLUSIONS IFN-γ responses to these 5 CT vaccine candidate proteins were heterogenous and primarily directed against MOMP and PmpE. Spontaneous clearance of infection and absence of reinfection may be clinical correlates of protection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Dziadula
- Departments of Medicine and Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Steffanie Sabbaj
- Departments of Medicine and Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Kanupriya Gupta
- Departments of Medicine and Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Gary Cutter
- Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Hong Yu
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Robert C Brunham
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - William M Geisler
- Departments of Medicine and Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Olsen AW, Rosenkrands I, Jacobsen CS, Cheeseman HM, Kristiansen MP, Dietrich J, Shattock RJ, Follmann F. Immune signature of Chlamydia vaccine CTH522/CAF®01 translates from mouse-to-human and induces durable protection in mice. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1665. [PMID: 38396019 PMCID: PMC10891140 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45526-2] [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: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The clinical development of an effective Chlamydia vaccine requires in-depth understanding of how well protective pre-clinical immune signatures translate to humans. Here, we report a comparative immunological characterization of CTH522/CAF®01 in female mice and humans. We find a range of immune signatures that translate from mouse to human, including a Th1/Th17 cytokine profile and antibody functionality. We identify vaccine-induced T cell epitopes, conserved among Chlamydia serovars, and previously found in infected individuals. Using the mouse model, we show that the common immune signature protected against ascending infection in mice, and vaccine induced antibodies could delay bacterial ascension to the oviduct, as well as development of pathology, in a T cell depleted mouse model. Finally, we demonstrate long-lasting immunity and protection of mice one year after vaccination. Based on the results obtained in the present study, we propose to further investigate CTH522/CAF®01 in a phase IIb study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anja W Olsen
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Ida Rosenkrands
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christina S Jacobsen
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- PharmaRelations, Virum, Denmark
| | | | - Max P Kristiansen
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jes Dietrich
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robin J Shattock
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Frank Follmann
- Center for Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sahu R, Verma R, Egbo TE, Giambartolomei GH, Singh SR, Dennis VA. Effects of prime-boost strategies on the protective efficacy and immunogenicity of a PLGA (85:15)-encapsulated Chlamydia recombinant MOMP nanovaccine. Pathog Dis 2024; 82:ftae004. [PMID: 38862192 PMCID: PMC11186516 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftae004] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
To begin to optimize the immunization routes for our reported PLGA-rMOMP nanovaccine [PLGA-encapsulated Chlamydia muridarum (Cm) recombinant major outer membrane protein (rMOMP)], we compared two prime-boost immunization strategies [subcutaneous (SC) and intramuscular (IM-p) prime routes followed by two SC-boosts)] to evaluate the nanovaccine-induced protective efficacy and immunogenicity in female BALB/c mice. Our results showed that mice immunized via the SC and IM-p routes were protected against a Cm genital challenge by a reduction in bacterial burden and with fewer bacteria in the SC mice. Protection of mice correlated with rMOMP-specific Th1 (IL-2 and IFN-γ) and not Th2 (IL-4, IL-9, and IL-13) cytokines, and CD4+ memory (CD44highCD62Lhigh) T-cells, especially in the SC mice. We also observed higher levels of IL-1α, IL-6, IL-17, CCL-2, and G-CSF in SC-immunized mice. Notably, an increase of cytokines/chemokines was seen after the challenge in the SC, IM-p, and control mice (rMOMP and PBS), suggesting a Cm stimulation. In parallel, rMOMP-specific Th1 (IgG2a and IgG2b) and Th2 (IgG1) serum, mucosal, serum avidity, and neutralizing antibodies were more elevated in SC than in IM-p mice. Overall, the homologous SC prime-boost immunization of mice induced enhanced cellular and antibody responses with better protection against a genital challenge compared to the heterologous IM-p.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajnish Sahu
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Department of Biological Sciences, 1627 Harris Way, Alabama State University, Montgomery AL, 36104, United States
| | - Richa Verma
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Department of Biological Sciences, 1627 Harris Way, Alabama State University, Montgomery AL, 36104, United States
| | - Timothy E Egbo
- US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Unit 8900, DPO, AE, Box 330, 09831, United States
| | - Guillermo H Giambartolomei
- Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo (INIGEM). CONICET. AV. Cordoba 2351, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, C1120AAR, Argentina
| | - Shree R Singh
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Department of Biological Sciences, 1627 Harris Way, Alabama State University, Montgomery AL, 36104, United States
| | - Vida A Dennis
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Department of Biological Sciences, 1627 Harris Way, Alabama State University, Montgomery AL, 36104, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yu H, Geisler WM, Dai C, Gupta K, Cutter G, Brunham RC. Antibody responses to Chlamydia trachomatis vaccine candidate antigens in Chlamydia-infected women and correlation with antibody-mediated phagocytosis of elementary bodies. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1342621. [PMID: 38371301 PMCID: PMC10869445 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1342621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Murine research has revealed a significant role for antibody responses in protection against Chlamydia reinfection. To explore potential humoral immune markers of protection elicited by Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) antigens in humans in the context of presumed clinical correlates of protection, we used both an IgG1-based ELISA and a conventional total IgG ELISA to evaluate antibody responses. We evaluated responses to five CT outer membrane proteins (PmpE, PmpF, PmpG, PmpH, and MOMP), along with other promising CT antigens (Pgp3 and HSP60), negative control antigens (RecO and AtpE), and CT elementary bodies (EBs) in sera from a well-characterized cohort of 60 women with different CT infection outcomes, including two outcomes that are likely clinical correlates of protective immunity: spontaneous resolution of infection and absence of reinfection after treatment. Furthermore, we used a flow cytometry-based assay to measure antibody-mediated phagocytosis by neutrophils in these sera. Results demonstrated that IgG1 ELISA displayed higher sensitivity than conventional total IgG ELISA in assessing antibody responses to CT EBs and antigens. Pgp3 IgG1 ELISA exhibited the highest sensitivity compared to IgG1 ELISA incorporating CT EBs or other antigens, confirming Pgp3 IgG1 ELISA as an ideal assay for CT antibody detection. Most (95%) sera from women with CT infection outcomes exhibited antibody-mediated phagocytosis of CT EBs, which was significantly correlated with IgG1 antibody responses to MOMP, Pgp3, HSP60, and PmpF. However, neither IgG1 responses to CT antigens and EBs nor antibody-mediated phagocytosis were associated with clinical correlates of protection. These findings suggest that neither CT IgG1 antibody detection nor antibody-mediated phagocytosis will be useful as immune correlates of protection against CT infection in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Yu
- Department of Medicine, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - William M. Geisler
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Chuanbin Dai
- Department of Medicine, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kanupriya Gupta
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Gary Cutter
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Robert C. Brunham
- Department of Medicine, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhao L, Wang X, Li Z. A novel chimeric recombinant FliC-Pgp3 vaccine promotes immunoprotection against Chlamydia muridarum infection in mice. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 258:128723. [PMID: 38101679 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128723] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
The Pgp3 subunit vaccine elicits immune protection against Chlamydia trachomatis infection, but additional adjuvants are still required to enhance its immunoprotective efficacy. Flagellin can selectively stimulate immunity and act as an adjuvant. In this research, the FliC-Pgp3 recombinant was successfully expressed and purified. Tri-immunization with the FliC-Pgp3 vaccine in Balb/C mice induced rapid and persistent germinal center B-cell response and Tfh differentiation, promoting a significantly higher IgG antibody titer compared to the Pgp3 group. FliC-Pgp3 immunization primarily induced Th1-type cellular immunity, leading to higher levels of IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-2 secreted by CD4+ T cells than in Pgp3-vaccinated mice. Chlamydia muridarum challenge results showed that FliC-Pgp3-vaccinated mice exhibited more rapid clearance of Chlamydia muridarum colonization in the lower genital tract, ensuring a lower hydrosalpinx rate and cumulative score. Histological analysis showed reduced dilation and inflammatory infiltration in the oviduct and uterine horn of FliC-Pgp3-vaccinated mice compared to the PBS and Pgp3 control. Importantly, tri-immunization with FliC-Pgp3 effectively activated CD4+ T cells and dendritic cells, as confirmed by the adoptive transfer, resulting in better immune protection in recipient mice. In summary, the novel FliC-Pgp3 chimeric is hoped to be a novel vaccine with improved immunoprotection against Chlamydia muridarum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lanhua Zhao
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, School of Nursing, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinglv Wang
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, School of Nursing, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhongyu Li
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, School of Nursing, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rixon JA, Fong KD, Morris C, Nguyen AT, Depew CE, McSorley SJ. Elimination of Chlamydia muridarum from the female reproductive tract is IL-12p40 dependent, but independent of Th1 and Th2 cells. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1011914. [PMID: 38166152 PMCID: PMC10786385 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011914] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia vaccine approaches aspire to induce Th1 cells for optimal protection, despite the fact that there is no direct evidence demonstrating Th1-mediated Chlamydia clearance from the female reproductive tract (FRT). We recently reported that T-bet-deficient mice can resolve primary Chlamydia infection normally, undermining the potentially protective role of Th1 cells in Chlamydia immunity. Here, we show that T-bet-deficient mice develop robust Th17 responses and that mice deficient in Th17 cells exhibit delayed bacterial clearance, demonstrating that Chlamydia-specific Th17 cells represent an underappreciated protective population. Additionally, Th2-deficient mice competently clear cervicovaginal infection. Furthermore, we show that sensing of IFN-γ by non-hematopoietic cells is essential for Chlamydia immunity, yet bacterial clearance in the FRT does not require IFN-γ secretion by CD4 T cells. Despite the fact that Th1 cells are not necessary for Chlamydia clearance, protective immunity to Chlamydia is still dependent on MHC class-II-restricted CD4 T cells and IL-12p40. Together, these data point to IL-12p40-dependent CD4 effector maturation as essential for Chlamydia immunity, and Th17 cells to a lesser extent, yet neither Th1 nor Th2 cell development is critical. Future Chlamydia vaccination efforts will be more effective if they focus on induction of this protective CD4 T cell population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan A. Rixon
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Kevin D. Fong
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Claire Morris
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Alana T. Nguyen
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Claire E. Depew
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Stephen J. McSorley
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mercado MAB, Li Q, Quick CM, Kim Y, Palmer R, Huang L, Li LX. BHLHE40 drives protective polyfunctional CD4 T cell differentiation in the female reproductive tract against Chlamydia. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.02.565369. [PMID: 37961221 PMCID: PMC10635079 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.02.565369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
The protein basic helix-loop-helix family member e40 (BHLHE40) is a transcription factor recently emerged as a key regulator of host immunity to infections, autoimmune diseases and cancer. In this study, we investigated the role of Bhlhe40 in protective T cell responses to the intracellular bacterium Chlamydia in the female reproductive tract (FRT). Mice deficient in Bhlhe40 exhibited severe defects in their ability to control Chlamydia muridarum shedding from the FRT. The heightened bacterial burdens in Bhlhe40-/- mice correlated with a marked increase in IL-10-producing T regulatory type 1 (Tr1) cells and decreased polyfunctional CD4 T cells co-producing IFN-γ, IL-17A and GM-CSF. Genetic ablation of IL-10 or functional blockade of IL-10R increased CD4 T cell polyfunctionality and partially rescued the defects in bacterial control in Bhlhe40-/- mice. Using single-cell RNA sequencing coupled with TCR profiling, we detected a significant enrichment of stem-like T cell signatures in Bhlhe40-deficient CD4 T cells, whereas WT CD4 T cells were further down on the differentiation trajectory with distinct effector functions beyond IFN-γ production by Th1 cells. Altogether, we identified Bhlhe40 as a key molecular driver of CD4 T cell differentiation and polyfunctional responses in the FRT against Chlamydia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A. B. Mercado
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205
| | - Qiang Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205
| | - Charles M. Quick
- Department of Pathology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205
| | - Yejin Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205
| | - Rachel Palmer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205
| | - Lu Huang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205
| | - Lin-Xi Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Degn LLT, Bech D, Christiansen G, Birkelund S. Lack of neutralization of Chlamydia trachomatis infection by high avidity monoclonal antibodies to surface-exposed major outer membrane protein variable domain IV. Mol Immunol 2023; 163:163-173. [PMID: 37801817 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2023.09.015] [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: 05/13/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the leading cause of sexually transmitted diseases causing frequent, long-lasting, and often asymptomatic recurrent infections resulting in severe reproductive complications. C. trachomatis is an intracellular Gram-negative bacterium with a biphasic developmental cycle in which extracellular, infectious elementary bodies (EB) alternate with the intracellular replicating reticulate bodies (RB). The outer membrane of EB consists of a tight disulfide cross-linking protein network. The most essential protein is the 42 kDa major outer membrane protein (MOMP) that contributes to the rigid structural integrity of the outer membrane. MOMP is a transmembrane protein with a β-barrel structure consisting of four variable domains (VD) separated by five constant domains. VDIV possesses surface-exposed species-specific epitopes recognized by the immune system and, therefore, functions as a candidate for vaccine development. To analyze the protective contribution of antibodies for a MOMP vaccine, we investigated the specificity and binding characteristics of two monoclonal antibodies (MAb)224.2 and MAb244.4 directed against C. trachomatis serovar D MOMP. By immunoelectron microscopy, we found that both MAb bind to the surface of C. trachomatis EB. By epitope mapping, we characterized the MOMP epitope as linear consisting of 6 amino acids: 322TIAGAGD328. By ELISA it was shown that both antibodies bind with a higher avidity to the chlamydial surface compared to binding to monomeric MOMP, indicating that the antibodies bind divalently to the surface of C. trachomatis EB. Despite strong binding to the chlamydial surface, the antibodies only partially reduced the infectivity. This may be explained by the observation that even though both MAb covered the EB surface, antibodies could not be regularly detected on EB after the uptake into the host cell.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Lind Throne Degn
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 3b, 9220 Aalborg Ø, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Department of Clinical Immunology, Aalborg University Hospital, Urbansgade 32, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ditte Bech
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 3b, 9220 Aalborg Ø, Denmark
| | - Gunna Christiansen
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 3b, 9220 Aalborg Ø, Denmark
| | - Svend Birkelund
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 3b, 9220 Aalborg Ø, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Gupta K, Wiener HW, Tiwari HK, Geisler WM. HLA-DQB1*06 and Select Neighboring HLA Variants Predict Chlamydia Reinfection Risk. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15803. [PMID: 37958786 PMCID: PMC10647357 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115803] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Associations of HLA class II alleles with genital chlamydial infection outcomes have been reported, especially HLA DQB1*06. However, the potential role of DQB1*06 in influencing reinfection risk has still not been established. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the association of DQB1*06 with chlamydia reinfection was impacted by any other nearby HLA class II variants that were also associated with reinfection. We used next-generation sequencing to map HLA class II variants spanning the HLA-DQ and -DR loci. DQB1*06 as well as DQB1*04 were confirmed as significant predictors of chlamydia reinfection, when controlling for age and percent African ancestry. SKAT analysis revealed one region each in DRB1, DRB5, DQA2, and three intergenic regions that had variants associated with reinfection. Further analyses of these variants revealed that rs112651494 within DRB5 and an intergenic SNP rs617058 in DRB1:DQA1 were significantly associated with reinfection, but this did not impact the significance of the association of DQB1*06 or DQB1*04 with reinfection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kanupriya Gupta
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
| | - Howard W. Wiener
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
| | - Hemant K. Tiwari
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
| | - William M. Geisler
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Yang S, Zeng J, Hao W, Sun R, Tuo Y, Tan L, Zhang H, Liu R, Bai H. IL-21/IL-21R Promotes the Pro-Inflammatory Effects of Macrophages during C. muridarum Respiratory Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12557. [PMID: 37628738 PMCID: PMC10454239 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-21 and its receptors (IL-21/IL-21R) aggravate chlamydial lung infection, while macrophages (Mφ) are one of the main cells infected by chlamydia and the main source of inflammatory cytokines. Therefore, it is particularly important to study whether IL-21/IL-21R aggravates chlamydia respiratory infection by regulating Mφ. Combined with bioinformatics analysis, we established an IL-21R-deficient (IL-21R-/-) mouse model of Chlamydia muridarum (C. muridarum) respiratory tract infection in vivo, studied C. muridarum-stimulated RAW264.7 by the addition of rmIL-21 in vitro, and conducted adoptive transfer experiments to clarify the association between IL-21/IL-21R and Mφ. IL-21R-/- mice showed lower infiltration of pulmonary total Mφ, alveolar macrophages, and interstitial macrophages compared with WT mice following infection. Transcriptomic analysis suggested that M1-related genes are downregulated in IL-21R-/- mice and that IL-21R deficiency affects the Mφ-mediated inflammatory response during C. muridarum infection. In vivo experiments verified that in IL-21R-/- mice, pulmonary M1-type CD80+, CD86+, MHC II+, TNFα+, and iNOS+ Mφ decreased, while there were no differences in M2-type CD206+, TGF-β+, IL-10+ and ARG1+ Mφ. In vitro, administration of rmIL-21 to C. muridarum-stimulated RAW264.7 cells promoted the levels of iNOS-NO and the expression of IL-12p40 and TNFα, but had no effect on TGFβ or IL-10. Further, adoptive transfer of M1-like bone marrow-derived macrophages derived from IL-21R-/- mice, unlike those from WT mice, effectively protected the recipients against C. muridarum infection and induced relieved pulmonary pathology. These findings help in understanding the mechanism by which IL-21/IL-21R exacerbates chlamydia respiratory infection by promoting the proinflammatory effect of Mφ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Hong Bai
- Key Laboratory of Immune Microenvironment and Disease (Ministry of Education), Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; (S.Y.); (J.Z.); (W.H.); (R.S.); (Y.T.); (L.T.); (H.Z.); (R.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Yount KS, Kollipara A, Liu C, Zheng X, O'Connell CM, Bagwell B, Wiesenfeld HC, Hillier SL, Darville T. Unique T cell signatures are associated with reduced Chlamydia trachomatis reinfection in a highly exposed cohort. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.02.551709. [PMID: 37577476 PMCID: PMC10418240 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.02.551709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States, despite effective antibiotics. Information regarding natural immunity to CT will inform vaccine design. The objectives of this study were to determine immune cell populations and functional features associated with reduced risk of CT reinfection or endometrial CT infection. PBMCs were collected from a cohort of CT-exposed women who were tested for CT and other STIs at the cervix and endometrium (to determine ascension) and were repeatedly tested over the course of a year (to determine reinfection). Mass cytometry identified major immune populations and T cell subsets. Women with CT had increased CD4+ effector memory T cells (TEM) compared to uninfected women. Specifically, Th2, Th17, and Th17 DN CD4+ TEM were increased. Th17 and Th17 DN CD4+ central memory T cells (TCM) were increased in women who did not experience follow-up CT infection, suggesting that these cells may be important for protection. These data indicate that peripheral T cells display distinct features that correlate with natural immunity to CT and suggest that the highly plastic Th17 lineage plays a role in protection against reinfection.
Collapse
|
20
|
Barton A, Rosenkrands I, Pickering H, Faal N, Harte A, Joof H, Makalo P, Ragonnet M, Olsen AW, Bailey RL, Mabey DCW, Follmann F, Dietrich J, Holland MJ. A systems serology approach to the investigation of infection-induced antibody responses and protection in trachoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1178741. [PMID: 37287960 PMCID: PMC10242090 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1178741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Ocular infections with Chlamydia trachomatis serovars A-C cause the neglected tropical disease trachoma. As infection does not confer complete immunity, repeated infections are common, leading to long-term sequelae such as scarring and blindness. Here, we apply a systems serology approach to investigate whether systemic antibody features are associated with susceptibility to infection. Methods Sera from children in five trachoma endemic villages in the Gambia were assayed for 23 antibody features: IgG responses towards two C. trachomatis antigens and three serovars [elementary bodies and major outer membrane protein (MOMP), serovars A-C], IgG responses towards five MOMP peptides (serovars A-C), neutralization, and antibody-dependent phagocytosis. Participants were considered resistant if they subsequently developed infection only when over 70% of other children in the same compound were infected. Results The antibody features assayed were not associated with resistance to infection (false discovery rate < 0.05). Anti-MOMP SvA IgG and neutralization titer were higher in susceptible individuals (p < 0.05 before multiple testing adjustment). Classification using partial least squares performed only slightly better than chance in distinguishing between susceptible and resistant participants based on systemic antibody profile (specificity 71%, sensitivity 36%). Conclusions Systemic infection-induced IgG and functional antibody responses do not appear to be protective against subsequent infection. Ocular responses, IgA, avidity, or cell-mediated responses may play a greater role in protective immunity than systemic IgG.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amber Barton
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ida Rosenkrands
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Harry Pickering
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nkoyo Faal
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Banjul, Gambia
| | - Anna Harte
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hassan Joof
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Banjul, Gambia
| | - Pateh Makalo
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Banjul, Gambia
| | - Manon Ragonnet
- Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Banjul, Gambia
| | - Anja Weinreich Olsen
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Robin L. Bailey
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - David C. W. Mabey
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Frank Follmann
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jes Dietrich
- Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin J. Holland
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zhong G, Chernesky M, Hook EW, Van Der Pol B. Celebrating 60 Years of Research at the 15th International Symposium on Human Chlamydial Infections. Sex Transm Dis 2023; 50:129-130. [PMID: 36469537 PMCID: PMC9907672 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Guangming Zhong
- From the Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, TX
| | - Max Chernesky
- McMaster University/St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Edward W. Hook
- Department of Medicine, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Barbara Van Der Pol
- Department of Medicine, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Tim-3 blockade enhances the clearance of Chlamydia psittaci in the lung by promoting a cell-mediated immune response. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 116:109780. [PMID: 36720194 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.109780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydia psittaci is remarkable at disrupting immunity and thus poses a great risk to the animal industry and public health. Immune inhibitory molecule upregulation and the accumulation of specialized cells play key roles in chlamydial clearance. It is clear that the T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain protein 3 receptor (Tim-3) can regulate effector T cells in infectious disease. However, the immunomodulatory effect of Tim-3 in C. psittaci infection remains unknown. Thus, the expression of Tim-3 in effector T cells and its immune regulatory function during C. psittaci infection were investigated. The level of Tim-3 on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells was meaningfully higher in C. psittaci-infected mice. Blockade of Tim-3 signaling by anti-Tim-3 antibody showed accelerated C. psittaci clearance and less pathological changes in the lung than isotype immunoglobulin treatment. Furthermore, treatment with anti-Tim-3 antibody greatly enhanced the levels of IFN-γ and interleukin (IL)-22/IL-17, which were correlated with an improved Th1- and Th17-mediated immune response, and decreased IL-10, which were related with a decreased Treg immune response. In conclusion, Tim-3 expression in effector T cells negatively regulates Th1 and Th17 immune responses against C. psittaci respiratory infection.
Collapse
|
23
|
Winner H, Friesenhahn A, Wang Y, Stanbury N, Wang J, He C, Zhong G. Regulation of chlamydial colonization by IFNγ delivered via distinct cells. Trends Microbiol 2023; 31:270-279. [PMID: 36175276 PMCID: PMC9974551 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The mouse-adapted pathogen Chlamydia muridarum (CM) induces pathology in the mouse genital tract but fails to do so in the gastrointestinal tract. CM is cleared from both the genital tract and small intestine by IFNγ delivered by antigen-specific CD4+ T cells but persists for a long period in the large intestine. The long-lasting colonization of CM in the large intestine is regulated by IFNγ delivered by group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s). Interestingly, the ILC3-delivered IFNγ can inhibit the human pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) in the mouse endometrium. Thus, IFNγ produced/delivered by different cells may selectively restrict chlamydial colonization in different tissues. Revealing the underlying mechanisms of chlamydial interactions with IFNγ produced by different cells may yield new insights into both chlamydial pathogenicity and mucosal immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Halah Winner
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78230, USA
| | - Ann Friesenhahn
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78230, USA
| | - Yihui Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78230, USA; College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Two Yuanmingyuan Xi Lu, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Nicholas Stanbury
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78230, USA
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Immunology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, PR China
| | - Cheng He
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Two Yuanmingyuan Xi Lu, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, PR China
| | - Guangming Zhong
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78230, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Huston WM, Lawrence A, Wee BA, Thomas M, Timms P, Vodstrcil LA, McNulty A, McIvor R, Worthington K, Donovan B, Phillips S, Chen MY, Fairley CK, Hocking JS. Repeat infections with chlamydia in women may be more transcriptionally active with lower responses from some immune genes. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1012835. [PMID: 36299763 PMCID: PMC9589431 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1012835] [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: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis, the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection worldwide, is responsible for considerable health burden due to its significant sequelae. There are growing concerns about chlamydial treatment and management due to widely documented increasing burden of repeat infections. In the current study, a cohort study design of 305 women with urogenital chlamydial infections demonstrated that 11.8% of women experienced repeat infections after treatment with azithromycin. The chlamydial DNA load measured by quantitative PCR was higher in women who experienced a repeat infection (p = 0.0097) and repeat infection was associated with sexual contact. There was no genomic or phenotypic evidence of azithromycin resistance within the chlamydial isolates. During repeat infection, or repeat positive tests during follow up, vaginal chlamydial gene expression (ompA, euo, omcB, htrA, trpAB) was markedly higher compared to baseline, and two of the selected immune genes analyzed had significantly lower expression at the time of repeat infection. Overall, there are two implications of these results. The results could be generalized to all recent infections, or repeat positive events, and indicate that chlamydial infections are have higher transcriptional activity of select genes early in the infection in women. Alternatively, after azithromycin treatment, repeat infections of Chlamydia may be more transcriptionally active at certain genes, and there may be post-treatment immunological alterations that interplay into repeat exposures establishing an active infection. The potential that recent infections may involve a higher level of activity from the organism may have implications for management by more regular testing of the most at risk women to reduce the risk of sequelae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wilhelmina M. Huston
- Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia,*Correspondence: Wilhelmina M. Huston
| | - Amba Lawrence
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, QLD, Australia
| | - Bryan A. Wee
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, QLD, Australia
| | - Mark Thomas
- Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter Timms
- Bioinnovation Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
| | - Lenka A. Vodstrcil
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Carlton, VIC, Australia,Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - Anna McNulty
- Sydney Sexual Health Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ruthy McIvor
- Sydney Sexual Health Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Karen Worthington
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - Basil Donovan
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| | - Samuel Phillips
- Bioinnovation Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
| | - Marcus Y. Chen
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, Australia,Australia and Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Jane S. Hocking
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, Australia,Jane S. Hocking
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Borges ÁH, Follmann F, Dietrich J. Chlamydia trachomatis vaccine development - a view on the current challenges and how to move forward. Expert Rev Vaccines 2022; 21:1555-1567. [PMID: 36004386 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2022.2117694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common sexually transmitted bacterial pathogen in the world. A licensed vaccine is not yet available, but the first vaccines have entered clinical trials. AREAS COVERED : We describe the progress that has been made in our understanding of the type of immunity that a protective vaccine should induce, and the challenges that vaccine developers face. We also focus on the clinical development of a chlamydia vaccine. The first chlamydia vaccine candidate has now been tested in a clinical phase-I trial, and another phase-I trial is currently running. We discuss what it will take to continue this development and what future trial setups could look like. EXPERT OPINION The chlamydia field is coming of age and the first phase I clinical trial of a C. trachomatis vaccine has been successfully completed. We expect and hope that this will motivate various stakeholders to support further development of chlamydia vaccines in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro H Borges
- Statens Serum Institut, Department of Infectious Diseases Immunology, Kobenhavn, 2300 Denmark
| | | | - Jes Dietrich
- Statens Serum Institut, Department of Infectious Diseases Immunology, Kobenhavn, 2300 Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Sharma J, Gupta K, Schwebke JR, Geisler WM, Muzny CA. Association of Bacterial Vaginosis With Higher Vaginal Indole Levels. Sex Transm Dis 2022; 49:e53-e55. [PMID: 34561371 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT We adapted a simple hydroxylamine-based indole assay to detect indole from stored vaginal swab specimens from women with and without bacterial vaginosis (BV). Women with BV had significantly higher vaginal indole levels compared with women without BV (6451.5 vs 5632.4 μM; P = 0.01), suggesting that indole-producing bacteria are a component of BV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Sharma
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Johnson RM, Asashima H, Mohanty S, Shaw AC. Combining Cellular Immunology With RNAseq to Identify Novel Chlamydia T-Cell Subset Signatures. J Infect Dis 2022; 225:2033-2042. [PMID: 35172331 PMCID: PMC9159333 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiac051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis serovars A-L cause important diseases of the eyes and reproductive tract by infecting epithelium lining those organs. A major hurdle for vaccine trials is finding a surrogate biomarker for protective immunity. Investigational data argues for T-cell biomarker(s) reflecting mucosal adaption, cytokine polarization, B-cell help, antibacterial effector mechanisms, or some combination thereof. A human investigation and 2 mouse studies link IL-13 to protection from infection/immunopathology. We performed RNAseq on T cells resident in spleens and genital tracts of naturally immune mice. CD4 signatures were consistent with helper function that differed by site including a genital tract-specific Fgl2 signal. The genital tract CD8 signature featured IL-10 and promotion of healing/scarring with a unique transcription of granzyme A. The RNAseq data was used to refine previously published CD4γ13 and CD8γ13 transcriptomes derived from protective T-cell clones, potentially identifying practicable T-cell subset signatures for assessing Chlamydia vaccine candidates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raymond M Johnson
- Correspondence: Raymond M. Johnson, MD, PhD, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, PO Box 208022, TAC s169, New Haven, CT 06520-8022 ()
| | - Hiromitsu Asashima
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Subhasis Mohanty
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Albert C Shaw
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Brunham RC. Problems with Understanding Chlamydia trachomatis Immunology. J Infect Dis 2021; 225:2043-2049. [DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiab610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The pay off for understanding Chlamydia. trachomatis (CT) immunology is the development of a vaccine. Two lines of research have contributed to our current understanding of CT immunology. The first is the Grayston model of type specific immunity and genus specific pathology which was elaborated by Caldwell and Morrison as the major outer membrane protein (MOMP) and heat shock protein 60 (HSP60) paradigm. The second is the murine model of C. muridarum (CM) infection which established the essential role of major histocompatibility complex class II and CD4 T cells in immunity. However neither approach has yielded a vaccine. I review these two lines of research and conclude with six problem areas in human CT immunology whose resolution may result in a vaccine.(122 words)
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert C Brunham
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vaccine Research Laboratory, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control Vancouver, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abisoye-Ogunniyan A, Carrano IM, Weilhammer DR, Gilmore SF, Fischer NO, Pal S, de la Maza LM, Coleman MA, Rasley A. A Survey of Preclinical Studies Evaluating Nanoparticle-Based Vaccines Against Non-Viral Sexually Transmitted Infections. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:768461. [PMID: 34899322 PMCID: PMC8662999 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.768461] [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: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A worldwide estimate of over one million STIs are acquired daily and there is a desperate need for effective preventive as well as therapeutic measures to curtail this global health burden. Vaccines have been the most effective means for the control and potential eradication of infectious diseases; however, the development of vaccines against STIs has been a daunting task requiring extensive research for the development of safe and efficacious formulations. Nanoparticle-based vaccines represent a promising platform as they offer benefits such as targeted antigen presentation and delivery, co-localized antigen-adjuvant combinations for enhanced immunogenicity, and can be designed to be biologically inert. Here we discuss promising types of nanoparticles along with outcomes from nanoparticle-based vaccine preclinical studies against non-viral STIs including chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea, and recommendations for future nanoparticle-based vaccines against STIs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abisola Abisoye-Ogunniyan
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, United States
| | - Isabella M Carrano
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, Rausser College of Natural Resources, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Dina R Weilhammer
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, United States
| | - Sean F Gilmore
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, United States
| | - Nicholas O Fischer
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, United States
| | - Sukumar Pal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Luis M de la Maza
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Matthew A Coleman
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, United States
| | - Amy Rasley
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Potential IFNγ Modulation of Inflammasome Pathway in Chlamydia trachomatis Infected Synovial Cells. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11121359. [PMID: 34947890 PMCID: PMC8707573 DOI: 10.3390/life11121359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Following a Chlamydia trachomatis infection, the host immune response is characterized by its recognition via Toll-like and Nod-like Receptors, and the subsequent activation of interferon (IFN)-γ-mediated signaling pathways. Recently, the inflammasome-mediated host cell response has emerged to play a role in the physiopathology of C. trachomatis infection. Here we investigated, for the first time, the interaction of IFN-γ and inflammasome in an in vitro model of C. trachomatis-infected primary human synovial cells. Chlamydial replication as well as the expression of caspase-1, IL-1β, as well as IL-18 and IL-6, were assayed. Our results demonstrated the inhibitory activity of IFN-γ by interfering with the inflammasome network through the downregulation of caspase-1 mRNA expression. In addition, the ability of C. trachomatis to hinder the inflammasome pathway favoring its intracellular survival within synovial cells, was observed. Overall, our data suggest a potential mechanism of immune evasion by C. trachomatis in synovial cells, that may be contested by IFN-γ.
Collapse
|
31
|
Olson KM, Geisler WM, Bakshi RK, Gupta K, Tiwari HK. Predicting the Probability of Chlamydia Reinfection in African American Women Using Immunologic and Genetic Determinants in a Bayesian Model. Sex Transm Dis 2021; 48:813-818. [PMID: 33993163 PMCID: PMC8550879 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001468] [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] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND African Americans have the highest rates of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection in the United States and also high reinfection rates. The primary objective of this study was to develop a Bayesian model to predict the probability of CT reinfection in African American women using immunogenetic data. METHODS We analyzed data from a cohort of CT-infected African American women enrolled at the time they returned to a clinic in Birmingham, AL, for the treatment of a positive routine CT test result. We modeled the probability of CT reinfection within 6 months after treatment using logistic regression in a Bayesian framework. Predictors of interest were presence or absence of an HLA-DQB1*06 allele and CT-specific CD4+ IFN-γ response, both of which we had previously reported were independently associated with CT reinfection risk. RESULTS Among 99 participants evaluated, the probability of reinfection for those with a CT-specific CD4+ IFN-γ response and no HLA-DQB1*06 alleles was 14.1% (95% credible interval [CI], 3.0%-45.0%), whereas the probability of reinfection for those without a CT-specific CD4+ IFN-γ response and at least one HLA-DQB1*06 allele was 61.5% (95% CI, 23.1%-89.7%). CONCLUSIONS Our model demonstrated that presence or absence of an HLA-DQB1*06 allele and CT-specific CD4+ IFN-γ response can have an impact on the predictive probability of CT reinfection in African American women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristin M. Olson
- School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - William M. Geisler
- School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Rakesh K. Bakshi
- School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Kanupriya Gupta
- School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Hemant K. Tiwari
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Amaral AF, McQueen BE, Bellingham-Johnstun K, Poston TB, Darville T, Nagarajan UM, Laplante C, Käser T. Host-Pathogen Interactions of Chlamydia trachomatis in Porcine Oviduct Epithelial Cells. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10101270. [PMID: 34684219 PMCID: PMC8540921 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101270] [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: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) causes the most prevalent bacterial sexually transmitted disease leading to ectopic pregnancy and infertility. Swine not only have many similarities to humans, but they are also susceptible to Ct. Despite these benefits and the ease of access to primary tissue from this food animal, in vitro research in swine has been underutilized. This study will provide basic understanding of the Ct host–pathogen interactions in porcine oviduct epithelial cells (pOECs)—the counterparts of human Fallopian tube epithelial cells. Using NanoString technology, flow cytometry, and confocal and transmission-electron microscopy, we studied the Ct developmental cycle in pOECs, the cellular immune response, and the expression and location of the tight junction protein claudin-4. We show that Ct productively completes its developmental cycle in pOECs and induces an immune response to Ct similar to human cells: Ct mainly induced the upregulation of interferon regulated genes and T-cell attracting chemokines. Furthermore, Ct infection induced an accumulation of claudin-4 in the Ct inclusion with a coinciding reduction of membrane-bound claudin-4. Downstream effects of the reduced membrane-bound claudin-4 expression could potentially include a reduction in tight-junction expression, impaired epithelial barrier function as well as increased susceptibility to co-infections. Thereby, this study justifies the investigation of the effect of Ct on tight junctions and the mucosal epithelial barrier function. Taken together, this study demonstrates that primary pOECs represent an excellent in vitro model for research into Ct pathogenesis, cell biology and immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda F. Amaral
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA;
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Bryan E. McQueen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (B.E.M.); (T.D.)
| | - Kimberly Bellingham-Johnstun
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (K.B.-J.); (C.L.)
| | - Taylor B. Poston
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (T.B.P.); (U.M.N.)
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (B.E.M.); (T.D.)
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (T.B.P.); (U.M.N.)
| | - Uma M. Nagarajan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, 116 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; (T.B.P.); (U.M.N.)
| | - Caroline Laplante
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA; (K.B.-J.); (C.L.)
| | - Tobias Käser
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA;
- Comparative Medicine Institute, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-919-513-6352
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Lanfermann C, Kohn M, Laudeley R, Rheinheimer C, Klos A. Chlamydia trachomatis Cross-Serovar Protection during Experimental Lung Reinfection in Mice. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9080871. [PMID: 34451996 PMCID: PMC8402589 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9080871] [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: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis causes most bacterial sexually transmitted diseases worldwide. Different major outer membrane proteins (MOMPs) define various serovars of this intracellular pathogen: In women, D to L3 can cause urethritis, cervicitis, salpingitis, and oophoritis, and, thus, infertility. Protective immunity might be serovar-specific since chlamydial infection does not appear to induce an effective acquired immunity and reinfections occur. A better understanding of induced cross-serovar protection is essential for the selection of suitable antigens in vaccine development. In our mouse lung infection screening model, we evaluated the urogenital serovars D, E, and L2 in this regard. Seven weeks after primary infection or mock-infection, respectively, mice were infected a second time with the identical or one of the other serovars. Body weight and clinical score were monitored for 7 days. Near the peak of the second lung infection, bacterial load, myeloperoxidase, IFN-γ, and TNF-α in lung homogenate, as well as chlamydia-specific IgG levels in blood were determined. Surprisingly, compared with mice that were infected then for the first time, almost independent of the serovar combination used, all acquired parameters of disease were similarly diminished. Our reinfection study suggests that efficient cross-serovar protection could be achieved by a vaccine combining chlamydial antigens that do not include nonconserved MOMP regions.
Collapse
|
34
|
Xiang W, Yu N, Lei A, Li X, Tan S, Huang L, Zhou Z. Insights Into Host Cell Cytokines in Chlamydia Infection. Front Immunol 2021; 12:639834. [PMID: 34093528 PMCID: PMC8176227 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.639834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydial infection causes a number of clinically relevant diseases and induces significant morbidity in humans. Immune and inflammatory responses contribute to both the clearance of Chlamydia infection and pathology in host tissues. Chlamydia infection stimulates host cells to produce a large number of cytokines that trigger and regulate host immune responses against Chlamydia. However, inappropriate responses can occur with excessive production of cytokines, resulting in overreactive inflammatory responses and alterations in host or Chlamydia metabolism. As a result, Chlamydia persists and causes wound healing delays, leading to more severe tissue damage and triggering long-lasting fibrotic sequelae. Here, we summarize the roles of cytokines in Chlamydia infection and pathogenesis, thus advancing our understanding chlamydial infection biology and the pathogenic mechanisms involved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Xiang
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Nanyan Yu
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Aihua Lei
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xiaofang Li
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Shui Tan
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Lijun Huang
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China.,Nanyue Biopharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Hunan Province Innovative Training Base for Postgraduates, University of South China and Nanyue Biopharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Hengyang, China
| | - Zhou Zhou
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
de la Maza LM, Darville TL, Pal S. Chlamydia trachomatis vaccines for genital infections: where are we and how far is there to go? Expert Rev Vaccines 2021; 20:421-435. [PMID: 33682583 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2021.1899817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common sexually transmitted bacterial pathogen in the world. Antibiotic treatment does not prevent against reinfection and a vaccine is not yet available. AREAS COVERED We focus the review on the progress made of our understanding of the immunological responses required for a vaccine to elicit protection, and on the antigens, adjuvants, routes of immunization and delivery systems that have been tested in animal models. PubMed and Google Scholar were used to search publication on these topics for the last 5 years and recent Reviews were examined. EXPERT OPINION The first Phase 1 clinical trial of a C. trachomatis vaccine to protect against genital infections was successfully completed. We expect that, in the next five years, additional vaccine clinical trials will be implemented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis M de la Maza
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Medical Sciences, I, Room D440 University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Toni L Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sukumar Pal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Medical Sciences, I, Room D440 University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Sahu R, Dixit S, Verma R, Duncan SA, Smith L, Giambartolomei GH, Singh SR, Dennis VA. Encapsulation of Recombinant MOMP in Extended-Releasing PLGA 85:15 Nanoparticles Confer Protective Immunity Against a Chlamydia muridarum Genital Challenge and Re-Challenge. Front Immunol 2021; 12:660932. [PMID: 33936096 PMCID: PMC8081181 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.660932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently we reported the immune-potentiating capacity of a Chlamydia nanovaccine (PLGA-rMOMP) comprising rMOMP (recombinant major outer membrane protein) encapsulated in extended-releasing PLGA [poly (D, L-lactide-co-glycolide) (85:15)] nanoparticles. Here we hypothesized that PLGA-rMOMP would bolster immune-effector mechanisms to confer protective efficacy in mice against a Chlamydia muridarum genital challenge and re-challenge. Female BALB/c mice received three immunizations, either subcutaneously (SC) or intranasally (IN), before receiving an intravaginal challenge with C. muridarum on day 49 and a re-challenge on day 170. Both the SC and IN immunization routes protected mice against genital challenge with enhanced protection after a re-challenge, especially in the SC mice. The nanovaccine induced robust antigen-specific Th1 (IFN-γ, IL-2) and IL-17 cytokines plus CD4+ proliferating T-cells and memory (CD44high CD62Lhigh) and effector (CD44high CD62Llow) phenotypes in immunized mice. Parallel induction of antigen-specific systemic and mucosal Th1 (IgG2a, IgG2b), Th2 (IgG1), and IgA antibodies were also noted. Importantly, immunized mice produced highly functional Th1 avidity and serum antibodies that neutralized C. muridarum infectivity of McCoy fibroblasts in-vitro that correlated with their respective protection levels. The SC, rather than the IN immunization route, triggered higher cellular and humoral immune effectors that improved mice protection against genital C. muridarum. We report for the first time that the extended-releasing PLGA 85:15 encapsulated rMOMP nanovaccine confers protective immunity in mice against genital Chlamydia and advances the potential towards acquiring a nano-based Chlamydia vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajnish Sahu
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Department of Biological Sciences, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| | - Saurabh Dixit
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Department of Biological Sciences, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| | - Richa Verma
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Department of Biological Sciences, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| | - Skyla A. Duncan
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Department of Biological Sciences, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| | - Lula Smith
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Department of Biological Sciences, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| | - Guillermo H. Giambartolomei
- Instituto de Inmunología, Genética y Metabolismo (INIGEM), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Shree R. Singh
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Department of Biological Sciences, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| | - Vida A. Dennis
- Center for NanoBiotechnology Research, Department of Biological Sciences, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Niu W, Xu Y, Zha X, Zeng J, Qiao S, Yang S, Zhang H, Tan L, Sun L, Pang G, Liu T, Zhao H, Zheng N, Zhang Y, Bai H. IL-21/IL-21R Signaling Aggravated Respiratory Inflammation Induced by Intracellular Bacteria through Regulation of CD4 + T Cell Subset Responses. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 206:1586-1596. [PMID: 33608454 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2001107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The IL-21/IL-21R interaction plays an important role in a variety of immune diseases; however, the roles and mechanisms in intracellular bacterial infection are not fully understood. In this study, we explored the effect of IL-21/IL-21R on chlamydial respiratory tract infection using a chlamydial respiratory infection model. The results showed that the mRNA expression of IL-21 and IL-21R was increased in Chlamydia muridarum-infected mice, which suggested that IL-21 and IL-21R were involved in host defense against C. muridarum lung infection. IL-21R-/- mice exhibited less body weight loss, a lower bacterial burden, and milder pathological changes in the lungs than wild-type (WT) mice during C. muridarum lung infection. The absolute number and activity of CD4+ T cells and the strength of Th1/Th17 responses in IL-21R-/- mice were significantly higher than those in WT mice after C. muridarum lung infection, but the Th2 response was weaker. Consistently, IL-21R-/- mice showed higher mRNA expression of Th1 transcription factors (T-bet/STAT4), IL-12p40, a Th17 transcription factor (STAT3), and IL-23. The mRNA expression of Th2 transcription factors (GATA3/STAT6), IL-4, IL-10, and TGF-β in IL-21R-/- mice was significantly lower than that in WT mice. Furthermore, the administration of recombinant mouse IL-21 aggravated chlamydial lung infection in C57BL/6 mice and reduced Th1 and Th17 responses following C. muridarum lung infection. These findings demonstrate that IL-21/IL-21R may aggravate chlamydial lung infection by inhibiting Th1 and Th17 responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Niu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Yueyue Xu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyu Zha
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiajia Zeng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Sai Qiao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuaini Yang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Tan
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Lida Sun
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Gaoju Pang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Tengli Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Huili Zhao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Ningbo Zheng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongci Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Bai
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology and Key Laboratory of the Educational Ministry of China, Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Murray SM, McKay PF. Chlamydia trachomatis: Cell biology, immunology and vaccination. Vaccine 2021; 39:2965-2975. [PMID: 33771390 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2021.03.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the causative agent of a highly prevalent sexually transmitted bacterial disease and is associated with a number of severe disease complications. Current therapy options are successful at treating disease, but patients are left without protective immunity and do not benefit the majority asymptomatic patients who do not seek treatment. As such, there is a clear need for a broad acting, protective vaccine that can prevent transmission and protect against symptomatic disease presentation. There are three key elements that underlie successful vaccine development: 1) Chlamydia biology and immune-evasion adaptations, 2) the correlates of protection that prevent disease in natural and experimental infection, 3) reflection upon the evidence provided by previous vaccine attempts. In this review, we give an overview of the unique intra-cellular biology of C. trachomatis and give insight into the dynamic combination of adaptations that allow Chlamydia to subvert host immunity and survive within the cell. We explore the current understanding of chlamydial immunity in animal models and in humans and characterise the key immune correlates of protection against infection. We discuss in detail the specific immune interactions involved in protection, with relevance placed on the CD4+ T lymphocyte and B lymphocyte responses that are key to pathogen clearance. Finally, we provide a timeline of C. trachomatis vaccine research to date and evaluate the successes and failures in development so far. With insight from these three key elements of research, we suggest potential solutions for chlamydial vaccine development and promising avenues for further exploration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sam M Murray
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK.
| | - Paul F McKay
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, Norfolk Place, London W2 1PG, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Helble JD, Mann AO, Starnbach MN. Antigen-specific memory and naïve CD4+ T cells following secondary Chlamydia trachomatis infection. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240670. [PMID: 33091023 PMCID: PMC7580951 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Memory antigen-specific CD4+ T cells against Chlamydia trachomatis are necessary for protection against secondary genital tract infection. While it is known that naïve antigen-specific CD4+ T cells can traffic to the genital tract in an antigen-specific manner, these T cells are not protective during primary infection. Here, we sought to compare the differences between memory and naïve antigen-specific CD4+ T cells in the same mouse following secondary infection using transgenic CD4+ T cells (NR1 T cells). Using RNA sequencing, we found that there were subtle but distinct differences between these two T cell populations. Naïve NR1 T cells significantly upregulated cell cycle genes and were more proliferative than memory NR1 T cells in the draining lymph node. In contrast, memory NR1 T cells were more activated than naïve NR1 T cells and were enriched in the genital tract. Together, our data provide insight into the differences between memory and naïve antigen-specific CD4+ T cells during C. trachomatis infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer D. Helble
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Alexander O. Mann
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Michael N. Starnbach
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Zhao H, Yu C, He C, Mei C, Liao A, Huang D. The Immune Characteristics of the Epididymis and the Immune Pathway of the Epididymitis Caused by Different Pathogens. Front Immunol 2020; 11:2115. [PMID: 33117332 PMCID: PMC7561410 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The epididymis is an important male accessory sex organ where sperm motility and fertilization ability develop. When spermatozoa carrying foreign antigens enter the epididymis, the epididymis shows "immune privilege" to tolerate them. It is well-known that a tolerogenic environment exists in the caput epididymis, while pro-inflammatory circumstances prefer the cauda epididymis. This meticulously regulated immune environment not only protects spermatozoa from autoimmunity but also defends spermatozoa against pathogenic damage. Epididymitis is one of the common causes of male infertility. Up to 40% of patients suffer from permanent oligospermia or azoospermia. This is related to the immune characteristics of the epididymis itself. Moreover, epididymitis induced by different pathogenic microbial infections has different characteristics. This article elaborates on the distribution and immune response characteristics of epididymis immune cells, the role of epididymis epithelial cells (EECs), and the epididymis defense against different pathogenic infections (such as uropathogenic Escherichia coli, Chlamydia trachomatis, and viruses to provide therapeutic approaches for epididymitis and its subsequent fertility problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hu Zhao
- Department of Human Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Caiqian Yu
- Department of Human Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyu He
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunlei Mei
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Aihua Liao
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Donghui Huang
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Antibodies to Variable Domain 4 Linear Epitopes of the Chlamydia trachomatis Major Outer Membrane Protein Are Not Associated with Chlamydia Resolution or Reinfection in Women. mSphere 2020; 5:5/5/e00654-20. [PMID: 32968007 PMCID: PMC7568647 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00654-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
C. trachomatis infection is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection, and infection in women can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility. No licensed vaccine exists to prevent C. trachomatis infection, and investigations of the natural immune response may inform the design of targeted vaccines for C. trachomatis. Our study fills a gap in knowledge regarding the epitope specificity of antibody responses that are elicited in response to C. trachomatis infection in women. We identified several new B cell epitopes for C. trachomatis antigens and confirmed B cell epitopes that have been identified by other methods. Our finding that women produce antibodies to the VD4-MOMP regardless of infection outcome provides insight into vaccine development, suggesting that vaccines targeting VD4-MOMP may need to elicit higher-titer antibody responses than natural infection imparts or that additional vaccine targets should be pursued in the future. Chlamydia trachomatis is an obligate intracellular bacterium. C. trachomatis infection is the most prevalent bacterial sexually transmitted infection and can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility in women. There is no licensed vaccine for C. trachomatis prevention, in part due to gaps in our knowledge of C. trachomatis-specific immune responses elicited during human infections. Previous investigations of the antibody response to C. trachomatis have identified immunodominant antigens and antibodies that can neutralize infection in cell culture. However, epitope-specific responses to C. trachomatis are not well characterized, and the impact of these antibodies on infection outcome is unknown. We recently developed a technology called deep sequence-coupled biopanning that uses bacteriophage virus-like particles to display peptides from antigens and affinity select against human serum IgG. Here, we used this technology to map C. trachomatis-specific antibodies in groups of women with defined outcomes following C. trachomatis infection: (i) C. trachomatis negative upon presentation for treatment (“spontaneous resolvers”), (ii) C. trachomatis negative at a 3-month follow-up visit after treatment (“nonreinfected”), and (iii) C. trachomatis positive at a 3-month follow-up after treatment (“reinfected”). This analysis yielded immunodominant epitopes that had been previously described but also identified new epitopes targeted by human antibody responses to C. trachomatis. We focused on human antibody responses to the C. trachomatis variable domain 4 serovar-conserved region of the major outer membrane protein (VD4-MOMP), a previously described immunodominant epitope. All three groups of women produced IgG to the VD4-MOMP, suggesting that detection of serum antibodies to VD4-MOMP in women with urogenital C. trachomatis infection is not associated with protection against reinfection. IMPORTANCEC. trachomatis infection is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection, and infection in women can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility. No licensed vaccine exists to prevent C. trachomatis infection, and investigations of the natural immune response may inform the design of targeted vaccines for C. trachomatis. Our study fills a gap in knowledge regarding the epitope specificity of antibody responses that are elicited in response to C. trachomatis infection in women. We identified several new B cell epitopes for C. trachomatis antigens and confirmed B cell epitopes that have been identified by other methods. Our finding that women produce antibodies to the VD4-MOMP regardless of infection outcome provides insight into vaccine development, suggesting that vaccines targeting VD4-MOMP may need to elicit higher-titer antibody responses than natural infection imparts or that additional vaccine targets should be pursued in the future.
Collapse
|
42
|
McQueen BE, Kiatthanapaiboon A, Fulcher ML, Lam M, Patton K, Powell E, Kollipara A, Madden V, Suchland RJ, Wyrick P, O'Connell CM, Reidel B, Kesimer M, Randell SH, Darville T, Nagarajan UM. Human Fallopian Tube Epithelial Cell Culture Model To Study Host Responses to Chlamydia trachomatis Infection. Infect Immun 2020; 88:e00105-20. [PMID: 32601108 PMCID: PMC7440757 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00105-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis infection of the human fallopian tubes can lead to damaging inflammation and scarring, ultimately resulting in infertility. To study the human cellular responses to chlamydial infection, researchers have frequently used transformed cell lines that can have limited translational relevance. We developed a primary human fallopian tube epithelial cell model based on a method previously established for culture of primary human bronchial epithelial cells. After protease digestion and physical dissociation of excised fallopian tubes, epithelial cell precursors were expanded in growth factor-containing medium. Expanded cells were cryopreserved to generate a biobank of cells from multiple donors and cultured at an air-liquid interface. Culture conditions stimulated cellular differentiation into polarized mucin-secreting and multiciliated cells, recapitulating the architecture of human fallopian tube epithelium. The polarized and differentiated cells were infected with a clinical isolate of C. trachomatis, and inclusions containing chlamydial developmental forms were visualized by fluorescence and electron microscopy. Apical secretions from infected cells contained increased amounts of proteins associated with chlamydial growth and replication, including transferrin receptor protein 1, the amino acid transporters SLC3A2 and SLC1A5, and the T-cell chemoattractants CXCL10, CXCL11, and RANTES. Flow cytometry revealed that chlamydial infection induced cell surface expression of T-cell homing and activation proteins, including ICAM-1, VCAM-1, HLA class I and II, and interferon gamma receptor. This human fallopian tube epithelial cell culture model is an important tool with translational potential for studying cellular responses to Chlamydia and other sexually transmitted pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bryan E McQueen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Amy Kiatthanapaiboon
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - M Leslie Fulcher
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Mariam Lam
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kate Patton
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Emily Powell
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Avinash Kollipara
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Victoria Madden
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Robert J Suchland
- University of Washington, Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Priscilla Wyrick
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Catherine M O'Connell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Boris Reidel
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Mehmet Kesimer
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Scott H Randell
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Uma M Nagarajan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Wang H, Li J, Dong X, Zhou X, Zhao L, Wang X, Rashu R, Zhao W, Yang X. NK Cells Contribute to Protective Memory T Cell Mediated Immunity to Chlamydia muridarum Infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:296. [PMID: 32626664 PMCID: PMC7311576 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously reported that NK cells can promote type 1 T cell immune response that is essential for protection to a primary infection of Chlamydia muridarum. In this study, we have investigated the contribution of NK cells to memory T cells associated immunity during chlamydial infection. We have found that NK cell depletion led to impaired production of IFN-γ by memory T cells upon re-stimulation with chlamydial antigens in vitro. Mice with depleted NK cells also exhibited reduced type 1 T cell recall responses, with increased production of IL-4 from CD4+ T cells and a lower level of Chlamydia-specific IgG2a titers compared to control mice. In addition, Tregs response was significantly increased in mice with NK cell depletion. Moreover, NK cell-depleted mice showed an increased bacterial loads and more severe inflammatory pathological changes than control mice. These findings indicate that NK cells contribute to protective memory T cell associated immunity to chlamydial re-infection through modulating the cytokine pattern of T cell and inhibition of Tregs response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology & Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Pathogenic Biology & Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaojing Dong
- Department of Pathogenic Biology & Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xaoqing Zhou
- Department of Pathogenic Biology & Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Institute of Basic Medical Science, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Rasheduzzaman Rashu
- Department of Immunology and Department of Medical Microbiology, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Weiming Zhao
- Department of Pathogenic Biology & Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Shandong Province, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Immunology and Department of Medical Microbiology, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Wang C, Li Y, Wang S, Yan X, Xiao J, Chen Y, Zheng K, Tan Y, Yu J, Lu C, Wu Y. Evaluation of a tandem Chlamydia psittaci Pgp3 multiepitope peptide vaccine against a pulmonary chlamydial challenge in mice. Microb Pathog 2020; 147:104256. [PMID: 32416138 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2020.104256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia psittaci is the pathogen of psittacosis, and it has emerged as a significant public health threat. Because most infections are easily overlooked, a vaccine is recognized as the best solution to control the spread of C. psittaci. Our previous study showed that Pgp3 protein is efficacious as a subunit vaccine while not the best candidate due to the negative effects. Thus, in this study, we tested the ability of a tandem epitope vaccine candidate designated SP based on Pgp3-dominant epitopes to induce protective immunity against pulmonary chlamydial infection. BALB/c mice were intraperitoneally inoculated with multiepitope peptide antigens followed by intranasal infection with C. psittaci. We found that the multiepitope peptide antigens induced strong humoral and cellular immune responses with high Th1-related (IFN-γ and IL-2) and proinflammatory (IL-6) cytokine levels. Meanwhile, the pathogen burden and inflammatory infiltration were significantly reduced in lungs of SP-immunized mice after chlamydial challenge. In addition, the IFN-γ and IL-6 secretion levels in the infected lungs were substantially reduced. Overall, our findings demonstrate that the peptide vaccine SP plays a significant role with good immunogenicity and protective efficacy against C. psittaci lung infection in BALB/c mice, providing important insights towards understanding the potential of peptide vaccines as new vaccine antigens for inducing protective immunity against chlamydial infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Wang
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Yumeng Li
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Shuzhi Wang
- Institute of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Xiaoliang Yan
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Jian Xiao
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Yuqing Chen
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Kang Zheng
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Yuan Tan
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Jian Yu
- Department of Experimental Zoology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Chunxue Lu
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Yimou Wu
- Institute of Pathogenic Biology, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Special Pathogens Prevention and Control, Hengyang, China; Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang, 421001, China.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Poston TB, Lee DE, Darville T, Zhong W, Dong L, O'Connell CM, Wiesenfeld HC, Hillier SL, Sempowski GD, Zheng X. Cervical Cytokines Associated With Chlamydia trachomatis Susceptibility and Protection. J Infect Dis 2020; 220:330-339. [PMID: 30820577 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiz087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chlamydia trachomatis can cause reproductive morbidities after ascending to the upper genital tract of women, and repeated infection can lead to worse disease. Data related to protective immune responses at the cervical mucosa that could limit chlamydial infection to the cervix and/or prevent reinfection inform vaccine approaches and biomarkers of risk. METHODS We measured 48 cytokines in cervical secretions from women having chlamydial cervical infection alone (n = 92) or both cervical and endometrial infection (n = 68). Univariable regression identified cytokines associated with differential odds of endometrial infection and reinfection risk, and multivariable stepwise regression identified cytokine ratios associated with differential risk. RESULTS Elevated interleukin (IL) 15/CXCL10 (odds ratio [OR], 0.55 [95% confidence interval {CI}, .37-.78]), IL-16/tumor necrosis factor-α (OR, 0.66 [95% CI, .45-.93]), and CXCL14/IL-17A (OR, 0.73 [95% CI, .54-.97]) cytokine ratios were significantly (P ≤ .05) associated with decreased odds of endometrial infection. A higher Flt-3L/IL-14 ratio was significantly (P = .001) associated with a decreased risk of reinfection (hazard ratio, 0.71 [95% CI, .58-.88]). CONCLUSIONS Cytokines involved in humoral, type I interferon, and T-helper (Th) 17 responses were associated with susceptibility to C. trachomatis, whereas cytokines involved in Th1 polarization, recruitment, and activation were associated with protection against ascension and reinfection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taylor B Poston
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - De'Ashia E Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Wujuan Zhong
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Li Dong
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | | | - Harold C Wiesenfeld
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the Magee-Womens Research Institute Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Sharon L Hillier
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the Magee-Womens Research Institute Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Gregory D Sempowski
- Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Durham, North Carolina.,Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Xiaojing Zheng
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Nguyen NDNT, Olsen AW, Lorenzen E, Andersen P, Hvid M, Follmann F, Dietrich J. Parenteral vaccination protects against transcervical infection with Chlamydia trachomatis and generate tissue-resident T cells post-challenge. NPJ Vaccines 2020; 5:7. [PMID: 31993218 PMCID: PMC6978417 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-020-0157-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The optimal protective immunity against Chlamydia trachomatis (C.t.) is still not fully resolved. One of the unresolved issues concerns the importance of resident immunity, since a recent study showed that optimal protection against a transcervical (TC) infection required genital tissue-resident memory T cells. An important question in the Chlamydia field is therefore if a parenteral vaccine strategy, inducing only circulating immunity primed at a nonmucosal site, should be pursued by Chlamydia vaccine developers. To address this question we studied the protective efficacy of a parenteral Chlamydia vaccine, formulated in the Th1/Th17 T cell-inducing adjuvant CAF01. We found that a parenteral vaccination induced significant protection against a TC infection and against development of chronic pathology. Protection correlated with rapid recruitment of Th1/Th17 T cells to the genital tract (GT), which efficiently prevented infection-driven generation of low quality Th1 or Th17 T cells, and instead maintained a pool of high quality multifunctional Th1/Th17 T cells in the GT throughout the infection. After clearance of the infection, a pool of these cells settled in the GT as tissue-resident Th1 and Th17 cells expressing CD69 but not CD103, CD49d, or CCR7, where they responded rapidly to a reinfection. These results show that a nonmucosal parenteral strategy inducing Th1 and Th17 T cells mediates protection against both infection with C.t. as well as development of chronic pathology, and lead to post-challenge protective tissue-resident memory immunity in the genital tract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anja W Olsen
- 1Statens Serum Institut, Department for Infectious Disease Immunology, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emma Lorenzen
- 1Statens Serum Institut, Department for Infectious Disease Immunology, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Andersen
- 1Statens Serum Institut, Department for Infectious Disease Immunology, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Malene Hvid
- 2Department of Biomedicine and Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Frank Follmann
- 1Statens Serum Institut, Department for Infectious Disease Immunology, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jes Dietrich
- 1Statens Serum Institut, Department for Infectious Disease Immunology, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Mwatelah R, McKinnon LR, Baxter C, Abdool Karim Q, Abdool Karim SS. Mechanisms of sexually transmitted infection-induced inflammation in women: implications for HIV risk. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22 Suppl 6:e25346. [PMID: 31468677 PMCID: PMC6715949 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Globally, sexually transmitted infections (STI) affect >300 million people annually, and are a major cause of sexual and reproductive health complications in women. In this commentary, we describe how STIs interact with the immune and non-immune cells, both within and below the cervicovaginal mucosal barrier, to cause inflammation, which in turn has been associated with increased HIV acquisition risk. DISCUSSION STIs have a major impact on the female genital mucosa, which is an important biological and physical barrier that forms the first line of defence against invading microorganisms such as HIV. Pattern recognition of STI pathogens, by receptors expressed either on the cell surface or inside the cell, typically triggers inflammation at the mucosal barrier. The types of mucosal responses vary by STI, and can be asymptomatic or culminate in the formation of discharge, ulcers and/or warts. While the aim of this response is to clear the invading microbes, in many cases these responses are either evaded or cause pathology that impairs barrier integrity and increases HIV access to target cells in the sub-mucosa. In addition, innate responses to STIs can result in an increased number of immune cells, including those that are the primary targets of HIV, and may contribute to the association between STIs and increased susceptibility to HIV acquisition. Many of these cells are mediators of adaptive immunity, including tissue-resident cells that may also display innate-like functions. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is another common cause of inflammation, and evidence for multiple interactions between BV, STIs and HIV suggest that susceptibility to these conditions should be considered in concert. CONCLUSIONS STIs and other microbes can induce inflammation in the genital tract, perturbing the normal robust function of the mucosal barrier against HIV. While the impact of STIs on the mucosal immune system and HIV acquisition is often under-appreciated, understanding their interactions of the infections with the immune responses play an important role in improving treatment and reducing the risk of HIV acquisition. The frequent sub-clinical inflammation associated with STIs underscores the need for better STI diagnostics to reverse the immunological consequences of infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Mwatelah
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious DiseasesUniversity of ManitobaWinnipegCanada
| | - Lyle R McKinnon
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious DiseasesUniversity of ManitobaWinnipegCanada
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)University of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
| | - Cheryl Baxter
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)University of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
| | - Quarraisha Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)University of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
- Department of EpidemiologyColumbia UniversityNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Salim S Abdool Karim
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA)University of KwaZulu‐NatalDurbanSouth Africa
- Department of EpidemiologyColumbia UniversityNew YorkNYUSA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Yahr TL, Ellermeier CD. 25 th Annual Midwest Microbial Pathogenesis Conference. J Bacteriol 2019; 201:e00239-19. [PMID: 30988032 PMCID: PMC6597398 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00239-19] [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] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The 25th annual Midwest Microbial Pathogenesis Conference (MMPC) was held at the University of Iowa from 28 to 30 September 2018. The conference has a long-standing tradition of providing scientists from the Midwest with a forum to present and discuss cutting-edge advances in microbial pathogenesis with particular focus on bacterial interactions with the environment, host, and other microbes. This review summarizes the genesis of the MMPC, topics presented at the conference, and articles found in the special MMPC sections of this issue of the Journal of Bacteriology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy L. Yahr
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Craig D. Ellermeier
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Davis S, Toledo C, Lewis L, Maughan-Brown B, Ayalew K, Kharsany ABM. Does voluntary medical male circumcision protect against sexually transmitted infections among men and women in real-world scale-up settings? Findings of a household survey in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. BMJ Glob Health 2019; 4:e001389. [PMID: 31263584 PMCID: PMC6570991 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2019-001389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Male circumcision (MC) confers partial protection to men against HIV and, in research settings, some sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is also associated with protection from some STIs among female partners. However, real-world data on changes in STI transmission associated with large-scale public African medical male circumcision (MMC) conducted for HIV prevention are lacking and would improve estimates of the health impact of MMC. METHODS The HIV Incidence Provincial Surveillance System is a community-based surveillance platform for HIV prevalence, incidence and intervention coverage trends in KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. HIPPS collected cross-sectional self-reported data on circumcision status (from men), partner circumcision status for past three partners (from women) and demographic characteristics and behavioural risk factors; and tested participants for HIV, herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), syphilis, hepatitis B, N eisseria gonorrhoeae, C hlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis and Mycoplasma genitalium. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were performed on associations between own (men) or partner's (women) circumcision status and each STI. Multivariable analyses adjusted for age, demographic characteristics and behavioural risk factors, and incorporated false discovery rate (FDR) correction. RESULTS Among men, MMC had a protective association with HSV-2 (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.86), hepatitis B (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.30 to 0.95), HIV (OR 0.50, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.65) and M. genitalium (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.88). Among women, partner circumcision had a protective association with HSV-2 (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.53 to 0.95) and HIV (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.49 to 0.90). Associations with HIV and HSV-2 remained significant for men and all women after FDR correction. CONCLUSION These real-world data, supporting protective associations between MMC conducted for HIV prevention and STIs in men and women, can help clarify the full impact of MMC and support a role in broader sexual health programming.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Davis
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Carlos Toledo
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Lara Lewis
- Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa, Durban, South Africa
| | - Brendan Maughan-Brown
- Southern Africa Labour and Development Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kassahun Ayalew
- Division of Global HIV and Tuberculosis, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ayesha B M Kharsany
- Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa, Durban, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|