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Yang R, Cui J. Advances and applications of RNA vaccines in tumor treatment. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:226. [PMID: 39385255 PMCID: PMC11463124 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02141-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 09/30/2024] [Indexed: 10/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Compared to other types of tumor vaccines, RNA vaccines have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional vaccine therapy due to their high efficiency, rapid development capability, and potential for low-cost manufacturing and safe drug delivery. RNA vaccines mainly include mRNA, circular RNA (circRNA), and Self-amplifying mRNA(SAM). Different RNA vaccine platforms for different tumors have shown encouraging results in animal and human models. This review comprehensively describes the advances and applications of RNA vaccines in antitumor therapy. Future directions for extending this promising vaccine platform to a wide range of therapeutic uses are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruohan Yang
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Jiuwei Cui
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China.
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2
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Çakan E, Lara OD, Szymanowska A, Bayraktar E, Chavez-Reyes A, Lopez-Berestein G, Amero P, Rodriguez-Aguayo C. Therapeutic Antisense Oligonucleotides in Oncology: From Bench to Bedside. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2940. [PMID: 39272802 PMCID: PMC11394571 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16172940] [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: 07/24/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Advancements in our comprehension of tumor biology and chemoresistance have spurred the development of treatments that precisely target specific molecules within the body. Despite the expanding landscape of therapeutic options, there persists a demand for innovative approaches to address unmet clinical needs. RNA therapeutics have emerged as a promising frontier in this realm, offering novel avenues for intervention such as RNA interference and the utilization of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). ASOs represent a versatile class of therapeutics capable of selectively targeting messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and silencing disease-associated proteins, thereby disrupting pathogenic processes at the molecular level. Recent advancements in chemical modification and carrier molecule design have significantly enhanced the stability, biodistribution, and intracellular uptake of ASOs, thereby bolstering their therapeutic potential. While ASO therapy holds promise across various disease domains, including oncology, coronary angioplasty, neurological disorders, viral, and parasitic diseases, our review manuscript focuses specifically on the application of ASOs in targeted cancer therapies. Through a comprehensive examination of the latest research findings and clinical developments, we delve into the intricacies of ASO-based approaches to cancer treatment, shedding light on their mechanisms of action, therapeutic efficacy, and prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Çakan
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
- Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara 06100, Turkey
| | - Olivia D Lara
- Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNA, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Anna Szymanowska
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Emine Bayraktar
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Gaziantep, Gaziantep 27310, Turkey
| | | | - Gabriel Lopez-Berestein
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Paola Amero
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
| | - Cristian Rodriguez-Aguayo
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77054, USA
- Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNA, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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3
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Sarin D, Krishna K, Nejadnik MR, Suryanarayanan R, Rathore AS. Impact of Excipient Extraction and Buffer Exchange on Recombinant Monoclonal Antibody Stability. Mol Pharm 2024; 21:1872-1883. [PMID: 38422397 PMCID: PMC10988557 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.3c01157] [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: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The foundation of a biosimilar manufacturer's regulatory filing is the demonstration of analytical and functional similarity between the biosimilar product and the pertinent originator product. The excipients in the formulation may interfere with characterization using typical analytical and functional techniques during this biosimilarity exercise. Consequently, the producers of biosimilar products resort to buffer exchange to isolate the biotherapeutic protein from the drug product formulation. However, the impact that this isolation has on the product stability is not completely known. This study aims to elucidate the extent to which mAb isolation via ultrafiltration-diafiltration-based buffer exchange impacts mAb stability. It has been demonstrated that repeated extraction cycles do result in significant changes in higher-order structure (red-shift of 5.0 nm in fluorescence maxima of buffer exchanged samples) of the mAb and also an increase in formation of basic variants from 19.1 to 26.7% and from 32.3 to 36.9% in extracted innovator and biosimilar Tmab samples, respectively. It was also observed that under certain conditions of tertiary structure disruptions, Tmab could be restabilized depending on formulation composition. Thus, mAb isolation through extraction with buffer exchange impacts the product stability. Based on the observations reported in this paper, we recommend that biosimilar manufacturers take into consideration these effects of excipients on protein stability when performing biosimilarity assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Sarin
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute
of Technology, Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - Kunal Krishna
- School
of Interdisciplinary Research, Indian Institute
of Technology, Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
| | - M. Reza Nejadnik
- Department
of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Experimental Therapeutics, College
of Pharmacy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, United States
| | - Raj Suryanarayanan
- Department
of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University
of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Anurag S. Rathore
- Department
of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute
of Technology, Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110016, India
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4
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Mallette TL, Lidke DS, Lakin MR. Heterochiral modifications enhance robustness and function of DNA in living human cells. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202300755. [PMID: 38228506 PMCID: PMC10923132 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300755] [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: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Oligonucleotide therapeutics are becoming increasingly important as more are approved by the FDA, both for treatment and vaccination. Similarly, dynamic DNA nanotechnology is a promising technique that can be used to sense exogenous input molecules or endogenous biomarkers and integrate the results of multiple sensing reactions in situ via a programmed cascade of reactions. The combination of these two technologies could be highly impactful in biomedicine by enabling smart oligonucleotide therapeutics that can autonomously sense and respond to a disease state. A particular challenge, however, is the limited lifetime of standard nucleic acid components in living cells and organisms due to degradation by endogenous nucleases. In this work, we address this challenge by incorporating mirror-image, ʟ-DNA nucleotides to produce heterochiral "gapmers". We use dynamic DNA nanotechnology to show that these modifications keep the oligonucleotide intact in living human cells for longer than an unmodified strand. To this end, we used a sequential transfection protocol for delivering multiple nucleic acids into living human cells while providing enhanced confidence that subsequent interactions are actually occurring within the cells. Taken together, this work advances the state of the art of ʟ-nucleic acid protection of oligonucleotides and DNA circuitry for applications in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy L Mallette
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87131, USA
| | - Diane S Lidke
- Department of Pathology and Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87131, USA
| | - Matthew R Lakin
- Department of Computer Science, Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87131, USA
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Kumar H, Gupta NV, Jain R, Madhunapantula SV, Babu CS, Kesharwani SS, Dey S, Jain V. A review of biological targets and therapeutic approaches in the management of triple-negative breast cancer. J Adv Res 2023; 54:271-292. [PMID: 36791960 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous, aggressive phenotype of breast cancer with associated chemoresistance. The development of chemo- or radioresistance could be attributed to diverse tumor microenvironments, overexpression of membrane proteins (transporters), epigenetic changes, and alteration of the cell signaling pathways/genes associated with the development of cancer stem cells (CSCs). AIM OF REVIEW Due to the diverse and heterogeneous nature of TNBC, therapeutic response to the existing modalities offers limited scope and thus results in reccurance after therapy. To establish landmark therapeutic efficacy, a number of novel therapeutic modalities have been proposed. In addition, reversal of the resistance that developed during treatment may be altered by employing appropriate therapeutic modalities. This review aims to discuss the plethora of investigations carried out, which will help readers understand and make an appropriate choice of therapy directed toward complete elimination of TNBC. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW This manuscript addresses the major contributory factors from the tumor microenvironment that are responsible for the development of chemoresistance and poor prognosis. The associated cellular events and molecular mechanism-based therapeutic interventions have been explained in detail. Inhibition of ABC transporters, cell signaling pathways associated with CSCs, and epigenetic modification offers promising results in this regard. TNBC progression, invasion, metastasis and recurrence can also be inhibited by blocking multiple cell signaling pathways, targeting specific receptors/epigenetic targets, disrupting bioenergetics and generating reactive oxygen species (ROS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitesh Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, India
| | - N Vishal Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, India
| | - Rupshee Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, India
| | - SubbaRao V Madhunapantula
- Department of Biochemistry, Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology & Regenerative Medicine, JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, India
| | - C Saravana Babu
- Department of Pharmacology, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, India
| | | | - Surajit Dey
- Roseman University of Health Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Henderson, NV, USA
| | - Vikas Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutics, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Mysuru 570015, India.
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6
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Collotta D, Bertocchi I, Chiapello E, Collino M. Antisense oligonucleotides: a novel Frontier in pharmacological strategy. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1304342. [PMID: 38044945 PMCID: PMC10690781 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1304342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are short single stranded synthetic RNA or DNA molecules, whereas double-stranded RNA nucleotide sequences are called small interfering RNA (siRNA). ASOs bind to complementary nucleic acid sequences impacting the associated functions of the targeted nucleic acids. They represent an emerging class of drugs that, through a revolutionary mechanism of action, aim to directly regulate disease-causing genes and their variants, providing an alternative tool to traditional "protein-specific" therapies. The majority of the ASOs are designed to treat orphan genetic disorders that in most of the cases are seriously disabling and still lacking an adequate therapy. In order to translate ASOs into clinical success, constant technological advances have been instrumental in overcoming several pharmacological, toxicological and formulation limitations. Accordingly, chemical structures have been recently implemented and new bio-conjugation and nanocarriers formulation strategies explored. The aim of this work is to offer an overview of the antisense technology with a comparative analysis of the oligonucleotides approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
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Affiliation(s)
- D. Collotta
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - I. Bertocchi
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi (NICO), University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - E. Chiapello
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - M. Collino
- Department of Neuroscience Rita Levi Montalcini, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Araújo D, Gonçalves B, Vilas Boas D, Rodrigues ME, Henriques M, Silva S. Combined Application of Antisense Oligomers to Control Transcription Factors of Candida albicans Biofilm Formation. Mycopathologia 2023:10.1007/s11046-023-00734-0. [PMID: 37099227 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-023-00734-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Antisense oligomers (ASOs) have been little exploited to control determinants of Candida albicans virulence. Biofilm formation is an important virulence factor of C. albicans, that is regulated by a complex network of transcription factors (such as EFG1, BRG1 and ROB1). Thus, the main goal of this work was to project ASOs, based on the 2'-OMethyl chemical modification, to target BRG1 and ROB1 mRNA and to validate its application either alone or in combination with the EFG1 mRNA target, to reduce C. albicans biofilm formation. The ability of ASOs to control gene expression was evaluate by qRT-PCR. The effect on biofilm formation was determined by the total biomass quantification, and simultaneously the carbohydrates and proteins reduction on extracellular matrix. It was verified that all the oligomers were able to reduce the levels of gene expression and the ability of C. albicans to form biofilms. Furthermore, the combined application of the cocktail of ASOs enhances the inhibition of C. albicans biofilm formation, minimizing biofilm thickness by reducing the quantity of matrix content (protein and carbohydrate). So, our work confirms that ASOs are useful tools for research and therapeutic development on the control of Candida species biofilm formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Araújo
- Centre of Biological Engineering, LMaS-Laboratório de Microbiologia Aplicada à Saúde, CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal.
- LABBELS, Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
| | - B Gonçalves
- Centre of Biological Engineering, LMaS-Laboratório de Microbiologia Aplicada à Saúde, CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
- LABBELS, Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - D Vilas Boas
- Centre of Biological Engineering, LMaS-Laboratório de Microbiologia Aplicada à Saúde, CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
- LABBELS, Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - M E Rodrigues
- Centre of Biological Engineering, LMaS-Laboratório de Microbiologia Aplicada à Saúde, CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
- LABBELS, Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - M Henriques
- Centre of Biological Engineering, LMaS-Laboratório de Microbiologia Aplicada à Saúde, CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
- LABBELS, Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - S Silva
- Centre of Biological Engineering, LMaS-Laboratório de Microbiologia Aplicada à Saúde, CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, 4710-057, Braga, Portugal
- INIAV, IP-National Institute for Agrarian and Veterinary, Rua Dos Lagidos, Lugar da Madalena, Vairão, Vila Do Conde, Portugal
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Rouse WB, Gart J, Peysakhova L, Moss WN. Analysis of key genes in Mycobacterium ulcerans reveals conserved RNA structural motifs and regions with apparent pressure to remain unstructured. FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2022; 3. [PMID: 37006713 PMCID: PMC10062443 DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2022.1009362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Buruli Ulcer is a neglected tropical disease that results in disfiguring and dangerous lesions in affected persons across a wide geographic area, including much of West Africa. The causative agent of Buruli Ulcer is Mycobacterium ulcerans, a relative of the bacterium that causes tuberculosis and leprosy. Few therapeutic options exist for the treatment of this disease beyond antibiotics in the early stages, which are frequently ineffective, and surgical removal in the later stage. In this study we analyze six genes in Mycobacterium ulcerans that have high potential of therapeutic targeting. We focus our analysis on a combined in silico and comparative sequence study of potential RNA secondary structure across these genes. The result of this work was the comprehensive local RNA structural landscape across each of these significant genes. This revealed multiple sites of ordered and evolved RNA structure interspersed between sequences that either have no bias for structure or, indeed, appear to be ordered to be unstructured and (potentially) accessible. In addition to providing data that could be of interest to basic biology, our results provide guides for efforts aimed at targeting this pathogen at the RNA level. We explore this latter possibility through the in silico analysis of antisense oligonucleotides that could potentially be used to target pathogen RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warren B. Rouse
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Jessica Gart
- Science and Engineering Research Program (SERP), Staten Island Technical High School, Staten Island, NY, United States
| | - Lauren Peysakhova
- Science and Engineering Research Program (SERP), Staten Island Technical High School, Staten Island, NY, United States
| | - Walter N. Moss
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Molecular Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
- CORRESPONDENCE: Walter N. Moss,
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Razavi Vakhshourpour S, Nateghpour M, Shahrokhi N, Motevalli Haghi A, Mohebali M, Hanifian H. Potential of RH5 Antisense on Plasmodium falciparum Proliferation Abatement. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2022; 17:525-534. [PMID: 36694567 PMCID: PMC9825705 DOI: 10.18502/ijpa.v17i4.11280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Infections by Plasmodium falciparum, are becoming increasingly difficult to treat. Therefore, there is an urgent need for novel antimalarial agents' discovery against infection. In present study, we described a 2'-O-Methyl gapmer phosphorothioate oligonucleotide antisense targeting translation initiation region of 3D7 strain RH5 gene. Methods The study was conducted in Pasteur Institute of Iran in 2020. ODNs effects were measured by microscopic examination and real time RT-PCR. For microscopy, microplates were charged with 2'-OMe ODNs at different dilutions. Unsynchronized parasites were added to a total of 0.4 ml (0.4% parasitemia, 5% red blood cells), and slides were prepared. Proportion of infected cells was measured by counting at least 500 red blood cells. Results RH5 genes start codon regions selected as conserved region besed on alignment results. Gap-RH5-As which was complementary to sequence surrounding AUG RH5 start codon significantly reduced parasite growth (>90% at 50 nM) compared to sense sequence control (Gap-RH5-Se) (17%), (P<0.001). RH5 transcripts were dramatically reduced after exposed to ODNs at a concentration of 5-500 nM for 48 h. Conclusion Gemnosis delivery of a chimeric gapmer PS-ODN with 2'-OMe modifications at both sides had high antisense activity at low concentrations (10-100 nM) and shown a good efficiency to reach to target mRNA in human RBCs. Anti-parasite effect was correlated to reduction of target gene mRNA level. In addition, 2'-OMe ODNs free delivery is an effective way and does not need any carrier molecules or particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepand Razavi Vakhshourpour
- Department of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Nateghpour
- Department of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Research Center of Quran, Hadith and Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nader Shahrokhi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Motevalli Haghi
- Department of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mohebali
- Department of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Haleh Hanifian
- Department of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors for Vaccine Improvements: Current Status and New Approaches. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14081721. [PMID: 36015348 PMCID: PMC9415890 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14081721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in combination with approved or experimental vaccines has proven to be a promising approach to improve vaccine immunogenicity and efficacy. This strategy seeks to overcome the immunosuppressive mechanisms associated with the vaccine response, thereby achieving increased immunogenicity and efficacy. Most of the information on the use of ICIs combined with vaccines derives from studies on certain anti-tumor vaccines combined with monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against either cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4), programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), or programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). However, over the past few years, emerging strategies to use new-generation ICIs as molecular adjuvants are paving the way for future advances in vaccine research. Here, we review the current state and future directions of the use of ICIs in experimental and clinical settings, including mAbs and alternative new approaches using antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small non-coding RNAs, aptamers, peptides, and other small molecules for improving vaccine efficacy. The scope of this review mainly includes the use of ICIs in therapeutic antitumor vaccines, although recent research on anti-infective vaccines will also be addressed.
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11
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Palatella M, Guillaume SM, Linterman MA, Huehn J. The dark side of Tregs during aging. Front Immunol 2022; 13:940705. [PMID: 36016952 PMCID: PMC9398463 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.940705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last century, we have seen a dramatic rise in the number of older persons globally, a trend known as the grey (or silver) tsunami. People live markedly longer than their predecessors worldwide, due to remarkable changes in their lifestyle and in progresses made by modern medicine. However, the older we become, the more susceptible we are to a series of age-related pathologies, including infections, cancers, autoimmune diseases, and multi-morbidities. Therefore, a key challenge for our modern societies is how to cope with this fragile portion of the population, so that everybody could have the opportunity to live a long and healthy life. From a holistic point of view, aging results from the progressive decline of various systems. Among them, the distinctive age-dependent changes in the immune system contribute to the enhanced frailty of the elderly. One of these affects a population of lymphocytes, known as regulatory T cells (Tregs), as accumulating evidence suggest that there is a significant increase in the frequency of these cells in secondary lymphoid organs (SLOs) of aged animals. Although there are still discrepancies in the literature about modifications to their functional properties during aging, mounting evidence suggests a detrimental role for Tregs in the elderly in the context of bacterial and viral infections by suppressing immune responses against non-self-antigens. Interestingly, Tregs seem to also contribute to the reduced effectiveness of immunizations against many pathogens by limiting the production of vaccine-induced protective antibodies. In this review, we will analyze the current state of understandings about the role of Tregs in acute and chronic infections as well as in vaccination response in both humans and mice. Lastly, we provide an overview of current strategies for Treg modulation with potential future applications to improve the effectiveness of vaccines in older individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Palatella
- Department Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | | | | | - Jochen Huehn
- Department Experimental Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
- Cluster of Excellence RESIST (EXC 2155), Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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12
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Fernández-Delgado M, Sendra L, Herrero MJ, Olivera-Pasquini GG, Batista-Duharte A, Aliño SF. Study of Oligonucleotides Access and Distribution in Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:5839. [PMID: 35628649 PMCID: PMC9143973 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic oligonucleotides have achieved great clinical interest since their approval as drug agents by regulatory agencies but their access and distribution in blood cells are not completely known. We evaluated by flow cytometry the ability of short fluorescent scramble oligonucleotides (ON*) to access human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) after incubating with ON* during 1 h and 7 days of culture follow-up 'in vitro'. Blood samples were treated with chemically modified oligonucleotides (phosphorothioate backbone and 2' O-Me ends) to resist nuclease digestion under culture conditions. The ON* internalization was determined after discarding the membrane-associated fluorescence by trypan blue quenching. Whereas the oligonucleotide accessed neutrophils and monocytes rapidly, achieving their maximum in 1 h and 24 h, respectively, lymphocytes required 7 days to achieve the maximum (80% of cells) transfection. The ON*ability to access lymphocyte types (T, B, and NK) and T cell subtypes (CD4+, CD8+, and CD4-CD8-) were similar, with T cells being more accessible. Regulatory CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were classified in low and high Foxp3 expressers, whose expression proved not to alter the ON* internalization during the first hour, achieving 53% of CD4+Foxp3+ and 40% of CD8+Foxp3+ cells. Our results contribute to understanding and improving the management of therapeutic ONs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Fernández-Delgado
- Service of Hematology and Hemotherapy, Hospital General Universitario de Castellón, 12004 Castelló de la Plana, Spain;
| | - Luis Sendra
- Farmacogenetics and Gene Therapy Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, 106, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.J.H.); (G.G.O.-P.); (S.F.A.)
- Gene Therapy and Pharmacogenomics Group, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - María José Herrero
- Farmacogenetics and Gene Therapy Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, 106, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.J.H.); (G.G.O.-P.); (S.F.A.)
- Gene Therapy and Pharmacogenomics Group, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Gladys G. Olivera-Pasquini
- Farmacogenetics and Gene Therapy Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, 106, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.J.H.); (G.G.O.-P.); (S.F.A.)
| | - Alexander Batista-Duharte
- GC01 Immunology and Allergy Group, Maimonides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Av. Menéndez Pidal, s/n, 14004 Córdoba, Spain;
- Laboratório de Imunología Clínica, Dpto Analises Clinicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Rod. Araraquara-Jaú—Km 1, Campus Ville, 14800 Araraquara, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Salvador F. Aliño
- Farmacogenetics and Gene Therapy Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, 106, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (M.J.H.); (G.G.O.-P.); (S.F.A.)
- Gene Therapy and Pharmacogenomics Group, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010 Valencia, Spain
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Tarvirdipour S, Skowicki M, Schoenenberger CA, Kapinos LE, Lim R, Benenson Y, Palivan CG. A self-assembling peptidic platform to boost the cellular uptake and nuclear delivery of oligonucleotides. Biomater Sci 2022; 10:4309-4323. [DOI: 10.1039/d2bm00826b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The design of non-viral vectors that efficiently deliver genetic materials into cells, in particular to the nucleus, remains a major challenge in gene therapy and vaccine development. To tackle the...
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Regulatory T cells and vaccine effectiveness in older adults. Challenges and prospects. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 96:107761. [PMID: 34162139 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Since the discovery of lymphocytes with immunosuppressive activity, increasing interest has arisen in their possible influence on the immune response induced by vaccines. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are essential for maintaining peripheral tolerance, preventing autoimmune diseases, and limiting chronic inflammatory diseases. However, they also limit beneficial immune responses by suppressing anti-infectious and anti-tumor immunity. Mounting evidence suggests that Tregs are involved, at least in part, in the low effectiveness of immunization against various diseases where it has been difficult to obtain protective vaccines. Interestingly, increased activity of Tregs is associated with aging, suggesting a key role for these cells in the lower vaccine effectiveness observed in older people. In this review, we analyze the impact of Tregs on vaccination, with a focus on older adults. Finally, we address an overview of current strategies for Tregs modulation with potential application to improve the effectiveness of future vaccines targeting older populations.
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Batista-Duharte A, Sendra L, Herrero MJ, Portuondo DL, Téllez-Martínez D, Olivera G, Fernández-Delgado M, Javega B, Herrera G, Martínez A, Costa PI, Zeppone Carlos I, Aliño SF. Foxp3 Silencing with Antisense Oligonucleotide Improves Immunogenicity of an Adjuvanted Recombinant Vaccine against Sporothrix schenckii. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3470. [PMID: 33801683 PMCID: PMC8037512 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, there has been great interest in developing molecular adjuvants based on antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) targeting immunosuppressor pathways with inhibitory effects on regulatory T cells (Tregs) to improve immunogenicity and vaccine efficacy. We aim to evaluate the immunostimulating effect of 2'OMe phosphorothioated Foxp3-targeted ASO in an antifungal adjuvanted recombinant vaccine. METHODS The uptake kinetics of Foxp3 ASO, its cytotoxicity and its ability to deplete Tregs were evaluated in murine splenocytes in vitro. Groups of mice were vaccinated with recombinant enolase (Eno) of Sporothix schenckii in Montanide Gel 01 adjuvant alone or in combination with either 1 µg or 8 µg of Foxp3 ASO. The titers of antigen-specific antibody in serum samples from vaccinated mice (male C57BL/6) were determined by ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). Cultured splenocytes from each group were activated in vitro with Eno and the levels of IFN-γ and IL-12 were also measured by ELISA. The results showed that the anti-Eno antibody titer was significantly higher upon addition of 8 µM Foxp3 ASO in the vaccine formulation compared to the standard vaccine without ASO. In vitro and in vivo experiments suggest that Foxp3 ASO enhances specific immune responses by means of Treg depletion during vaccination. CONCLUSION Foxp3 ASO significantly enhances immune responses against co-delivered adjuvanted recombinant Eno vaccine and it has the potential to improve vaccine immunogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Batista-Duharte
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, São Paulo, Brazil; (D.L.P.); (D.T.-M.); (P.I.C.); (I.Z.C.)
| | - Luis Sendra
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.J.H.); (G.H.); (S.F.A.)
- Pharmacogenetics Unit, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Maria José Herrero
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.J.H.); (G.H.); (S.F.A.)
- Pharmacogenetics Unit, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Deivys Leandro Portuondo
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, São Paulo, Brazil; (D.L.P.); (D.T.-M.); (P.I.C.); (I.Z.C.)
| | - Damiana Téllez-Martínez
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, São Paulo, Brazil; (D.L.P.); (D.T.-M.); (P.I.C.); (I.Z.C.)
| | - Gladys Olivera
- Pharmacogenetics Unit, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Manuel Fernández-Delgado
- Service of Hematology and Hemotherapy, Hospital General Universitario de Castellón, 12004 Castelló de la Plana, Spain;
| | - Beatriz Javega
- Cytometry Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Guadalupe Herrera
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.J.H.); (G.H.); (S.F.A.)
| | - Alicia Martínez
- Cytomics Unit, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Paulo Inacio Costa
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, São Paulo, Brazil; (D.L.P.); (D.T.-M.); (P.I.C.); (I.Z.C.)
| | - Iracilda Zeppone Carlos
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, São Paulo, Brazil; (D.L.P.); (D.T.-M.); (P.I.C.); (I.Z.C.)
| | - Salvador Francisco Aliño
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitat de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain; (M.J.H.); (G.H.); (S.F.A.)
- Pharmacogenetics Unit, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain;
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Medicine Clinical Area, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
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Batista-Duharte A, Téllez-Martínez D, de Andrade CR, Polesi MC, Portuondo DL, Carlos IZ. Transient Foxp3(+) regulatory T-cell depletion enhances protective Th1/Th17 immune response in murine sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix schenckii. Immunobiology 2020; 225:151993. [PMID: 32962813 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2020.151993] [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: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The role of regulatory T cells (Tregs) on protective immunity in fungal infections, is controversial. Sporotrichosis is an emerging and worldwide-distributed subcutaneous mycosis caused by various related thermodimorphic fungi of the genus Sporothrix. Previously, we showed an elevated percent of Tregs around 21 days post-infection (dpi) in C57BL/6 mice infected with either Sporothrix schenckii or Sporothrix brasiliensis, but the effect of these cells in the ongoing infection was not evaluated. Here, we aim to characterize the role of Foxp3+ Tregs in a subcutaneous S. schenckii infection model. The flow cytometric analyses showed that S. schenckii infection elicited an expansion of a splenic CD4+Foxp3+ population, including a subset of Helioslow+ after ex vivo stimulation with S. schenckii-heat killed yeast. Depletion of Tregs in DEREG mice revealed a reduction of fungal burden in the skin and systemically in liver and kidneys, associated with enhanced Th1 and Th17 responses. Altogether, our results reveal for the first time that Tregs depletion in ongoing S. schenckii infection improves the protective antifungal immunity and these data suggest that Tregs modulation could be explored as a potential therapeutic strategy in sporotrichosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Batista-Duharte
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Clinical Analysis, Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
| | - Damiana Téllez-Martínez
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Clinical Analysis, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Cleverton Roberto de Andrade
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Dentistry, Department of Physiology & Pathology, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Marisa Campos Polesi
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Clinical Analysis, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Deivys Leandro Portuondo
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Clinical Analysis, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Iracilda Zeppone Carlos
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Clinical Analysis, Araraquara, SP, Brazil.
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SARS-CoV-2 will constantly sweep its tracks: a vaccine containing CpG motifs in 'lasso' for the multi-faced virus. Inflamm Res 2020; 69:801-812. [PMID: 32656668 PMCID: PMC7354743 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-020-01377-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
During the current COVID-19 pandemic, the global ratio between the dead and the survivors is approximately 1 to 10, which has put humanity on high alert and provided strong motivation for the intensive search for vaccines and drugs. It is already clear that if we follow the most likely scenario, which is similar to that used to create seasonal influenza vaccines, then we will need to develop improved vaccine formulas every year to control the spread of the new, highly mutable coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. In this article, using well-known RNA viruses (HIV, influenza viruses, HCV) as examples, we consider the main successes and failures in creating primarily highly effective vaccines. The experience accumulated dealing with the biology of zoonotic RNA viruses suggests that the fight against COVID-19 will be difficult and lengthy. The most effective vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 will be those able to form highly effective memory cells for both humoral (memory B cells) and cellular (cross-reactive antiviral memory T cells) immunity. Unfortunately, RNA viruses constantly sweep their tracks and perhaps one of the most promising solutions in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic is the creation of 'universal' vaccines based on conservative SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences (antigen-presenting) and unmethylated CpG dinucleotides (adjuvant) in the composition of the phosphorothioate backbone of single-stranded DNA oligonucleotides (ODN), which can be effective for long periods of use. Here, we propose a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine based on a lasso-like phosphorothioate oligonucleotide construction containing CpG motifs and the antigen-presenting unique ACG-containing genome sequence of SARS-CoV-2. We found that CpG dinucleotides are the most rare dinucleotides in the genomes of SARS-CoV-2 and other known human coronaviruses, and hypothesized that their higher frequency could be responsible for the unwanted increased lethality to the host, causing a ‘cytokine storm’ in people who overexpress cytokines through the activation of specific Toll-like receptors in a manner similar to TLR9-CpG ODN interactions. Interestingly, the virus strains sequenced in China (Wuhan) in February 2020 contained on average one CpG dinucleotide more in their genome than the later strains from the USA (New York) sequenced in May 2020. Obviously, during the first steps of the microevolution of SARS-CoV-2 in the human population, natural selection tends to select viral genomes containing fewer CpG motifs that do not trigger a strong innate immune response, so the infected person has moderate symptoms and spreads SARS-CoV-2 more readily. However, in our opinion, unmethylated CpG dinucleotides are also capable of preparing the host immune system for the coronavirus infection and should be present in SARS-CoV-2 vaccines as strong adjuvants.
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