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Murthy AK, Wright-McAfee E, Warda K, Moy LN, Bui N, Musunuri T, Manam S, Chako CZ, Ramsey KH, Li W. Protective anti-chlamydial vaccine regimen-induced CD4+ T cell response mediates early inhibition of pathogenic CD8+ T cell response following genital challenge. Pathog Dis 2024; 82:ftae008. [PMID: 38684476 PMCID: PMC11149721 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftae008] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
We have demonstrated previously that TNF-α-producing CD8+ T cells mediate chlamydial pathogenesis, likely in an antigen (Ag)-specific fashion. Here we hypothesize that inhibition of Ag-specific CD8+ T cell response after immunization and/or challenge would correlate with protection against oviduct pathology induced by a protective vaccine regimen. Intranasal (i.n.) live chlamydial elementary body (EB), intramuscular (i.m.) live EB, or i.n. irrelevant antigen, bovine serum albumin (BSA), immunized animals induced near-total protection, 50% protection, or no protection, respectively against oviduct pathology following i.vag. C. muridarum challenge. In these models, we evaluated Ag-specific CD8+ T cell cytokine response at various time-periods after immunization or challenge. The results show protective efficacy of vaccine regimens correlated with reduction of Ag-specific CD8+ T cell TNF-α responses following i.vag. chlamydial challenge, not after immunization. Depletion of CD4+ T cells abrogated, whereas adoptive transfer of Ag-specific CD4+ T cells induced the significant reduction of Ag-specific CD8+ T cell TNF-α response after chlamydial challenge. In conclusion, protective anti-chlamydial vaccine regimens induce Ag-specific CD4+ T cell response that mediate early inhibition of pathogenic CD8+ T cell response following challenge and may serve as a predictive biomarker of protection against Chlamydia -induced chronic pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashlesh K Murthy
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
| | - Erika Wright-McAfee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
| | - Katerina Warda
- Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
| | - Lindsay N Moy
- Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
| | - Nhi Bui
- Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
| | - Tarakarama Musunuri
- Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
| | - Srikanth Manam
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
| | - Clemence Z Chako
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
| | - Kyle H Ramsey
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
- College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
| | - Weidang Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ 85308, USA
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2
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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.
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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
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Lugo LZA, Puga MAM, Jacob CMB, Padovani CTJ, Nocetti MC, Tupiná MS, Pina AFS, de Freitas JNM, Ferreira AMT, Fernandes CEDS, Bovo AC, Resende JCP, Tozetti IA. Cytokine profiling of samples positive for Chlamydia trachomatis and Human papillomavirus. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0279390. [PMID: 36897879 PMCID: PMC10004564 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is closely associated with cervical carcinoma. Co-infection in the endocervical environment with other microorganisms, such as Chlamydia trachomatis, may increase the risk of HPV infection and neoplastic progression. While in some individuals, Chlamydia trachomatis infection is resolved with the activation of Th1/IFN-γ-mediated immune response, others develop a chronic infection marked by Th2-mediated immune response, resulting in intracellular persistence of the bacterium and increasing the risk of HPV infection. This work aimed to quantify cytokines of the Th1/Th2/Th17 profile in exfoliated cervix cells (ECC) and peripheral blood (PB) of patients positive for Chlamydia trachomatis DNA, patients positive for Papillomavirus DNA, and healthy patients. Cytokine levels were quantified by flow cytometry in ECC and PB samples from patients positive for C. trachomatis DNA (n = 18), patients positive for HPV DNA (n = 30), and healthy patients (n = 17) treated at the Hospital de Amor, Campo Grande-MS. After analysis, a higher concentration of IL-17, IL-6, and IL-4 (p <0.05) in ECC; INF-γ and IL-10 (p <0.05) in PB was found in samples from patients positive for C. trachomatis DNA compared to samples from healthy patients. When comparing samples from patients positive for HPV DNA, there was a higher concentration of cytokines IL-17, IL-10, IL-6, and IL-4 (p <0.05) in ECC and IL-4 and IL-2 (p <0.05) in PB of patients positive for C. trachomatis DNA. These results suggest that induction of Th2- and Th17 mediated immune response occurs in patients positive for C. trachomatis DNA, indicating chronic infection. Our results also demonstrate a high concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines in ECC of patients positive for C. trachomatis DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Zatorre Almeida Lugo
- Postgraduate Program of Infectious and Parasitary Diseases from Medicine School, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Marco Antonio Moreira Puga
- Postgraduate Program of Infectious and Parasitary Diseases from Medicine School, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Camila Mareti Bonin Jacob
- Bioscience Institute from the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Mariana Calarge Nocetti
- Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Nutrição e Alimentos, UFMS, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Maisa Souza Tupiná
- Medicine School, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Ana Flávia Silva Pina
- Medicine School, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Jennifer Naed Martins de Freitas
- Postgraduate Program of Infectious and Parasitary Diseases from Medicine School, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Alda Maria Teixeira Ferreira
- Bioscience Institute from the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Inês Aparecida Tozetti
- Postgraduate Program of Infectious and Parasitary Diseases from Medicine School, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
- Bioscience Institute from the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
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4
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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.
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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.
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5
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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: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [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.
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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
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de Freitas LS, Queiroz MAF, Machado LFA, Vallinoto ACR, Ishak MDOG, Santos FDAA, Goulart LR, Ishak R. Bioprospecting by Phage Display of Mimetic Peptides of Chlamydia trachomatis for Use in Laboratory Diagnosis. Infect Drug Resist 2022; 15:4935-4945. [PMID: 36065279 PMCID: PMC9440705 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s369339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chlamydia trachomatis infection is a major public health problem and the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world. Although highly prevalent, 70% to 80% of cases are asymptomatic and undiagnosed. Purpose To overcome some limitations in terms of rapid diagnosis, phage display technology was used to bioprospect peptide mimetics of C. trachomatis immunoreactive and immunogenic antigens to be selected for the production of synthetic peptides. Methods Initially, IgG from 22 individuals with C. trachomatis and 30 negative controls was coupled to G protein magnetic beads. The phage display technique consisted of biopanning, genetic sequencing, bioinformatics analysis and phage ELISA. Results Clones G1, H5, C6 and H7 were selected for testing with individual samples positive and negative for C. trachomatis. Reactions were statistically significant (p < 0.05), with a sensitivity of 90.91, a specificity of 54.55, and AUC values >0.8. One-dimensional analysis with C. trachomatis components indicated that the G1 clone aligned with cell wall-associated hydrolase domain-containing protein, the H5 clone aligned with glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase PlsX protein, the C6 clone aligned with a transposase and inactivated derivatives, and the H7 clone aligned with GTP-binding protein. Molecular modeling and three-dimensional analysis indicated the best fit of the four clones with a protein known as chlamydial protease/proteasome-like activity factor (CPAF), an important virulence factor of the bacterium. Conclusion The peptides produced by phage display are related to the metabolic pathways of C. trachomatis, indicating that they can be used to understand the pathogenesis of the infection. Because of their high sensitivity and AUC values, the peptides present considerable potential for use in platforms for screening C. trachomatis infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Silva de Freitas
- Laboratory of Virology, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Maria Alice Freitas Queiroz
- Laboratory of Virology, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
- Correspondence: Maria Alice Freitas Queiroz, Laboratory of Virology, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil, Tel +55 91 3201-7587, Email
| | | | | | | | - Fabiana de Almeida Araújo Santos
- Laboratory of Nanobiotechnology, Genetics and Biochemistry Institute, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Luiz Ricardo Goulart
- Laboratory of Nanobiotechnology, Genetics and Biochemistry Institute, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Ishak
- Laboratory of Virology, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Pará, Belém, Pará, Brazil
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Fatima F, Kumar S, Das A. Vaccines against sexually transmitted infections: an update. Clin Exp Dermatol 2022; 47:1454-1463. [DOI: 10.1111/ced.15223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Farhat Fatima
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy; Medical College & Hospital Kolkata India
| | - Satarupa Kumar
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy; Medical College & Hospital Kolkata India
| | - Anupam Das
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprosy; KPC Medical College & Hospital Kolkata India
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8
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Zhao L, Li J, Zhou X, Pan Q, Zhao W, Yang X, Wang H. Natural Killer Cells Regulate Pulmonary Macrophages Polarization in Host Defense Against Chlamydial Respiratory Infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 11:775663. [PMID: 35059323 PMCID: PMC8764407 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.775663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
NK cells and pulmonary macrophages both are important components of innate immunity. The interaction between NK cells and pulmonary macrophages during chlamydial infection is poorly understood. In this study, we explored the effect of NK cells on regulation of pulmonary macrophage function during chlamydial respiratory infection. We found that NK depletion led to polarization of pulmonary macrophages from M1 to M2 phenotype, and it is related to reduced miR-155 expression in lung macrophage. Using adoptive transfer approach, we found that the recipients receiving lung macrophages isolated from C. muridarum-infected NK-cell-depleted mice exhibited an increased bacterial load and severe inflammation in the lung upon chlamydial challenge infection when compared with the recipients of lung macrophages from infected isotype control antibody treated mice. Herein, the effects of NK cells on macrophage polarization were examined in vitro. We found that NK cells from chlamydial-infected mice (iNK) significantly induced M1 polarization compared to that from uninfected mice (uNK). Inhibition of miR-155 expression in macrophages reduced M1 polarization induced by iNK, while miR-155 over-expression enhanced it. Furthermore, neutralization of IFN-γ in the coculture system decreased the expression of miR-155 by macrophages, and resulted in weakened M1 polarization. The data indicates that NK cells promote M1 polarization through up-regulation of miR-155 in macrophages by producing IFN-γ during chlamydial infection, and NK-regulated macrophage polarization is functionally relevant to host defense against the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhao
- Laboratory of Basic Medical Science, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Xiaoqing Zhou
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Qianqian Pan
- Department of Respiratory, Laiwu Central Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Weiming Zhao
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xi Yang
- Departments of Immunology and Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Hong Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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9
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Active Hexose-Correlated Compound Restores Gene Expression and Protein Secretion of Protective Cytokines of Immune Cells in a Murine Stress Model during Chlamydia muridarum Genital Infection. Infect Immun 2021; 89:IAI.00786-20. [PMID: 33558321 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00786-20] [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: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis genital infection is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted disease worldwide. Previously, we reported that cold-induced stress results in immune suppression of mice that subsequently leads to increased intensity of Chlamydia muridarum genital infection. Furthermore, we demonstrated that stressed mice orally fed with active hexose-correlated compound (AHCC) have reduced shedding of C. muridarum from the genital tract. However, the mechanism of AHCC in reducing the organ load and changing the immune response in the stress model is not well known. This study evaluated infection and changes in immunological parameters of stressed AHCC-fed mice with or without C. muridarum genital infection. We hypothesized that AHCC feeding to stressed mice restores protective immune function and reduces susceptibility to C. muridarum genital infection. The results show that oral feeding of stressed mice with AHCC resulted in decreased shedding of C. muridarum from the genital tract, reduced production of plasma catecholamines, increased expression of T-bet and reduced GATA-3 in CD4+ T cells, increased production of interleukin-12 (IL-12) and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and reduced production of IL-4 in CD4+ T cells, and enhanced expression of surface markers and costimulatory molecules of CD4+ T cells, bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (BMDCs), and natural killer cells. Coculturing of mature BMDCs with splenic CD4+ T cells led to the increased and decreased production of T helper 1 and T helper 2 cytokines, respectively. Overall, our results show that AHCC fosters the restoration of Th1 cytokine production while reducing Th2 cytokine production, which would promote C. muridarum clearance in the murine stress model.
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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.
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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
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11
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Keck J, Chambers JP, Yu JJ, Cheng X, Christenson LK, Guentzel MN, Gupta R, Arulanandam BP. Modulation of Immune Response to Chlamydia muridarum by Host miR-135a. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:638058. [PMID: 33928045 PMCID: PMC8076868 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.638058] [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: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously, our laboratory established the role of small, noncoding RNA species, i.e., microRNA (miRNA) including miR-135a in anti-chlamydial immunity in infected hosts. We report here chlamydial infection results in decreased miR-135a expression in mouse genital tissue and a fibroblast cell line. Several chemokine and chemokine receptor genes (including CXCL10, CCR5) associated with chlamydial pathogenesis were identified in silico to contain putative miR-135a binding sequence(s) in the 3' untranslated region. The role of miR-135a in the host immune response was investigated using exogenous miR-135a mimic to restore the immune phenotype associated with decreased miR-135a following Chlamydia muridarum (Cm) infection. We observed miR-135a regulation of Cm-primed bone marrow derived dendritic cells (BMDC) via activation of Cm-immune CD4+ T cells for clonal expansion and CCR5 expression. Using a transwell cell migration assay, we explore the role of miR-135a in regulation of genital tract CXCL10 expression and recruitment of CXCR3+ CD4+ T cells via the CXCL10/CXCR3 axis. Collectively, data reported here support miR-135a affecting multiple cellular processes in response to chlamydial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathon Keck
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - James P Chambers
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Jieh-Juen Yu
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Xingguo Cheng
- Department of Materials & Bioengineering, Southwest Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Lane K Christenson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - M N Guentzel
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Rishein Gupta
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Bernard P Arulanandam
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
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12
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Innate IFN-γ Is Essential for Systemic Chlamydia muridarum Control in Mice, While CD4 T Cell-Dependent IFN-γ Production Is Highly Redundant in the Female Reproductive Tract. Infect Immun 2021; 89:IAI.00541-20. [PMID: 33257535 PMCID: PMC8097277 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00541-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Protective immunity against the obligate intracellular bacterium Chlamydia has long been thought to rely on CD4 T cell-dependent gamma interferon (IFN-γ) production. Nevertheless, whether IFN-γ is produced by other cellular sources during Chlamydia infection and how CD4 T cell-dependent and -independent IFN-γ contribute differently to host resistance have not been carefully evaluated. In this study, we dissected the requirements of IFN-γ produced by innate immune cells and CD4 T cells for resolution of Chlamydia muridarum female reproductive tract (FRT) infection. After C. muridarum intravaginal infection, IFN-γ-deficient and T cell-deficient mice exhibited opposite phenotypes for survival and bacterial shedding at the FRT mucosa, demonstrating the distinct requirements for IFN-γ and CD4 T cells in host defense against Chlamydia In Rag1-deficient mice, IFN-γ produced by innate lymphocytes (ILCs) accounted for early bacterial control and prolonged survival in the absence of adaptive immunity. Although type I ILCs are potent IFN-γ producers, we found that mature NK cells and ILC1s were not the sole sources of innate IFN-γ in response to Chlamydia By conducting T cell adoptive transfer, we showed definitively that IFN-γ-deficient CD4 T cells were sufficient for effective bacterial killing in the FRT during the first 21 days of infection and reduced bacterial burden more than 1,000-fold, although mice receiving IFN-γ-deficient CD4 T cells failed to completely eradicate the bacteria from the FRT like their counterparts receiving wild-type (WT) CD4 T cells. Together, our results revealed that innate IFN-γ is essential for preventing systemic Chlamydia dissemination, whereas IFN-γ produced by CD4 T cells is largely redundant at the FRT mucosa.
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13
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Helble JD, Gonzalez RJ, von Andrian UH, Starnbach MN. Gamma Interferon Is Required for Chlamydia Clearance but Is Dispensable for T Cell Homing to the Genital Tract. mBio 2020; 11:e00191-20. [PMID: 32184237 PMCID: PMC7078466 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00191-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
While there is no effective vaccine against Chlamydia trachomatis infection, previous work has demonstrated the importance of C. trachomatis-specific CD4+ T cells (NR1 T cells) in pathogen clearance. Specifically, NR1 T cells have been shown to be protective in mice, and this protection depends on the host's ability to sense the cytokine gamma interferon (IFN-γ). However, it is unclear what role NR1 production or sensing of IFN-γ plays in T cell homing to the genital tract or T cell-mediated protection against C. trachomatis Using two-photon microscopy and flow cytometry, we found that naive wild-type (WT), IFN-γ-/-, and IFN-γR-/- NR1 T cells specifically home to sections in the genital tract that contain C. trachomatis We also determined that protection against infection requires production of IFN-γ from either NR1 T cells or endogenous cells, further highlighting the importance of IFN-γ in clearing C. trachomatis infection.IMPORTANCEChlamydia trachomatis is an important mucosal pathogen that is the leading cause of sexually transmitted bacterial infections in the United States. Despite this, there is no vaccine currently available. In order to develop such a vaccine, it is necessary to understand the components of the immune response that can lead to protection against this pathogen. It is well known that antigen-specific CD4+ T cells are critical for Chlamydia clearance, but the contexts in which they are protective or not protective are unknown. Here, we aimed to characterize the importance of gamma interferon production and sensing by T cells and the effects on the immune response to C. trachomatis Our work here helps to define the contexts in which antigen-specific T cells can be protective, which is critical to our ability to design an effective and protective vaccine against C. trachomatis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer D Helble
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rodrigo J Gonzalez
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ulrich H von Andrian
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael N Starnbach
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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14
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Zheng N, Sun L, Pang G, Zha X, Niu W, Tan L, Zhang H, Bai H. Chlamydia muridarum infection induces CD4+ T cells apoptosis via PI3K/AKT signal pathway. Pathog Dis 2020; 77:5492259. [PMID: 31107947 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftz029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptosis is essential for the homeostatic control of the lymphocytes number during the development of an immune response to an invasive microorganism. CD4+ T cells play a major role in homeostasis of the immune system and are sufficient to confer protection against Chlamydia muridarum (Cm) infection in mice. The present study demonstrated that phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) p110δ mRNA and phosphorylation of protein kinase B (p-AKT) level were significantly increased in lung cells and spleen cells at day 3 and day 7 post-infection, p-AKT level was inhibited when adding PI3K inhibitor LY294002. Moreover, Cm infection induced high levels of IL-2/IL-2Rα in CD4+ T cells, which may relate to PI3K/AKT signal pathway activation. We observed that Cm infection significantly induced apoptosis of CD4+ T cells. The related apoptosis proteins Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 uneven expression levels were induced in CD4+ T cells by Cm infection. These findings provided in vivo and in vitro evidence that Cm infection induces CD4+ T cells apoptosis possibly via PI3K/AKT signal pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningbo Zheng
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Key Laboratory of Educational Ministry of China, No.22 Qixiangtai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Lida Sun
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Key Laboratory of Educational Ministry of China, No.22 Qixiangtai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Gaoju Pang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Key Laboratory of Educational Ministry of China, No.22 Qixiangtai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Xiaoyu Zha
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Key Laboratory of Educational Ministry of China, No.22 Qixiangtai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Wenhao Niu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Key Laboratory of Educational Ministry of China, No.22 Qixiangtai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Lu Tan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Key Laboratory of Educational Ministry of China, No.22 Qixiangtai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Key Laboratory of Educational Ministry of China, No.22 Qixiangtai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
| | - Hong Bai
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Key Laboratory of Educational Ministry of China, No.22 Qixiangtai Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300070, China
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15
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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: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [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.
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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
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16
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Marchese V, Dal Zoppo S, Quaresima V, Rossi B, Matteelli A. Vaccines for STIs: Present and Future Directions. Sex Transm Infect 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-02200-6_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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17
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Pais R, Omosun Y, Igietseme JU, Fujihashi K, Eko FO. Route of Vaccine Administration Influences the Impact of Fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase 3 Ligand (Flt3L) on Chlamydial-Specific Protective Immune Responses. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1577. [PMID: 31333682 PMCID: PMC6621642 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
We tested the hypothesis that the impact of the Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3-ligand (Flt3L; FL) on recombinant Vibrio cholerae ghost (rVCG) vaccine-induced chlamydial immunity is influenced by route of vaccine delivery. Female C57BL/6J mice were immunized rectally (IR) or intramuscularly (IM) with rVCG co-expressing the Chlamydia trachomatis PmpD and PorB proteins (rVCG- PmpD/PorB) with and without FL or glycoprotein D of HSV-2 (rVCG-gD2) as antigen control. Vaccine evaluation was based on measurement of T cell proliferation, Th1/Th2 cytokine, and humoral responses at systemic and mucosal compartments, and protection against intravaginal challenge infection. Results revealed that high levels of CD4+ T cell-mediated and humoral immune responses, were elicited in mice as a function of both IR and IM immunization. Unexpectedly, co-administration of vaccine with FL enhanced specific Th1-type cytokine levels and T cell proliferative responses following IR but not IM immunization. While administration of vaccine with FL enhanced the specific mucosal and systemic IgA antibody responses following both immunization routes, IgG2c responses were not enhanced following IR delivery. The vaccine-induced immune effectors protected mice against live heterologous C. muridarum infection irrespective of route of vaccine administration, with the regimen incorporating FL having a protective advantage. Further evaluation showed that protection afforded by the FL adjuvanted vaccine was facilitated by CD4+ T cells, as indicated by reduction in the intensity and duration of genital chlamydial shedding by naïve mice following adoptive transfer of immune CD4+ T cells. Taken together, the results indicate that comparable protective immunity, which is enhanced by co-delivery with FL, is elicited in the female genital tract against Chlamydia infection after mucosal and systemic administration, highlighting the ability of FL to function as an effective immunostimulator at both mucosal and systemic sites. The differential modulation of humoral and cellular immune responses, and protective immunity afforded by the FL adjuvanted vaccine following IR administration indicates that the immunomodulatory impact of FL on chlamydial-specific immunity is influenced by the route of vaccine administration. Thus, targeting of VCG-based vaccines to antigen presenting cells by co-delivery with FL is a feasible immunization approach for inducing effective chlamydial immunity in the female genital tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshan Pais
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Yusuf Omosun
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Joseph U. Igietseme
- Molecular Pathogenesis Laboratory, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Kohtaro Fujihashi
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Institute of Oral Health Research, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Francis O. Eko
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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18
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Lin H, He C, Koprivsek JJ, Chen J, Zhou Z, Arulanandam B, Xu Z, Tang L, Zhong G. Antigen-Specific CD4 + T Cell-Derived Gamma Interferon Is Both Necessary and Sufficient for Clearing Chlamydia from the Small Intestine but Not the Large Intestine. Infect Immun 2019; 87:e00055-19. [PMID: 30962403 PMCID: PMC6529659 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00055-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The genital tract pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis is frequently detected in the gastrointestinal tract, but the host immunity that regulates chlamydial colonization in the gut remains unclear. In a Chlamydia muridarum-C57 mouse model, chlamydial organisms are cleared from the genital tract in ∼4 weeks, but the genital organisms can spread to the gastrointestinal tract. We found that the gastrointestinal chlamydial organisms were cleared from the small intestine by day 28, paralleling their infection course in the genital tract, but persisted in the large intestine for long periods. Mice deficient in α/β T cells or CD4+ T cells but not CD8+ T cells showed chlamydial persistence in the small intestine, indicating a critical role for CD4+ T cells in clearing Chlamydia from the small intestine. The CD4+ T cell-dependent clearance is likely mediated by gamma interferon (IFN-γ), since mice deficient in IFN-γ but not interleukin 22 (IL-22) signaling pathways rescued chlamydial colonization in the small intestine. Furthermore, exogenous IFN-γ was sufficient for clearing Chlamydia from the small intestine but not the large intestine. Mice deficient in developing Chlamydia-specific Th1 immunity showed chlamydial persistence in the small intestine. Finally, IFN-γ-producing CD4+ but not CD8+ T cells from immunized donor mice were sufficient for eliminating Chlamydia from the small intestine but not the large intestine of recipient mice. Thus, we have demonstrated a critical role for Th1 immunity in clearing Chlamydia from the small intestine but not the large intestine, indicating that chlamydial colonization in different regions of the gastrointestinal tract is regulated by distinct immune mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Conghui He
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - John J Koprivsek
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Jianlin Chen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhiguang Zhou
- Department of Metabolism & Endocrinology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Bernard Arulanandam
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Zhenming Xu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Lingli Tang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Guangming Zhong
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
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19
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Qiao S, Zheng N, Sun L, Pang G, Wang S, Jia P, Uzonna JE, Bai H, Yang X. The p110δ isoforme of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase plays an important role in host defense against chlamydial lung infection through influencing CD4+ T-cell function. Pathog Dis 2018; 76:5035814. [PMID: 29893841 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/fty053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PI3Ks display integrant significance in T-cell development and differentiation, which is related to host defense against infections. Here, we investigated the role of p110δ isoform of PI3Ks in host defense against chlamydial lung infection in a mouse model. Our data showed that lung infection with Chlamydia muridarum (Cm) activated PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Compared to WT mice, p110δD910A mice, mice with an inactivating knockin mutation in the p110δ Isoform of PI3Ks, showed more sever disease phenotype and slower recovery, which was associated with reduced Chlamydia-specific Th1 and Th17 immune responses following infection. Further adoptive transfer experiment showed that mice which received CD4+ T cells from infected p110δD910A mice exhibited greater body weight loss and higher bacterial loads in the lung than those which received CD4+ T cells from WT mice following challenge infection. These results provide in vivo evidence that p110δ isoform of PI3Ks plays an important role in host defense against chlamydial infection by promoting CD4+ T-cell immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Qiao
- Department of Immunology, Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E0T5, Canada.,Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University, 300070 Tianjin, P.R. China
| | - Ningbo Zheng
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University, 300070 Tianjin, P.R. China
| | - Lida Sun
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University, 300070 Tianjin, P.R. China
| | - Gaoju Pang
- Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University, 300070 Tianjin, P.R. China
| | - Shuhe Wang
- Department of Immunology, Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E0T5, Canada
| | - Ping Jia
- Department of Immunology, Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E0T5, Canada
| | - Jude Ezeh Uzonna
- Department of Immunology, Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E0T5, Canada
| | - Hong Bai
- Department of Immunology, Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E0T5, Canada.,Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University, 300070 Tianjin, P.R. China
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Immunology, Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E0T5, Canada
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20
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Li W, Gudipaty P, Li C, Henderson KK, Ramsey KH, Murthy AK. Intranasal immunization with recombinant chlamydial protease-like activity factor attenuates atherosclerotic pathology following Chlamydia pneumoniae infection in mice. Immunol Cell Biol 2018; 97:85-91. [PMID: 30051926 DOI: 10.1111/imcb.12192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
We have shown previously that intranasal vaccination with recombinant chlamydial protease-like activity factor (rCPAF: antigen) and interleukin-12 (IL-12) as an adjuvant induces robust protection against pathological consequences of female genital tract infection with Chlamydia muridarum, a closely related species and a rodent model for the human pathogen Chlamydia trachomatis. Another related species Chlamydia pneumoniae, a human respiratory pathogen, has been associated with exacerbation of atherosclerotic pathology. CPAF is highly conserved among Chlamydia spp. leading us to hypothesize that immunization with rCPAF with IL-12 will protect against high-fat diet (HFD) and C. pneumoniae-induced acceleration of atherosclerosis. rCPAF ± IL-12 immunization induced robust splenic antigen (Ag)-specific IFN-γ and TNF-α production and significantly elevated serum total anti-CPAF Ab, IgG2c, and IgG1 antibody levels compared to mock or IL-12 alone groups. The addition of IL-12 to rCPAF significantly elevated splenic Ag-specific IFN-γ production and IgG2c/IgG1 anti-CPAF antibody ratio. Following intranasal C. pneumoniae challenge and HFD feeding, rCPAF ± IL-12-immunized mice displayed significantly enhanced splenic IFN-γ, not TNF-α, response on days 6 and 9 after challenge, and significantly reduced lung chlamydial burden on day 9 post-challenge compared to mock- or IL-12-immunized mice. Importantly, rCPAF ± IL-12-immunized mice displayed significantly reduced atherosclerotic pathology in the aortas after C. pneumoniae challenge. Serum cholesterol levels were comparable between the groups suggesting that the observed differences in pathology were due to protective immunity against the infection. Together, these results confirm and extend our previous observations that CPAF is a promising candidate antigen for a multisubunit vaccine regimen to protect against Chlamydia-induced pathologies, including atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weidang Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, CA, USA
| | - Pareesha Gudipaty
- College of Health Sciences, Midwestern University, Glendale, CA, USA
| | - Chuxi Li
- Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, USA.,College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Kyle K Henderson
- Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, USA
| | - Kyle H Ramsey
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, CA, USA.,Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, USA
| | - Ashlesh K Murthy
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern University, Glendale, CA, USA
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21
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Poston TB, O'Connell CM, Girardi J, Sullivan JE, Nagarajan UM, Marinov A, Scurlock AM, Darville T. T Cell-Independent Gamma Interferon and B Cells Cooperate To Prevent Mortality Associated with Disseminated Chlamydia muridarum Genital Tract Infection. Infect Immun 2018; 86:e00143-18. [PMID: 29661927 PMCID: PMC6013674 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00143-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
CD4 T cells and antibody are required for optimal acquired immunity to Chlamydia muridarum genital tract infection, and T cell-mediated gamma interferon (IFN-γ) production is necessary to clear infection in the absence of humoral immunity. However, the role of T cell-independent immune responses during primary infection remains unclear. We investigated this question by inoculating wild-type and immune-deficient mice with C. muridarum CM001, a clonal isolate capable of enhanced extragenital replication. Genital inoculation of wild-type mice resulted in transient dissemination to the lungs and spleen that then was rapidly cleared from these organs. However, CM001 genital infection proved lethal for STAT1-/- and IFNG-/- mice, in which IFN-γ signaling was absent, and for Rag1-/- mice, which lacked T and B cells and in which innate IFN-γ signaling was retained. In contrast, B cell-deficient muMT mice, which can generate a Th1 response, and T cell-deficient mice with intact B cell and innate IFN-γ signaling survived. These data collectively indicate that IFN-γ prevents lethal CM001 dissemination in the absence of T cells and suggests a B cell corequirement. Adoptive transfer of convalescent-phase immune serum but not naive IgM to Rag1-/- mice infected with CM001 significantly increased the survival time, while transfer of naive B cells completely rescued Rag1-/- mice from CM001 lethality. Protection was associated with a significant reduction in the lung chlamydial burden of genitally infected mice. These data reveal an important cooperation between T cell-independent B cell responses and innate IFN-γ in chlamydial host defense and suggest that interactions between T cell-independent antibody and IFN-γ are essential for limiting extragenital dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor B Poston
- 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
| | - Jenna Girardi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jeanne E Sullivan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Uma M Nagarajan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anthony Marinov
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Amy M Scurlock
- Department of Pediatrics, Arkansas Children's Hospital, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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22
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Lin LCW, Chattopadhyay S, Lin JC, Hu CMJ. Advances and Opportunities in Nanoparticle- and Nanomaterial-Based Vaccines against Bacterial Infections. Adv Healthc Mater 2018; 7:e1701395. [PMID: 29508547 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201701395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
As the dawn of the postantibiotic era we approach, antibacterial vaccines are becoming increasingly important for managing bacterial infection and reducing the need for antibiotics. Despite the success of vaccination, vaccines remain unavailable for many pressing microbial diseases, including tuberculosis, chlamydia, and staphylococcus infections. Amid continuing research efforts in antibacterial vaccine development, the advancement of nanomaterial engineering has brought forth new opportunities in vaccine designs. With increasing knowledge in antibacterial immunity and immunologic adjuvants, innovative nanoparticles are designed to elicit the appropriate immune responses for effective antimicrobial defense. Rationally designed nanoparticles are demonstrated to overcome delivery barriers to shape the adaptive immunity. This article reviews the advances in nanoparticle- and nanomaterial-based antibacterial vaccines and summarizes the development of nanoparticulate adjuvants for immune potentiation against microbial pathogens. In addition, challenges and progress in ongoing antibacterial vaccine development are discussed to highlight the opportunities for future vaccine designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leon Chien-Wei Lin
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences; Academia Sinica; 128, Sec. 2, Academia Road Nangang District Taipei 11529 Taiwan
| | - Saborni Chattopadhyay
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences; Academia Sinica; 128, Sec. 2, Academia Road Nangang District Taipei 11529 Taiwan
| | - Jung-Chen Lin
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences; Academia Sinica; 128, Sec. 2, Academia Road Nangang District Taipei 11529 Taiwan
| | - Che-Ming Jack Hu
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences; Academia Sinica; 128, Sec. 2, Academia Road Nangang District Taipei 11529 Taiwan
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23
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Mackern-Oberti JP, Motrich RD, Damiani MT, Saka HA, Quintero CA, Sánchez LR, Moreno-Sosa T, Olivera C, Cuffini C, Rivero VE. Male genital tract immune response against Chlamydia trachomatis infection. Reproduction 2018; 154:R99-R110. [PMID: 28878094 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2016] [Revised: 07/01/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most commonly reported agent of sexually transmitted bacterial infections worldwide. This pathogen frequently leads to persistent, long-term, subclinical infections, which in turn may cause severe pathology in susceptible hosts. This is in part due to the strategies that Chlamydia trachomatis uses to survive within epithelial cells and to evade the host immune response, such as subverting intracellular trafficking, interfering signaling pathways and preventing apoptosis. Innate immune receptors such as toll-like receptors expressed on epithelial and immune cells in the genital tract mediate the recognition of chlamydial molecular patterns. After bacterial recognition, a subset of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines are continuously released by epithelial cells. The innate immune response is followed by the initiation of the adaptive response against Chlamydia trachomatis, which in turn may result in T helper 1-mediated protection or in T helper 2-mediated immunopathology. Understanding the molecular mechanisms developed by Chlamydia trachomatis to avoid killing and host immune response would be crucial for designing new therapeutic approaches and developing protective vaccines. In this review, we focus on chlamydial survival strategies and the elicited immune responses in male genital tract infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pablo Mackern-Oberti
- Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo. IMBECU-CONICETMendoza, Argentina .,Instituto de Fisiología. Facultad de Ciencias MédicasUniversidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Rubén Darío Motrich
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología CIBICI-CONICETDepartamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Maria Teresa Damiani
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza. IHEM-CONICETFacultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Héctor Alex Saka
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología CIBICI-CONICETDepartamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | - Leonardo Rodolfo Sánchez
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología CIBICI-CONICETDepartamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Tamara Moreno-Sosa
- Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo. IMBECU-CONICETMendoza, Argentina
| | - Carolina Olivera
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología CIBICI-CONICETDepartamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Cecilia Cuffini
- Instituto de Virología Dr. J. M. VanellaFacultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Virginia Elena Rivero
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología CIBICI-CONICETDepartamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
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24
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Poston TB, Qu Y, Girardi J, O'Connell CM, Frazer LC, Russell AN, Wall M, Nagarajan UM, Darville T. A Chlamydia-Specific TCR-Transgenic Mouse Demonstrates Th1 Polyfunctionality with Enhanced Effector Function. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2017; 199:2845-2854. [PMID: 28855311 PMCID: PMC5770186 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1700914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Chlamydia is responsible for millions of new infections annually, and current efforts focus on understanding cellular immunity for targeted vaccine development. The Chlamydia-specific CD4 T cell response is characterized by the production of IFN-γ, and polyfunctional Th1 responses are associated with enhanced protection. A major limitation in studying these responses is the paucity of tools available for detection, quantification, and characterization of polyfunctional Ag-specific T cells. We addressed this problem by developing a TCR-transgenic (Tg) mouse with CD4 T cells that respond to a common Ag in Chlamydia muridarum and Chlamydia trachomatis Using an adoptive-transfer approach, we show that naive Tg CD4 T cells become activated, proliferate, migrate to the infected tissue, and acquire a polyfunctional Th1 phenotype in infected mice. Polyfunctional Tg Th1 effectors demonstrated enhanced IFN-γ production compared with polyclonal cells, protected immune-deficient mice against lethality, mediated bacterial clearance, and orchestrated an anamnestic response. Adoptive transfer of Chlamydia-specific CD4 TCR-Tg T cells with polyfunctional capacity offers a powerful approach for analysis of protective effector and memory responses against chlamydial infection and demonstrates that an effective monoclonal CD4 T cell response may successfully guide subunit vaccination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor B Poston
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
| | - Yanyan Qu
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224
| | - Jenna Girardi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
| | - Catherine M O'Connell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
| | - Lauren C Frazer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
| | - Ali N Russell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
| | - McKensie Wall
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
| | - Uma M Nagarajan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599; and
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25
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Shaw JH, Behar AR, Snider TA, Allen NA, Lutter EI. Comparison of Murine Cervicovaginal Infection by Chlamydial Strains: Identification of Extrusions Shed In vivo. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:18. [PMID: 28217555 PMCID: PMC5289954 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the leading cause of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and preventable blindness. Untreated, asymptomatic infection as well as frequent re-infection are common and may drive pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility. In vivo models of chlamydial infection continue to be instrumental in progress toward a vaccine and further elucidating the pathogenesis of this intracellular bacterium, however significant gaps in our understanding remain. Chlamydial host cell exit occurs via two mechanisms, lysis and extrusion, although the latter has yet to be reported in vivo and its biological role is unclear. The objective of this study was to investigate whether chlamydial extrusions are shed in vivo following infection with multiple strains of Chlamydia. We utilized an established C3H/HeJ murine cervicovaginal infection model with C. trachomatis serovars D and L2 and the Chlamydia muridarum strain MoPn to monitor the (i) time course of infection and mode of host cell exit, (ii) mucosal and systemic immune response to infection, and (iii) gross and histopathology following clearance of active infection. The key finding herein is the first identification of chlamydial extrusions shed from host cells in an in vivo model. Extrusions, a recently appreciated mode of host cell exit and potential means of dissemination, had been previously observed solely in vitro. The results of this study demonstrate that chlamydial extrusions exist in vivo and thus warrant further investigation to determine their role in chlamydial pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer H Shaw
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oklahoma State University Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Amanda R Behar
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Timothy A Snider
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Oklahoma State University Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Noah A Allen
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oklahoma State University Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Erika I Lutter
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Oklahoma State University Stillwater, OK, USA
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26
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review provides an update on the need, development status, and important next steps for advancing development of vaccines against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including herpes simplex virus (HSV), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonorrhea), Chlamydia trachomatis (chlamydia), and Treponema pallidum (syphilis). RECENT FINDINGS Global estimates suggest that more than a million STIs are acquired every day, and many new and emerging challenges to STI control highlight the critical need for development of new STI vaccines. Several therapeutic HSV-2 vaccine candidates are in Phase I/II clinical trials, and one subunit vaccine has shown sustained reductions in genital lesions and viral shedding, providing hope that an effective HSV vaccine is on the horizon. The first vaccine candidate for genital chlamydia infection has entered Phase I trials, and several more are in the pipeline. Use of novel technological approaches will likely see viable vaccine candidates for gonorrhea and syphilis in the future. The global STI vaccine roadmap outlines key activities to further advance STI vaccine development. SUMMARY Major progress is being made in addressing the large global unmet need for STI vaccines. With continued collaboration and support, these critically important vaccines for global sexual and reproductive health can become a reality.
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27
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Poston TB, Gottlieb SL, Darville T. Status of vaccine research and development of vaccines for Chlamydia trachomatis infection. Vaccine 2017; 37:7289-7294. [PMID: 28111145 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2017.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Genital infection with Chlamydia trachomatis, a gram-negative obligate intracellular bacterium, is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection globally. Ascension of chlamydial infection to the female upper genital tract can cause acute pelvic inflammatory disease, tubal factor infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain. Shortcomings of current chlamydia control strategies, especially for low- and middle-income countries, highlight the need for an effective vaccine. Evidence from animal models, human epidemiological studies, and early trachoma vaccine trials suggest that a C. trachomatis vaccine is feasible. Vaccine development for genital chlamydial infection has been in the preclinical phase of testing for many years, but the first Phase I trials of chlamydial vaccine candidates are underway, and scientific advances hold promise for additional candidates to enter clinical evaluation in the coming years. We describe the clinical and public health need for a C. trachomatis vaccine, provide an overview of Chlamydia vaccine development efforts, and summarize current vaccine candidates in the development pipeline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor B Poston
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Sami L Gottlieb
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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28
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Wali S, Gupta R, Yu JJ, Lanka GKK, Chambers JP, Guentzel MN, Zhong G, Murthy AK, Arulanandam BP. Chlamydial protease-like activity factor mediated protection against C. trachomatis in guinea pigs. Immunol Cell Biol 2016; 95:454-460. [PMID: 27990018 PMCID: PMC5449249 DOI: 10.1038/icb.2016.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2015] [Revised: 12/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
We have comprehensively demonstrated using the mouse model that intranasal immunization with recombinant chlamydial protease-like activity factor (rCPAF) leads to a significant reduction in bacterial burden, genital tract pathology and preserves fertility following intravaginal genital chlamydial challenge. In the present report, we evaluated the protective efficacy of rCPAF immunization in guinea pigs, a second animal model for genital chlamydial infection. Using a vaccination strategy similar to the mouse model, we intranasally immunized female guinea pigs with rCPAF plus CpG deoxynucleotides (CpG; as an adjuvant), and challenged intravaginally with C. trachomatis serovar D (CT-D). Immunization with rCPAF/CpG significantly reduced vaginal CT-D shedding and induced resolution of infection by day 24, compared to day 33 in CpG alone treated and challenged animals. Immunization induced robust anti-rCPAF serum IgG 2 weeks following the last immunization, and was sustained at a high level 4 weeks post challenge. Upregulation of antigen specific IFN-γ gene expression was observed in rCPAF/CpG vaccinated splenocytes. Importantly, a significant reduction in inflammation in the genital tissue in rCPAF/CpG-immunized guinea pigs compared to CpG-immunized animals was observed. Taken together, this study provides evidence of the protective efficacy of rCPAF as a vaccine candidate in a second animal model of genital chlamydial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shradha Wali
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Rishein Gupta
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Jieh-Juen Yu
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Gopala Krishna Koundinya Lanka
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - James P Chambers
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - M Neal Guentzel
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Guangming Zhong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Ashlesh K Murthy
- Department of Pathology, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, USA
| | - Bernard P Arulanandam
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX, USA
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29
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Gupta R, Arkatkar T, Keck J, Koundinya GKL, Castillo K, Hobel S, Chambers JP, Yu JJ, Guentzel MN, Aigner A, Christenson LK, Arulanandam BP. Antigen specific immune response in Chlamydia muridarum genital infection is dependent on murine microRNAs-155 and -182. Oncotarget 2016; 7:64726-64742. [PMID: 27556515 PMCID: PMC5323111 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.11461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Anti-chlamydial immunity involves efficient presentation of antigens (Ag) to effector cells resulting in Ag-specific immune responses. There is limited information on inherent underlying mechanisms regulating these events. Previous studies from our laboratory have established that select microRNAs (miRs) function as molecular regulators of immunity in Chlamydia muridarum (Cm) genital infection. In this report, we investigated immune cell type-specific miRs, i.e. miR-155 and -182, and the role in Ag-specific immunity. We observed significant up-regulation of miR-155 in C57BL/6 bone marrow derived dendritic cells (BMDC), and miR-182 in splenic Ag-specific CD4+ T-cells. Using mimics and inhibitors, we determined that miR-155 contributed to BMDC activation following Cm infection. Co-cultures of miR-155 over-expressed in BMDC and miR-182 over-expressed in Ag-specific CD4+ T-cells, or miR-155-/- BMDC with miR-182 inhibitor treated Ag-specific CD4+ T-cells, resulted in IFN-γ production comparable to Ag-specific CD4+ T-cells isolated from Cm infected mice. Additionally, miR-182 was significantly up-regulated in intranasally vaccinated mice protected against Cm infection. In vivo depletion of miR-182 resulted in reduction in Ag-specific IFN-γ and genital pathology in Cm infected mice. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report an interaction of miR-155 (in Cm infected DC) and miR-182 (in CD4+ T-cell) resulting in Ag specific immune responses against genital Cm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishein Gupta
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Tanvi Arkatkar
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Jonathon Keck
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Gopala Krishna Lanka Koundinya
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Kevin Castillo
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Sabrina Hobel
- Rudolf-Boehm-Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Clinical Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, HärtelstraΔe, Leipzig, Germany
| | - James P. Chambers
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Jieh-Juen Yu
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - M. Neal Guentzel
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Achim Aigner
- Rudolf-Boehm-Institute for Pharmacology and Toxicology, Clinical Pharmacology, University of Leipzig, HärtelstraΔe, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Lane K. Christenson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Bernard P. Arulanandam
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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30
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IFNγ is Required for Optimal Antibody-Mediated Immunity against Genital Chlamydia Infection. Infect Immun 2016; 84:3232-3242. [PMID: 27600502 PMCID: PMC5067755 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00749-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Defining the mechanisms of immunity conferred by the combination of antibody and CD4+ T cells is fundamental to designing an efficacious chlamydial vaccine. Using the Chlamydia muridarum genital infection model of mice, which replicates many features of human C. trachomatis infection and avoids the characteristic low virulence of C. trachomatis in the mouse, we previously demonstrated a significant role for antibody in immunity to chlamydial infection. We found that antibody alone was not protective. Instead, protection appeared to be conferred through an undefined antibody-cell interaction. Using gene knockout mice and in vivo cellular depletion methods, our data suggest that antibody-mediated protection is dependent on the activation of an effector cell population in genital tract tissues by CD4+ T cells. Furthermore, the CD4+ T cell-secreted cytokine gamma interferon (IFN-γ) was found to be a key component of the protective antibody response. The protective function of IFN-γ was not related to the immunoglobulin class or to the magnitude of the Chlamydia-specific antibody response or to recruitment of an effector cell population to genital tract tissue. Rather, IFN-γ appears to be necessary for activation of the effector cell population that functions in antibody-mediated chlamydial immunity. Our results confirm the central role of antibody in immunity to chlamydia reinfection and demonstrate a key function for IFN-γ in antibody-mediated protection.
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31
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Mangar C, Armitage CW, Timms P, Corcoran LM, Beagley KW. Characterisation of CD4 T cells in healthy and diseased koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) using cell-type-specific monoclonal antibodies. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2016; 60:80-90. [PMID: 26905635 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2016.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 02/16/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) is an arboreal herbivorous marsupial that is an Australian icon. Koalas in many parts of Australia are under multiple threats including habitat destruction, dog attacks, vehicular accidents, and infectious diseases such as Chlamydia spp. and the koala retrovirus (KoRV), which may contribute to the incidence of lymphoma and leukaemia in this species. Due to a lack of koala-specific immune reagents and assays there is currently no way to adequately analyse the immune response in healthy, diseased or vaccinated animals. This paper reports the production and characterisation of the first anti-koala CD4 monoclonal antibody (mAb). The koala CD4 gene was identified and used to develop recombinant proteins for mAb production. Fluorochrome-conjugated anti-CD4 mAb was used to measure the levels of CD4(+) lymphocytes collected from koala spleens (41.1%, range 20-45.1%) lymph nodes (36.3%, range 19-55.9%) and peripheral blood (23.8%, range 17.3-35%) by flow cytometry. Biotin-conjugated anti-CD4 mAb was used for western blot to determine an approximate size of 52 kDa for the koala CD4 molecule and used in immunohistochemistry to identify CD4(+) cells in the paracortical region and germinal centres of spleen and lymph nodes. Using the anti-CD4 mab we showed that CD4 cells from vaccinated, but not control, koalas proliferated following in vitro stimulation with UV-inactivated Chlamydia pecorum and recombinant chlamydial antigens. Since CD4(+) T cells have been shown to play a pivotal role in clearing chlamydial infection in both human and mouse infections, using this novel antibody will help determine the role CD4(+) T cells play in protection against chlamydial infection in koalas and also enhance our knowledge of how KoRV affects the koala immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandan Mangar
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), Queensland University of Technology (QUT), P.O Box 4059, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
| | - Charles W Armitage
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), Queensland University of Technology (QUT), P.O Box 4059, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
| | - Peter Timms
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), Queensland University of Technology (QUT), P.O Box 4059, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia; Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of Sunshine Coast (USC), P.O Box, 4556, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
| | - Lynn M Corcoran
- The Walter Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, 3052, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kenneth W Beagley
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), Queensland University of Technology (QUT), P.O Box 4059, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia.
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32
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Badamchi-Zadeh A, McKay PF, Korber BT, Barinaga G, Walters AA, Nunes A, Gomes JP, Follmann F, Tregoning JS, Shattock RJ. A Multi-Component Prime-Boost Vaccination Regimen with a Consensus MOMP Antigen Enhances Chlamydia trachomatis Clearance. Front Immunol 2016; 7:162. [PMID: 27199987 PMCID: PMC4848310 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 04/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A vaccine for Chlamydia trachomatis is of urgent medical need. We explored bioinformatic approaches to generate an immunogen against C. trachomatis that would induce cross-serovar T-cell responses as (i) CD4(+) T cells have been shown in animal models and human studies to be important in chlamydial protection and (ii) antibody responses may be restrictive and serovar specific. METHODS A consensus antigen based on over 1,500 major outer membrane protein (MOMP) sequences provided high epitope coverage against the most prevalent C. trachomatis strains in silico. Having designed the T-cell immunogen, we assessed it for immunogenicity in prime-boost regimens. This consensus MOMP transgene was delivered using plasmid DNA, Human Adenovirus 5 (HuAd5) or modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vectors with or without MF59(®) adjuvanted recombinant MOMP protein. RESULTS Different regimens induced distinct immune profiles. The DNA-HuAd5-MVA-Protein vaccine regimen induced a cellular response with a Th1-biased serum antibody response, alongside high serum and vaginal MOMP-specific antibodies. This regimen significantly enhanced clearance against intravaginal C. trachomatis serovar D infection in both BALB/c and B6C3F1 mouse strains. This enhanced clearance was shown to be CD4(+) T-cell dependent. Future studies will need to confirm the specificity and precise mechanisms of protection. CONCLUSION A C. trachomatis vaccine needs to induce a robust cellular response with broad cross-serovar coverage and a heterologous prime-boost regimen may be an approach to achieve this.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul F McKay
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | - Bette T Korber
- Los Alamos National Laboratory, Theoretical Division , Los Alamos, NM , USA
| | - Guillermo Barinaga
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | - Adam A Walters
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | - Alexandra Nunes
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - João Paulo Gomes
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - Frank Follmann
- Chlamydia Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institute , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - John S Tregoning
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | - Robin J Shattock
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
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Wali S, Gupta R, Yu JJ, Mfuh A, Gao X, Guentzel MN, Chambers JP, Abu Bakar S, Zhong G, Arulanandam BP. Guinea pig genital tract lipidome reveals in vivo and in vitro regulation of phosphatidylcholine 16:0/18:1 and contribution to Chlamydia trachomatis serovar D infectivity. Metabolomics 2016; 12:74. [PMID: 27642272 PMCID: PMC5022361 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-016-0998-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct), is the leading cause of sexually transmitted infections worldwide. Host transcriptomic- or proteomic profiling studies have identified key molecules involved in establishment of Ct infection or the generation of anti Ct-immunity. However, the contribution of the host metabolome is not known. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to determine the contribution of host metabolites in genital Ct infection. METHODS We used high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and mapped lipid profiles in genital swabs obtained from female guinea pigs at days 3, 9, 15, 30 and 65 post Ct serovar D intravaginal infection. RESULTS Across all time points assessed, 13 distinct lipid species including choline, ethanolamine and glycerol were detected. Amongst these metabolites, phosphatidylcholine (PC) was the predominant phospholipid detected from animals actively shedding bacteria i.e., at 3, 9, and 15 days post infection. However, at days 30 and 65 when the animals had cleared the infection, PC was observed to be decreased compared to previous time points. Mass spectrometry analyses of PC produced in guinea pigs (in vivo) and 104C1 guinea pig cell line (in vitro) revealed distinct PC species following Ct D infection. Amongst these, PC 16:0/18:1 was significantly upregulated following Ct D infection (p < 0.05, >twofold change) in vivo and in vitro infection models investigated in this report. Exogenous addition of PC 16:0/18:1 resulted in significant increase in Ct D in Hela 229 cells. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates a role for host metabolite, PC 16:0/18:1 in regulating genital Ct infection in vivo and in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shradha Wali
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Rishein Gupta
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Jieh-Juen Yu
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Adelphe Mfuh
- Department of Chemistry, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Xiaoli Gao
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - M. Neal Guentzel
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - James P. Chambers
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Sazaly Abu Bakar
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Lembah Pantai Kuala Lumpur, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Guangming Zhong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7702 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Bernard P. Arulanandam
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
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Li J, Dong X, Zhao L, Wang X, Wang Y, Yang X, Wang H, Zhao W. Natural killer cells regulate Th1/Treg and Th17/Treg balance in chlamydial lung infection. J Cell Mol Med 2016; 20:1339-51. [PMID: 27028780 PMCID: PMC4929289 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.12821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 01/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cell is an important component in innate immunity, playing a critical role in bridging innate and adaptive immunity by modulating the function of other immune cells including T cells. In this study, we focused on the role of NK cells in regulating Th1/Treg and Th17/Treg balance during chlamydial lung infection. We found that NK cell‐depleted mice showed decreased Th1 and Th17 cells, which was correlated with reduced interferon‐γ, interleukin (IL)‐12, IL‐17 and IL‐22 production as well as T‐bet and receptor‐related orphan receptor gamma t expression compared with mice treated with the isotype control antibody. In contrast, NK cell depletion significantly increased Treg in cell number and related transcription factor (Foxp3) expression. The opposite trends of changes of Th1/Th17 and Treg led to significant reduction in the Th1/Treg and Th17/Treg ratios. The data implicate that NK cells play an important role in host defence against chlamydial lung infection, mainly through maintaining Th1/Treg and Th17/Treg balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaojing Dong
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lei Zhao
- Institute of Basic Medical Science, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Pathology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Pathology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Department of Immunology and Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Hong Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Weiming Zhao
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Shandong University School of Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
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35
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Lanka GKK, Yu JJ, Gong S, Gupta R, Mustafa SB, Murthy AK, Zhong G, Chambers JP, Guentzel MN, Arulanandam BP. IgA modulates respiratory dysfunction as a sequela to pulmonary chlamydial infection as neonates. Pathog Dis 2016; 74:ftv121. [PMID: 26755533 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftv121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Neonatal Chlamydia lung infections are associated with serious sequelae such as asthma and airway hyper-reactivity in children and adults. Our previous studies demonstrated the importance of Th-1 type cytokines, IL-12 and IFN-γ in protection against neonatal pulmonary chlamydial challenge; however, the role of the humoral arm of defense has not been elucidated. We hypothesized that B-cells and IgA, the major mucosal antibody, play a protective role in newborns against development of later life respiratory sequelae to Chlamydia infection. Our studies using neonatal mice revealed that all WT and IgA-deficient (IgA(-/-)) animals survived a sublethal pulmonary Chlamydia muridarum challenge at one day after birth with similar reduction in bacterial burdens over time. In contrast, all B-cell-deficient (μMT) mice succumbed to infection at the same challenge dose correlating to failure to control bacterial burdens in the lungs. Although IgA may not be important for bacterial clearance, we observed IgA(-/-) mice displayed greater respiratory dysfunction 5 weeks post challenge. Specifically, comparative respiratory functional analyses revealed a significant shift upward in P-V loops, and higher dynamic resistance in IgA(-/-) animals. This study provides insight(s) into the protective role of IgA in neonates against pulmonary chlamydial infection induced respiratory pathological sequelae observed later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gopala Krishna Koundinya Lanka
- Department of Biology, The South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, and the Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, 1 UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Jieh-Juen Yu
- Department of Biology, The South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, and the Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, 1 UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Siqi Gong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Rishein Gupta
- Department of Biology, The South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, and the Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, 1 UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Shamimunisa B Mustafa
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Ashlesh K Murthy
- Department of Pathology, Midwestern University, 555 31st Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA
| | - Guangming Zhong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - James P Chambers
- Department of Biology, The South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, and the Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, 1 UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - M Neal Guentzel
- Department of Biology, The South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, and the Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, 1 UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Bernard P Arulanandam
- Department of Biology, The South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, and the Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, 1 UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
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36
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Poston TB, Darville T. Chlamydia trachomatis: Protective Adaptive Responses and Prospects for a Vaccine. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2016; 412:217-237. [PMID: 27033698 DOI: 10.1007/82_2016_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common cause of sexually transmitted bacterial infection globally. These infections translate to a significant public health burden, particularly women's healthcare costs due to serious disease sequelae such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), tubal factor infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and ectopic pregnancy. There is no evidence that natural immunity can provide complete, long-term protection necessary to prevent chronic pathology, making human vaccine development critical. Vaccine design will require careful consideration of protective versus pathological host-response mechanisms in concert with elucidation of optimal antigens and adjuvants. Evidence suggests that a Th1 response, facilitated by IFN-γ-producing CD4 T cells, will be instrumental in generating long-term, sterilizing immunity. Although the role of antibodies is not completely understood, they have exhibited a protective effect by enhancing chlamydial clearance. Future work will require investigation of broadly neutralizing antibodies and antibody-augmented cellular immunity to successfully design a vaccine that potently elicits both arms of the immune response. Sterilizing immunity is the ultimate goal. However, vaccine-induced partial immunity that prevents upper genital tract infection and inflammation would be cost-effective compared to current screening and treatment strategies. In this chapter, we examine evidence from animal and human studies demonstrating protective adaptive immune responses to Chlamydia and discuss future challenges and prospects for vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor B Poston
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Toni Darville
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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37
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Vasilevsky S, Stojanov M, Greub G, Baud D. Chlamydial polymorphic membrane proteins: regulation, function and potential vaccine candidates. Virulence 2015; 7:11-22. [PMID: 26580416 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2015.1111509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Pmps (Polymorphic Membrane Proteins) are a group of membrane bound surface exposed chlamydial proteins that have been characterized as autotransporter adhesins and are important in the initial phase of chlamydial infection. These proteins all contain conserved GGA (I, L, V) and FxxN tetrapeptide motifs in the N-terminal portion of each protein. All chlamydial species express Pmps. Even in the chlamydia-related bacteria Waddlia chondrophila, a Pmp-like adhesin has been identified, demonstrating the importance of Pmps in Chlamydiales biology. Chlamydial species vary in the number of pmp genes and their differentially regulated expression during the infectious cycle or in response to stress. Studies have also demonstrated that Pmps are able to induce innate immune functional responses in infected cells, including production of IL-8, IL-6 and MCP-1, by activating the transcription factor NF-κB. Human serum studies have indicated that although anti-Pmp specific antibodies are produced in response to a chlamydial infection, the response is variable depending on the Pmp protein. In C. trachomatis, PmpB, PmpC, PmpD and PmpI were the proteins eliciting the strongest immune response among adolescents with and without pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). In contrast, PmpA and PmpE elicited the weakest antibody response. Interestingly, there seems to be a gender bias for Pmp recognition with a stronger anti-Pmp reactivity in male patients. Furthermore, anti-PmpA antibodies might contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes, at least among women with PID. In vitro studies indicated that dendritic cells infected with C. muridarum were able to present PmpG and PmpF on their MHC class II receptors and T cells were able to recognize the MHC class-II bound peptides. In addition, vaccination with PmpEFGH and Major Outer Membrane Protein (MOMP) significantly protected mice against a genital tract C. muridarum infection, suggesting that Pmps may be an important component of a multi-subunit chlamydial vaccine. Thus, Pmps might be important not only for the pathogenesis of chlamydial infection, but also as potential candidate vaccine proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Vasilevsky
- a Materno-fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit ; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Maternity; University Hospital ; Lausanne , Switzerland
| | - Milos Stojanov
- a Materno-fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit ; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Maternity; University Hospital ; Lausanne , Switzerland
| | - Gilbert Greub
- b Center for Research on Intracellular Bacteria; Institute of Microbiology; Faculty of Biology and Medicine; University of Lausanne and University Hospital ; Lausanne , Switzerland
| | - David Baud
- a Materno-fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit ; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Maternity; University Hospital ; Lausanne , Switzerland
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38
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Gracey E, Baglaenko Y, Prayitno N, Van Rooijen N, Akram A, Lin A, Chiu B, Inman RD. Pulmonary Chlamydia muridarum challenge activates lung interstitial macrophages which correlate with IFN-γ production and infection control in mice. Eur J Immunol 2015; 45:3417-30. [PMID: 26344246 DOI: 10.1002/eji.201545874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Revised: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Protective immunity to the pathogen Chlamydia is dependent on a robust IFN-γ response generated by innate and adaptive lymphocytes. Here we assess the role of the macrophage in orchestrating a protective response in vivo to the murine pathogen, Chlamydia muridarum. During acute pulmonary and peritoneal infection, resident macrophages in both sites are infected with C. muridarum and adopt an inflammatory phenotype. In the lung, this activation is restricted to interstitial macrophages, which harbor higher levels of C. muridarum 16sRNA than alveolar macrophages. We examined innate and adaptive lymphocyte activation in the peritoneal cavity with macrophage depletion and with adoptive transfer of infected macrophages. These experiments demonstrate macrophage activation correlates with a protective IFN-γ response and effective control of C. muridarum. These studies suggest that a quantitative or qualitative alteration in macrophages may play a key role in the development of Chlamydia-associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Gracey
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Canada.,Division of Genetics and Development, Toronto Western Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Yuriy Baglaenko
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Canada.,Division of Genetics and Development, Toronto Western Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Nico Van Rooijen
- Vrije Universiteit, Vrije Universiteit Medical Center, Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ali Akram
- Division of Genetics and Development, Toronto Western Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Aifeng Lin
- Division of Genetics and Development, Toronto Western Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Basil Chiu
- Division of Genetics and Development, Toronto Western Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Robert D Inman
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Canada.,Division of Genetics and Development, Toronto Western Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
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39
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Gupta R, Wali S, Yu JJ, Chambers JP, Zhong G, Murthy AK, Bakar SA, Guentzel MN, Arulanandam BP. In vivo whole animal body imaging reveals colonization of Chlamydia muridarum to the lower genital tract at early stages of infection. Mol Imaging Biol 2015; 16:635-41. [PMID: 24723309 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-014-0732-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The leading cause of sexually transmitted bacterial infection is Chlamydia trachomatis. The aim of this study is to investigate the early events in colonization of this bacterium within the murine genital tract. PROCEDURES An in vivo animal body imaging technology was used to track fluorophore labeled C. muridarum elementary bodies (EBs) inoculated intravaginally in C57BL/6 mice during the first 24 h of infection. RESULTS Ascension of viable EBs was observed (1) to be localized to the lower regions of the murine genital tract within the first 24 h post challenge and (2) was dose independent during this early exposure period. Molecular detection revealed enhanced bacterial load in lower regions of the genital tract with increasing bacterial load in the upper region beginning 12 h post inoculation. CONCLUSION This study provides additional insight into chlamydial colonization in the murine genital tract during the first 12-24 h following inoculation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishein Gupta
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Disease and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
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40
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Nunes A, Gomes JP, Karunakaran KP, Brunham RC. Bioinformatic Analysis of Chlamydia trachomatis Polymorphic Membrane Proteins PmpE, PmpF, PmpG and PmpH as Potential Vaccine Antigens. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0131695. [PMID: 26131720 PMCID: PMC4488443 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0131695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most important infectious cause of infertility in women with important implications in public health and for which a vaccine is urgently needed. Recent immunoproteomic vaccine studies found that four polymorphic membrane proteins (PmpE, PmpF, PmpG and PmpH) are immunodominant, recognized by various MHC class II haplotypes and protective in mouse models. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate genetic and protein features of Pmps (focusing on the N-terminal 600 amino acids where MHC class II epitopes were mapped) in order to understand antigen variation that may emerge following vaccine induced immune selection. We used several bioinformatics platforms to study: i) Pmps' phylogeny and genetic polymorphism; ii) the location and distribution of protein features (GGA(I, L)/FxxN motifs and cysteine residues) that may impact pathogen-host interactions and protein conformation; and iii) the existence of phase variation mechanisms that may impact Pmps' expression. We used a well-characterized collection of 53 fully-sequenced strains that represent the C. trachomatis serovars associated with the three disease groups: ocular (N=8), epithelial-genital (N=25) and lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) (N=20). We observed that PmpF and PmpE are highly polymorphic between LGV and epithelial-genital strains, and also within populations of the latter. We also found heterogeneous representation among strains for GGA(I, L)/FxxN motifs and cysteine residues, suggesting possible alterations in adhesion properties, tissue specificity and immunogenicity. PmpG and, to a lesser extent, PmpH revealed low polymorphism and high conservation of protein features among the genital strains (including the LGV group). Uniquely among the four Pmps, pmpG has regulatory sequences suggestive of phase variation. In aggregate, the results suggest that PmpG may be the lead vaccine candidate because of sequence conservation but may need to be paired with another protective antigen (like PmpH) in order to prevent immune selection of phase variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Nunes
- Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João P. Gomes
- Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Karuna P. Karunakaran
- Vaccine Research Laboratory, University of British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Robert C. Brunham
- Vaccine Research Laboratory, University of British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
- * E-mail:
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41
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Arkatkar T, Gupta R, Li W, Yu JJ, Wali S, Neal Guentzel M, Chambers JP, Christenson LK, Arulanandam BP. Murine MicroRNA-214 regulates intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM1) gene expression in genital Chlamydia muridarum infection. Immunology 2015; 145:534-42. [PMID: 25865776 DOI: 10.1111/imm.12470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2015] [Revised: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The hallmark of chlamydial infection is the development of upper genital pathology in the form of hydrosalpinx and oviduct and/or tubal dilatation. Although molecular events leading to genital tissue presentation and cellular architectural remodelling are unclear, early-stage host immune responses are believed to contribute to these long-term sequelae. Recently, we reported the contribution of selected infection-associated microRNAs (miRs) in the generation of host immunity at early-stage infection (day 6 after intravaginal Chlamydia muridarum challenge in C57BL/6 mice). In this report, we describe the contribution of an infection-associated microRNA, i.e. miR-214, to host immunity. Chlamydia muridarum infection in the C57BL/6 mouse genital tract significantly down-regulated miR-214 while up-regulating intracellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1) gene expression. These in vivo observations were confirmed by establishing direct regulation of ICAM-1 by miR-214 in ex vivo genital cell cultures in the presence of miR-214 mimic and inhibitor. Because, ICAM-1 contributes to recruitment of neutrophils following infection, we also demonstrated that alteration of ICAM1 by miR-214 in interleukin-17A-deficient (IL-17A(-/-) ) mice correlated with reduction of neutrophils infiltrating genital tissue at day 6 after challenge. Additionally, these early-stage events resulted in significantly decreased genital pathology in IL-17A(-/-) mice compared with C57BL/6 mice. This report provides evidence for early-stage regulation of ICAM1 by microRNAs, resulting in reduction of genital pathology associated with chlamydial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanvi Arkatkar
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Rishein Gupta
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Weidang Li
- Department of Pathology, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, USA
| | - Jieh-Juen Yu
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Shradha Wali
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - M Neal Guentzel
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - James P Chambers
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Lane K Christenson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Bernard P Arulanandam
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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42
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Wali S, Gupta R, Veselenak RL, Li Y, Yu JJ, Murthy AK, Cap AP, Guentzel MN, Chambers JP, Zhong G, Rank RG, Pyles RB, Arulanandam BP. Use of a Guinea pig-specific transcriptome array for evaluation of protective immunity against genital chlamydial infection following intranasal vaccination in Guinea pigs. PLoS One 2014; 9:e114261. [PMID: 25502875 PMCID: PMC4263467 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0114261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Guinea pigs have been used as a second animal model to validate putative anti-chlamydial vaccine candidates tested in mice. However, the lack of guinea pig-specific reagents has limited the utility of this animal model in Chlamydia sp. vaccine studies. Using a novel guinea pig-specific transcriptome array, we determined correlates of protection in guinea pigs vaccinated with Chlamydia caviae (C. caviae) via the intranasal route, previously reported by us and others to provide robust antigen specific immunity against subsequent intravaginal challenge. C. caviae vaccinated guinea pigs resolved genital infection by day 3 post challenge. In contrast, mock vaccinated animals continued to shed viable Chlamydia up to day 18 post challenge. Importantly, at day 80 post challenge, vaccinated guinea pigs experienced significantly reduced genital pathology - a sequelae of genital chlamydial infections, in comparison to mock vaccinated guinea pigs. Sera from vaccinated guinea pigs displayed antigen specific IgG responses and increased IgG1 and IgG2 titers capable of neutralizing GPIC in vitro. Th1-cellular/inflammatory immune genes and Th2-humoral associated genes were also found to be elevated in vaccinated guinea pigs at day 3 post-challenge and correlated with early clearance of the bacterium. Overall, this study provides the first evidence of guinea pig-specific genes involved in anti-chlamydial vaccination and illustrates the enhancement of the utility of this animal model in chlamydial pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shradha Wali
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, Texas 78249, United Stats of America
| | - Rishein Gupta
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, Texas 78249, United Stats of America
| | - Ronald L. Veselenak
- Departments of Pediatrics and Microbiology & Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, Texas 77555, United States of America
| | - Yansong Li
- US Army Institute of Surgical Research, 3650 Chambers Pass, BHT2, Building 3610/Room224-1, Fort Sam Houston, Texas 78234, United States of America
| | - Jieh-Juen Yu
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, Texas 78249, United Stats of America
| | - Ashlesh K. Murthy
- Department of Pathology, Midwestern University, Downer's Grove, Illinois, 60148, United States of America
| | - Andrew P. Cap
- US Army Institute of Surgical Research, 3650 Chambers Pass, BHT2, Building 3610/Room224-1, Fort Sam Houston, Texas 78234, United States of America
| | - M. Neal Guentzel
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, Texas 78249, United Stats of America
| | - James P. Chambers
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, Texas 78249, United Stats of America
| | - Guangming Zhong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, 7702 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78229, United States of America
| | - Roger G. Rank
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, and Arkansas Children's Hospital Research Institute, Little Rock, Arkansas 72202, United States of America
| | - Richard B. Pyles
- Departments of Pediatrics and Microbiology & Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, Texas 77555, United States of America
| | - Bernard P. Arulanandam
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, Texas 78249, United Stats of America
- * E-mail:
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Gupta R, Arkatkar T, Yu JJ, Wali S, Haskins WE, Chambers JP, Murthy AK, Bakar SA, Guentzel MN, Arulanandam BP. Chlamydia muridarum infection associated host MicroRNAs in the murine genital tract and contribution to generation of host immune response. Am J Reprod Immunol 2014; 73:126-40. [PMID: 24976530 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is the leading sexually transmitted bacterial infection in humans and is associated with reproductive tract damage. However, little is known about the involvement and regulation of microRNAs (miRs) in genital CT. METHODS We analyzed miRs in the genital tract (GT) following C. muridarum (murine strain of CT) challenge of wild type (WT) and CD4(+) T-cell deficient (CD4(-/-)) C57BL/6 mice at days 6 and 12 post-challenge. RESULTS At day 6, miRs significantly downregulated in the lower GT were miR-125b-5p, -16, -214, -23b, -135a, -182, -183, -30c, and -30e while -146 and -451 were significantly upregulated, profiles not exhibited at day 12 post-bacterial challenge. Significant differences in miR-125b-5p (+5.06-fold change), -135a (+4.9), -183 (+7.9), and -182 (+3.2) were observed in C. muridarum-infected CD4(-/-) compared to WT mice. In silico prediction and mass spectrometry revealed regulation of miR-135a and -182 and associated proteins, that is, heat-shock protein B1 and alpha-2HS-glycoprotein. CONCLUSION This study provides evidence on regulation of miRs following genital chlamydial infection suggesting a role in pathogenesis and host immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishein Gupta
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center of Excellence in Infection Genomics, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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Aiyar A, Quayle AJ, Buckner LR, Sherchand SP, Chang TL, Zea AH, Martin DH, Belland RJ. Influence of the tryptophan-indole-IFNγ axis on human genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection: role of vaginal co-infections. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2014; 4:72. [PMID: 24918090 PMCID: PMC4042155 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2014.00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2014] [Accepted: 05/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The natural history of genital Chlamydia trachomatis infections can vary widely; infections can spontaneously resolve but can also last from months to years, potentially progressing to cause significant pathology. The host and bacterial factors underlying this wide variation are not completely understood, but emphasize the bacterium's capacity to evade/adapt to the genital immune response, and/or exploit local environmental conditions to survive this immune response. IFNγ is considered to be a primary host protective cytokine against endocervical C.trachomatis infections. IFNγ acts by inducing the host enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxgenase, which catabolizes tryptophan, thereby depriving the bacterium of this essential amino acid. In vitro studies have revealed that tryptophan deprivation causes Chlamydia to enter a viable but non-infectious growth pattern that is termed a persistent growth form, characterized by a unique morphology and gene expression pattern. Provision of tryptophan can reactivate the bacterium to the normal developmental cycle. There is a significant difference in the capacity of ocular and genital C. trachomatis serovars to counter tryptophan deprivation. The latter uniquely encode a functional tryptophan synthase to synthesize tryptophan via indole salvage, should indole be available in the infection microenvironment. In vitro studies have confirmed the capacity of indole to mitigate the effects of IFNγ; it has been suggested that a perturbed vaginal microbiome may provide a source of indole in vivo. Consistent with this hypothesis, the microbiome associated with bacterial vaginosis includes species that encode a tryptophanase to produce indole. In this review, we discuss the natural history of genital chlamydial infections, morphological and molecular changes imposed by IFNγ on Chlamydia, and finally, the microenvironmental conditions associated with vaginal co-infections that can ameliorate the effects of IFNγ on C. trachomatis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Aiyar
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Alison J Quayle
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Lyndsey R Buckner
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Shardulendra P Sherchand
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Theresa L Chang
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Public Health Research Institute Center, New Jersey Medical School-Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Arnold H Zea
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - David H Martin
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Robert J Belland
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Biochemistry, University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center Memphis, TN, USA
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Steroids alone or as adjunctive therapy with doxycycline fail to improve oviduct damage in mice infected with Chlamydia muridarum. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2014; 21:824-30. [PMID: 24695778 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.00006-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In women, Chlamydia trachomatis can ascend from the cervix to the fallopian tubes, where an overly aggressive host inflammatory response can cause scarring that leads to chronic pelvic pain, infertility, or ectopic pregnancy. Although screening and treatment programs for women have resulted in decreased rates of sequelae, morbidities associated with oviduct scarring continue to occur. Since corticosteroids have anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects, we tested the ability of dexamethasone to inhibit inflammation and prevent oviduct scarring in mice genitally infected with Chlamydia muridarum. The administration of 1 or 2.5 mg/kg of body weight of dexamethasone on days 7 to 21 of infection resulted in reduced accumulation of inflammatory cells in the oviducts compared to that in controls. However, a concomitant increase in bacterial burden was observed, and chronic oviduct disease was not reduced. Adjunctive administration of a prolonged (21-day) or short (3-day) course of dexamethasone in combination with the antibiotic doxycycline also failed to reduce chronic oviduct pathology compared to antibiotic treatment alone. Steroids administered alone or adjunctively with antibiotics failed to prevent oviduct damage in this murine model of C. trachomatis infection.
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Li W, Murthy AK, Lanka GK, Chetty SL, Yu JJ, Chambers JP, Zhong G, Forsthuber TG, Guentzel MN, Arulanandam BP. A T cell epitope-based vaccine protects against chlamydial infection in HLA-DR4 transgenic mice. Vaccine 2013; 31:5722-8. [PMID: 24096029 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2013.09.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2013] [Revised: 09/05/2013] [Accepted: 09/19/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Vaccination with recombinant chlamydial protease-like activity factor (rCPAF) has been shown to provide robust protection against genital Chlamydia infection. Adoptive transfer of IFN-γ competent CPAF-specific CD4⁺ T cells was sufficient to induce early resolution of chlamydial infection and reduction of subsequent pathology in recipient IFN-γ-deficient mice indicating the importance of IFN-γ secreting CD4⁺ T cells in host defense against Chlamydia. In this study, we identify CD4⁺ T cell reactive CPAF epitopes and characterize the activation of epitope-specific CD4⁺ T cells following antigen immunization or Chlamydia challenge. Using the HLA-DR4 (HLA-DRB1*0401) transgenic mouse for screening overlapping peptides that induced T cell IFN-γ production, we identified at least 5 CPAF T cell epitopes presented by the HLA-DR4 complex. Immunization of HLA-DR4 transgenic mice with a rCPAFep fusion protein containing these 5 epitopes induced a robust cell-mediated immune response and significantly accelerated the resolution of genital and pulmonary Chlamydia infection. rCPAFep vaccination induced CPAF-specific CD4⁺ T cells in the spleen were detected using HLA-DR4/CPAF-epitope tetramers. Additionally, CPAF-specific CD4⁺ clones could be detected in the mouse spleen following Chlamydia muridarum and a human Chlamydia trachomatis strain challenge using these novel tetramers. These results provide the first direct evidence that a novel CPAF epitope vaccine can provide protection and that HLA-DR4/CPAF-epitope tetramers can detect CPAF epitope-specific CD4⁺ T cells in HLA-DR4 mice following C. muridarum or C. trachomatis infection. Such tetramers could be a useful tool for monitoring CD4⁺ T cells in immunity to Chlamydia infection and in developing epitope-based human vaccines using the murine model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weidang Li
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Center for Excellence in Infection Genomics, Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, United States; Department of Pathology and Department of Dental Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL 60515, United States
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Pal S, de la Maza LM. Mechanism of T-cell mediated protection in newborn mice against a Chlamydia infection. Microbes Infect 2013; 15:607-14. [PMID: 23644176 PMCID: PMC5058356 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2013.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2012] [Revised: 04/18/2013] [Accepted: 04/21/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
To determine the immune components needed for protection of newborn mice against Chlamydia muridarum, animals born to Chlamydia-immunized and to sham-immunized dams were infected intranasally with C. muridarum at 2 post-natal days. T-cells isolated from immunized or sham-immunized adult mice were adoptively transferred to newborn mice at the time of infection. Also, to establish what cytokines are involved in protection, IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-10, and IL-12 were passively transferred to newborn mice. To assess the Chlamydia burden in the lungs mice were euthanized at 12 post-natal days. When T-cells from immunized adult mice were transferred, mice born to and fed by immunized dams were significantly protected as evidenced by the reduced number of Chlamydia isolated from the lungs compared to mice born to and fed by sham-immunized dams. Transfer of IFN-γ and TNF-α also significantly reduced the number of Chlamydia in the lungs of mice born to immunized dams. Transfer of IL-10 or IL-12 did not result in a significant reduction of Chlamydia. In vitro T-cell proliferation data suggest that neonatal antigen presenting cells can present Chlamydia antigens to adult T-cells. In conclusion, maternal antibodies and Chlamydia specific T-cells or Th1 cytokines are required for protection of neonates against this pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukumar Pal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Medical Science Building 1, Room # D440, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697-4800, USA.
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Manam S, Chaganty BKR, Evani SJ, Zafiratos MT, Ramasubramanian AK, Arulanandam BP, Murthy AK. Intranasal vaccination with Chlamydia pneumoniae induces cross-species immunity against genital Chlamydia muridarum challenge in mice. PLoS One 2013; 8:e64917. [PMID: 23741420 PMCID: PMC3669087 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0064917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2013] [Accepted: 04/21/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted disease in the world and specifically in the United States, with the highest incidence in age-groups 14-19 years. In a subset of females, the C. trachomatis genital infection leads to serious pathological sequelae including pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility. Chlamydia pneumoniae, another member of the same genus, is a common cause of community acquired respiratory infection with significant number of children aged 5-14 yr displaying sero-conversion. Since these bacteriae share several antigenic determinants, we evaluated whether intranasal immunization with live C. pneumoniae (1×10(6) inclusion forming units; IFU) in 5 week old female C57BL/6 mice would induce cross-species protection against subsequent intravaginal challenge with Chlamydia muridarum (5×10(4) IFU), which causes a similar genital infection and pathology in mice as C. trachomatis in humans. Mice vaccinated intranasally with live C. pneumoniae, but not mock (PBS) immunized animals, displayed high levels of splenic cellular antigen-specific IFN-γ production and serum antibody response against C. muridarum and C. trachomatis. Mice vaccinated with C. pneumoniae displayed a significant reduction in the vaginal C. muridarum shedding as early as day 12 after secondary i.vag. challenge compared to PBS (mock) immunized mice. At day 19 after C. muridarum challenge, 100% of C. pneumoniae vaccinated mice had cleared the infection compared to none (0%) of the mock immunized mice, which cleared the infection by day 27. At day 80 after C. muridarum challenge, C. pneumoniae vaccinated mice displayed a significant reduction in the incidence (50%) and degree of hydrosalpinx compared to mock immunized animals (100%). These results suggest that respiratory C. pneumoniae infection induces accelerated chlamydial clearance and reduction of oviduct pathology following genital C. muridarum challenge, and may have important implications to the C. trachomatis-induced reproductive disease in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srikanth Manam
- Department of Pathology, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Bharat K. R. Chaganty
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Shankar Jaikishan Evani
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Mark T. Zafiratos
- Department of Pathology, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Anand K. Ramasubramanian
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Bernard P. Arulanandam
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Department of Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Ashlesh K. Murthy
- Department of Pathology, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, Illinois, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Gao X, Gigoux M, Yang J, Leconte J, Yang X, Suh WK. Anti-chlamydial Th17 responses are controlled by the inducible costimulator partially through phosphoinositide 3-kinase signaling. PLoS One 2012; 7:e52657. [PMID: 23285133 PMCID: PMC3527575 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2012] [Accepted: 11/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously showed that mice deficient in the Inducible Costimulator ligand (ICOSL-KO) develop more severe disease and lung pathology with delayed bacterial clearance upon respiratory infection of Chlamydia muridarum. Importantly, the exacerbation of disease in ICOSL-KO mice was seen despite heightened IFN-γ/Th1 responses, the major defense mechanisms against Chlamydia. To gain insight into the mechanism of ICOS function in this model, we presently analyzed anti-Chlamydia immune responses in mice lacking the entire ICOS (ICOS-KO) versus knock-in mice expressing a mutant ICOS (ICOS-Y181F) that has selectively lost the ability to activate phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K). Like ICOSL-KO mice, ICOS-KO mice showed worse disease with elevated IFN-γ/Th1 responses compared to wild-type (WT) mice. ICOS-Y181F mice developed much milder disease compared to ICOS-KO mice, yet they were still not fully protected to the WT level. This partial protection in ICOS-Y181F mice could not be explained by the magnitude of IFN-γ/Th1 responses since these mice developed a similar level of IFN-γ response compared to WT mice. It was rather IL-17/Th17 responses that reflected disease severity: IL-17/Th17 response was partially impaired in ICOS-Y181F mice compared to WT, but was substantially stronger than that of ICOS-KO mice. Consistently, we found that both polarization and expansion of Th17 cells were partially impaired in ICOS-Y181F CD4 T cells, and was further reduced in ICOS-KO CD4 T cells in vitro. Our results indicate that once the IFN-γ/Th1 response is above a threshold level, the IL-17/Th17 response becomes a limiting factor in controlling Chlamydia lung infection, and that ICOS plays an important role in promoting Th17 responses in part through the activation of PI3K.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Gao
- Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Mathieu Gigoux
- Immune Regulation Laboratory, Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Jie Yang
- Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Julien Leconte
- Immune Regulation Laboratory, Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Département de microbiologie et immunologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Xi Yang
- Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- * E-mail: (W-KS); (XY)
| | - Woong-Kyung Suh
- Immune Regulation Laboratory, Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Département de microbiologie et immunologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Département de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- * E-mail: (W-KS); (XY)
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Immune markers and correlates of protection for vaccine induced immune responses. Vaccine 2012; 30:4907-20. [PMID: 22658928 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2012.05.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2012] [Revised: 05/15/2012] [Accepted: 05/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Vaccines have been a major innovation in the history of mankind and still have the potential to address the challenges posed by chronic intracellular infections including tuberculosis, HIV and malaria which are leading causes of high morbidity and mortality across the world. Markers of an appropriate humoral response currently remain the best validated correlates of protective immunity after vaccination. Despite advancements in the field of immunology over the past few decades currently there are, however, no sufficiently validated immune correlates of vaccine induced protection against chronic infections in neither human nor veterinary medicine. Technological and conceptual advancements within cell-mediated immunology have led to a number of new immunological read-outs with the potential to emerge as correlates of vaccine induced protection. For T(H)1 type responses, antigen-specific production of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) has been promoted as a quantitative marker of protective cell-mediated immune responses over the past couple of decades. More recently, however, evidence from several infections has pointed towards the quality of the immune response, measured through increased levels of antigen-specific polyfunctional T cells capable of producing a triad of relevant cytokines, as a better correlate of sustained protective immunity against this type of infections. Also the possibilities to measure antigen-specific cytotoxic T cells (CTL) during infection or in response to vaccination, through recombinant major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I tetramers loaded with relevant peptides, has opened a new vista to include CTL responses in the evaluation of protective immune responses. Here, we review different immune markers and new candidates for correlates of a protective vaccine induced immune response against chronic infections and how successful they have been in defining the protective immunity in human and veterinary medicine.
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