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Multiepitope Subunit Peptide-Based Nanovaccine against Porcine Circovirus Type 2 (PCV2) Elicited High Antibody Titers in Vaccinated Mice. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28052248. [PMID: 36903494 PMCID: PMC10005372 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28052248] [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: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) infection is one of the most serious threats to the swine industry. While the disease can be prevented, to some extent, by commercial PCV2a vaccines, the evolving nature of PCV2 necessitates the development of a novel vaccine that can compete with the mutations of the virus. Thus, we have developed novel multiepitope vaccines based on the PCV2b variant. Three PCV2b capsid protein epitopes, together with a universal T helper epitope, were synthesized and formulated with five delivery systems/adjuvants: complete Freund's adjuvant, poly(methyl acrylate) (PMA), poly(hydrophobic amino acid), liposomes and rod-shaped polymeric nanoparticles built from polystyrene-poly(N-isopropylacrylamide)-poly(N-dimethylacrylamide). Mice were subcutaneously immunized with the vaccine candidates three times at three-week intervals. All vaccinated mice produced high antibody titters after three immunizations as analyzed by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), while mice vaccinated with PMA-adjuvanted vaccine elicited high antibody titers even after a single immunization. Thus, the multiepitope PCV2 vaccine candidates designed and examined here show strong potential for further development.
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2
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Design and development of a self-assembling protein nanoparticle displaying PfHAP2 antigenic determinants recognized by natural acquired antibodies. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0274275. [PMID: 36094917 PMCID: PMC9467374 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0274275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds In order to move towards the elimination and eradication of malaria in the world, the development of vaccines is inevitable. Many modern vaccines are based on recombinant technology; however, they may not provide a fully protective, long-lasting immune response. One of the strategies to improve recombinant vaccines is designing the nanovaccines such as self-assembling protein nanoparticles (SAPNs). Hence, the presentation of epitopes in a repeat array and correct conformation should be considered. P. falciparum generative cell-specific 1 (PfGCS1) is a main transmission-blocking vaccine candidate with two highly conserved fragments, HAP2-GCS1 and cd loop, inducing partial malaria transmission inhibitory antibodies. Therefore, to design an effective malaria vaccine, we used cd loop and HAP2-GCS1 fragments at the amino and carboxy terminuses of the SAPN-forming amino acid sequence, respectively. Methodology/Principal findings The SAPN monomer (PfGCS1-SAPN) sequence was designed, and the three-dimensional (3D) structure was predicted. The result of this prediction ensured the presence of antigens on the SAPN surface. Then the accuracy of the predicted 3D structure and its stability were confirmed by 100 ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The designed SAPN substructure sequence was synthesized, cloned, and expressed in Escherichia coli. With a gradual decrease in urea concentration in dialysis solutions, the purified proteins progressed to the final desired structure of the SAPN, which then was confirmed by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) tests. According to the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), antigenic determinants were presented on the SAPN surface and interacted with antibodies in the serum of malaria patients. Conclusions/Significance Our results show that the SAPN formed by PfGCS1-SAPN has produced the correct shape and size, and the antigenic determinants are presented on the surface of the SAPN, which indicates that the designed SAPN has great potential to be used in the future as a malaria vaccine.
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3
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Alharbi N, Skwarczynski M, Toth I. The influence of component structural arrangement on peptide vaccine immunogenicity. Biotechnol Adv 2022; 60:108029. [PMID: 36028180 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2022.108029] [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] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Peptide-based subunit vaccines utilise minimal immunogenic components (i.e. peptides) to generate highly specific immune responses, without triggering adverse reactions. However, strong adjuvants and/or effective delivery systems must be incorporated into such vaccines, as peptide antigens cannot induce substantial immune responses on their own. Unfortunately, many adjuvants are too weak or too toxic to be used in combination with peptide antigens. These shortcomings have been addressed by the conjugation of peptide antigens with lipidic/ hydrophobic adjuvanting moieties. The conjugates have shown promising safety profiles and improved immunogenicity without the help of traditional adjuvants and have been efficient in inducing desired immune responses following various routes of administration, including subcutaneous, oral and intranasal. However, not only conjugation per se, but also component arrangement influences vaccine efficacy. This review highlights the importance of influence of the vaccine chemical structure modification on the immune responses generated. It discusses a variety of factors that affect the immunogenicity of peptide conjugates, including: i) self-adjuvanting moiety length and number; ii) the orientation of epitopes and self-adjuvanting moieties in the conjugate; iii) the presence of spacers between conjugated components; iv) multiepitopic arrangement; and v) the effect of chirality on vaccine efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nedaa Alharbi
- School of Chemistry & Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; University of Jeddah, College of Science and Arts, Department of Chemistry, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mariusz Skwarczynski
- School of Chemistry & Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Istvan Toth
- School of Chemistry & Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia.
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Koirala P, Bashiri S, Toth I, Skwarczynski M. Current Prospects in Peptide-Based Subunit Nanovaccines. METHODS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (CLIFTON, N.J.) 2022; 2412:309-338. [PMID: 34918253 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1892-9_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Vaccination renders protection against pathogens via stimulation of the body's natural immune responses. Classical vaccines that utilize whole organisms or proteins have several disadvantages, such as induction of undesired immune responses, poor stability, and manufacturing difficulties. The use of minimal immunogenic pathogen components as vaccine antigens, i.e., peptides, can greatly reduce these shortcomings. However, subunit antigens require a specific delivery system and immune adjuvant to increase their efficacy. Recently, nanotechnology has been extensively utilized to address this issue. Nanotechnology-based formulation of peptide vaccines can boost immunogenicity and efficiently induce cellular and humoral immune responses. This chapter outlines the recent developments and advances of nano-sized delivery platforms for peptide antigens, including nanoparticles composed of polymers, peptides, lipids, and inorganic materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashamsa Koirala
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Sahra Bashiri
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Istvan Toth
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia. .,Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia. .,School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia.
| | - Mariusz Skwarczynski
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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5
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Shalash AO, Becker L, Yang J, Giacomin P, Pearson M, Hussein WM, Loukas A, Skwarczynski M, Toth I. Oral Peptide Vaccine against Hookworm Infection: Correlation of Antibody Titers with Protective Efficacy. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9091034. [PMID: 34579271 PMCID: PMC8472562 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9091034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 0.4 billion individuals worldwide are infected with hookworm. An effective vaccine is needed to not only improve the health of those affected and at high risk, but also to improve economic growth in disease-endemic areas. An ideal anti-hookworm therapeutic strategy for mass administration is a stable and orally administered vaccine. Oral vaccines are advantageous as they negate the need for trained medical staff for administration and do not require strict sterility conditions. Vaccination, therefore, can be carried out at a significantly reduced cost. One of the most promising current antigenic targets for hookworm vaccine development is the aspartic protease digestive enzyme (APR-1). Antibody-mediated neutralization of APR-1 deprives the worm of nourishment, leading to reduced worm burdens in vaccinated hosts. Previously, we demonstrated that, when incorporated into vaccine delivery systems, the APR-1-derived p3 epitope (TSLIAGPKAQVEAIQKYIGAEL) was able to greatly reduce worm burdens (≥90%) in BALB/c mice; however, multiple, large doses of the vaccine were required. Here, we investigated a variety of p3-antigen conjugates to optimize antigen delivery and establish immune response/protective efficacy relationships. We synthesized, purified, and characterized four p3 peptide-based vaccine candidates with: (a) lipidic (lipid core peptide (LCP)); (b) classical polymeric (polymethylacrylate (PMA)); and (c) novel polymeric (polyleucine in a branched or linear arrangement, BL10 or LL10, respectively) groups as self-adjuvanting moieties. BL10 and LL10 induced the highest serum anti-p3 and anti-APR-1 IgG titers. Upon challenge with rodent hookworms, the highest significant reduction in worm burden was observed in mice immunized with LL10. APR-1-specific serum IgG titers correlated with worm burden reduction. Thus, we provide the first vaccine-triggered immune response-protection relationship for hookworm infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed O. Shalash
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (A.O.S.); (J.Y.); (W.M.H.); (I.T.)
| | - Luke Becker
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia; (L.B.); (P.G.); (M.P.); (A.L.)
| | - Jieru Yang
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (A.O.S.); (J.Y.); (W.M.H.); (I.T.)
| | - Paul Giacomin
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia; (L.B.); (P.G.); (M.P.); (A.L.)
| | - Mark Pearson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia; (L.B.); (P.G.); (M.P.); (A.L.)
| | - Waleed M. Hussein
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (A.O.S.); (J.Y.); (W.M.H.); (I.T.)
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia; (L.B.); (P.G.); (M.P.); (A.L.)
| | - Mariusz Skwarczynski
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (A.O.S.); (J.Y.); (W.M.H.); (I.T.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Istvan Toth
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (A.O.S.); (J.Y.); (W.M.H.); (I.T.)
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
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6
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Polyacrylate-GnRH Peptide Conjugate as an Oral Contraceptive Vaccine Candidate. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13071081. [PMID: 34371772 PMCID: PMC8308917 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13071081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Contraceptive vaccines are designed to elicit immune responses against major components of animal reproductive systems. These vaccines, which are most commonly administered via injection, typically target gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). However, the need to restrain animals for treatment limits the field applications of injectable vaccines. Oral administration would broaden vaccine applicability. We explored contraceptive vaccine candidates composed of GnRH peptide hormone, universal T helper PADRE (P), and a poly(methylacrylate) (PMA)-based delivery system. When self-assembled into nanoparticles, PMA-P-GnRH induced the production of high IgG titers after subcutaneous and oral administration in mice. PADRE was then replaced with pig T helper derived from the swine flu virus, and the vaccine was tested in pigs. High levels of systemic antibodies were produced in pigs after both injection and oral administration of the vaccine. In conclusion, we developed a simple peptide–polymer conjugate that shows promise as an effective, adjuvant-free, oral GnRH-based contraceptive vaccine.
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Di Vona ML, Rossolini GM, Sette M. A Strategy Based on Loop Analysis to Develop Peptide Epitopes: Application to SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:658687. [PMID: 34026833 PMCID: PMC8131536 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.658687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Many current strategies for inducing an immune response rely on the production of an antigenic protein. Such methods can be problematic if the folding of the antigenic protein is incorrect. To avoid this problem, we propose a method based on grafting specific regions of the chosen antigenic protein onto biocompatible polymeric matrices, so that they can mimic portions of the antigenic protein. These regions are selected following the criterion according to which they are not folded, are exposed to the solvent and are not already present in the human body, so that they are not recognized by the immune system as self. Regions are selected using the primary sequence of the protein and, where possible, its tertiary structure. The application of this strategy to the Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Luisa Di Vona
- Department of Industrial Engineering and International Associated Laboratory: Ionomer Materials for Energy, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Sette
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.,Sorbonne Paris Cité, CSPBAT Laboratory, University of Paris 13, UMR 7244, CNRS, Bobigny, France
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8
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Azuar A, Li Z, Shibu MA, Zhao L, Luo Y, Shalash AO, Khalil ZG, Capon RJ, Hussein WM, Toth I, Skwarczynski M. Poly(hydrophobic amino acid)-Based Self-Adjuvanting Nanoparticles for Group A Streptococcus Vaccine Delivery. J Med Chem 2021; 64:2648-2658. [PMID: 33529034 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Peptide antigens have been widely used in the development of vaccines, especially for those against autoimmunity-inducing pathogens and cancers. However, peptide-based vaccines require adjuvant and/or a delivery system to stimulate desired immune responses. Here, we explored the potential of self-adjuvanting poly(hydrophobic amino acids) (pHAAs) to deliver peptide-based vaccine against Group A Streptococcus (GAS). We designed and synthesized self-assembled nanoparticles with a variety of conjugates bearing a peptide antigen (J8-PADRE) and polymerized hydrophobic amino acids to evaluate the effects of structural arrangement and pHAAs properties on a system's ability to induce humoral immune responses. Immunogenicity of the developed conjugates was also compared to commercially available human adjuvants. We found that a linear conjugate bearing J8-PADRE and 15 copies of leucine induced equally effective, or greater, immune responses than commercial adjuvants. Our fully defined, adjuvant-free, single molecule-based vaccine induced the production of antibodies capable of killing GAS bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armira Azuar
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Zhuoqing Li
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Mohini A Shibu
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Lili Zhao
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Yacheng Luo
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Ahmed O Shalash
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Zeinab G Khalil
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Robert J Capon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Waleed M Hussein
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Istvan Toth
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, Woolloongabba, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Mariusz Skwarczynski
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
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9
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Hussein WM, Toth I, Skwarczynski M. Peptide-Polymer Conjugation Via Copper-Catalyzed Alkyne-Azide 1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2355:1-7. [PMID: 34386945 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1617-8_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Dendrimers are structurally well-defined, artificial polymers with physicochemical characteristics that often imitate biomacromolecules. Consequently, they are encouraging candidates for the delivery of peptide-based vaccines. We developed a synthetic protocol for conjugating a peptide antigen derived from human papillomavirus (HPV) E7 protein to a poly(t-butyl acrylate) dendrimer to construct a vaccine candidate. The synthetic pathway utilized copper-catalyzed alkyne-azide 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition (CuAAC) click reaction, and resulted in a 76% substitution ratio of the 8-arm dendrimer. The obtained peptide-polymer construct was self-assembled, dialyzed, and characterized by microanalysis and dynamic light scattering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed M Hussein
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia.
| | - Istvan Toth
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Mariusz Skwarczynski
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
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10
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Tsoras AN, Champion JA. Protein and Peptide Biomaterials for Engineered Subunit Vaccines and Immunotherapeutic Applications. Annu Rev Chem Biomol Eng 2020; 10:337-359. [PMID: 31173518 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-chembioeng-060718-030347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Although vaccines have been the primary defense against widespread infectious disease for decades, there is a critical need for improvement to combat complex and variable diseases. More control and specificity over the immune response can be achieved by using only subunit components in vaccines. However, these often lack sufficient immunogenicity to fully protect, and conjugation or carrier materials are required. A variety of protein and peptide biomaterials have improved effectiveness and delivery of subunit vaccines for infectious, cancer, and autoimmune diseases. They are biodegradable and have control over both material structure and immune function. Many of these materials are built from naturally occurring self-assembling proteins, which have been engineered for incorporation of vaccine components. In contrast, others are de novo designs of structures with immune function. In this review, protein biomaterial design, engineering, and immune functionality as vaccines or immunotherapies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra N Tsoras
- School of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-2000, USA;
| | - Julie A Champion
- School of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-2000, USA;
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11
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Faruck MO, Zhao L, Hussein WM, Khalil ZG, Capon RJ, Skwarczynski M, Toth I. Polyacrylate-Peptide Antigen Conjugate as a Single-Dose Oral Vaccine against Group A Streptococcus. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:E23. [PMID: 31941060 PMCID: PMC7157655 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8010023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Group A Streptococcus (GAS)-associated rheumatic heart disease is a leading cause of death caused by GAS infection. While antibiotics can treat the infection in most cases, growing antibiotic resistance, late medical intervention, and recurrent infection are major obstacles to the effective treatment of GAS-associated diseases. As GAS infection typically originates from the bacterial colonization of mucosal tissue in the throat, an oral vaccine that can generate both systemic and mucosal immune responses would solve problems associated with traditional medical interventions. Moreover, orally delivered vaccines are more easily administered and less expensive for mass immunization. In this study, the B-cell epitope J8, derived from GAS M protein, and universal T-helper Pan HLA-DR-binding epitope peptide (PADRE), were conjugated to poly (methyl acrylate) (PMA) to form a self-assembled nanoparticle vaccine candidate (PMA-P-J8). Strong systemic and mucosal immune responses were induced upon single oral immunization of mice with the conjugate. The antibodies generated were opsonic against GAS clinical isolates as measured after boost immunization. Thus, we developed a simple conjugate as an effective, adjuvant-free oral peptide-based vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Omer Faruck
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (M.O.F.); (L.Z.); (W.M.H.)
| | - Lili Zhao
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (M.O.F.); (L.Z.); (W.M.H.)
| | - Waleed M. Hussein
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (M.O.F.); (L.Z.); (W.M.H.)
- Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Helwan 11795, Egypt
| | - Zeinab G. Khalil
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (Z.G.K.); (R.J.C.)
| | - Robert J. Capon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (Z.G.K.); (R.J.C.)
| | - Mariusz Skwarczynski
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (M.O.F.); (L.Z.); (W.M.H.)
| | - Istvan Toth
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (M.O.F.); (L.Z.); (W.M.H.)
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (Z.G.K.); (R.J.C.)
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
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Skwarczynski M, Zhao G, Boer JC, Ozberk V, Azuar A, Cruz JG, Giddam AK, Khalil ZG, Pandey M, Shibu MA, Hussein WM, Nevagi RJ, Batzloff MR, Wells JW, Capon RJ, Plebanski M, Good MF, Toth I. Poly(amino acids) as a potent self-adjuvanting delivery system for peptide-based nanovaccines. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaax2285. [PMID: 32064333 PMCID: PMC6989150 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aax2285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
To be optimally effective, peptide-based vaccines need to be administered with adjuvants. Many currently available adjuvants are toxic, not biodegradable; they invariably invoke adverse reactions, including allergic responses and excessive inflammation. A nontoxic, biodegradable, biocompatible, self-adjuvanting vaccine delivery system is urgently needed. Herein, we report a potent vaccine delivery system fulfilling the above requirements. A peptide antigen was coupled with poly-hydrophobic amino acid sequences serving as self-adjuvanting moieties using solid-phase synthesis, to produce fully defined single molecular entities. Under aqueous conditions, these molecules self-assembled into distinct nanoparticles and chain-like aggregates. Following subcutaneous immunization in mice, these particles successfully induced opsonic epitope-specific antibodies without the need of external adjuvant. Mice immunized with entities bearing 15 leucine residues were able to clear bacterial load from target organs without triggering the release of soluble inflammatory mediators. Thus, we have developed a well-defined and effective self-adjuvanting delivery system for peptide antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariusz Skwarczynski
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry & Molecular Biosciences, Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Guangzu Zhao
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry & Molecular Biosciences, Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Jennifer C. Boer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Victoria 3083, Australia
| | - Victoria Ozberk
- Griffith University, Institute for Glycomics, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Armira Azuar
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry & Molecular Biosciences, Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Jazmina Gonzalez Cruz
- The University of Queensland, Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | | | - Zeinab G. Khalil
- The University of Queensland, Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Manisha Pandey
- Griffith University, Institute for Glycomics, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Mohini A. Shibu
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry & Molecular Biosciences, Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Waleed M. Hussein
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry & Molecular Biosciences, Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Reshma J. Nevagi
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry & Molecular Biosciences, Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Michael R. Batzloff
- Griffith University, Institute for Glycomics, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - James W. Wells
- The University of Queensland, Diamantina Institute, Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Robert J. Capon
- The University of Queensland, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Magdalena Plebanski
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Victoria 3083, Australia
| | - Michael F. Good
- Griffith University, Institute for Glycomics, Gold Coast, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Istvan Toth
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry & Molecular Biosciences, Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- The University of Queensland, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- The University of Queensland, School of Pharmacy, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
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Bartlett S, Eichenberger RM, Nevagi RJ, Ghaffar KA, Marasini N, Dai Y, Loukas A, Toth I, Skwarczynski M. Lipopeptide-Based Oral Vaccine Against Hookworm Infection. J Infect Dis 2019; 221:934-942. [DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiz528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The human hookworm, Necator americanus, is a parasite that infects almost half a billion people worldwide. Although treatment is available, vaccination is favorable to combat the spread of this parasite due to its wide distribution and continuous reinfection cycle in endemic communities.
Methods
We have designed a lipopeptide oral delivery system using a B-cell epitope derived from the aspartic protease Na-APR-1 from N americanus, attached to a T-helper epitope. Lipopeptides were self-assembled into nanoparticles or entrapped in liposomes that were electrostatically coated with alginate and trimethyl chitosan polymer shields. The adjuvant-free vaccine candidates were orally administered to mice and generated a humoral immune response against both peptide antigen, and the parent protein in the hookworm gut.
Results
The vaccine candidates were evaluated in a rodent hookworm challenge model, resulting in up to 98% and 99% decreases in mean intestinal worm and egg burdens in immunized mice, respectively.
Conclusions
Lipopeptide survived the gastrointestinal conditions, induced humoral immune responses and drived protection against parasite challenge infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey Bartlett
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Ramon M Eichenberger
- James Cook University, Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine, Cairns, Australia
| | - Reshma J Nevagi
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, St Lucia, Australia
| | | | - Nirmal Marasini
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Yang Dai
- James Cook University, Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine, Cairns, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- James Cook University, Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine, Cairns, Australia
| | - Istvan Toth
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, St Lucia, Australia
- The University of Queensland, School of Pharmacy, Woolloongabba, Australia
- The University of Queensland, Institute for Molecular Biosciences, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Mariusz Skwarczynski
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, St Lucia, Australia
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Azuar A, Jin W, Mukaida S, Hussein WM, Toth I, Skwarczynski M. Recent Advances in the Development of Peptide Vaccines and Their Delivery Systems Against Group A Streptococcus. Vaccines (Basel) 2019; 7:E58. [PMID: 31266253 PMCID: PMC6789462 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines7030058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Group A Streptococcus (GAS) infection can cause a variety of diseases in humans, ranging from common sore throats and skin infections, to more invasive diseases and life-threatening post-infectious diseases, such as rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease. Although research has been ongoing since 1923, vaccines against GAS are still not available to the public. Traditional approaches taken to develop vaccines for GAS failed due to poor efficacy and safety. Fortunately, headway has been made and modern subunit vaccines that administer minimal bacterial components provide an opportunity to finally overcome previous hurdles in GAS vaccine development. This review details the major antigens and strategies used for GAS vaccine development. The combination of antigen selection, peptide epitope modification and delivery systems have resulted in the discovery of promising peptide vaccines against GAS; these are currently in preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armira Azuar
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Wanli Jin
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Saori Mukaida
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Waleed M Hussein
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Helwan University, Helwan, Cairo 11795, Egypt
| | - Istvan Toth
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, Woolloongabba, The University of Queensland, QLD 4072, Australia
- Institute of Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Mariusz Skwarczynski
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
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Nevagi RJ, Dai W, Khalil ZG, Hussein WM, Capon RJ, Skwarczynski M, Toth I. Structure-activity relationship of group A streptococcus lipopeptide vaccine candidates in trimethyl chitosan-based self-adjuvanting delivery system. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 179:100-108. [PMID: 31247372 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.06.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic peptide vaccines based on epitopes derived from the conserved region of M-protein are proving to be a realistic option for protection against group A streptococcus (GAS). However, peptide epitopes alone are poorly immunogenic due to lack of pathogen-associated structural patterns. Therefore, we developed a GAS peptide vaccine based on combined lipidic TLR 2 agonist and self-adjuvanting polymers. We synthesized three α-poly-l-glutamic acid (PGA) conjugated lipopeptides composed of 2-amino-d,l-hexadecanoic acid, GAS B-cell peptide epitope J8 (QAEDKVKQSREAKKQVEKALKQLEDKVQ) and universal T-helper epitope PADRE (AKFVAAWTLKAAA) in different spatial arrangements. The anionic lipopeptide conjugates formed nanoparticles via ionic-complexation with a cationic polymer, trimethyl chitosan (TMC). We demonstrated that the spatial arrangement of vaccine components has a significant influence on peptide conformation and particle formation and, as such, contributes to the differential efficacy and opsonin-mediated killing potential of nanovaccines. Nanoparticles carrying branched helical lipopeptide with T-helper epitope on free N-termini (NP3) stimulated the most potent humoral immune responses. Lipopeptides without TMC (LP1-LP3) and TMC nanoparticles of peptide alone (without lipid) NP (P1) were poor inducers of antibody production, indicating that both TMC and lipid are required to induce a strong opsonic immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reshma J Nevagi
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Wei Dai
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Zeinab G Khalil
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia; Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4102, Australia
| | - Waleed M Hussein
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia; Helwan University, Pharmaceutical Organic Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ein Helwan, Helwan, 11795, Egypt
| | - Robert J Capon
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Mariusz Skwarczynski
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia.
| | - Istvan Toth
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia; Institute for Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia; School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4102, Australia
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Toth I, Khongkow M, Liu TY, Bartlett S, Hussein WM, Nevagi R, Jia Z, Monteiro MJ, Wells J, Ruktanonchai UR, Skwarczynski M. Liposomal formulation of polyacrylate-peptide conjugate as a new vaccine candidate against cervical cancer. PRECISION NANOMEDICINE 2018. [DOI: 10.33218/prnano1(3).181003.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Peptide-based vaccines have been proposed as a therapeutic strategy for many infectious diseases, including human papilloma virus (HPV)-related cervical cancer. Peptide-based vaccines are a better treatment option than traditional chemotherapeutic agents and surgery, as they rely on the use of the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells, resulting in minimal risk of side effects. However, to increase the efficacy of peptide-based vaccines, the application of potent adjuvant and a suitable delivery system is essential. In this study, we developed a self-adjuvanting delivery system based on a combination of polymer and liposomes, for a therapeutic vaccine against cervical cancer. Peptide epitope (8Qm) derived from HPV-16 E7 protein was conjugated to dendritic poly(tert-butyl acrylate) as a primary delivery system and incorporated into cationic liposomes, which served as a secondary delivery system. Our vaccine candidate was able to kill established HPV-16 E7-positive tumor (TC-1) cells in mice following a single immunization. The immunized mice had 80% survival rate after two months. In contrast, both polymer-8Qm conjugate and liposomes bearing 8Qm failed to eradicate TC-1 tumors. The survival rate of mice was only 20% when immunized with 8Qm formulated with standard incomplete Freund’s adjuvant.
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M. Hussein W, M. Choi P, Zhang C, Sierecki E, Johnston W, Jia Z, J. Monteiro M, Skwarczynski M, Gambin Y, Toth I. Investigating the affinity of poly tert-butyl acrylate toward Toll-Like Receptor 2. AIMS ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.3934/allergy.2018.3.141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Zhao G, Chandrudu S, Skwarczynski M, Toth I. The application of self-assembled nanostructures in peptide-based subunit vaccine development. Eur Polym J 2017; 93:670-681. [PMID: 32226094 PMCID: PMC7094324 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2017.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Smaller polymer-peptide conjugates-based nanoparticles are often more immunogenic. Lipid-antigen conjugates-based nanoparticles can interact with immune receptors. Peptides with β-sheet conformation usually form nanofibers. α-Helical and random coil peptides tend to self-assemble into nanoparticles. Peptide-based nanostructures are usually poorer inducers of immune responses.
Peptide based-vaccines are becoming one of the most widely investigated prophylactic and therapeutic health care interventions against a variety of diseases, including cancer. However, the lack of a safe and highly efficient adjuvant (immune stimulant) is regarded as the biggest obstacle to vaccine development. The incorporation of a peptide antigen in a nanostructure-based delivery system was recently shown to overcome this obstacle. Nanostructures are often formed from antigens conjugated to molecules such as polymers, lipids, and peptide, with the help of self-assembly phenomenon. This review describes the application of self-assembly process for the production of peptide-based vaccine candidates and the ability of these nanostructures to stimulate humoral and cellular immune responses.
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Key Words
- (C18)2, N,N-dioctadecyl succinamic acid
- APC, antigen-presenting cell
- BMA, butyl methacrylate
- C16, 2-(R/S)-hexadecanoic acid
- CFA, complete Freund's adjuvant
- Conjugation
- CuAAC, copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition
- DLS, dynamic light scattering
- ELISA, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
- FDA, Food and Drug Administration
- GAS, group A streptococcus
- HCV, hepatitis C virus
- HIV, human immunodeficiency virus
- HPV, human papilloma virus
- IFA, incomplete Freund’s adjuvant
- IgG, immunoglobulin G
- LCP, lipid core peptide
- Lipopeptide
- Nanofiber
- Nanoparticle
- OVA, ovalbumin
- PADRE, pan DR epitope
- PBS, phosphate-buffered saline
- PDSMA, pyridyl disulfide methacrylamide
- PEG-PPS, poly(ethylene glycol)-stabilized poly(propylene sulfide) core nanoparticle
- Pam2Cys, dipalmitoyl-S-glyceryl cysteine
- Pam3Cys, tripalmitoyl-S-glyceryl cysteine
- PbCSP, Plasmodium berghei circumsporozoite protein
- Polymer
- SAP, self-assembling polypeptide
- SARS, severe acute respiratory syndrome
- Self-assembly
- T-VEC, talimogene laherparepvec
- TEM, transmission electron microscopy
- TLR2, toll-like receptor 2
- TLR4, toll-like receptor 4
- TLR9, toll-like receptor 9
- VLP, virus-like particle
- Vaccine
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangzu Zhao
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Saranya Chandrudu
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Mariusz Skwarczynski
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Istvan Toth
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Pharmacy Australia Centre of Excellence, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
- Corresponding author at: School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
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