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Muñoz-Gómez MJ, Ryan P, Quero-Delgado M, Martin-Vicente M, Cuevas G, Valencia J, Jiménez E, Blanca-López N, Lara-Álvarez MÁ, Hernández-Rivas JÁ, Redondo G, Mas V, Sepúlveda-Crespo D, Vázquez M, Torres-Macho J, Martínez I, Resino S. Immune response against the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in cancer patients after COVID-19 vaccination during the Omicron wave: a prospective study. J Infect Public Health 2024; 17:102473. [PMID: 38865774 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2024.102473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer patients often have weakened immune systems, resulting in a lower response to vaccines, especially those receiving immunosuppressive oncological treatment (OT). We aimed to assess the impact of OT on the humoral and T-cell response to the B.1 lineage and Omicron variant following COVID-19 vaccination in patients with solid and hematological neoplasms. METHODS We conducted a prospective study on cancer patients, stratified into OT and non-OT groups, who received a two-dose series of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine and a booster six months later. The outcomes measured were the humoral (anti-SARS-CoV-2 S IgG titers and ACE2-S interaction inhibition capacity) and cellular (SARS-CoV-2 S-specific T-cell spots per million PBMCs) responses against the B.1 lineage and Omicron variant. These responses were evaluated four weeks after the second dose (n = 98) and eight weeks after the booster dose (n = 71). RESULTS The humoral response after the second vaccine dose against the B.1 lineage and Omicron variant was significantly weaker in the OT group compared to the non-OT group (q-value<0.05). A booster dose of the mRNA-1273 vaccine significantly improved the humoral response in the OT group, making it comparable to the non-OT group. The mRNA-1273 vaccine, designed for the original Wuhan strain, elicited a weaker humoral response against the Omicron variant compared to the B.1 lineage, regardless of oncological treatment or vaccine dose. In contrast, T-cell responses against SARS-CoV-2, including the Omicron variant, were already present after the second vaccine dose and were not significantly affected by oncological treatments. CONCLUSIONS Cancer patients, particularly those receiving immunosuppressive oncological treatments, should require booster doses and adapted COVID-19 vaccines for new SARS-CoV-2 variants like Omicron. Future studies should evaluate the durability of the immune response and the efficacy of individualized regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- María José Muñoz-Gómez
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Pablo Ryan
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain; Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Sanitarias Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Marta Quero-Delgado
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
| | - María Martin-Vicente
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - Jorge Valencia
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Eva Jiménez
- Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain; Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - Miguel Ángel Lara-Álvarez
- Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain; Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | - José Ángel Hernández-Rivas
- Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain; Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - Vicente Mas
- Unidad de Biología Viral, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Daniel Sepúlveda-Crespo
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Mónica Vázquez
- Unidad de Biología Viral, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Juan Torres-Macho
- Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor, Madrid, Spain; Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Isidoro Martínez
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Salvador Resino
- Unidad de Infección Viral e Inmunidad, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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Parveen A, Elkordy AA. Brief Insights into mRNA Vaccines: Their Successful Production and Nanoformulation for Effective Response against COVID-19 and Their Potential Success for Influenza A and B. Pathogens 2024; 13:500. [PMID: 38921798 PMCID: PMC11206352 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13060500] [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: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
A mRNA vaccine is a type of vaccine that induces an immune response. Antigen-encoding mRNA is delivered via vaccine carriers into the immune cells, which are produced because of antigen-encoding mRNA translation, a protein. For example, COVID-19 mRNA vaccines produce the spike protein of the COVID-19 virus, whereas for influenza virus, mRNA vaccines target the haemagglutinin protein to treat the flu, and it requires modifications depending on the pandemic or seasonal viruses as it is capable of adapting the immune response, which makes the development of vaccines arduous. The protein molecule promotes an adaptive immune response that eliminates and terminates the corresponding virus or pathogen. There are many challenges to delivering an mRNA vaccine into the body; hence, the encapsulation of the mRNA (usually within lipid nanoparticles) is necessary to protect the mRNA from the body's surrounding environment. In this review article, we focus mainly on the production, formulation, and stabilization of mRNA vaccines in general, elaborating more on and focusing more on SARS-CoV-2, or COVID-19, and influenza viruses, which have become a major concern as these viruses have turned into life-threatening diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amal Ali Elkordy
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Sunderland, Sunderland SR1 3SD, UK;
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Yang Y, Chen YZ, Xia T. Optimizing antigen selection for the development of tuberculosis vaccines. CELL INSIGHT 2024; 3:100163. [PMID: 38572176 PMCID: PMC10987857 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellin.2024.100163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a prevalent global infectious disease caused by genetically closely related tubercle bacilli in Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC). For a century, the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine has been the primary preventive measure against TB. While it effectively protects against extrapulmonary forms of pediatric TB, it lacks consistent efficacy in providing protection against pulmonary TB in adults. Consequently, the exploration and development of novel TB vaccines, capable of providing broad protection to populations, have consistently constituted a prominent area of interest in medical research. This article presents a concise overview of the novel TB vaccines currently undergoing clinical trials, discussing their classification, protective efficacy, immunogenicity, advantages, and limitations. In vaccine development, the careful selection of antigens that can induce strong and diverse specific immune responses is essential. Therefore, we have summarized the molecular characteristics, biological function, immunogenicity, and relevant studies associated with the chosen antigens for TB vaccines. These insights gained from vaccines and immunogenic proteins will inform the development of novel mycobacterial vaccines, particularly mRNA vaccines, for effective TB control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Yi-Zhen Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Tian Xia
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, College of Veterinary Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
- Gansu Province Research Center for Basic Disciplines of Pathogen Biology, Lanzhou, 730046, China
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4
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He W, Zhang X, Zou Y, Li J, Wang C, He Y, Jin Q, Ye J. Effective Synthesis of High-Integrity mRNA Using In Vitro Transcription. Molecules 2024; 29:2461. [PMID: 38893337 PMCID: PMC11173937 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29112461] [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: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
mRNA vaccines are entering a period of rapid development. However, their synthesis is still plagued by challenges related to mRNA impurities and fragments (incomplete mRNA). Most impurities of mRNA products transcribed in vitro are mRNA fragments. Only full-length mRNA transcripts containing both a 5'-cap and a 3'-poly(A) structure are viable for in vivo expression. Therefore, RNA fragments are the primary product-related impurities that significantly hinder mRNA efficacy and must be effectively controlled; these species are believed to originate from either mRNA hydrolysis or premature transcriptional termination. In the manufacturing of commercial mRNA vaccines, T7 RNA polymerase-catalyzed in vitro transcription (IVT) synthesis is a well-established method for synthesizing long RNA transcripts. This study identified a pivotal domain on the T7 RNA polymerase that is associated with erroneous mRNA release. By leveraging the advantageous properties of a T7 RNA polymerase mutant and precisely optimized IVT process parameters, we successfully achieved an mRNA integrity exceeding 91%, thereby further unlocking the immense potential of mRNA therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei He
- College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China;
- Vazyme Biotech Co., Ltd., Nanjing 210037, China; (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.); (C.W.)
| | - Xinya Zhang
- Vazyme Biotech Co., Ltd., Nanjing 210037, China; (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.); (C.W.)
| | - Yangxiaoyu Zou
- Vazyme Biotech Co., Ltd., Nanjing 210037, China; (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.); (C.W.)
| | - Ji Li
- Vazyme Biotech Co., Ltd., Nanjing 210037, China; (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.); (C.W.)
| | - Chong Wang
- Vazyme Biotech Co., Ltd., Nanjing 210037, China; (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.); (C.W.)
| | - Yucai He
- School of Pharmacy, Changzhou University, Changzhou 213164, China
| | - Qiuheng Jin
- Vazyme Biotech Co., Ltd., Nanjing 210037, China; (X.Z.); (Y.Z.); (J.L.); (C.W.)
| | - Jianren Ye
- College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China;
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Kutikuppala LVS, Kourampi I, Kanagala RSD, Bhattacharjee P, Boppana SH. Prospects and Challenges in Developing mRNA Vaccines for Infectious Diseases and Oncogenic Viruses. Med Sci (Basel) 2024; 12:28. [PMID: 38804384 PMCID: PMC11130901 DOI: 10.3390/medsci12020028] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have emerged as an optimistic technological platform for vaccine innovation in this new scientific era. mRNA vaccines have dramatically altered the domain of vaccinology by offering a versatile and rapid approach to combating infectious diseases and virus-induced cancers. Clinical trials have demonstrated efficacy rates of 94-95% in preventing COVID-19, and mRNA vaccines have been increasingly recognized as a powerful vaccine platform. Although mRNA vaccines have played an essential role in the COVID-19 pandemic, they still have several limitations; their instability and degradation affect their storage, delivery, and over-all efficiency. mRNA is typically enclosed in a transport mechanism to facilitate its entry into the target cell because it is an unstable and negatively charged molecule. For instance, mRNA that is given using lipid-nanoparticle-based vaccine delivery systems (LNPs) solely enters cells through endocytosis, establishing an endosome without damaging the cell membrane. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the development of mRNA vaccine platforms used to treat and prevent several infectious diseases. This technology has the potential to change the future course of the disease by providing a safe and effective way to combat infectious diseases and cancer. A single-stranded genetic sequence found in mRNA vaccines instructs host cells to produce proteins inside ribosomes to elicit immunological responses and prepare the immune system to fight infections or cancer cells. The potential applications of mRNA vaccine technology are vast and can lead to the development of a preferred vaccine pattern. As a result, a new generation of vaccinations has gradually gained popularity and access to the general population. To adapt the design of an antigen, and even combine sequences from different variations in response to new changes in the viral genome, mRNA vaccines may be used. Current mRNA vaccines provide adequate safety and protection, but the duration of that protection can only be determined if further clinical research is conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Islam Kourampi
- Department of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Ramya S. D. Kanagala
- Department of Medicine, Dr. KNR University of Health Sciences, Warangal 506007, India;
| | | | - Sri Harsha Boppana
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
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Sun Y, Huang W, Xiang H, Nie J. SARS-CoV-2 Neutralization Assays Used in Clinical Trials: A Narrative Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:554. [PMID: 38793805 PMCID: PMC11125816 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12050554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Since the emergence of COVID-19, extensive research efforts have been undertaken to accelerate the development of multiple types of vaccines to combat the pandemic. These include inactivated, recombinant subunit, viral vector, and nucleic acid vaccines. In the development of these diverse vaccines, appropriate methods to assess vaccine immunogenicity are essential in both preclinical and clinical studies. Among the biomarkers used in vaccine evaluation, the neutralizing antibody level serves as a pivotal indicator for assessing vaccine efficacy. Neutralizing antibody detection methods can mainly be classified into three types: the conventional virus neutralization test, pseudovirus neutralization test, and surrogate virus neutralization test. Importantly, standardization of these assays is critical for their application to yield results that are comparable across different laboratories. The development and use of international or regional standards would facilitate assay standardization and facilitate comparisons of the immune responses induced by different vaccines. In this comprehensive review, we discuss the principles, advantages, limitations, and application of different SARS-CoV-2 neutralization assays in vaccine clinical trials. This will provide guidance for the development and evaluation of COVID-19 vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeqing Sun
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China;
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, State Key Laboratory of Drug Regulatory Science, NHC Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Biological Products, Beijing 102629, China;
| | - Weijin Huang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, State Key Laboratory of Drug Regulatory Science, NHC Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Biological Products, Beijing 102629, China;
| | - Hongyu Xiang
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China;
| | - Jianhui Nie
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, State Key Laboratory of Drug Regulatory Science, NHC Key Laboratory of Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Biological Products, Beijing 102629, China;
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Božič K, Sedlar A, Kralj Š, Černigoj U, Štrancar A, Sekirnik R. Selective hydrophobic interaction chromatography for high purity of supercoiled DNA plasmids. Biotechnol Bioeng 2024; 121:1739-1749. [PMID: 38351874 DOI: 10.1002/bit.28667] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
High purity of plasmid DNA (pDNA), particularly in supercoiled isoform (SC), is used for various biopharmaceutical applications, such as a transfecting agent for production of gene therapy viral vectors, for pDNA vaccines, or as a precursor for linearized form that serves as a template for mRNA synthesis. In clinical manufacturing, pDNA is commonly extracted from Escherichia coli cells with alkaline lysis followed by anion exchange chromatography or tangential flow filtration as a capture step for pDNA. Both methods remove a high degree of host cell contaminants but are unable to generically discriminate between SC and open-circular (OC) pDNA isoforms, as well as other DNA impurities, such as genomic DNA (gDNA). Hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) is commonly used as polishing purification for pDNA. We developed HIC-based polishing purification methodology that is highly selective for enrichment of SC pDNA. It is generic with respect to plasmid size, scalable, and GMP compatible. The technique uses ammonium sulfate, a kosmotropic salt, at a concentration selective for SC pDNA binding to a butyl monolith column, while OC pDNA and gDNA are removed in flow-through. The approach is validated on multiple adeno-associated virus- and mRNA-encoding plasmids ranging from 3 to 12 kbp. We show good scalability to at least 300 mg of >95% SC pDNA, thus paving the way to increase the quality of genomic medicines that utilize pDNA as a key raw material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klemen Božič
- Sartorius BIA Separations d.o.o., Ajdovščina, Slovenia
| | - Ajda Sedlar
- Sartorius BIA Separations d.o.o., Ajdovščina, Slovenia
| | - Špela Kralj
- Sartorius BIA Separations d.o.o., Ajdovščina, Slovenia
| | - Urh Černigoj
- Sartorius BIA Separations d.o.o., Ajdovščina, Slovenia
| | - Aleš Štrancar
- Sartorius BIA Separations d.o.o., Ajdovščina, Slovenia
| | - Rok Sekirnik
- Sartorius BIA Separations d.o.o., Ajdovščina, Slovenia
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Alzate-Ángel JC, Avilés-Vergara PA, Arango-Londoño D, Concha-Eastman A, Garcés-Hurtado A, López-Carvajal L, Minotta IL, Ortega-Lenis D, Quintero G, Reina-Bolaños S, Reina-Bolaños CA, Roa P, Sánchez-Orozco M, Tovar-Acero C, Arbeláez-Montoya MP. How has research on the effectiveness and safety of COVID-19 vaccination been evaluated: a scope review with emphasis on CoronaVac. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1321327. [PMID: 38660359 PMCID: PMC11040685 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1321327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The control of the COVID-19 epidemic has been focused on the development of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2. All developed vaccines have reported safety and efficacy results in preventing infection and its consequences, although the quality of evidence varies depending on the vaccine considered. Different methodological designs have been used for their evaluation, which can influence our understanding of the effects of these interventions. CoronaVac is an inactivated vaccine, and it has been assessed in various studies, including clinical trials and observational studies. Given these differences, our objective was to explore the published information to answer the question: how has the efficacy/effectiveness and safety of CoronaVac been evaluated in different studies? This is to identify potential gaps and challenges to be addressed in understanding its effect. Methods A scoping review was carried out following the methodology proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute, which included studies carried out in humans as of 2020, corresponding to systematic reviews, clinical trials, analytical or descriptive observational studies, in which the effectiveness and/or safety of vaccines for COVID19 were evaluated or described. There were no age restrictions for the study participants. Results The efficacy/effectiveness and safety of this vaccine was assessed through 113 studies. Nineteen corresponded to experimental studies, 7 of Phase II, 5 of Phase IV, and 4 were clinical trials with random assignment. Although some clinical trials with random assignment have been carried out, these have limitations in terms of feasibility, follow-up times, and with this, the possibility of evaluating safety outcomes that occur with low frequencies. Not all studies have used homogeneous methods of analysis. Both the prevention of infection, and the prevention of outcomes such as hospitalization or death, have been valued through similar outcomes, but some through multivariate analysis of dependencies, and others through analysis that try to infer causally through different control methods of confounding. Conclusion Published information on the evaluation of the efficacy/effectiveness and safety of the CoronaVac is abundant. However, there are differences in terms of vaccine application schedules, population definition, outcomes evaluated, follow-up times, and safety assessment, as well as non-standardization in the reporting of results, which may hinder the generalizability of the findings. It is important to generate meetings and consensus strategies for the methods and reporting of this type of studies, which will allow to reduce the heterogeneity in their presentation and a better understanding of the effect of these vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paula A. Avilés-Vergara
- Grupo de Enfermedades Tropicales y Resistencia Bacteriana, Universidad del Sinú, Montería, Colombia
| | - David Arango-Londoño
- Grupo de investigación EMAP - Estadística y Matemáticas Aplicadas, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Cali, Colombia
| | | | | | - Liliana López-Carvajal
- Grupo de Investigación Clínica - PECET (GIC-PECET), Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Ingrid L. Minotta
- Grupo de Investigación en Economía, Gestión y Salud, ECGESA. Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Cali, Colombia
| | - Delia Ortega-Lenis
- Departamento de Salud pública y Epidemiología, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Cali, Colombia
| | | | | | - Carlos A. Reina-Bolaños
- Grupo de Epidemiología, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
- Grupo de Investigación, Secretaría de Salud Distrital, Cali, Colombia
| | - Pablo Roa
- Grupo de Investigación, Secretaría de Salud Distrital, Cali, Colombia
| | | | - Catalina Tovar-Acero
- Grupo de Enfermedades Tropicales y Resistencia Bacteriana, Universidad del Sinú, Montería, Colombia
| | - María P. Arbeláez-Montoya
- Grupo de Epidemiología, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
- Grupo de Investigación Clínica - PECET (GIC-PECET), Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
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Palladino M, Del Vecchio M, Farroni S, Martellucci O, Gigante A, Alessandri C, Muscaritoli M. Fever and dyspnea after anti-Covid-19 vaccination: a challenging diagnosis. Intern Emerg Med 2024; 19:757-760. [PMID: 37566358 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-023-03390-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
There is still little information regarding the long-term safety of the vaccines. We report a case of new-onset adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) that occurred following Covid-19 vaccination. This patient went to the emergency room with dyspnea from the last two weeks and bilateral swellings that occurred several weeks after the first vaccination. Based on the symptoms and laboratory results, we suspected AOSD. Considering the time relationship between Covid-19 vaccination and AOSD onset in our patient, and possible mechanisms linking vaccination with the onset of autoimmune disorders, physicians should consider adverse events from Covid-19 vaccination and assess the benefits and risks of vaccination for each patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Palladino
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Dell'Università 37, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Martina Del Vecchio
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Dell'Università 37, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Farroni
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Dell'Università 37, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Ottavio Martellucci
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiologic and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Dell'Università 37, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonietta Gigante
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Dell'Università 37, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiano Alessandri
- Department of Clinical Internal, Anesthesiologic and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Dell'Università 37, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Muscaritoli
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Dell'Università 37, 00185, Rome, Italy
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Yu T, Zhang C, Xing J, Zhang T, Xu Z, Di Y, Yang S, Jiang R, Tang J, Zhuang X, Jin N, Tian M. Ferritin-binding and ubiquitination-modified mRNA vaccines induce potent immune responses and protective efficacy against SARS-CoV-2. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 129:111630. [PMID: 38320355 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) incessantly engenders mutating strains via immune escape mechanisms, substantially escalating the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome. In this context, the urgent development of innovative and efficacious mRNA vaccines is imperative. In our study, we synthesized six unique mRNA vaccine formulations: the Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) monomer vaccine, RBD dimer (2RBD) vaccine, RBD-Ferritin (RBD-Fe) vaccine, ubiquitin-modified wild-type Nucleocapsid gene (WT-N) vaccine, rearranged Nucleocapsid gene (Re-N) vaccine, and an epitope-based (COVID-19 epitope) vaccine, all encapsulated within the lipid nanoparticle SM102. Immunization studies conducted on C57BL/6 mice with these vaccines revealed that the RBD monomer, RBD dimer (2RBD), and RBD-Fe vaccines elicited robust titers of specific antibodies, including neutralizing antibodies. In contrast, the wild-type N gene (WT-N), rearrange N gene (Re-N), and COVID-19 epitope vaccines predominantly induced potent cellular immune responses. Protective efficacy assays in golden hamsters demonstrated that vaccinated cohorts showed significant reduction in lung pathology, markedly lower viral loads in the lungs, nasal turbinates, and trachea, and substantially reduced transcriptional and expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Overall, our vaccine candidates pave the way for novel strategies in vaccine development against various infectious agents and establish a critical foundation for the formulation of advanced vaccines targeting emerging pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Yu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China; Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - ChenChao Zhang
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - JunHong Xing
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - ZhiQiang Xu
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - YaXin Di
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Nanning, China
| | - SongHui Yang
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China
| | - RenYue Jiang
- College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, China
| | - JiaFeng Tang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - XinYu Zhuang
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China.
| | - NingYi Jin
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China.
| | - MingYao Tian
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, China.
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11
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Feinstein P. Rapid Degradation of the Human ACE2 Receptor Upon Binding and Internalization of SARS-Cov-2-Spike-RBD Protein. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.07.583884. [PMID: 38496410 PMCID: PMC10942428 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.07.583884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
It is widely accepted that the SARS-CoV-2 betacoronavirus infects humans through binding the human Angiotensin Receptor 2 (ACE2) that lines the nasal cavity and lungs, followed by import into a cell utilizing the Transmembrane Protease, Serine 2 (TMPRSS2) cofactor. ACE2 binding is mediated by an approximately 200-residue portion of the SARS-CoV-2 extracellular spike protein, the receptor binding domain (RBD). Robust interactions are shown using a novel cell-based assay between an RBD membrane tethered-GFP fusion protein and the membrane bound ACE2-Cherry fusion protein. Several observations were not predicted including, quick and sustained interactions leading to internalization of RBD fusion protein into the ACE2 cells and rapid downregulation of the ACE2-Cherry fluorescence. Targeted mutation in the RBD disulfide Loop 4 led to a loss of internalization for several variants tested. However, a secreted RBD did not cause ACE2 downregulation of ACE2-Cherry fluorescence. Thus, the membrane associated form of RBD found on the viral coat may have long-term system wide consequences on ACE2 expressing cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Feinstein
- Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY 10065
- The Graduate Center Programs in Biochemistry, Biology and CUNY Neuroscience Collaborative, 365 5th Ave, New York, NY 10016
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12
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Huang M, Cui T, Liu S, Su X, Wang Y, Wang J, Zhong J, Cao J, Mei X, Li K, Luo Q, Sun X, Cheng L, Wei R, Zhao Z, Wang Z. Blended BA.5 infection within 8 days after a boosted bivalent mRNA vaccination strengthens and lengthens the host immunity. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29544. [PMID: 38511577 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
The impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection shortly after vaccination on vaccine-induced immunity is unknown, which is also one of the concerns for some vaccinees during the pandemic. Here, based on a cohort of individuals who encountered BA.5 infection within 8 days after receiving the fourth dose of a bivalent mRNA vaccine, preceded by three doses of inactivated vaccines, we show that booster mRNA vaccination provided 48% protection efficacy against symptomatic infections. At Day 7 postvaccination, the level of neutralizing antibodies (Nabs) against WT and BA.5 strains in the uninfected group trended higher than those in the symptomatic infection group. Moreover, there were greater variations in Nabs levels and a significant decrease in virus-specific CD4+ T cell response observed in the symptomatic infection group. However, symptomatic BA.5 infection significantly increased Nab levels against XBB.1.9.1 and BA.5 (symptomatic > asymptomatic > uninfected group) at Day 10 and resulted in a more gradual decrease in Nabs against BA.5 compared to the uninfected group at Day 90. Our data suggest that BA.5 infection might hinder the early generation of Nabs and the recall of the CD4+ T cell response but strengthens the Nab and virus-specific T cell response in the later phase. Our data confirmed that infection can enhance host immunity regardless of the short interval between vaccination and infection and alleviate concerns about infections shortly after vaccination, which provides valuable guidance for developing future vaccine administration strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingzhu Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tingting Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio Island, Guangzhou, China
| | - Siyi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoling Su
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio Island, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junxiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaying Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinpeng Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio Island, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinyue Mei
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaiyi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhuxiang Zhao
- Department of Infectious Disease, Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhongfang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease & National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio Island, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Infectious Disease, Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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13
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Wu X, Xu K, Zhan P, Liu H, Zhang F, Song Y, Lv T. Comparative efficacy and safety of COVID-19 vaccines in phase III trials: a network meta-analysis. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:234. [PMID: 38383356 PMCID: PMC10880292 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08754-3] [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: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over a dozen vaccines are in or have completed phase III trials at an unprecedented speed since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic. In this review, we aimed to compare and rank these vaccines indirectly in terms of efficacy and safety using a network meta-analysis. METHODS We searched Embase, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library for phase III randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from their inception to September 30, 2023. Two investigators independently selected articles, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. Outcomes included efficacy in preventing symptomatic severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and the incidence of serious adverse events (SAEs) according to vaccine type and individual vaccines in adults and elderly individuals. The risk ratio and mean differences were calculated with 95% confidence intervals using a Bayesian network meta-analysis. RESULTS A total of 25 RCTs involving 22 vaccines were included in the study. None of vaccines had a higher incidence of SAEs than the placebo. Inactivated virus vaccines might be the safest, with a surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) value of 0.16. BIV1-CovIran showed the highest safety index (SUCRA value: 0.13), followed by BBV152, Soberana, Gam-COVID-Vac, and ZF2001. There were no significant differences among the various types of vaccines regarding the efficacy in preventing symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection, although there was a trend toward higher efficacy of the mRNA vaccines (SUCRA value: 0.09). BNT162b2 showed the highest efficacy (SUCRA value: 0.02) among the individual vaccines, followed by mRNA-1273, Abdala, Gam-COVID-Vac, and NVX-CoV2373. BNT162b2 had the highest efficacy (SUCRA value: 0.08) in the elderly population, whereas CVnCoV, CoVLP + AS03, and CoronaVac were not significantly different from the placebo. CONCLUSIONS None of the different types of vaccines were significantly superior in terms of efficacy, while mRNA vaccines were significantly inferior in safety to other types. BNT162b2 had the highest efficacy in preventing symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection in adults and the elderly, whereas BIV1-CovIran had the lowest incidence of SAEs in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodi Wu
- Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Ping Zhan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Hongbing Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Fang Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Yong Song
- Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210000, China.
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210000, China.
| | - Tangfeng Lv
- Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210000, China.
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210000, China.
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14
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Singh R, Kumawat M, Gogoi H, Madhyastha H, Lichtfouse E, Daima HK. Engineered Nanomaterials for Immunomodulation: A Review. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:727-751. [PMID: 38166376 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00940] [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: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
The immune system usually provides a defense against invading pathogenic microorganisms and any other particulate contaminants. Nonetheless, it has been recently reported that nanomaterials can evade the immune system and modulate immunological responses due to their unique physicochemical characteristics. Consequently, nanomaterial-based activation of immune components, i.e., neutrophils, macrophages, and other effector cells, may induce inflammation and alter the immune response. Here, it is essential to distinguish the acute and chronic modulations triggered by nanomaterials to determine the possible risks to human health. Nanomaterials size, shape, composition, surface charge, and deformability are factors controlling their uptake by immune cells and the resulting immune responses. The exterior corona of molecules adsorbed over nanomaterials surfaces also influences their immunological effects. Here, we review current nanoengineering trends for targeted immunomodulation with an emphasis on the design, safety, and potential toxicity of nanomaterials. First, we describe the characteristics of engineered nanomaterials that trigger immune responses. Then, the biocompatibility and immunotoxicity of nanoengineered particles are debated, because these factors influence applications. Finally, future nanomaterial developments in terms of surface modifications, synergistic approaches, and biomimetics are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mamta Kumawat
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Sciences, JECRC University, Sitapura Extension, Jaipur 303905, Rajasthan, India
| | - Himanshu Gogoi
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad 121001, India
| | - Harishkumar Madhyastha
- Department of Cardiovascular Physiology, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 8891692, Japan
| | - Eric Lichtfouse
- State Key Laboratory of Multiphase Flow in Power Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
| | - Hemant Kumar Daima
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Bandarsindari 305817, Ajmer, India
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15
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Igyártó BZ, Qin Z. The mRNA-LNP vaccines - the good, the bad and the ugly? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1336906. [PMID: 38390323 PMCID: PMC10883065 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1336906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The mRNA-LNP vaccine has received much attention during the COVID-19 pandemic since it served as the basis of the most widely used SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in Western countries. Based on early clinical trial data, these vaccines were deemed safe and effective for all demographics. However, the latest data raise serious concerns about the safety and effectiveness of these vaccines. Here, we review some of the safety and efficacy concerns identified to date. We also discuss the potential mechanism of observed adverse events related to the use of these vaccines and whether they can be mitigated by alterations of this vaccine mechanism approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Botond Z. Igyártó
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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16
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Tong X, Raffaele J, Feller K, Dornadula G, Devlin J, Boyd D, Loughney JW, Shanter J, Rustandi RR. Correlating Stability-Indicating Biochemical and Biophysical Characteristics with In Vitro Cell Potency in mRNA LNP Vaccine. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:169. [PMID: 38400152 PMCID: PMC10893231 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12020169] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of mRNA vaccines has increased rapidly since the COVID-19 pandemic. As one of the critical attributes, understanding mRNA lipid nanoparticle (LNP) stability is critical in the vaccine product development. However, the correlation between LNPs' physiochemical characteristics and their potency still remains unclear. The lack of regulatory guidance on the specifications for mRNA LNPs is also partially due to this underexplored relationship. In this study, we performed a three-month stability study of heat-stressed mRNA LNP samples. The mRNA LNP samples were analyzed for their mRNA degradation, LNP particle sizes, and mRNA encapsulation efficiency. In vitro cell potency was also evaluated and correlated with these above-mentioned physiochemical characterizations. The mRNA degradation-cell potency correlation data showed two distinct regions, indicating a critical cut-off size limit for mRNA degradation. The same temperature dependence was also observed in the LNP size-cell potency correlation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Tong
- Analytical Research & Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ 07065, USA (K.F.); (G.D.); (J.W.L.); (R.R.R.)
| | - Jessica Raffaele
- Analytical Research & Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ 07065, USA (K.F.); (G.D.); (J.W.L.); (R.R.R.)
| | - Katrina Feller
- Analytical Research & Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ 07065, USA (K.F.); (G.D.); (J.W.L.); (R.R.R.)
| | - Geethanjali Dornadula
- Analytical Research & Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ 07065, USA (K.F.); (G.D.); (J.W.L.); (R.R.R.)
| | - James Devlin
- Analytical Research & Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ 07065, USA (K.F.); (G.D.); (J.W.L.); (R.R.R.)
| | - David Boyd
- Process Research & Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ 07065, USA; (D.B.); (J.S.)
| | - John W. Loughney
- Analytical Research & Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ 07065, USA (K.F.); (G.D.); (J.W.L.); (R.R.R.)
| | - Jon Shanter
- Process Research & Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ 07065, USA; (D.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Richard R. Rustandi
- Analytical Research & Development, Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ 07065, USA (K.F.); (G.D.); (J.W.L.); (R.R.R.)
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17
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Martínez-Fleta P, Vicente-Rabaneda EF, Triguero-Martínez A, Roy-Vallejo E, Uriarte-Ecenarro M, Gutiérrez-Rodríguez F, Quiroga-Colina P, Romero-Robles A, Montes N, García-Castañeda N, Mejía-Abril GP, García-Vadillo JA, Llorente-Cubas I, Villagrasa JR, Serra López-Matencio JM, Ancochea J, Urzainqui A, Esparcia-Pinedo L, Alfranca A, de la Fuente H, García-Vicuña R, Sánchez-Madrid F, González-Álvaro I, Castañeda S. Beneficial effect of temporary methotrexate interruption on B and T cell responses upon SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis. NPJ Vaccines 2024; 9:21. [PMID: 38291047 PMCID: PMC10827732 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-024-00805-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
B and T cell responses were evaluated in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or psoriatic arthritis (PsA) after 1 or 2 weeks of methotrexate (MTX) withdrawal following each COVID-19 vaccine dose and compared with those who maintained MTX. Adult RA and PsA patients treated with MTX were recruited and randomly assigned to 3 groups: MTX-maintenance (n = 72), MTX-withdrawal for 1 week (n = 71) or MTX-withdrawal for 2 weeks (n = 73). Specific antibodies to several SARS-CoV-2 antigens and interferon (IFN)-γ and interleukin (IL)-21 responses were assessed. MTX withdrawal in patients without previous COVID-19 was associated with higher levels of anti-RBD IgG and neutralising antibodies, especially in the 2-week withdrawal group and with higher IFN-γ secretion upon stimulation with pools of SARS-CoV-2 S peptides. No increment of RA/PsA relapses was detected across groups. Our data indicate that two-week MTX interruption following COVID-19 vaccination in patients with RA or PsA improves humoral and cellular immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Martínez-Fleta
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - Esther F Vicente-Rabaneda
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Triguero-Martínez
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - Emilia Roy-Vallejo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - Miren Uriarte-Ecenarro
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Gutiérrez-Rodríguez
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - Patricia Quiroga-Colina
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Romero-Robles
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria Montes
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - Noelia García-Castañeda
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gina P Mejía-Abril
- Clinical Pharmacology Department, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa, Instituto Teófilo Hernando, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Princesa (IP), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús A García-Vadillo
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Llorente-Cubas
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - José R Villagrasa
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - José M Serra López-Matencio
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - Julio Ancochea
- Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pneumology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
- Cátedra UAM-Roche, EPID-Future, Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Urzainqui
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Esparcia-Pinedo
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
| | - Arantzazu Alfranca
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Cardiovascular CIBERCV, Madrid, Spain
| | - Hortensia de la Fuente
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Cardiovascular CIBERCV, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosario García-Vicuña
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Sánchez-Madrid
- Department of Immunology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Cardiovascular CIBERCV, Madrid, Spain
| | - Isidoro González-Álvaro
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Santos Castañeda
- Department of Rheumatology, Hospital Universitario de La Princesa IIS-Princesa (Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Universitario de La Princesa), Madrid, Spain.
- Cátedra UAM-Roche, EPID-Future, Department of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain.
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18
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Thelen JL, Leite W, Urban VS, O'Neill HM, Grishaev AV, Curtis JE, Krueger S, Castellanos MM. Morphological Characterization of Self-Amplifying mRNA Lipid Nanoparticles. ACS NANO 2024; 18:1464-1476. [PMID: 38175970 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c08014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The mRNA technology has emerged as a rapid modality to develop vaccines during pandemic situations with the potential to protect against endemic diseases. The success of mRNA in producing an antigen is dependent on the ability to deliver mRNA to the cells using a vehicle, which typically consists of a lipid nanoparticle (LNP). Self-amplifying mRNA (SAM) is a synthetic mRNA platform that, besides encoding for the antigen of interest, includes the replication machinery for mRNA amplification in the cells. Thus, SAM can generate many antigen encoding mRNA copies and prolong expression of the antigen with lower doses than those required for conventional mRNA. This work describes the morphology of LNPs containing encapsulated SAM (SAM LNPs), with SAM being three to four times larger than conventional mRNA. We show evidence that SAM changes its conformational structure when encapsulated in LNPs, becoming more compact than the free SAM form. A characteristic "bleb" structure is observed in SAM LNPs, which consists of a lipid-rich core and an aqueous RNA-rich core, both surrounded by a DSPC-rich lipid shell. We used SANS and SAXS data to confirm that the prevalent morphology of the LNP consists of two-core compartments where components are heterogeneously distributed between the two cores and the shell. A capped cylinder core-shell model with two interior compartments was built to capture the overall morphology of the LNP. These findings provide evidence that bleb two-compartment structures can be a representative morphology in SAM LNPs and highlight the need for additional studies that elucidate the role of spherical and bleb morphologies, their mechanisms of formation, and the parameters that lead to a particular morphology for a rational design of LNPs for mRNA delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob L Thelen
- GSK, Rockville Center for Vaccines Research, 14200 Shady Grove Road, Rockville, Maryland 20850, United States
| | - Wellington Leite
- Neutron Scattering Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
| | - Volker S Urban
- Neutron Scattering Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
| | - Hugh M O'Neill
- Neutron Scattering Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley Road, Oak Ridge, Tennessee 37831, United States
| | - Alexander V Grishaev
- Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, 9600 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, Maryland 20850, United States
- Material Measurement Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, United States
| | - Joseph E Curtis
- NIST Center for Neutron Research, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, United States
| | - Susan Krueger
- NIST Center for Neutron Research, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Maria Monica Castellanos
- GSK, Rockville Center for Vaccines Research, 14200 Shady Grove Road, Rockville, Maryland 20850, United States
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Bota AV, Bratosin F, Bogdan I, Septimiu-Radu S, Ilie AC, Burtic SR, Razvan DV, Tudor R, Indries MF, Csep AN, Fildan AP, Budea CM, Marincu I. Assessing the Quality of Life, Coping Strategies, Anxiety and Depression Levels in Patients with Long-COVID-19 Syndrome: A Six-Month Follow-Up Study. Diseases 2024; 12:21. [PMID: 38248372 PMCID: PMC10814582 DOI: 10.3390/diseases12010021] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
This longitudinal study investigates the psychosocial effects of long-COVID Syndrome, a domain still not extensively researched. It specifically evaluates the quality of life, coping mechanisms, anxiety and depression levels in COVID-19 survivors, differentiating between those with and without long-COVID Syndrome. Conducted at the Victor Babes Hospital for Infectious Diseases and Pulmonology in Timisoara, Romania, the study utilized a cohort of patients diagnosed with mild to moderate COVID-19. The following standardized tools: WHOQOL-BREF for quality of life, COPE-60 for coping strategies, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), were employed for the assessment. The sample consisted of 86 patients displaying persistent post-acute symptoms and 432 asymptomatic patients at the 6-month post-discharge mark. Patients with frequent post-acute symptoms reported significantly higher levels of fatigue (8.2 ± 1.4), cognitive difficulties (7.5 ± 1.6), and respiratory challenges (7.8 ± 1.3), along with a markedly lower overall quality of life (7.0 ± 1.5) compared to their asymptomatic counterparts. HADS scores revealed elevated depression (6.8 ± 1.9) and anxiety (7.1 ± 2.3) in the symptomatic group. Quality of life, as evaluated through the use of WHOQOL-BREF, showed lower scores in the symptomatic cohort across physical (58.8 ± 15.8), mental (56.3 ± 16.4), and social domains (50.2 ± 17.5). COPE-60 findings indicated a higher prevalence of disengagement (56.4%) and emotion-focused coping strategies (61.8%) in the symptomatic group, in contrast to 30.1% and 37.0%, respectively, in the asymptomatic group. The study highlights that long-COVID Syndrome significantly deteriorates the quality of life and is associated with increased depression and anxiety levels. The prevalent use of disengagement and emotion-focused coping strategies among patients with persistent symptoms suggests a need for enhanced psychosocial support tailored to this subgroup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Vasile Bota
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (S.S.-R.); (D.V.R.); (C.M.B.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Felix Bratosin
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (S.S.-R.); (D.V.R.); (C.M.B.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Iulia Bogdan
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (S.S.-R.); (D.V.R.); (C.M.B.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Susa Septimiu-Radu
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (S.S.-R.); (D.V.R.); (C.M.B.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Adrian Cosmin Ilie
- Department III Functional Sciences, Division of Public Health and Management, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Sonia-Roxana Burtic
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department II, Discipline of Medical Communication, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - David Vladut Razvan
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (S.S.-R.); (D.V.R.); (C.M.B.); (I.M.)
- Doctoral School, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Raluca Tudor
- Second Discipline of Neurology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Mirela Florica Indries
- Department of Psycho-Neuroscience and Recovery, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Str. Universitatii nr. 1, 410087 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Andrei Nicolae Csep
- Department of Psycho-Neuroscience and Recovery, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, Str. Universitatii nr. 1, 410087 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Ariadna Petronela Fildan
- Department of Pulmonology, Faculty of Medicine, “Ovidius” University of Constanta, 900470 Constanta, Romania;
| | - Camelia Melania Budea
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (S.S.-R.); (D.V.R.); (C.M.B.); (I.M.)
| | - Iosif Marincu
- Methodological and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Department of Infectious Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Eftimie Murgu Square 2, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (A.V.B.); (F.B.); (I.B.); (S.S.-R.); (D.V.R.); (C.M.B.); (I.M.)
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20
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Verma A, Awasthi A. Innovative Strategies to Enhance mRNA Vaccine Delivery and Effectiveness: Mechanisms and Future Outlook. Curr Pharm Des 2024; 30:1049-1059. [PMID: 38551046 DOI: 10.2174/0113816128296588240321072042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
The creation of mRNA vaccines has transformed the area of vaccination and allowed for the production of COVID-19 vaccines with previously unheard-of speed and effectiveness. The development of novel strategies to enhance the delivery and efficiency of mRNA vaccines has been motivated by the ongoing constraints of the present mRNA vaccine delivery systems. In this context, intriguing methods to get beyond these restrictions include lipid nanoparticles, self-amplifying RNA, electroporation, microneedles, and cell-targeted administration. These innovative methods could increase the effectiveness, safety, and use of mRNA vaccines, making them more efficient, effective, and broadly available. Additionally, mRNA technology may have numerous and far-reaching uses in the field of medicine, opening up fresh avenues for the diagnosis and treatment of disease. This paper gives an overview of the existing drawbacks of mRNA vaccine delivery techniques, the creative solutions created to address these drawbacks, and their prospective public health implications. The development of mRNA vaccines for illnesses other than infectious diseases and creating scalable and affordable manufacturing processes are some of the future directions for research in this area that are covered in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Verma
- Department of Pharmaceutics, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab 142001, India
| | - Ankit Awasthi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab 142001, India
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21
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Malley R, Lu YJ, Sebastian S, Zhang F, Willer DO. Multiple antigen presenting system (MAPS): state of the art and potential applications. Expert Rev Vaccines 2024; 23:196-204. [PMID: 38174559 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2023.2299384] [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: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Technological innovations have been instrumental in advancing vaccine design and protective benefit. Improvements in the safety, tolerability, and efficacy/effectiveness profiles have profoundly reduced vaccine-preventable global disease morbidity and mortality. Here we present an original vaccine platform, the Multiple Antigen Presenting System (MAPS), that relies on high-affinity interactions between a biotinylated polysaccharide (PS) and rhizavidin-fused pathogen-specific proteins. MAPS allows for flexible combinations of various PS and protein components. AREAS COVERED This narrative review summarizes the underlying principles of MAPS and describes its applications for vaccine design against bacterial and viral pathogens in non-clinical and clinical settings. EXPERT OPINION The utilization of high-affinity non-covalent biotin-rhizavidin interactions in MAPS allows for combining multiple PS and disease-specific protein antigens in a single vaccine. The modular design enables a simplified exchange of vaccine components. Published studies indicate that MAPS technology may support enhanced immunogenic breadth (covering more serotypes, inducing B- and T-cell responses) beyond that which may be elicited via PS- or protein-based conjugate vaccines. Importantly, a more detailed characterization of MAPS-based candidate vaccines is warranted, especially in clinical studies. It is anticipated that MAPS-based vaccines could be adapted and leveraged across numerous diseases of global public health importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Malley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ying-Jie Lu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Fan Zhang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David O Willer
- GSK, Global Medical Affairs, Vaccines Research and Development, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
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22
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Sim TM, Lahiri M, Ma M, Cheung PPM, Mak A, Fong W, Angkodjojo S, Xu C, Kong KO, Arkachaisri T, Phang KF, Tan TC, Yap QV, Chan YH, Sriranganathan M, Chuah TY, Roslan NE, Poh YJ, Law A, Santosa A, Tay SH. Latent Class Analysis Identifies Distinct Phenotypes of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Predictive of Flares after mRNA COVID-19 Vaccination: Results from the Coronavirus National Vaccine Registry for ImmuNe Diseases SINGapore (CONVIN-SING). Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 12:29. [PMID: 38250842 PMCID: PMC10819486 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12010029] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
We recently reported that messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination was associated with flares in 9% of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Herein, we focused our analysis on patients from a multi-ethnic Southeast Asian lupus cohort with the intention of identifying distinct phenotypes associated with increased flares after mRNA COVID-19 vaccination. METHODS Six hundred and thirty-three SLE patients from eight public healthcare institutions were divided into test and validation cohorts based on healthcare clusters. Latent class analysis was performed based on age, ethnicity, gender, vaccine type, past COVID-19 infection, interruption of immunomodulatory/immunosuppressive treatment for vaccination, disease activity and background immunomodulatory/immunosuppressive treatment as input variables. Data from both cohorts were then combined for mixed effect Cox regression to determine which phenotypic cluster had a higher risk for time to first SLE flare, adjusted for the number of vaccine doses. RESULTS Two clusters were identified in the test (C1 vs. C2), validation (C1' vs. C2') and combined (C1″ vs. C2″) cohorts, with corresponding clusters sharing similar characteristics. Of 633 SLE patients, 88.6% were female and there was multi-ethnic representation with 74.9% Chinese, 14.2% Malay and 4.6% Indian. The second cluster (C2, C2' and C2″) was smaller compared to the first. SLE patients in the second cluster (C2 and C2') were more likely to be male, non-Chinese and younger, with higher baseline disease activity. The second cluster (C2″) had more incident flares (hazard ratio = 1.4, 95% confidence interval 1.1-1.9, p = 0.014) after vaccination. A higher proportion of patients in C2″ had immunomodulatory/immunosuppressive treatment interruption for vaccination as compared to patients in C1″ (6.6% vs. 0.2%) (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION We identified two distinct phenotypic clusters of SLE with different patterns of flares following mRNA COVID-19 vaccination. Caution has to be exercised in monitoring for post-vaccination flares in patients with risk factors for flares such as non-Chinese ethnicity, young age, male gender and suboptimal disease control at the time of vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Ming Sim
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore; (T.M.S.)
| | - Manjari Lahiri
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 10, NUHS Tower Block, Singapore 119228, Singapore; (M.M.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore; (W.F.); (K.F.P.)
| | - Margaret Ma
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 10, NUHS Tower Block, Singapore 119228, Singapore; (M.M.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore; (W.F.); (K.F.P.)
| | - Peter Pak-Moon Cheung
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 10, NUHS Tower Block, Singapore 119228, Singapore; (M.M.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore; (W.F.); (K.F.P.)
| | - Anselm Mak
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 10, NUHS Tower Block, Singapore 119228, Singapore; (M.M.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore; (W.F.); (K.F.P.)
| | - Warren Fong
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore; (W.F.); (K.F.P.)
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore;
| | - Stanley Angkodjojo
- Rheumatology Service, Department of General Medicine, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore 544886, Singapore
| | - Chuanhui Xu
- Department of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore 308433, Singapore; (C.X.)
| | - Kok Ooi Kong
- Department of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore 308433, Singapore; (C.X.)
| | - Thaschawee Arkachaisri
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore;
- Rheumatology and Immunology Service, Department of Paediatric Subspecialties, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore 229899, Singapore
| | - Kee Fong Phang
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore; (W.F.); (K.F.P.)
- Chronic Programme, Alexandra Hospital, Singapore 159964, Singapore
| | - Teck Choon Tan
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of General Medicine, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore 768828, Singapore
| | - Qai Ven Yap
- Biostatistics Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore; (Q.V.Y.); (Y.H.C.)
| | - Yiong Huak Chan
- Biostatistics Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore; (Q.V.Y.); (Y.H.C.)
| | - Melonie Sriranganathan
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Changi General Hospital, Singapore 529889, Singapore
| | - Tyng Yu Chuah
- Rheumatology Service, Department of General Medicine, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore 544886, Singapore
| | - Nur Emillia Roslan
- Rheumatology Service, Department of General Medicine, Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore 544886, Singapore
| | - Yih Jia Poh
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
| | - Annie Law
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore 169608, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore;
| | - Amelia Santosa
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 10, NUHS Tower Block, Singapore 119228, Singapore; (M.M.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore; (W.F.); (K.F.P.)
| | - Sen Hee Tay
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, 1E Kent Ridge Road, Level 10, NUHS Tower Block, Singapore 119228, Singapore; (M.M.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597, Singapore; (W.F.); (K.F.P.)
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23
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Esteban I, Pastor-Quiñones C, Usero L, Aurrecoechea E, Franceschini L, Esprit A, Gelpí JL, Martínez-Jiménez F, López-Bigas N, Breckpot K, Thielemans K, Leal L, Gómez CE, Sisteré-Oró M, Meyerhans A, Esteban M, Alonso MJ, García F, Plana M. Assessment of Human SARS CoV-2-Specific T-Cell Responses Elicited In Vitro by New Computationally Designed mRNA Immunogens (COVARNA). Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 12:15. [PMID: 38250827 PMCID: PMC10820377 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12010015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant changes and advances in the field of vaccination, including the implementation and widespread use of encapsidated mRNA vaccines in general healthcare practice. Here, we present two new mRNAs expressing antigenic parts of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and provide data supporting their functionality. The first mRNA, called RBD-mRNA, encodes a trimeric form of the virus spike protein receptor binding domain (RBD). The other mRNA, termed T-mRNA, codes for the relevant HLA I and II spike epitopes. The two mRNAs (COVARNA mRNAs) were designed to be used for delivery to cells in combination, with the RBD-mRNA being the primary source of antigen and the T-mRNA working as an enhancer of immunogenicity by supporting CD4 and CD8 T-cell activation. This innovative approach substantially differs from other available mRNA vaccines, which are largely directed to antibody production by the entire spike protein. In this study, we first show that both mRNAs are functionally transfected into human antigen-presenting cells (APCs). We obtained peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) samples from three groups of voluntary donors differing in their immunity against SARS-CoV-2: non-infected (naïve), infected-recovered (convalescent), and vaccinated. Using an established method of co-culturing autologous human dendritic cells (hDCs) with T-cells, we detected proliferation and cytokine secretion, thus demonstrating the ability of the COVARNA mRNAs to activate T-cells in an antigen-specific way. Interestingly, important differences in the intensity of the response between the infected-recovered (convalescent) and vaccinated donors were observed, with the levels of T-cell proliferation and cytokine secretion (IFNγ, IL-2R, and IL-13) being higher in the vaccinated group. In summary, our data support the further study of these mRNAs as a combined approach for future use as a vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignasi Esteban
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (E.A.); or (L.L.); (F.G.)
| | - Carmen Pastor-Quiñones
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (E.A.); or (L.L.); (F.G.)
| | - Lorena Usero
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (E.A.); or (L.L.); (F.G.)
| | - Elena Aurrecoechea
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (E.A.); or (L.L.); (F.G.)
| | - Lorenzo Franceschini
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (L.F.); (A.E.); (K.B.); (K.T.)
| | - Arthur Esprit
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (L.F.); (A.E.); (K.B.); (K.T.)
| | - Josep Lluís Gelpí
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biomedicine, University of Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francisco Martínez-Jiménez
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (F.M.-J.); (N.L.-B.)
| | - Núria López-Bigas
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (F.M.-J.); (N.L.-B.)
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Karine Breckpot
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (L.F.); (A.E.); (K.B.); (K.T.)
| | - Kris Thielemans
- Laboratory for Molecular and Cellular Therapy, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (L.F.); (A.E.); (K.B.); (K.T.)
| | - Lorna Leal
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (E.A.); or (L.L.); (F.G.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Elena Gómez
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain; (C.E.G.); (M.E.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Sisteré-Oró
- Infection Biology Laboratory, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Andreas Meyerhans
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain;
- Infection Biology Laboratory, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, 08003 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Mariano Esteban
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología (CNB), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain; (C.E.G.); (M.E.)
| | - María José Alonso
- Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS), Campus Vida, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain;
| | - Felipe García
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (E.A.); or (L.L.); (F.G.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montserrat Plana
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain; (I.E.); (C.P.-Q.); (L.U.); (E.A.); or (L.L.); (F.G.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Picon MA, Wang L, Da Fonseca Ferreira A, Dong C, Marzouka GR. Extracellular Vesicles as Delivery Systems in Disease Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17134. [PMID: 38138963 PMCID: PMC10742668 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417134] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs)/exosomes are nanosized membrane-bound structures that are released by virtually all cells. EVs have attracted great attention in the scientific community since the discovery of their roles in cell-to-cell communication. EVs' enclosed structure protects bioactive molecules from degradation in the extracellular space and targets specific tissues according to the topography of membrane proteins. Upon absorption by recipient cells, EV cargo can modify the transcription machinery and alter the cellular functions of these cells, playing a role in disease pathogenesis. EVs have been tested as the delivery system for the mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. Recently, different therapeutic strategies have been designed to use EVs as a delivery system for microRNAs and mRNA. In this review, we will focus on the exciting and various platforms related to using EVs as delivery vehicles, mainly in gene editing using CRISPR/Cas9, cancer therapy, drug delivery, and vaccines. We will also touch upon their roles in disease pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Alejandro Picon
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.A.P.); (A.D.F.F.)
| | - Liyong Wang
- John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics and the John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA;
| | - Andrea Da Fonseca Ferreira
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.A.P.); (A.D.F.F.)
| | - Chunming Dong
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA; (M.A.P.); (A.D.F.F.)
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Miami VA Health System, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33125, USA
| | - George R. Marzouka
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Miami VA Health System, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33125, USA
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Chen Z, Hu Y, Mei H. Advances in CAR-Engineered Immune Cell Generation: Engineering Approaches and Sourcing Strategies. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2303215. [PMID: 37906032 PMCID: PMC10724421 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202303215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy has emerged as a highly efficacious treatment modality for refractory and relapsed hematopoietic malignancies in recent years. Furthermore, CAR technologies for cancer immunotherapy have expanded from CAR-T to CAR-natural killer cell (CAR-NK), CAR-cytokine-induced killer cell (CAR-CIK), and CAR-macrophage (CAR-MΦ) therapy. Nevertheless, the high cost and complex manufacturing processes of ex vivo generation of autologous CAR products have hampered broader application. There is an urgent need to develop an efficient and economical paradigm shift for exploring new sourcing strategies and engineering approaches toward generating CAR-engineered immune cells to benefit cancer patients. Currently, researchers are actively investigating various strategies to optimize the preparation and sourcing of these potent immunotherapeutic agents. In this work, the latest research progress is summarized. Perspectives on the future of CAR-engineered immune cell manufacturing are provided, and the engineering approaches, and diverse sources used for their development are focused upon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaozhao Chen
- Institute of HematologyUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology1277 Jiefang AvenueWuhanHubei430022China
- Hubei Clinical Medical Center of Cell Therapy for Neoplastic DiseaseWuhan430022China
| | - Yu Hu
- Institute of HematologyUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology1277 Jiefang AvenueWuhanHubei430022China
- Hubei Clinical Medical Center of Cell Therapy for Neoplastic DiseaseWuhan430022China
| | - Heng Mei
- Institute of HematologyUnion HospitalTongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and Technology1277 Jiefang AvenueWuhanHubei430022China
- Hubei Clinical Medical Center of Cell Therapy for Neoplastic DiseaseWuhan430022China
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Dhurbachandra Singh C, Morshed Alom K, Kumar Kannan D, Simander Singh T, Samantaray S, Siddappa Ravi Kumara G, Jun Seo Y. mRNA incorporation of C(5)-halogenated pyrimidine ribonucleotides and induced high expression of corresponding protein for the development of mRNA vaccine. Bioorg Chem 2023; 141:106897. [PMID: 37793265 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106897] [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: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
In this report, we present our studies on mRNA, which was modified by introducing various halogen substituents at the C(5) position of the pyrimidine base. Specifically, we synthesized C(5)-halogenated (F, Cl, Br, I) pyrimidine ribonucleoside triphosphates and incorporated them into mRNA during in-vitro transcription. The efficiency of the in-vitro transcription reaction of halogenated pyrimidine was observed to decrease as the size of the halogen substituent increased and the electronegativity thereof decreased (F > Cl > Br) except for iodine. Interestingly, we found that, among the C(5)-halogenated pyrimidine ribonucleotides, mRNA incorporating C(5)-halogenated cytidine (5-F rCTP and 5-Cl rCTP) exhibited more prominent protein expression than mRNA modified with C(5)-halogenated uridine and unmodified mRNA. In particular, in the case of mRNA to which fluorine (5-F rCTP) and chlorine (5-Cl rCTP) were introduced, the protein was dramatically expressed about 4 to 5 times more efficiently than the unmodified mRNA, which was similar to pseudouridine (ψ). More interestingly, when pseudouridine(ψ) and fluorocytidine nucleotides (5-F rCTP), were simultaneously introduced into mRNA for dual incorporation, the protein expression efficiency dramatically increased as much as tenfold. The efficiency of cap-dependent protein expression is much higher than the IRES-dependent (internal ribosome entry site) expression with mRNA incorporating C(5)-halogenated pyrimidine ribonucleotide. We expect these results to contribute meaningfully to the development of therapeutics based on modified mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kazi Morshed Alom
- Department of Chemistry, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, South Korea
| | - Dinesh Kumar Kannan
- Department of Chemistry, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, South Korea
| | | | | | | | - Young Jun Seo
- Department of Chemistry, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju 54896, South Korea.
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Adhikari S, KC S, Dev S, Bhandari S, Parajuli P, Poudel MB, Adhikari YR, Poudel B. Citrobacter freundii-associated osteomyelitis and thromboembolic events following Moderna COVID-19 vaccination: a rare case report from Nepal. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2023; 85:5789-5794. [PMID: 37915646 PMCID: PMC10617845 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is essential for controlling the ongoing cases of this disease. Citrobacter infections of the bones and joints are extremely uncommon. Thromboembolism and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) are very rare complications. Case presentation The authors present a rare case of osteomyelitis, septic arthritis, deep venous thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism in a 15-year-old previously healthy boy occurring shortly after receiving the second dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine. He experienced pain, swelling in the right leg, shortness of breath, and fever, followed by chest pain and leg edema. Treatment included anticoagulation, ketorolac for pain management, antipyretics, and intravenous antibiotics (Tazobactam/Piperacillin, Linezolid, Clindamycin) for osteomyelitis. Discussion The risk of COVID-19 vaccine-related thrombotic events is minimal. Thrombotic events reported among mRNA is very rare. Citrobacter freundii bone and joint infections are very rare, accounting for a small percentage of cases. Some documented cases include cefotaxime-resistant strains causing necrotizing fascitis and osteomyelitis, including postarthroplasty infections. Due to the diverse range of susceptibility patterns and the widespread occurrence of drug resistance, personalized treatment based on culture and sensitivity testing is recommended. However, in rare cases, severe complications like DVT and joint infections associated with Citrobacter infection may occur and should be reported to the vaccine adverse events reporting system. Conclusion Administering the COVID-19 vaccine to enhance natural antibodies is crucial, despite the low risk of infection, thromboembolism, and DVT. Healthcare providers should stay vigilant about adverse effects postvaccination and promptly report those cases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sony KC
- Tribhuvan University, Institute of Medicine, Maharajgunj
| | - Santosh Dev
- Tribhuvan University, Institute of Medicine, Maharajgunj
| | | | - Prakriti Parajuli
- Gandaki Medical College Teaching Hospital and Research Center, Pokhara, Nepal
| | - Man B. Poudel
- Tribhuvan University, Institute of Medicine, Maharajgunj
| | | | - Binod Poudel
- Tribhuvan University, Institute of Medicine, Maharajgunj
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Habib A, Liang Y, Zhu N. Exosomes multifunctional roles in HIV-1: insight into the immune regulation, vaccine development and current progress in delivery system. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1249133. [PMID: 37965312 PMCID: PMC10642161 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1249133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1) is known to establish a persistent latent infection. The use of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) can effectively reduce the viral load, but the treatment can be costly and may lead to the development of drug resistance and life-shortening side effects. It is important to develop an ideal and safer in vivo target therapy that will effectively block viral replication and expression in the body. Exosomes have recently emerged as a promising drug delivery vehicle due to their low immunogenicity, nanoscale size (30-150nm), high biocompatibility, and stability in the targeted area. Exosomes, which are genetically produced by different types of cells such as dendritic cells, neurons, T and B cells, epithelial cells, tumor cells, and mast cells, are designed for efficient delivery to targeted cells. In this article, we review and highlight recent developments in the strategy and application of exosome-based HIV-1 vaccines. We also discuss the use of exosome-based antigen delivery systems in vaccine development. HIV-1 antigen can be loaded into exosomes, and this modified cargo can be delivered to target cells or tissues through different loading approaches. This review also discusses the immunological prospects of exosomes and their role as biomarkers in disease progression. However, there are significant administrative and technological obstacles that need to be overcome to fully harness the potential of exosome drug delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arslan Habib
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yulai Liang
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Naishuo Zhu
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Yoon SW, Widyasari K, Jang J, Lee S, Kang T, Kim S. Kinetics of adaptive immune responses after administering mRNA-Based COVID-19 vaccination in individuals with and without prior SARS-CoV-2 infections. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:732. [PMID: 37891503 PMCID: PMC10604405 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08728-5] [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: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to compare the adaptive immune response in individuals with or without prior SARS-CoV-2 infections following the administration of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines. METHODS A total of 54 participants with ages ranging from 37 to 56 years old, consisting of 23 individuals without a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection (uninfected group) and 31 individuals with prior infection of SARS-CoV-2 (infected group) who have received two doses of mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccines were enrolled in this study. We measured the IFN-γ level upon administration of BNT162b2 (PF) or mRNA-1273 (MO) by QuantiFERON SARS-CoV-2. The production of neutralizing antibodies was evaluated by a surrogate virus neutralization assay, and the neutralizing capacity was assessed by a plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT50). The immune response was compared between the two groups. RESULTS A significantly higher level of IFN-γ (p < 0.001) and neutralization antibodies (p < 0.001) were observed in the infected group than those in the uninfected group following the first administration of vaccines. The infected group demonstrated a significantly higher PRNT50 titer than the uninfected group against the Wuhan strain (p < 0.0001). Still, the two groups were not significantly different against Delta (p = 0.07) and Omicron (p = 0.14) variants. Following the second vaccine dose, T- and B-cell levels were not significantly increased in the infected group. CONCLUSION A single dose of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines would boost immune responses in individuals who had previously contracted SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Woo Yoon
- Department of Biological Science and Biotechnology, Andong National University, Andong, 36729, Korea
| | - Kristin Widyasari
- Gyeongsang Institute of Health Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, 52727, Korea
| | - Jieun Jang
- Gyeongnam Center for Infectious Disease Control and Prevention, Changwon, 51154, Korea
| | - Seungjun Lee
- Gyeongsang Institute of Health Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, 52727, Korea
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Changwon Hospital, Changwon, 51472, Korea
| | - Taejoon Kang
- Bionanotechnology Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), Daejeon, 34141, Korea
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, 16419, Korea
| | - Sunjoo Kim
- Gyeongsang Institute of Health Sciences, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, 52727, Korea.
- Gyeongnam Center for Infectious Disease Control and Prevention, Changwon, 51154, Korea.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Gyeongsang National University Changwon Hospital, Changwon, 51472, Korea.
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LEI CL, NG HM, QIN G, YEUNG CK, LEI CL, XU RH. What we learned from lifting COVID-19 restrictions in Macao in December 2022. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:5337-5339. [PMID: 37928263 PMCID: PMC10620820 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.86875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chon Lok LEI
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | | | - Guihui QIN
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | | | | | - Ren-He XU
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
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Slomka S, Zieba P, Rosiak O, Piekarska A. Comparison of Post-Vaccination Response between mRNA and Vector Vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 in Terms of Humoral Response after Six Months of Observation. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1625. [PMID: 37897027 PMCID: PMC10611196 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11101625] [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: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic has accelerated work on the creation of effective vaccines, both in terms of previously known vector vaccines and new-generation (mRNA) vaccines. The scientific research on vaccination against COVID-19 infection is limited; therefore, understanding how the immune system responds to vaccines is critical. In our study, we conducted a long-term analysis of the presence and persistence of the immune response via chemiluminescence, analyzing the level of IgG antibodies and neutralizing antibodies in subjects vaccinated with two types of mRNA (Comirnaty) and vector (Vaxzevria) vaccines. MATERIALS AND METHODS Healthcare workers and a group of teachers were recruited for this study according to the 2021 government-launched vaccination calendar. They received two doses of the Comirnaty or Vaxzevria vaccine. SRBD (spike-receptor binding domain) IgG antibody levels were measured monthly for 6 consecutive months with a chemiluminescent assay (CLIA) and neutralizing antibodies for two periods-1 and 5 months from the completion of the vaccination course. RESULTS 168 people were recruited for this study: 135 people for the mRNA vaccine group and 33 people for the vector vaccine group. Comparing the serum IgG levels between the two types of vaccines, a significant difference in median values can be noted at all time points. In consecutive months, the mRNA-vaccinated group exhibited significantly higher SRBD levels compared to the vector group, with peak concentrations at one month after the complete vaccination cycle (745 AU/mL vs. 15.44 AU/mL; p < 0.001). Peak antibody concentration for the vector vaccine was observed one month later, at the third follow-up visit; however, the median IgG concentration was almost 7.7 times higher for the Comirnaty group. Both products were effective in stimulating neutralizing antibody production after vaccination. Higher median values were observed for the mRNA vaccines in both evaluations. At first evaluation, the median value for NA concentration in the Comirnaty group was 6 times higher than in the Vaxzevria group (median value 12.23 [IQR 27.3] vs. 1.7 [IQR 3.3]; p < 0.001. CONCLUSIONS People vaccinated with the mRNA vaccine (Comirnaty) showed a stronger immune response to the vaccination than the group of people administered the vector vaccine (Vaxzevria). The Comirnaty group showed higher levels of IgG, including neutralizing antibodies, at all time points during the follow-up period, and this was independent of having had a SARS-CoV-2 infection. A natural decrease in antibody levels was seen within 6 months. A booster vaccination may be required. No serious side effects were observed in either group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Slomka
- Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Biegański Regional Specialist Hospital, 91-347 Lodz, Poland; (S.S.); (P.Z.)
| | - Patrycja Zieba
- Department of Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Biegański Regional Specialist Hospital, 91-347 Lodz, Poland; (S.S.); (P.Z.)
| | - Oskar Rosiak
- Department of Otolaryngology, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital, Research Institute, 98-338 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Anna Piekarska
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hepatology, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland
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Hanna N, De Mejia CM, Heffes-Doon A, Lin X, Botros B, Gurzenda E, Clauss-Pascarelli C, Nayak A. Biodistribution of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in human breast milk. EBioMedicine 2023; 96:104800. [PMID: 37734205 PMCID: PMC10514401 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 mRNA vaccines play a vital role in the fight against SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, lactating women have been largely excluded from most vaccine clinical trials. As a result, limited research has been conducted on the systemic distribution of vaccine mRNA during lactation and whether it is excreted in human breast milk (BM). Here, we evaluated if COVID-19 vaccine mRNA is detectable in BM after maternal vaccination and determined its potential translational activity. METHODS We collected BM samples from 13 lactating, healthy, post-partum women before and after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination. Vaccine mRNA in whole BM and BM extracellular vesicles (EVs) was assayed using quantitative Droplet Digital PCR, and its integrity and translational activity were evaluated. FINDINGS Of 13 lactating women receiving the vaccine (20 exposures), trace mRNA amounts were detected in 10 exposures up to 45 h post-vaccination. The mRNA was concentrated in the BM EVs; however, these EVs neither expressed SARS-COV-2 spike protein nor induced its expression in the HT-29 cell line. Linkage analysis suggests vaccine mRNA integrity was reduced to 12-25% in BM. INTERPRETATION Our findings demonstrate that the COVID-19 vaccine mRNA is not confined to the injection site but spreads systemically and is packaged into BM EVs. However, as only trace quantities are present and a clear translational activity is absent, we believe breastfeeding post-vaccination is safe, especially 48 h after vaccination. Nevertheless, since the minimum mRNA vaccine dose to elicit an immune reaction in infants <6 months is unknown, a dialogue between a breastfeeding mother and her healthcare provider should address the benefit/risk considerations of breastfeeding in the first two days after maternal vaccination. FUNDING This study was supported by the Department of Pediatrics, NYU-Grossman Long Island School of Medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazeeh Hanna
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island, New York University Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, 259 First Street, Mineola, NY 11501, USA; Women and Children's Research Laboratory, New York University Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, 259 First Street, Mineola, NY 11501, USA.
| | - Claudia Manzano De Mejia
- Women and Children's Research Laboratory, New York University Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, 259 First Street, Mineola, NY 11501, USA
| | - Ari Heffes-Doon
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island, New York University Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, 259 First Street, Mineola, NY 11501, USA
| | - Xinhua Lin
- Women and Children's Research Laboratory, New York University Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, 259 First Street, Mineola, NY 11501, USA
| | - Bishoy Botros
- Women and Children's Research Laboratory, New York University Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, 259 First Street, Mineola, NY 11501, USA
| | - Ellen Gurzenda
- Women and Children's Research Laboratory, New York University Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, 259 First Street, Mineola, NY 11501, USA
| | - Christie Clauss-Pascarelli
- Department of Pharmacy, NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island, New York University Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, 259 First Street, Mineola, NY 11501, USA
| | - Amrita Nayak
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island, New York University Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, 259 First Street, Mineola, NY 11501, USA
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Martínez J, Lampaya V, Larraga A, Magallón H, Casabona D. Purification of linearized template plasmid DNA decreases double-stranded RNA formation during IVT reaction. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1248511. [PMID: 37842641 PMCID: PMC10570549 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1248511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
After the COVID-19 pandemic, messenger RNA (mRNA) has revolutionized traditional vaccine manufacturing. With the increasing number of RNA-based therapeutics, valuable new scientific insights into these molecules have emerged. One fascinating area of study is the formation of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) during in vitro transcription (IVT) which is considered a significant impurity, as it has been identified as a major trigger in the cellular immune response pathway. Therefore, there is a growing importance placed to develop and optimize purification processes for the removal of this by-product. Traditionally, efforts have primarily focused on mRNA purification after IVT through chromatographic separations, with anion exchange and reverse phase chromatography emerging as effective tools for this purpose. However, to the best of our knowledge, the influence and significance of the quality of the linearized plasmid have not been thoroughly investigated. Plasmids production involves the growth of bacterial cultures, bacterial harvesting and lysis, and multiple filtration steps for plasmid DNA purification. The inherent complexity of these molecules, along with the multitude of purification steps involved in their processing, including the subsequent linearization and the less-developed purification techniques for linearized plasmids, often result in inconsistent batches with limited control over by-products such as dsRNA. This study aims to demonstrate how the purification process employed for linearized plasmids can impact the formation of dsRNA. Several techniques for the purification of linearized plasmids based on both, resin filtration and chromatographic separations, have been studied. As a result of that, we have optimized a chromatographic method for purifying linearized plasmids using monolithic columns with C4 chemistry (butyl chains located in the surface of the particles), which has proven successful for mRNAs of various sizes. This chromatographic separation facilitates the generation of homogeneous linearized plasmids, leading to mRNA batches with lower levels of dsRNA during subsequent IVT processes. This finding reveals that dsRNA formation is influenced not only by RNA polymerase and IVT conditions but also by the quality of the linearized template. The results suggest that plasmid impurities may contribute to the production of dsRNA by providing additional templates that can be transcribed into sequences that anneal with the mRNA molecules. This highlights the importance of considering the quality of plasmid purification in relation to dsRNA generation during transcription. Further investigation is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and implications of plasmid-derived dsRNA. This discovery could shift the focus in mRNA vaccine production, placing more emphasis on the purification of linearized plasmids and potentially saving, in some instances, a purification step for mRNA following IVT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Diego Casabona
- RNA Synthesis and Development Department, Certest Pharma, Certest Biotec, Zaragoza, Spain
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Dörrenhaus R, Wagner PK, Kath-Schorr S. Two are not enough: synthetic strategies and applications of unnatural base pairs. Biol Chem 2023; 404:883-896. [PMID: 37354104 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2023-0169] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acid chemistry is a rapidly evolving field, and the need for novel nucleotide modifications and artificial nucleotide building blocks for diagnostic and therapeutic use, material science or for studying cellular processes continues unabated. This review focusses on the development and application of unnatural base pairs as part of an expanded genetic alphabet. Not only recent developments in "nature-like" artificial base pairs are presented, but also current synthetic methods to get access to C-glycosidic nucleotides. Wide-ranging viability in synthesis is a prerequisite for the successful use of unnatural base pairs in a broader spectrum and will be discussed.
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Silva AJD, de Sousa MMG, de Macêdo LS, de França Neto PL, de Moura IA, Espinoza BCF, Invenção MDCV, de Pinho SS, da Gama MATM, de Freitas AC. RNA Vaccines: Yeast as a Novel Antigen Vehicle. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1334. [PMID: 37631902 PMCID: PMC10459952 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11081334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decades, technological advances for RNA manipulation enabled and expanded its application in vaccine development. This approach comprises synthetic single-stranded mRNA molecules that direct the translation of the antigen responsible for activating the desired immune response. The success of RNA vaccines depends on the delivery vehicle. Among the systems, yeasts emerge as a new approach, already employed to deliver protein antigens, with efficacy demonstrated through preclinical and clinical trials. β-glucans and mannans in their walls are responsible for the adjuvant property of this system. Yeast β-glucan capsules, microparticles, and nanoparticles can modulate immune responses and have a high capacity to carry nucleic acids, with bioavailability upon oral immunization and targeting to receptors present in antigen-presenting cells (APCs). In addition, yeasts are suitable vehicles for the protection and specific delivery of therapeutic vaccines based on RNAi. Compared to protein antigens, the use of yeast for DNA or RNA vaccine delivery is less established and has fewer studies, most of them in the preclinical phase. Here, we present an overview of the attributes of yeast or its derivatives for the delivery of RNA-based vaccines, discussing the current challenges and prospects of this promising strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Antonio Carlos de Freitas
- Laboratory of Molecular Studies and Experimental Therapy—LEMTE, Department of Genetics, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife 50670-901, Brazil; (A.J.D.S.)
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Li S, Li W, Jin Y, Wu B, Wu Y. Advancements in the development of nucleic acid vaccines for syphilis prevention and control. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2234790. [PMID: 37538024 PMCID: PMC10405752 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2234790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Syphilis, a chronic systemic sexually transmitted disease, is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum (T. pallidum). Currently, syphilis remains a widespread infectious disease with significant disease burden in many countries. Despite the absence of identified penicillin-resistant strains, challenges in syphilis treatment persist due to penicillin allergies, supply issues, and the emergence of macrolide-resistant strains. Vaccines represent the most cost-effective strategy to prevent and control the syphilis epidemic. In light of the ongoing global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, nucleic acid vaccines have gained prominence in the field of vaccine research and development, owing to their superior efficiency compared to traditional vaccines. This review summarizes the current state of the syphilis epidemic and the preliminary findings in T. pallidum nucleic acid vaccine research, discusses the challenges associated with the development of T. pallidum nucleic acid vaccines, and proposes strategies and measures for future T. pallidum vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijia Li
- Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical College, Institution of Pathogenic Biology, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Weiwei Li
- Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical College, Institution of Pathogenic Biology, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, China
| | - Yinqi Jin
- Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical College, Institution of Pathogenic Biology, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Bin Wu
- First Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Yimou Wu
- Hunan Province Cooperative Innovation Center for Molecular Target New Drug Study, Hengyang Medical College, Institution of Pathogenic Biology, University of South China, Hengyang, China
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Kirui JC, Newberry DM, Harsh K. Strategies for Working With Parents With Vaccination Hesitancy. Neonatal Netw 2023; 42:254-263. [PMID: 37657807 DOI: 10.1891/nn-2022-0055] [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] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of effective strategies for working with parents' vaccination hesitancy or refusal. An overview of historical and current trends in vaccination hesitancy and factors that contribute to and strategies for addressing vaccine hesitancy are discussed. This includes an emphasis on the critical role played by health care providers, as trusted advisors and a primary source of health care information, in encouraging vaccine acceptance. Legal and ethical implications are also considered. Vaccination hesitancy strategies are most effective if they are timely, multifaceted, and collaborative.
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Datta N, Johnson C, Kao D, Gurnani P, Alexander C, Polytarchou C, Monaghan TM. MicroRNA-based therapeutics for inflammatory disorders of the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Pharmacol Res 2023; 194:106870. [PMID: 37499702 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
An emerging but less explored shared pathophysiology across microbiota-gut-brain axis disorders is aberrant miRNA expression, which may represent novel therapeutic targets. miRNAs are small, endogenous non-coding RNAs that are important transcriptional repressors of gene expression. Most importantly, they regulate the integrity of the intestinal epithelial and blood-brain barriers and serve as an important communication channel between the gut microbiome and the host. A well-defined understanding of the mode of action, therapeutic strategies and delivery mechanisms of miRNAs is pivotal in translating the clinical applications of miRNA-based therapeutics. Accumulating evidence links disorders of the microbiota-gut-brain axis with a compromised gut-blood-brain-barrier, causing gut contents such as immune cells and microbiota to enter the bloodstream leading to low-grade systemic inflammation. This has the potential to affect all organs, including the brain, causing central inflammation and the development of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. In this review, we have examined in detail miRNA biogenesis, strategies for therapeutic application, delivery mechanisms, as well as their pathophysiology and clinical applications in inflammatory gut-brain disorders. The research data in this review was drawn from the following databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, and Clinicaltrials.gov. With increasing evidence of the pathophysiological importance for miRNAs in microbiota-gut-brain axis disorders, therapeutic targeting of cross-regulated miRNAs in these disorders displays potentially transformative and translational potential. Further preclinical research and human clinical trials are required to further advance this area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Datta
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Charlotte Johnson
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Dina Kao
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Pratik Gurnani
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics & Formulation, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Cameron Alexander
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics & Formulation, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Christos Polytarchou
- Department of Biosciences, John van Geest Cancer Research Centre, School of Science & Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Tanya M Monaghan
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
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Wei H, Rong Z, Liu L, Sang Y, Yang J, Wang S. Streamlined and on-demand preparation of mRNA products on a universal integrated platform. MICROSYSTEMS & NANOENGINEERING 2023; 9:97. [PMID: 37492616 PMCID: PMC10363538 DOI: 10.1038/s41378-023-00538-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Vaccines are used to protect human beings from various diseases. mRNA vaccines simplify the development process and reduce the production cost of conventional vaccines, making it possible to respond rapidly to acute and severe diseases, such as coronavirus disease 2019. In this study, a universal integrated platform for the streamlined and on-demand preparation of mRNA products directly from DNA templates was established. Target DNA templates were amplified in vitro by a polymerase chain reaction module and transcribed into mRNA sequences, which were magnetically purified and encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles. As an initial example, enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) was used to test the platform. The expression capacity and efficiency of the products were evaluated by transfecting them into HEK-293T cells. The batch production rate was estimated to be 200-300 μg of eGFP mRNA in 8 h. Furthermore, an mRNA vaccine encoding the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein was produced by this platform. The proposed integrated platform shows advantages for the universal and on-demand preparation of mRNA products, offering the potential to facilitate broad access to mRNA technology and enable the development of mRNA products, including the rapid supply of new mRNA-based vaccines in pandemic situations and personalized mRNA-based therapies for oncology and chronic infectious diseases, such as viral hepatitis and acquired immune deficiency syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjuan Wei
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing, 100850 P. R. China
| | - Zhen Rong
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing, 100850 P. R. China
| | - Liyan Liu
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing, 100850 P. R. China
| | - Ye Sang
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing, 100850 P. R. China
| | - Jing Yang
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing, 100850 P. R. China
| | - Shengqi Wang
- Bioinformatics Center of AMMS, Beijing, 100850 P. R. China
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Mallis P. Exploring the Immunomodulatory Properties of Stem Cells in Combating COVID-19: Can We Expect More? Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:803. [PMID: 37508830 PMCID: PMC10376782 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10070803] [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: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the first appearance of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) in December 2019, the disease has displayed a remarkable interindividual variability in the global population, resulting in different mortality and morbidity rates. Still, an effective cure against SARS-CoV-2 has not been developed, and therefore, alternative therapeutic protocols must also be evaluated. Considering that stem cells, especially Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (MSCs), are characterized by both regenerative and immunomodulatory properties and that their safety and tolerability have been investigated previously, these cells could potentially be applied against coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). In addition, an individual's genetic background is further related to disease pathogenesis, especially rare Inborn Errors of Immunity (IEIs), autoantibodies against Interferon type I, and the presence of different Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA) alleles, which are actively associated with protection or susceptibility in relation to SARS-CoV-2. Herein, the use of MSCs as a potential stem cell therapy will require a deep understanding of their immunomodulatory properties associated with their HLA alleles. In such a way, HLA-restricted MSC lines can be developed and applied precisely, offering more solutions to clinicians in attenuating the mortality of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Mallis
- Hellenic Cord Blood Bank, Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, 4 Soranou Ephessiou Street, 115 27 Athens, Greece
- Immunology Department & National Tissue Typing Center, General Hospital of Athens "Gennimatas", 154 Mesogeion Ave., 115 27 Athens, Greece
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Gondokesumo ME, Purnamayanti A, Hanum PS, Santosa WN, Wardhana AP, Avanti C. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain antibodies after the second dose of Sinovac and AstraZeneca vaccination. Clin Exp Vaccine Res 2023; 12:224-231. [PMID: 37599805 PMCID: PMC10435773 DOI: 10.7774/cevr.2023.12.3.224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The Sinovac and AstraZeneca vaccines are the primary coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines in Indonesia. Antibody levels in vaccine-injected individuals will decline substantially over time, but data supporting the duration of such responses are limited. Therefore, this study aims to quantitatively evaluate antibody responses resulting from the completion of Sinovac and AstraZeneca administration in Indonesian adults. Materials and Methods Participants were divided into two groups based on their vaccine type. Both groups were then assessed on the anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) receptor binding domain (anti-SRBD) concentrations. The anti-SRBD level was measured using Elecsys anti-SARS-CoV-2 S assay and analyzed every month until 3 months after the second vaccination. Results The results presented significant differences (p=0.000) in immunoglobulin G (IgG) titers among the vaccines' measurement duration, where all samples observed a decrease in IgG titers over time. The mean titer levels of anti-SRBD IgG in the group given Sinovac were high in the first month after vaccination and decreased by 55.7% in 3 months. AstraZeneca showed lesser immune response with a slower decline rate. Adverse effects following immunization (AEFI) showed that systemic reactions are the most reported in both vaccines, with a higher percentage in the second dose of AstraZeneca type vaccines. Conclusion Sinovac induced more significant titers of anti-SRBD IgG 1 month after the second dose but generated fewer AEFIs. In contrast, AstraZeneca generated more AEFIs, in mild to moderate severity, but provided lower levels of anti-SRBD IgG.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Christina Avanti
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Surabaya, Surabaya, Indonesia
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Komalla V, Wong CYJ, Sibum I, Muellinger B, Nijdam W, Chaugule V, Soria J, Ong HX, Buchmann NA, Traini D. Advances in soft mist inhalers. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:1055-1070. [PMID: 37385962 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2231850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Soft mist inhalers (SMIs) are propellant-free inhalers that utilize mechanical power to deliver single or multiple doses of inhalable drug aerosols in the form of a slow mist to patients. Compared to traditional inhalers, SMIs allow for a longer and slower release of aerosol with a smaller ballistic effect, leading to a limited loss in the oropharyngeal area, whilst requiring little coordination of actuation and inhalation by patients. Currently, the Respimat® is the only commercially available SMI, with several others in different stages of preclinical and clinical development. AREAS COVERED The primary purpose of this review is to critically assess recent advances in SMIs for the delivery of inhaled therapeutics. EXPERT OPINION Advanced particle formulations, such as nanoparticles which target specific areas of the lung, Biologics, such as vaccines, proteins, and antibodies (which are sensitive to aerosolization), are expected to be generally delivered by SMIs. Furthermore, repurposed drugs are expected to constitute a large share of future formulations to be delivered by SMIs. SMIs can also be employed for the delivery of formulations that target systemic diseases. Finally, digitalizing SMIs would improve patient adherence and provide clinicians with fundamental insights into patients' treatment progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varsha Komalla
- Respiratory Technology, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | - Chun Yuen Jerry Wong
- Respiratory Technology, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- Macquarie Medical School, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Vishal Chaugule
- Laboratory for Turbulence Research in Aerospace and Combustion (LTRAC), Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Julio Soria
- Laboratory for Turbulence Research in Aerospace and Combustion (LTRAC), Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Hui Xin Ong
- Respiratory Technology, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- Macquarie Medical School, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - D Traini
- Respiratory Technology, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- Macquarie Medical School, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
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Šinkovec Savšek T, Zajc Avramovič M, Avčin T, Korva M, Avšič Županc T, Toplak N. Disease relapse rate in children with autoimmune rheumatic diseases after COVID-19 infection and vaccination. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J 2023; 21:46. [PMID: 37208721 DOI: 10.1186/s12969-023-00829-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paediatric patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (pARD) are often immunocompromised because of the disease and/or the therapy they receive. At the beginning of COVID-19 pandemic there was a great concern about the possibility of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection in these patients. The best method of protection is vaccination, so as soon as vaccine was licenced, we aimed to vaccinate them. Data on disease relapse rate after COVID-19 infection and vaccination are scarce, but they play important role in everyday clinical decisions. METHODS The aim of this study was to determine the relapse rate of autoimmune rheumatic disease (ARD) after COVID-19 infection and vaccination. Data on demographic, diagnosis, disease activity, therapy, clinical presentation of the infection and serology were collected from pARD who had COVID-19 and from pARD who were vaccinated against COVID-19, from March 2020 to April 2022. All vaccinated patients received two doses of the BNT162b2 BioNTech vaccine, on average, 3.7 (S.D.=1.4) weeks apart. Activity of the ARD was followed prospectively. Relapse was defined as a worsening of the ARD in a time frame of 8 weeks after infection or vaccination. For statistical analysis, Fisher's exact test and Mann-Whitney U test were used. RESULTS We collected data from 115 pARD, which we divided into two groups. We included 92 pARD after infection and 47 after vaccination, with 24 in both groups (they were infected before/after vaccination). In 92 pARD we registered 103 SARS-CoV-2 infections. Infection was asymptomatic in 14%, mild in 67% and moderate in 18%, 1% required hospitalization; 10% had a relapse of ARD after infection and 6% after vaccination. There was a trend towards higher disease relapse rate after infection compared to vaccination, but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.76). No statistically significant difference was detected in the relapse rate depending on the clinical presentation of the infection (p = 0.25) or the severity of the clinical presentation of COVID-19 between vaccinated and unvaccinated pARD (p = 0.31). CONCLUSIONS There is a trend towards a higher relapse rate in pARD after infection compared to vaccination and connection between the severity of COVID-19 and vaccination status is plausible. Our results were, however, not statistically significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tjaša Šinkovec Savšek
- Department of Allergology, Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Bohoričeva ulica 20, Ljubljana, 1000, Slovenia
| | - Mojca Zajc Avramovič
- Department of Allergology, Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Bohoričeva ulica 20, Ljubljana, 1000, Slovenia
| | - Tadej Avčin
- Department of Allergology, Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Bohoričeva ulica 20, Ljubljana, 1000, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Miša Korva
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tatjana Avšič Županc
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nataša Toplak
- Department of Allergology, Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Bohoričeva ulica 20, Ljubljana, 1000, Slovenia.
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Rastogi I, McNeel DG. B cells require licensing by dendritic cells to serve as primary antigen-presenting cells for plasmid DNA. Oncoimmunology 2023; 12:2212550. [PMID: 37205983 PMCID: PMC10190194 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2023.2212550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA vaccines have been an attractive approach for treating cancer patients, however have demonstrated modest immunogenicity in human clinical trials. Dendritic cells (DCs) are known to cross-present DNA-encoded antigens expressed in bystander cells. However, we have previously reported that B cells, and not DCs, serve as primary antigen-presenting cells (APCs) following passive uptake of plasmid DNA. Here we sought to understand the requirements for B cells to present DNA-encoded antigens, to ultimately increase the immunogenicity of plasmid DNA vaccines. Using ovalbumin-specific OT-1 CD8+ T cells and isolated APC populations, we demonstrated that following passive uptake of plasmid DNA, B cells but not DC, can translate the encoded antigen. However, CD8 T cells were only activated by B cells when they were co-cultured with DCs. We found that a cell-cell contact is required between B cells and DCs. Using MHCI KO and re-purification studies, we demonstrated that B cells were the primary APCs and DCs serve to license this function. We further identified that the gene expression profiles of B cells that have been licensed by DCs, compared to the B cells that have not, are vastly different and have signatures similar to B cells activated with a TLR7/8 agonist. Our data demonstrate that B cells transcribe and translate antigens encoded by plasmid DNA following passive uptake, however require licensing by live DC to present antigen to CD8 T cells. Further study of the role of B cells as APCs will be important to improve the immunological efficacy of DNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ichwaku Rastogi
- Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Douglas G. McNeel
- Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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Ng HM, Lei CL, Fu S, Li E, Leong SI, Nip CI, Choi NM, Lai KS, Tang XJ, Lei CL, Xu RH. Heterologous vaccination with inactivated vaccine and mRNA vaccine augments antibodies against both spike and nucleocapsid proteins of SARS-CoV-2: a local study in Macao. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1131985. [PMID: 37251391 PMCID: PMC10213252 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1131985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The mRNA vaccines (RVs) can reduce the severity and mortality of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). However, almost only the inactivated vaccines (IVs) but no RVs had been used in mainland China until most recently, and the relaxing of its anti-pandemic strategies in December 2022 increased concerns about new outbreaks. In comparison, many of the citizens in Macao Special Administrative Region of China received three doses of IV (3IV) or RV (3RV), or 2 doses of IV plus one booster of RV (2IV+1RV). By the end of 2022, we recruited 147 participants with various vaccinations in Macao and detected antibodies (Abs) against the spike (S) protein and nucleocapsid (N) protein of the virus as well as neutralizing antibodies (NAb) in their serum. We observed that the level of anti-S Ab or NAb was similarly high with both 3RV and 2IV+1RV but lower with 3IV. In contrast, the level of anti-N Ab was the highest with 3IV like that in convalescents, intermediate with 2IV+1RV, and the lowest with 3RV. Whereas no significant differences in the basal levels of cytokines related to T-cell activation were observed among the various vaccination groups before and after the boosters. No vaccinees reported severe adverse events. Since Macao took one of the most stringent non-pharmaceutical interventions in the world, this study possesses much higher confidence in the vaccination results than many other studies from highly infected regions. Our findings suggest that the heterologous vaccination 2IV+1RV outperforms the homologous vaccinations 3IV and 3RV as it induces not only anti-S Ab (to the level as with 3RV) but also anti-N antibodies (via the IV). It combines the advantages of both RV (to block the viral entry) and IV (to also intervene the subsequent pathological processes such as intracellular viral replication and interference with the signal transduction and hence the biological functions of host cells).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hoi Man Ng
- Laboratory Department, Kiang Wu Hospital, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Chon Lok Lei
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Siyi Fu
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Enqin Li
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Sek In Leong
- Laboratory Department, Kiang Wu Hospital, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Chu Iong Nip
- Laboratory Department, Kiang Wu Hospital, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Nga Man Choi
- Laboratory Department, Kiang Wu Hospital, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Kai Seng Lai
- Laboratory Department, Kiang Wu Hospital, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Xi Jun Tang
- Laboratory Department, Zhuhai Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhuhai, China
| | - Chon Leng Lei
- Laboratory Department, Kiang Wu Hospital, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Ren-He Xu
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
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Zheng J, Shi W, Yang Z, Chen J, Qi A, Yang Y, Deng Y, Yang D, Song N, Song B, Luo D. RIG-I-like receptors: Molecular mechanism of activation and signaling. Adv Immunol 2023; 158:1-74. [PMID: 37453753 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ai.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
During RNA viral infection, RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs) recognize the intracellular pathogenic RNA species derived from viral replication and activate antiviral innate immune response by stimulating type 1 interferon expression. Three RLR members, namely, RIG-I, MDA5, and LGP2 are homologous and belong to a subgroup of superfamily 2 Helicase/ATPase that is preferably activated by double-stranded RNA. RLRs are significantly different in gene architecture, RNA ligand preference, activation, and molecular functions. As switchable macromolecular sensors, RLRs' activities are tightly regulated by RNA ligands, ATP, posttranslational modifications, and cellular cofactors. We provide a comprehensive review of the structure and function of the RLRs and summarize the molecular understanding of sensing and signaling events during the RLR activation process. The key roles RLR signaling play in both anti-infection and immune disease conditions highlight the therapeutic potential in targeting this important molecular pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou, China; Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Wenjia Shi
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ziqun Yang
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Chen
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ao Qi
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou, China; Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yulin Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou, China; Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Deng
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongyuan Yang
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Song
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Song
- Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Dahai Luo
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore; NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
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47
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Sutton WJH, Branham PJ, Williamson YM, Cooper HC, Najjar FN, Pierce-Ruiz CL, Barr JR, Williams TL. Quantification of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein expression from mRNA vaccines using isotope dilution mass spectrometry. Vaccine 2023:S0264-410X(23)00458-9. [PMID: 37202272 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2023.04.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The advent of mRNA vaccine technology has been vital in rapidly creating and manufacturing COVID-19 vaccines at an industrial scale. To continue to accelerate this leading vaccine technology, an accurate method is needed to quantify antigens produced by the transfection of cells with a mRNA vaccine product. This will allow monitoring of protein expression during mRNA vaccine development and provide information on how changes to vaccine components affects the expression of the desired antigen. Developing novel approaches that allow for high-throughput screening of vaccines to detect changes in antigen production in cell culture prior to in vivo studies could aid vaccine development. We have developed and optimized an isotope dilution mass spectrometry method to detect and quantify the spike protein expressed after transfection of baby hamster kidney cells with expired COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. Five peptides of the spike protein are simultaneously quantified and provide assurance that protein digestion in the region of the target peptides is complete since results between the five peptides had a relative standard deviation of less than 15 %. In addition, two housekeeping proteins, actin and GAPDH, are quantified in the same analytical run to account for any variation in cell growth within the experiment. IDMS allows a precise and accurate means to quantify protein expression by mammalian cells transfected with an mRNA vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- William J H Sutton
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Paul J Branham
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Yulanda M Williamson
- National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Hans C Cooper
- National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Fabio N Najjar
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Carrie L Pierce-Ruiz
- National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - John R Barr
- National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA
| | - Tracie L Williams
- National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
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48
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Oudah B, Abu-Abaa M, Al-Ameri N, Ghazaleh J, Vanam V. A Possible Association Between COVID-19 Vaccine and Complicated Pleural Effusion: A Case Report. Cureus 2023; 15:e39133. [PMID: 37332399 PMCID: PMC10274251 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.39133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
As COVID-19 vaccines gain more prevalence, previously unrecognized side effects continue to be reported. We report a case of 78 male with no significant past medical history who was found to have a unilateral pleural effusion with symptoms that started two days after the administration of a COVID-19 vaccine. The initial presumption was bacterial pneumonia with parapneumonic effusion. However, the lack of clinical response prompted surgical intervention, and a diagnosis of empyema was established. No evidence of infectious etiology was found. This case helps to support the previously limited evidence in the recent medical literature that suggests a possible association between COVID-19 vaccines and pleurisy/effusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashar Oudah
- Internal Medicine, Eisenhower Medical Center, Ranch Mirage, USA
| | - Mohammad Abu-Abaa
- Internal Medicine, Capital Health Regional Medical Center, Trenton, USA
| | - Noor Al-Ameri
- Internal Medicine, Eisenhower Medical Center, Ranch Mirage, USA
| | | | - Vijay Vanam
- Internal Medicine, Eisenhower Medical Center, Rancho Mirage, USA
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49
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Polatoğlu I, Oncu‐Oner T, Dalman I, Ozdogan S. COVID-19 in early 2023: Structure, replication mechanism, variants of SARS-CoV-2, diagnostic tests, and vaccine & drug development studies. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e228. [PMID: 37041762 PMCID: PMC10082934 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronaviruses-2 (SARS-CoV-2), a highly pathogenic and transmissible coronavirus. Most cases of COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms, including cough, fever, myalgias, and headache. On the other hand, this coronavirus can lead to severe complications and death in some cases. Therefore, vaccination is the most effective tool to prevent and eradicate COVID-19 disease. Also, rapid and effective diagnostic tests are critical in identifying cases of COVID-19. The COVID-19 pandemic has a dynamic structure on the agenda and contains up-to-date developments. This article has comprehensively discussed the most up-to-date pandemic situation since it first appeared. For the first time, not only the structure, replication mechanism, and variants of SARS-CoV-2 (Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Omicron, Delta, Epsilon, Kappa, Mu, Eta, Zeta, Theta, lota, Lambda) but also all the details of the pandemic, such as how it came out, how it spread, current cases, what precautions should be taken, prevention strategies, the vaccines produced, the tests developed, and the drugs used are reviewed in every aspect. Herein, the comparison of diagnostic tests for SARS-CoV-2 in terms of procedure, accuracy, cost, and time has been presented. The mechanism, safety, efficacy, and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 variants have been evaluated. Drug studies, therapeutic targets, various immunomodulators, and antiviral molecules applied to patients with COVID-19 have been reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilker Polatoğlu
- Department of BioengineeringManisa Celal Bayar UniversityYunusemreManisaTurkey
| | - Tulay Oncu‐Oner
- Department of BioengineeringManisa Celal Bayar UniversityYunusemreManisaTurkey
| | - Irem Dalman
- Department of BioengineeringEge UniversityBornovaIzmirTurkey
| | - Senanur Ozdogan
- Department of BioengineeringManisa Celal Bayar UniversityYunusemreManisaTurkey
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50
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Xu Z, Fisher DE. mRNA melanoma vaccine revolution spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1155728. [PMID: 37063845 PMCID: PMC10101324 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1155728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The advent of mRNA vaccines represents a significant advance in the field of vaccinology. While several vaccine approaches (mRNA, DNA, recombinant protein, and viral-vectored vaccines) had been investigated at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, mRNA vaccines quickly gained popularity due to superior immunogenicity at a low dose, strong safety/tolerability profiles, and the possibility of rapid vaccine mass manufacturing and deployment to rural regions. In addition to inducing protective neutralizing antibody responses, mRNA vaccines can also elicit high-magnitude cytotoxic T-cell responses comparable to natural viral infections; thereby, drawing significant interest from cancer immunotherapy experts. This mini-review will highlight key developmental milestones and lessons we have learned from mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a specific emphasis on clinical trial data gathered so far for mRNA vaccines against melanoma and other forms of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyang Xu
- Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - David E. Fisher
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: David E. Fisher,
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