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Surface Functionalization of Hepatitis E Virus Nanoparticles Using Chemical Conjugation Methods
Published on: May 11, 2018
Glycoengineered hepatitis B virus-like particles with enhanced immunogenicity
Carina C D Joe1, Sayantani Chatterjee2, George Lovrecz3
1Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) University, School of Science, Melbourne, Victoria 3001, Australia; Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Clayton, Victoria 3169, Australia.
Glycoengineering hepatitis B virus surface antigen small protein (HBsAgS) virus-like particles (VLPs) enhances immunogenicity. Hyper-glycosylated VLPs, with more N-glycans, elicit stronger antibody responses than wild-type VLPs, improving vaccine potential.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Virus-like particles (VLPs) are versatile platforms for vaccines and drug delivery.
- Hepatitis B virus surface antigen small protein (HBsAgS) VLPs are key components of existing hepatitis B vaccines.
- Glycoengineering offers a method to modify VLP properties and enhance immunogenicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of glycoengineering on HBsAgS VLP immunogenicity.
- To compare the immune response elicited by hyper-glycosylated HBsAgS VLPs versus wild-type (WT) HBsAgS VLPs.
- To evaluate the potential of engineered VLPs as improved vaccine candidates.
Main Methods:
- Generation of hyper-glycosylated HBsAgS VLPs in FreeStyle HEK 293F cells.
- Comparative analysis using mass spectrometry, gel electrophoresis, and immunoassays.
- Immunization studies in BALB/c mice with and without aluminum hydroxide adjuvant.
Main Results:
- Hyper-glycosylated HBsAgS VLPs exhibited higher N-glycan abundance per protein mass compared to WT VLPs.
- Antigenic integrity of modified VLPs was maintained.
- Both in the presence and absence of adjuvant, hyper-glycosylated VLPs induced a significantly enhanced anti-HBsAgS antibody response in mice.
Conclusions:
- Glycoengineering HBsAgS VLPs increases their immunogenicity.
- Hyper-glycosylated VLPs represent a promising strategy for developing more effective hepatitis B vaccines.
- Engineered HBsAgS VLPs can serve as improved carrier platforms for vaccine development.
