Chimeric virus-like particles and capsomeres induce similar CD8+ T cell responses but differ in capacity to induce CD4+ T cell responses and antibody responses

Despite extensive research, the development of an effective malaria vaccine remains elusive. The induction of robust and sustained T cell and antibody response by vaccination is an urgent unmet need. Chimeric virus-like particles (VLPs) are a promising vaccine platform. VLPs are composed of multiple subunit capsomeres which can be rapidly produced in a cost-effective manner, but the ability of capsomeres to induce antigen-specific cellular immune responses has not been thoroughly investigated. Accordingly, we have compared chimeric VLPs and their sub-unit capsomeres for capacity to induce CD8+ and CD4+ T cell and antibody responses. We produced chimeric murine polyomavirus VLPs and capsomeres each incorporating defined CD8+ T cell, CD4+ T cell or B cell repeat epitopes derived from Plasmodium yoelii CSP. VLPs and capsomeres were evaluated using both homologous or heterologous DNA prime/boost immunization regimens for T cell and antibody immunogenicity. Chimeric VLP and capsomere vaccine platforms induced robust CD8+ T cell responses at similar levels which was enhanced by a heterologous DNA prime. The capsomere platform was, however, more efficient at inducing CD4+ T cell responses and less efficient at inducing antigen-specific antibody responses. Our data suggest that capsomeres, which have significant manufacturing advantages over VLPs, should be considered for diseases where a T cell response is the desired outcome.David J. Pattinson, Simon H. Apte, Nani Wibowo, Tania Rivera-Hernandez, Penny L. Groves, Anton P. J. Middelberg, and Denise L. Doola

Novel Loci for Adiponectin Levels and Their Influence on Type 2 Diabetes and Metabolic Traits : A Multi-Ethnic Meta-Analysis of 45,891 Individuals

J. Kaprio, S. Ripatti ja M.-L. Lokki työryhmien jäseniä.Peer reviewe

Emerging trends in heart valve engineering: Part I. solutions for future

As the first section of a multi-part review series, this section provides an overview of the ongoing research and development aimed at fabricating novel heart valve replacements beyond what is currently available for patients. Here we discuss heart valve replacement options that involve a biological component or process for creation, either in vitro or in vivo (tissue-engineered heart valves), and heart valves that are fabricated from polymeric material that are considered permanent inert materials that may suffice for adults where growth is not required. Polymeric materials provide opportunities for cost-effective heart valves that can be more easily manufactured and can be easily integrated with artificial heart and ventricular assist device technologies. Tissue engineered heart valves show promise as a regenerative patient specific model that could be the future of all valve replacement. Because tissue-engineered heart valves depend on cells for their creation, understanding how cells sense and respond to chemical and physical stimuli in their microenvironment is critical and therefore, is also reviewed

Emerging trends in heart valve engineering: Part IV. computational modeling and experimental studies

In this final portion of an extensive review of heart valve engineering, we focus on the computational methods and experimental studies related to heart valves. The discussion begins with a thorough review of computational modeling and the governing equations of fluid and structural interaction. We then move onto multiscale and disease specific modeling. Finally, advanced methods related to in vitro testing of the heart valves are reviewed. This section of the review series is intended to illustrate application of computational methods and experimental studies and their interrelation for studying heart valves

Emerging trends in heart valve engineering: Part III. Novel technologies for mitral valve repair and replacement

In this portion of an extensive review of heart valve engineering, we focus on the current and emerging technologies and techniques to repair or replace the mitral valve. We begin with a discussion of the currently available mechanical and bioprosthetic mitral valves followed by the rationale and limitations of current surgical mitral annuloplasty methods; a discussion of the technique of neo-chordae fabrication and implantation; a review the procedures and clinical results for catheter-based mitral leaflet repair; a highlight of the motivation for and limitations of catheter-based annular reduction therapies; and introduce the early generation devices for catheter-based mitral valve replacement

Emerging trends in heart valve engineering: Part II. Novel and standard technologies for aortic valve replacement

The engineering of technologies for heart valve replacement (i.e., heart valve engineering) is an exciting and evolving field. Since the first valve replacement, technology has progressed by leaps and bounds. Innovations emerge frequently and supply patients and physicians with new, increasingly efficacious and less invasive treatment options. As much as any other field in medicine the treatment of heart valve disease has experienced a renaissance in the last 10 years. Here we review the currently available technologies and future options in the surgical and transcatheter treatment of aortic valve disease. Different valves from major manufacturers are described in details with their applications