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Vaccines
Special Issues
Immunotherapeutics for Treating Infectious Diseases and Beyond
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Immunotherapeutics for Treating Infectious Diseases and Beyond

A special issue of Vaccines (ISSN 2076-393X). This special issue belongs to the section "Vaccines against Tropical and other Infectious Diseases".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 January 2025 | Viewed by 16868

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Sneha Ratnapriya

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
Interests: immunology; antibody glycosylation; SARS-CoV-2; vaccinology; autoimmune diseases
Dr. Keerti Rawat

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
Interests: vaccines; proteomics; immunology; molecular biology; parasitology; vaccine development; leishmania proteins; SARS-CoV-2
Dr. Yonatan Butbul Aviel

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Rheumatology Service, Ruth Children's Hospital, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
Interests: immunodeficiency; autoimmunity; autoimmune diseases; children
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Immunotherapy or immune-based therapy has a long history of success in the treatment of a wide range of human diseases, including cancer and infectious, metabolic, and autoimmune diseases, serving as a promising substitute to chemotherapeutics. This strategy involves the use of biological and/or synthetic agents to modulate host immune responses toward the cure. The first monoclonal antibody was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 1986, and since then, therapeutic antibodies have become one of the fastest-growing classes of drugs on the biopharmaceutical market, displaying potential against several diseases. New technological advancements have been made to enhance the effects of therapeutic antibodies by employing several modifications, such as antibody engineering (Fc engineering, glycoengineering), as well as developing human, humanized, chimeric, and bispecific antibodies, etc. Despite this, in recent years, functional limitations related to immunotherapeutics, including inadequate pharmacokinetics and compromised non-specific interactions within the immune system, have been revealed and these deficits indicate the need to perform additional in-depth research and more significant efforts in this direction. In line with these considerations, we encourage submissions to this Special Issue that focus on immunotherapeutics for treating infectious diseases and beyond, aiming to put together an inclusive collection of original research articles, clinical trials, reviews, short communications, and case reports focusing on the promising avenues in the field of immunotherapies.

Potential topics include but not limited to:

  • Immunotherapy for infectious diseases;
  • Autoimmune diseases immunotherapies;
  • Approaches to improve therapeutic antibodies’ efficacy;
  • Cancer immunotherapy;
  • Understanding the mechanism of immunotherapy;
  • Immunoregulatory roles of antibody glycosylation;
  • Advancement in therapeutic antibody engineering.

Dr. Sneha Ratnapriya
Dr. Keerti Rawat
Dr. Yonatan Butbul Aviel
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Vaccines is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • immunotherapy
  • autoimmune diseases
  • glycosylation
  • antibody engineering
  • cancer
  • antibodies
  • immunoregulation

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Further information on MDPI's Special Issue polices can be found here.

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 2477 KiB  
Article
Transient Autoreactive PF4 and Antiphospholipid Antibodies in COVID-19 Vaccine Recipients
by Matthijs P. Raadsen, Chantal Visser, A. H. Ayesha Lavell, Anita A. G. A. van de Munckhof, Jonathan M. Coutinho, Moniek P. M. de Maat, Corine H. GeurtsvanKessel, Amsterdam UMC COVID-19 S3/HCW Study Group, Marije K. Bomers, Bart L. Haagmans, Eric C. M. van Gorp, Leendert Porcelijn and Marieke J. H. A. Kruip
Vaccines 2023, 11(12), 1851; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11121851 - 14 Dec 2023
Viewed by 1728
Abstract
Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a rare autoimmune condition associated with recombinant adenovirus (rAV)-based COVID-19 vaccines. It is thought to arise from autoantibodies targeting platelet factor 4 (aPF4), triggered by vaccine-induced inflammation and the formation of neo-antigenic complexes between PF4 and the [...] Read more.
Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a rare autoimmune condition associated with recombinant adenovirus (rAV)-based COVID-19 vaccines. It is thought to arise from autoantibodies targeting platelet factor 4 (aPF4), triggered by vaccine-induced inflammation and the formation of neo-antigenic complexes between PF4 and the rAV vector. To investigate the specific induction of aPF4 by rAV-based vaccines, we examined sera from rAV vaccine recipients (AZD1222, AD26.COV2.S) and messenger RNA (mRNA) based (mRNA-1273, BNT162b2) COVID-19 vaccine recipients. We compared the antibody fold change (FC) for aPF4 and for antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) of rAV to mRNA vaccine recipients. We combined two biobanks of Dutch healthcare workers and matched rAV-vaccinated individuals to mRNA-vaccinated controls, based on age, sex and prior history of COVID-19 (AZD1222: 37, Ad26.COV2.S: 35, mRNA-1273: 47, BNT162b2: 26). We found no significant differences in aPF4 FCs after the first (0.99 vs. 1.08, mean difference (MD) = −0.11 (95% CI −0.23 to 0.057)) and second doses of AZD1222 (0.99 vs. 1.10, MD = −0.11 (95% CI −0.31 to 0.10)) and after a single dose of Ad26.COV2.S compared to mRNA-based vaccines (1.01 vs. 0.99, MD = 0.026 (95% CI −0.13 to 0.18)). The mean FCs for the aPL in rAV-based vaccine recipients were similar to those in mRNA-based vaccines. No correlation was observed between post-vaccination aPF4 levels and vaccine type (mean aPF difference −0.070 (95% CI −0.14 to 0.002) mRNA vs. rAV). In summary, our study indicates that rAV and mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines do not substantially elevate aPF4 levels in healthy individuals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immunotherapeutics for Treating Infectious Diseases and Beyond)
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24 pages, 4022 KiB  
Article
Long-Term Follow-Up after Adoptive Transfer of BK-Virus-Specific T Cells in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Recipients
by Michael Koldehoff, Britta Eiz-Vesper, Britta Maecker-Kolhoff, Nina K. Steckel, Ulf Dittmer, Peter A. Horn and Monika Lindemann
Vaccines 2023, 11(4), 845; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11040845 - 14 Apr 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2328
Abstract
The BK virus (BKV) causes severe hemorrhagic cystitis in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. To eliminate reactivated BKV, symptomatic patients can be treated with a reduction of the immunosuppressive therapy, with the antiviral drug cidofovir, or with virus-specific T cells (VSTs). In [...] Read more.
The BK virus (BKV) causes severe hemorrhagic cystitis in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. To eliminate reactivated BKV, symptomatic patients can be treated with a reduction of the immunosuppressive therapy, with the antiviral drug cidofovir, or with virus-specific T cells (VSTs). In the current study, we compared the effect of VSTs to other treatment options, following up specific T cells using interferon-gamma ELISpot assay. We observed BKV large T-specific cellular responses in 12 out of 17 HSCT recipients with BKV-related cystitis (71%). In recipients treated with VSTs, 6 out of 7 showed specific T-cell responses, and that number in those without VSTs was 6 out of 10. In comparison, 27 out of 50 healthy controls (54%) responded. In HSCT recipients treated for BKV-related cystitis, absolute CD4+ T-cell numbers and renal function correlated with BKV-specific cellular responses (p = 0.03 and 0.01, respectively). In one patient, BKV-specific cellular immunity could already be detected at baseline, on day 35 after HSCT and prior to VSTs, and remained increased until day 226 after VSTs (78 vs. 7 spots increment). In conclusion, the ELISpot appears to be suitable to sensitively monitor BKV-specific cellular immunity in HSCT recipients, even early after transplantation or in the long term after VSTs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immunotherapeutics for Treating Infectious Diseases and Beyond)
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11 pages, 1764 KiB  
Article
Zika Virus Infection and Antibody Neutralization in FcRn Expressing Placenta and Engineered Cell Lines
by Yanqun Xu, Yong He, Sanaz Momben-Abolfath, Devin Vertrees, Xiaohong Li, Malgorzata G. Norton and Evi Budo Struble
Vaccines 2022, 10(12), 2059; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10122059 - 30 Nov 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2140
Abstract
As a developmental toxicant, Zika virus (ZIKV) attacks both the growing nervous system, causing congenital Zika syndrome, and the placenta, resulting in pathological changes and associated adverse fetal outcomes. There are no vaccines, antibodies, or other treatments for ZIKV, despite the potential for [...] Read more.
As a developmental toxicant, Zika virus (ZIKV) attacks both the growing nervous system, causing congenital Zika syndrome, and the placenta, resulting in pathological changes and associated adverse fetal outcomes. There are no vaccines, antibodies, or other treatments for ZIKV, despite the potential for its re-emergence. Multiple studies have highlighted the risk of antibodies for enhancing ZIKV infection, including during pregnancy, but the mechanisms for such effects are not fully understood. We have focused on the ability of the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) to interact with ZIKV in the presence and absence of relevant antibodies. We found that ZIKV replication was higher in Marvin Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells that overexpress FcRn compared to those that do not, and knocking down FcRn decreased ZIKV RNA production. In the placenta trophoblast BeWo cell line, ZIKV infection itself downregulated FcRn at the mRNA and protein levels. Addition of anti-ZIKV antibodies to MDCK/FcRn cells resulted in non-monotonous neutralization curves with neutralization attenuation and even enhancement of infection at higher concentrations. Non-monotonous neutralization was also seen in BeWo cells at intermediate antibody concentrations. Our studies highlight the underappreciated role FcRn plays in ZIKV infection and may have implications for anti-ZIKV prophylaxis and therapy in pregnant women. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immunotherapeutics for Treating Infectious Diseases and Beyond)
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Review

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17 pages, 2206 KiB  
Review
Unveiling the Multifaceted Roles of ISG15: From Immunomodulation to Therapeutic Frontiers
by Enrique Álvarez, Michela Falqui, Laura Sin, Joseph Patrick McGrail, Beatriz Perdiguero, Rocío Coloma, Laura Marcos-Villar, Céline Tárrega, Mariano Esteban, Carmen Elena Gómez and Susana Guerra
Vaccines 2024, 12(2), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12020153 - 1 Feb 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3346
Abstract
The Interferon Stimulated Gene 15 (ISG15), a unique Ubiquitin-like (Ubl) modifier exclusive to vertebrates, plays a crucial role in the immune system. Primarily induced by interferon (IFN) type I, ISG15 functions through diverse mechanisms: (i) covalent protein modification (ISGylation); (ii) non-covalent intracellular action; [...] Read more.
The Interferon Stimulated Gene 15 (ISG15), a unique Ubiquitin-like (Ubl) modifier exclusive to vertebrates, plays a crucial role in the immune system. Primarily induced by interferon (IFN) type I, ISG15 functions through diverse mechanisms: (i) covalent protein modification (ISGylation); (ii) non-covalent intracellular action; and (iii) exerting extracellular cytokine activity. These various roles highlight its versatility in influencing numerous cellular pathways, encompassing DNA damage response, autophagy, antiviral response, and cancer-related processes, among others. The well-established antiviral effects of ISGylation contrast with its intriguing dual role in cancer, exhibiting both suppressive and promoting effects depending on the tumour type. The multifaceted functions of ISG15 extend beyond intracellular processes to extracellular cytokine signalling, influencing immune response, chemotaxis, and anti-tumour effects. Moreover, ISG15 emerges as a promising adjuvant in vaccine development, enhancing immune responses against viral antigens and demonstrating efficacy in cancer models. As a therapeutic target in cancer treatment, ISG15 exhibits a double-edged nature, promoting or suppressing oncogenesis depending on the tumour context. This review aims to contribute to future studies exploring the role of ISG15 in immune modulation and cancer therapy, potentially paving the way for the development of novel therapeutic interventions, vaccine development, and precision medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immunotherapeutics for Treating Infectious Diseases and Beyond)
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14 pages, 685 KiB  
Review
The Prevalence of Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and Its Vaccination Status among Healthcare Providers
by Ayman Elbehiry, Eman Marzouk, Ihab Moussa, Yazeed Mushayt, Ahmad Abdullah Algarni, Osama Ali Alrashed, Khalid Saad Alghamdi, Naif Ahmed Almutairi, Sulaiman Abdulaziz Anagreyyah, Anwar Alzahrani, Abdulaziz M. Almuzaini, Feras Alzaben, Meshal Abdullah Alotaibi, Suha Abdulaziz Anjiria, Akram Abu-Okail and Adil Abalkhail
Vaccines 2023, 11(7), 1171; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11071171 - 28 Jun 2023
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3105
Abstract
There is growing concern among healthcare providers worldwide regarding the prevalence of multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii). Some of the worst hospital-acquired infections, often in intensive care units (ICUs), are caused by this bacterial pathogen. In recent years, the rise in [...] Read more.
There is growing concern among healthcare providers worldwide regarding the prevalence of multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii). Some of the worst hospital-acquired infections, often in intensive care units (ICUs), are caused by this bacterial pathogen. In recent years, the rise in multidrug-resistant A. baumannii has been linked to the overuse of antimicrobial drugs and the lack of adequate infection control measures. Infections caused by this bacterial pathogen are the result of prolonged hospitalization and ICU stays, and they are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. This review outlines the epidemiology, risk factors, and antimicrobial resistance associated with A. baumannii in various countries, with a special focus on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In response to the growing concern regarding this drug-resistant bacteria, fundamental information about its pathology has been incorporated into the development of vaccines. Although these vaccines have been successful in animal models, their effectiveness in humans remains unproven. The review will discuss the development of A. baumannii vaccines, potential related obstacles, and efforts to find an effective strategy against this pathogen. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immunotherapeutics for Treating Infectious Diseases and Beyond)
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19 pages, 1095 KiB  
Review
The Development of Technology to Prevent, Diagnose, and Manage Antimicrobial Resistance in Healthcare-Associated Infections
by Ayman Elbehiry, Eman Marzouk, Adil Abalkhail, Yasmine El-Garawany, Sulaiman Anagreyyah, Yaser Alnafea, Abdulaziz M. Almuzaini, Waleed Alwarhi, Mohammed Rawway and Abdelmaged Draz
Vaccines 2022, 10(12), 2100; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines10122100 - 8 Dec 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3372
Abstract
There is a growing risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) having an adverse effect on the healthcare system, which results in higher healthcare costs, failed treatments and a higher death rate. A quick diagnostic test that can spot infections resistant to antibiotics is essential [...] Read more.
There is a growing risk of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) having an adverse effect on the healthcare system, which results in higher healthcare costs, failed treatments and a higher death rate. A quick diagnostic test that can spot infections resistant to antibiotics is essential for antimicrobial stewardship so physicians and other healthcare professionals can begin treatment as soon as possible. Since the development of antibiotics in the last two decades, traditional, standard antimicrobial treatments have failed to treat healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). These results have led to the development of a variety of cutting-edge alternative methods to combat multidrug-resistant pathogens in healthcare settings. Here, we provide an overview of AMR as well as the technologies being developed to prevent, diagnose, and control healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). As a result of better cleaning and hygiene practices, resistance to bacteria can be reduced, and new, quick, and accurate instruments for diagnosing HAIs must be developed. In addition, we need to explore new therapeutic approaches to combat diseases caused by resistant bacteria. In conclusion, current infection control technologies will be crucial to managing multidrug-resistant infections effectively. As a result of vaccination, antibiotic usage will decrease and new resistance mechanisms will not develop. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immunotherapeutics for Treating Infectious Diseases and Beyond)
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