The immune complex CTA1-DD/IgG adjuvant specifically targets connective tissue mast cells through FcγRIIIA and augments anti-HPV immunity after nasal immunization

Mucosal Immunol. 2013 Nov;6(6):1168-78. doi: 10.1038/mi.2013.16. Epub 2013 Apr 10.

Abstract

We have previously reported that CTA1-DD/IgG immune complexes augment antibody responses in a mast cell-dependent manner following intranasal (IN) immunizations. However, from a safety perspective, mast cell activation could preclude clinical use. Therefore, we have extended these studies and demonstrate that CTA1-DD/IgG immune complexes administered IN did not trigger an anaphylactic reaction. Importantly, CTA1-DD/IgE immune complexes did not activate mast cells. Interestingly, only connective tissue, but not mucosal, mast cells could be activated by CTA1-DD/IgG immune complexes. This effect was mediated by FcγRIIIA, only expressed on connective tissue mast cells, and found in the nasal submucosa. FcγRIIIA-deficient mice had compromised responses to immunization adjuvanted by CTA1-DD/IgG. Proof-of-concept studies revealed that IN immunized mice with human papillomavirus (HPV) type 16 L1 virus-like particles (VLP) and CTA1-DD/IgG immune complexes demonstrated strong and sustained specific antibody titers in serum and vaginal secretions. From a mast cell perspective, CTA1-DD/IgG immune complexes appear to be safe and effective mucosal adjuvants.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adjuvants, Immunologic / administration & dosage*
  • Administration, Intranasal
  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Viral / metabolism
  • Antibody Formation / drug effects
  • Cell Degranulation / drug effects
  • Cell Line
  • Cholera Toxin / administration & dosage*
  • Connective Tissue / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Mast Cells / immunology
  • Mast Cells / metabolism*
  • Mast Cells / pathology
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred BALB C
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Mice, Knockout
  • Nasal Mucosa / metabolism*
  • Nasal Mucosa / pathology
  • Papillomaviridae / immunology*
  • Papillomavirus Infections / immunology*
  • Receptors, IgG / genetics
  • Receptors, IgG / metabolism*
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins / administration & dosage*
  • Viral Vaccines

Substances

  • Adjuvants, Immunologic
  • Antibodies, Viral
  • CTA1-DD protein, recombinant
  • FcgammaRIIIA protein, mouse
  • Receptors, IgG
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins
  • Viral Vaccines
  • Cholera Toxin